In-vitro fertilization or IVF is a procedure that can be emotionally and physically demanding for the woman undergoing it. It involves egg retrieval and fertilizing them with sperm outside the body. When embryos get formed, they are transferred to the uterus. This medical procedure is considered to be an effective solution for someone who is unable to conceive a child, but there are no guarantees. The IVF success rate depends a lot on the age of the woman and her health. If you are younger, you may be more likely to have a successful pregnancy. But don’t assume that just because you are young, it will be a success. You also need to make some changes in your lifestyle to make IVF a success the first time. On World IVF Day, which falls on July 25, know how to increase your chances of IVF success.

What is IVF?

IVF or in-vitro fertilization is a fertility treatment where fertilization occurs outside the body, typically in a laboratory setting, says gynaecologist and IVF expert Dr Shobha Gupta. It is a process used to help individuals or couples conceive a child when natural conception is difficult or not possible.

The stages of IVF typically include:

• Ovulation induction: Medications are given to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, as multiple eggs increase the chances of successful fertilization.
• Egg retrieval: Once the eggs get mature, they are retrieved from the ovaries using a minor surgical procedure called follicular aspiration, usually done under sedation.
• Sperm collection: Around the time of egg retrieval, sperm is collected from the male partner or a sperm donor. The sperm is then processed in the lab to select the healthiest sperm.
• Fertilization: The retrieved eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish, where fertilization occurs. Sometimes, a single sperm is directly injected into an egg in a procedure called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
• Embryo culture: The embryos or fertilized eggs are cultured in the lab for a few days.
• Embryo transfer: One or more of the healthiest embryos are selected and transferred into the uterus through the cervix using a thin catheter.
• Luteal phase support: Medications such as progesterone may be prescribed to support the uterine lining and enhance embryo implantation.
• Pregnancy test: Approximately 10 to 14 days after embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is done to determine if the procedure was successful.

What is the success rate of IVF?

Whether IVF will be successful or not, it all depends on the age of the woman having the treatment, and the cause of the infertility. Women under 35 are more likely to have a successful pregnancy.

According to the UK’s National Health Service, in 2019, the IVF success rate was:

• For women under 35: 32 percent
• For women aged between 35 and 37: 25 percent
• For women aged 38 or 39: 19 percent
• For women aged between 40 and 42: 11 percent

What are the ways to increase chances of IVF success?

Here are some ways to make IVF successful the first time:

1. Healthy diet

Your IVF diet should be more of a balanced diet rich in colourful vegetables, and fruits along with whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support reproductive health. Consider reducing ultra-processed foods and excessive sugar intake. Following a Mediterranean diet may increase the chances of having successful IVF, according to a review published in Reproductive Biomedicine Online in 2023.

A Mediterranean diet includes:

• Vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
• Whole grains.
• Fish and chicken.
• Plant-based fats from nuts, and seeds.

2. Medications and supplements

Follow your fertility specialist’s advice regarding medications like gonadotropins that may be prescribed for ovarian stimulation and hormonal balance. Certain supplements like folic acid, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may also be recommended, says Dr Gupta.

3. Adequate sleep

Poor quality sleep will not only affect your mood the following day, but also your chances of making IVF a success. Try to sleep for 7 to 9 hours every night, as proper rest supports overall health and hormone balance, which can positively impact fertility.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Both underweight and overweight conditions can affect fertility. Maintaining a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) through diet and exercise can improve IVF success rates. So, eat a balanced diet, focus on portion control and engage in low-intensity exercises.

5. Quit smoking

If you are a smoker, it may be time to give it up. Smoking can adversely affect fertility and IVF success rates, says the expert. Cigarette has toxic chemicals that may lead to poor reproductive outcome.

6. Manage stress

Doing yoga will not only help to maintain a healthy weight, but also manage stress. Meditation, and deep breathing exercises can also help reduce stress levels, which may improve fertility outcomes.

7. Sex during IVF

Avoid having sex during periods of ovarian stimulation and after embryo transfer until pregnancy is confirmed, says Dr Gupta. During the treatment, the ovaries get enlarged and cystic, and sex could lead to rupture of a cyst on the enlarged ovaries.

It is also important to attend all appointments, follow the prescribed medications and protocols meticulously, and communicate openly with your fertility team. Each step in the IVF process is crucial for maximizing success.