IVF
8 Important Factors That Increase Success in IVF Treatment
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is one of the most significant opportunities modern medicine offers. However, the success of this journey depends on many different variables. Both medical and lifestyle factors directly influence the likelihood of an embryo implanting and developing into a healthy pregnancy. To increase your chances of success, it’s important to understand the 8 key factors that play a role in this process.
1. Woman's Age and Ovarian Reserve
A woman's age is the most critical factor in IVF success. Success rates are higher at younger ages because egg quantity and quality are better. After the age of 35, these rates naturally begin to decline. An AMH test helps evaluate ovarian reserve and guides us in personalizing your treatment protocol.
2. Embryo Quality
A healthy, high-quality embryo is the cornerstone of success. Advanced technologies like the Embriyoskop, which monitors embryo development 24/7, and genetic screening (PGT) methods allow us to select the embryo with the highest potential for implantation. This is a significant advantage, especially in cases of recurrent failures or advanced age.
3. Uterine Health
The uterine lining (endometrium), where the embryo will implant, must be healthy and receptive. Structural issues like fibroids, polyps, adhesions, or a septum can prevent the embryo from attaching. A detailed ultrasound, and if necessary, a hysteroscopy, can identify and treat these issues before treatment.
4. Sperm Quality
Male factor contributes to about half of all infertility cases. Sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape) are vital for fertilization. In cases of severe male factor infertility, the microinjection (ICSI) method, where a single healthy sperm is injected directly into the egg, greatly increases fertilization rates.
5. The Right Treatment Protocol
Every patient is unique. A "one-size-fits-all" approach is not effective in IVF. Success depends on a personalized medication protocol (drug types and dosages) tailored to the patient's age, ovarian reserve, previous treatment history, and the cause of infertility.
6. Laboratory Quality and Technology
The experience and technological infrastructure of the embryology lab determine the outcome of the treatment. Every detail—from the air quality in the lab to the culture media used and the experience of the embryologists—increases the chance of developing healthy embryos.
7. Lifestyle Factors
Adopting healthy habits before and during treatment positively impacts both egg and sperm quality. These include:
- Healthy Nutrition: An antioxidant-rich diet, like the Mediterranean diet.
- Ideal Weight: Being overweight or underweight can disrupt hormonal balance.
- Quitting Smoking and Alcohol: Both are seriously harmful to reproductive cells.
- Stress Management: Relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can reduce stress.
8. Physician and Clinic Experience
The experience of your physician and clinic is crucial for navigating challenges and making timely, correct decisions. Starting your journey with a team you trust will help you manage this sensitive process in a more positive way.
Frequently Asked Questions
The success rate varies depending on the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and embryo quality, but it can be as high as 50-60% in the younger age group. This rate is evaluated personally for each patient.
Yes, they absolutely do. Factors such as quitting smoking, eating healthy, and being at an ideal weight improve both egg and sperm quality, increasing the embryo's potential for healthy development and raising the chances of pregnancy.
PGT is recommended especially for couples with advanced maternal age, recurrent IVF failures, or a known risk of a genetic disease. It is not a necessary procedure for every couple; your physician will provide the most accurate information according to your situation.
