The question
Dear Dr. Sher. I am out of options i feel. Unknown fertility problem, endometriosis.
I am now 30 years old. For the last 5 years: 5 IVF/ICSI cycles, 65 mature eggs, 30 fertilized, 0 good blastocyst, only poor quality, nothing in the freezer. One transfer on day 3 in cycle 3, resulted in healthy baby. Treatment Menopur or Gonal-F dose 125-225 stims for 12-14 days. Should i go next to Donor eggs?
Best wishes and many thanks.
Answer from Dr. Geoffrey Sher
Embarking on the journey of IVF often raises questions about the likelihood of success and the quality of embryos. While it’s challenging to predict outcomes due to various factors, there’s hope and information to guide you.
Firstly, the key to fertilization potential lies in the chromosomal integrity of the egg. Women in their twenties or early thirties have a higher chance of having eggs with the required number of chromosomes for a healthy pregnancy. However, as age advances, this percentage decreases, emphasizing the importance of timely decisions.
Secondly, embryos that don’t develop into blastocysts are usually chromosomally abnormal and are not suitable for transfer, as they may lead to implantation issues or miscarriages. Not all blastocysts are guaranteed to be chromosomally normal, and this likelihood decreases with the age of the woman. Understanding this helps set realistic expectations.
While species and genetic factors play a role in egg quality, our choice of a controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocol also matters. Selecting the right COS protocol is crucial, especially for older women, those with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), and those with polycystic ovarian syndrome. An individualized approach to optimize follicle growth and egg quality can significantly impact IVF outcomes.
In a natural ovulation cycle, hormonal changes are finely tuned to support healthy follicle development and egg maturation. When undergoing IVF, it’s essential to avoid disrupting this delicate balance. The Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) “trigger shot” should be carefully timed to enhance the chances of success.
In summary, understanding the influence of age, genetics, and COS protocols on egg quality is crucial for a successful IVF journey. The decision-making process becomes even more critical for older women or those facing specific fertility challenges. By embracing personalized approaches and staying informed, you can navigate the path of IVF with hope and optimism.
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\
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Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)....... for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
General information only, not medical advice for your own situation. For that, book a consultation.