Going through a failed IVF cycle is painful for any couple. But one unsuccessful attempt does not mean the journey ends there. Many couples need a second try, and for most of them, it works out well, finally giving them the chance to become parents.
Dr Neha Gupta, clinical director and senior infertility specialist at Mediworld Fertility, explains what needs to happen before attempting IVF again.
Understand what went wrong
Dr Neha said, “The crucial thing in such situations is to establish what exactly had gone wrong during the first attempt and what measures should be taken to boost the chances of success during the second.”
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Have an honest conversation with your doctor
After a failed attempt, your fertility specialist should sit down with you and go through everything in detail. This means looking closely at the health of the eggs, sperm, and embryos, and figuring out why implantation did not happen.
That said, sometimes there is no single clear reason, since several factors can be at play together.
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Before starting the second cycle, it helps to run a full set of tests to check for anything that might have caused the embryo not to implant.
Dr Neha points out that genetic screening, hormone tests, imaging of the uterus, and checks for immune or blood clotting issues can all be useful, depending on the case.
Be open to changes in treatment
The second IVF attempt may need some changes compared to the first.
For example, the doctor might suggest different injections to help the ovaries produce and release eggs, or recommend ICSI, a technique where a single sperm is directly injected into the egg, to improve fertilisation.
Focus on lifestyle too
Taking care of your body and mind matters just as much as the medical side.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, managing stress, cutting out harmful habits, and getting proper sleep can all improve the chances of success the next time around.
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Give yourself time before trying again
Finally, do not rush into the next cycle.
Dr Neha stressed that the woman’s body and mind need enough time to heal after the disappointment of a failed attempt before starting again.
About Dr Neha Gupta
Dr Neha Gupta is a senior gynaecologist and fertility expert with more than 21 years of experience in reproductive medicine. She currently practices at Mediworld Fertility Clinic in Delhi.
FAQs
1: Does a failed IVF cycle mean it won’t work in future?
No. Many couples need a second attempt, and for most of them it turns out to be successful.
2: What tests are recommended before the second IVF cycle?
Doctors usually suggest genetic screening, hormonal tests, imaging of the uterus, and checks for immune or blood clotting issues, depending on the individual case.
