Factors That Affect Your Chances of Conceiving
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a popular infertility treatment that has helped countless couples conceive. However, IVF success rates can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors is important for couples considering IVF. In this article, we will discuss the various factors that affect IVF success rates and provide tips for improving your chances of conception.
Age and IVF Success Rates:
One of the most significant factors affecting IVF success rates is age. Women’s fertility declines as they get older, and this decline becomes steeper after the age of 35. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the live birth rate for IVF cycles using fresh, non-donor eggs is:
- 41-43% for women under 35
- 33-36% for women aged 35-37
- 23-27% for women aged 38-40
- 13-18% for women aged 41-42
- 3-7% for women over 42
The decline in fertility with age is due to several factors, including a decrease in the number and quality of eggs, an increase in chromosomal abnormalities, and an increased risk of other medical conditions.
To improve IVF success rates for older women, doctors may recommend using donor eggs from a younger woman or using fertility drugs to increase the number of eggs retrieved.
Reproductive History and IVF Success Rates:
Women’s reproductive history can also affect IVF success rates. Women with a history of infertility, miscarriage, or other reproductive issues may have a lower chance of success with IVF than women without these issues. According to the ASRM, the live birth rate for women with a history of infertility is approximately 26%, compared to 40% for women without a history of infertility.
Women who have had multiple miscarriages may also have a lower chance of success with IVF. The ASRM reports that the live birth rate for women with a history of two or more miscarriages is approximately 25%, compared to 39% for women with no history of miscarriage.
To improve IVF success rates for women with a history of infertility or miscarriage, doctors may recommend additional testing or treatment to address underlying issues that may be contributing to fertility problems. These may include surgery to remove fibroids or other obstructions, or medications to improve ovulation.
Lifestyle Factors and IVF Success Rates:
Several lifestyle factors can also affect IVF success rates. These may include:
- Smoking: Smoking can reduce fertility and lower the chance of success with IVF. According to the ASRM, the live birth rate for smokers undergoing IVF is approximately 34%, compared to 44% for non-smokers.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can also reduce fertility and lower the chance of success with IVF.
- Body weight: Women who are overweight or obese may have a lower chance of success with IVF. According to the ASRM, the live birth rate for women with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 is approximately 30%, compared to 43% for women with a BMI between 18.5 and 25.
To improve IVF success rates, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and achieving a healthy body weight.
Medical Factors and IVF Success Rates:
Certain medical factors can also affect IVF success rates. These may include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS may have a lower chance of success with IVF due to irregular ovulation and other hormonal imbalances. According to the ASRM, the live birth rate for women with PCOS undergoing IVF is approximately 35%, compared to 42% for women without PCOS.
- Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis may also have a lower chance of success with IVF due to scarring and inflammation in the reproductive system. The ASRM reports that the live birth rate for women with endometriosis undergoing IVF is approximately 35%, compared to 40% for women without endometriosis.
- Male factor infertility: In some cases, male factor infertility can also affect IVF success rates. This may include issues such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility.
To improve IVF success rates with these medical factors, doctors may recommend medical interventions such as medication to regulate ovulation or surgery to remove endometriosis.
IVF Treatment Factors and IVF Success Rates:
The specific IVF treatment plan can also affect IVF success rates. Factors that may impact IVF success rates include:
- Type of IVF cycle: IVF cycles can be fresh or frozen. According to the ASRM, the live birth rate for fresh IVF cycles is approximately 41%, compared to 34% for frozen IVF cycles.
- Number of embryos transferred: The number of embryos transferred can also impact IVF success rates. However, transferring too many embryos can increase the risk of multiple pregnancies, which can lead to complications. Doctors will often recommend transferring a smaller number of embryos to balance the chance of success with the risk of complications.
- Type of embryo transfer: Embryo transfer can be either fresh or frozen. According to the ASRM, the live birth rate for fresh embryo transfer is approximately 44%, compared to 38% for frozen embryo transfer.
To improve IVF success rates with these treatment factors, doctors may recommend adjusting the IVF treatment plan based on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual or couple.
Emotional Factors and IVF Success Rates:
Finally, emotional factors can also play a role in IVF success rates. The stress and anxiety associated with infertility and IVF can have a negative impact on IVF success rates. According to a study published in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, women who reported higher levels of anxiety and stress during IVF had lower pregnancy rates compared to women with lower levels of anxiety and stress.
To improve IVF success rates, it is important to manage emotional stress. This may include seeking support from loved ones, participating in counseling or therapy, practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga, and engaging in self-care activities.
Conclusion:
In vitro fertilization (IVF) can be a highly effective treatment for infertility, but success rates can vary depending on several factors. Age, reproductive history, lifestyle factors, medical factors, IVF treatment factors, and emotional factors can all impact IVF success rates. By understanding these factors and taking steps to address them, couples can improve their chances of conception with IVF. If you are considering IVF, talk to your doctor about how you can optimize your chances of success.