Should I Try Another IVF Cycle?

When an IVF cycle doesn't result in a pregnancy, couples naturally wonder if they should try another cycle. Trying another IVF cycle means another financial and emotional investment, but it might just be worth it.

Here's why: Couples without fertility issues have only a 20% chance of achieving pregnancy with each try. “In other words, they are unsuccessful 80% of the time,” says Dr. Kara Nguyen, MD, MPH, of Reproductive Medicine Associates of Philadelphia & Central Pennsylvania.

A 1995 study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that if a couple tries to conceive two days before and/or on the day of ovulation, the chances of getting pregnant are 36%. However, these chances drop to 10% if the couple tries four to six days before ovulation.

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Impact of Age and Irregular Cycles on Fertility

Determining ovulation can be tricky due to the guesswork involved, so it's no surprise that a couple typically has to try several times before successfully conceiving. This helps put the topic of multiple IVF cycles in perspective. The sequence of events leading to pregnancy is long and somewhat complicated, whether using IVF or not. So, couples who fail at their first IVF attempt should take heart and try another IVF cycle.

The Pregnancy Guide cites the odds for fertile couples at 15%–25%, but these odds drop after age 30 and even further as the female's age increases. Irregular menstrual cycles make it difficult to determine ovulation, affecting the odds of getting pregnant. Illnesses and medical conditions can also impact a couple's ability to conceive.

If your IVF cycle didn't bring the results you hoped for, discuss the option of another cycle with your IVF doctor. Remember that several attempts are usually required, whether the couple has fertility issues or not. If you're considering whether to try another IVF cycle, it's essential to weigh the emotional and financial aspects, but know that persistence can often pay off.

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Frequently Asked Questions

It's common to try multiple IVF cycles if the first one doesn’t result in pregnancy, as success rates can vary.

There isn’t a set limit on how many IVF cycles you can try, but it depends on individual circumstances, health factors, and financial considerations.

Reasons include wanting to have a baby, optimism about future success, and guidance from fertility specialists.

It’s usually recommended to wait one to three months between IVF cycles to allow the body to recover and to plan for the next steps.

Yes, different protocols exist based on individual needs, including standard IVF, mini-IVF, and natural cycle IVF.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, following medical advice, managing stress, and considering any additional treatments or changes recommended by your doctor.