Repeated IVF failures
Undergoing IVF and waiting for the results is a stressful moment in life. All the hopes are shattered if it fails. The chance of a single embryo resulting in a successful pregnancy is 25-30%. If 2 embryos are transferred, the success rate is 60-65%. If 3 good embryos fail to implant, it is called recurrent implantation failure / repeated IVF failure.
Some common questions related to repeated IVF failure include:
How common is repeated IVF failure?
The prevalence depends on the diagnostic criteria used. Usually, the prevalence of repeated IVF failure is between 5-8% in couples undergoing IVF.
Why embryos don’t implant?
The three main causes for implantation failure include:
- Embryo quality – embryos may be genetically abnormal or of poor quality
- Unfavorable uterine environment – quality of endometrium in terms of thickness or receptivity may be inadequate
- Immunological abnormalities – involving antigen – antibody reactions which hinder implantation of embryo.
What are the tests for diagnosing the cause of repeated IVF failure?
The tests which may help include:
- Diagnostic hysteroscopy – to rule out any abnormality inside the uterus which hinders implantation.
- Endometrial receptivity array – analysis the proteins in the uterine lining and helps in personalized embryo transfer at the right time of the cycle, based on the results.
- Nk cell assessment in the uterus / blood – to rule out immunological abnormalities
How to treat recurrent implantation failure?
Some treatments which can be offered include:
- Intralipid infusion prior to embryo transfer
- Injection of PRP or GCSF inside the uterus
- Preimplantation genetic testing/ PGTa to test the chromosomal make-up of embryo prior to transfer
- Assisted hatching to aid implantation
Which doctor is best for recurrent implantation failure/ repeated IVF failure treatment?
Dr Sneha J is a Gynecologist and the best fertility specialist. She has completed MD OBG from the top university AIIMS , Delhi and University fellowship in Fertility/ Reproductive medicine. She had further training in dealing with these conditions, as a visiting fellow at high output centres in Madrid, Spain and Chicago,USA. A Gynaecologist with training in Reproductive Medicine/ fertility procedures is best for treating Repeated IVF failure.
