When it doesn’t result in a pregnancy, the heartbreak can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: one failed cycle doesn’t mean the end of your fertility journey.
IVF has brought hope to millions of people who dream of becoming parents. It’s one of the most advanced fertility treatments available today, and many couples view it as the final solution after months — or years — of trying. But what happens when IVF doesn’t work?
Why does IVF fail?
Despite the advances in fertility medicine, IVF success is not guaranteed. The average success rate per cycle varies depending on age, diagnosis, and clinic. However, even in the best scenarios, not every embryo leads to a pregnancy, and not every pregnancy leads to a baby.
While most couples blame a faulty embryo for an unsuccessful IVF cycle, the truth is that many other factors could cause the treatment to fail, such as the quality of the embryos and the uterus. The good news is that by addressing issues in your first attempt, your fertility specialist can reduce the chances of experiencing the same problems in the future.
If your previous cycle of IVF was unsuccessful, your fertility specialist may recommend a different protocol tailored to your current situation and past response. Typically, a stimulation protocol is determined based on your weight, AMH levels, and antral follicle count. Your fertility specialist will also review your previous response to the treatment for additional insights.
Other potential reasons for a failed IVF cycle could include chromosomal abnormalities or issues with the uterine lining, which affects implantation. Sometimes, it is the quality of the eggs or sperm used in IVF. This can affect fertilisation, embryo development, or implantation. For some couples, no clear reason is ever found. This can be the hardest part — when everything looks “perfect” on paper, but it still doesn’t result in a pregnancy.
What to do if you have a failed IVF cycle
An unsuccessful IVF cycle can be emotionally exhausting. It might even feel overwhelming to consider trying again. It is normal to feel crushed by this experience, but it’s essential to take steps to get through this tough time. Usually, your fertility specialist will schedule follow-up appointments a few weeks after the procedure to check on your progress. During these visits, they will review your condition and suggest ways to improve your chances of success next time.
One of the most difficult aspects of IVF is the emotional toll it takes on a relationship. The preparation, administering the fertility drugs daily, monitoring of the endometrium, and constant appointments at the fertility clinic can all add up to a full-time job. And when the cycle ends, it is no surprise that some couples find themselves at a loss.
A good way to deal with the emotional fallout after IVF failure is to focus on the positives. This may mean gaining a deeper understanding of your body and its potential or fostering closer relationships with your partner. You can try distracting yourself with something else, such as a new hobby. If you’re struggling with your feelings, you may consider infertility counselling.
There are also some lifestyle changes you can make to improve your chances of conception, such as cutting back on caffeine, quitting smoking and alcohol, or avoiding any medications that could interfere with the IVF process. You should also work on achieving a healthy weight. Last but not least, stay hopeful.
Finding support is essential, and if you’re unable to get help from friends or family, consider reaching out to fertility support groups. Meeting others going through the same experiences will help you cope with your pain, as well as boost your morale. Getting support from others can also provide a positive outlet for venting and finding inspiration. The main thing is not to go through the process alone.
Next, try again. Many couples are successful on their second or third IVF attempt, especially when changes are made based on past outcomes. Your fertility specialist can help you understand your specific odds and whether another cycle is advisable.
Alongside conventional fertility treatments, many couples welcome complementary approaches to support their overall health and well-being to enhance their chances of success. Integrative options such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, fertility yoga, and nutritional or lifestyle counselling are getting popular. These evidence-backed therapies can help address underlying imbalances, reduce stress, and enhance physical readiness for conception.
Move Forward with Confidence
Every couple’s journey to parenthood is different, and there is no “right” path. Whether you decide to try again, explore other options, or take a pause, the most important thing is to do what feels right for you.
Take care of your mental and emotional well-being. When you’re ready, whether that’s days, weeks, or months from now, remember that there are still possibilities, support, and reasons to hope.
