An IVF failure can have one or more causes, and resolving the underlying issue usually results in success. If your first cycle fails, the doctor will perform a thorough evaluation of the entire process to determine the cause of failure. Reasons may range from genetic issues to silent endometriosis. Here are a few insights from fertility experts on why some IVF cycles fail:
Hidden Uterine Conditions
IVF cycles may fail due to undiagnosed or hidden medical conditions, such as endometriosis and endometritis. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial cells that grow in the uterus appear around the ovaries, inside the fallopian tubes, or elsewhere. Normal endometrial cells thicken the uterus during ovulation in readiness for fertilization and implantation. When these events don’t occur, the cells are shed and passed out as part of the menses.
Abnormal endometrial cells behave similarly, but may not have exit paths. These growths can block the pathway for the sperm to meet the egg, and are leading causes of unexplained infertility. Endometriosis also causes inflammation of the uterine lining, reducing the chances of successful implantation and proper embryo development. You can take a BCL6 test to check for markers of endometriosis before undergoing an IVF cycle.
Proactive testing reduces the chances of IVF failure as it allows your doctor to address potential endometriosis before embryo transfer. Endometritis is another hidden condition that can be detected with the help of a CD138 test. The condition is caused by a chronic bacterial infection that affects the uterine environment. Other hidden conditions that might increase the chances of failure during IVF treatment include progesterone resistance, adenomyosis, and immunological implantation disorders.
Embryo Quality Issues
Egg and embryo quality affect the success of IVF outcomes. Fertility doctors often select high-quality sperm and eggs for fertilization. They also assess the health and quality of embryos to identify viable options for transfer. You can request pre-implantation genetic testing to determine if the embryo has inherited medical conditions or chromosomal abnormalities. Even with this level of intervention, some embryos may still fail to implant or develop. As women age, the egg reserve and quality decline, increasing the chances of embryos that don’t develop properly. Egg quality may also be influenced by the stimulation process and medication used during retrieval.
Ovaries respond differently, and some women produce fewer mature eggs, while others experience poor fertilization rates. Doctors often improve egg health by recommending a balanced diet, medical supervision, and reducing stress. The stimulation process is carefully supervised. Sperm used in fertilization is also tested to select the most viable options. If couples have poor-quality sperm or eggs, IVF specialists may recommend donors. Women planning to use IVF in the future can also opt for egg preservation when they’re younger to bypass age-related quality issues. Selecting high-quality embryos may potentially increase the chances of a successful IVF cycle.
Sperm Quality Issues
Sperm quality also plays a role in successful IVF. When looking at sperm quality, doctors evaluate sperm quantity, motility, and morphology. The ideal number of sperm in a single ejaculation is a minimum of 15 million sperm per milliliter. If the quantity is lower than that, it can decrease the likelihood of pregnancy because there are fewer sperm available to reach and fertilize an egg.
Sperm motility refers to sperm’s ability to travel easily through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes to the egg. While it is possible to achieve pregnancy with low motility, it can decrease the chances of successful pregnancy. Ideally, 40% of sperm will have healthy motility. Sperm shape also affects chances of achieving pregnancy. Usually, sperm will have an oval head and long tail, and an irregular shape can hinder ease of movement.
Numerous conditions and lifestyle factors affect sperm quality, such as diseases that affect the testicles or conditions that affect the pituitary gland. A doctor can run tests to determine sperm quality and the reason for low quality. They may recommend medical treatments or lifestyle changes to improve quality.
IVF Lab Quality
Laboratory conditions, IVF specialist experience, and medical techniques can affect the entire process. IVF clinics use precise clinical procedures customized to align with your goals. Before treatment begins, IVF specialists conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your overall health and readiness for the procedure. They may advise you to achieve a specific weight range or quit cigarettes, alcohol, or certain medications. Fertility medication and ovulation induction shots are also carefully selected based on your health requirements.
Fertilization and embryo development require a controlled environment with precise temperature and air standards. Stimulation, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer processes must follow standard safety protocols. Even minor deviations can impact embryo viability. Look for accredited clinics that maintain laboratory standards and follow the latest protocols to increase the chances of success.
Select experienced IVF specialists who can conduct all necessary tests before commencing your cycle. You may be asked to get a BCL6 or CD138 test to check for potential endometriosis, endometritis, and progesterone resistance. If these tests are positive, the doctor will recommend addressing them before beginning the IVF cycle. Find clinics that optimize all technical aspects, including medication dosages, fertilization, and embryo handling.
Get Professional Advice on IVF Failure
IVF is an assisted reproductive technology that your doctor may suggest to help you conceive. Although the treatment is often successful, issues like endometriosis can result in failure. Proactive tests help prevent such cases by addressing potential issues before you begin your cycle. Get tested today to detect problems that may lead to IVF failure.
