Why IVF fails
Going through IVF can be emotionally and physically demanding, especially when a cycle doesn’t result in a pregnancy. It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated or disheartened. At MiFertility, we know how important it is to understand why treatment might not work, and how to approach next steps with clarity and support.
IVF can be unsuccessful for many reasons
There are several points where an IVF cycle might not go as hoped. Sometimes, no eggs are retrieved at egg collection. In other cases, eggs may fertilise but not develop into high-quality embryos. These possibilities exist for all women undergoing IVF; however, the likelihood of such outcomes increases with age.
The most common reason why IVF doesn’t result in a pregnancy is due to the embryo’s chromosomal makeup. This is called aneuploidy: when the embryo has an abnormal number of chromosomes. It’s the single most important factor affecting IVF success rates.
Understanding embryo quality
Each cell in the human body normally has 46 chromosomes. If an embryo has an extra or missing chromosome, or missing segments from one, it may not implant successfully or may result in a miscarriage. These chromosomal anomalies are also a leading cause of early pregnancy loss (before 12 weeks).
Embryo quality is influenced by both egg and sperm quality. Egg quality, in particular, can vary significantly from one cycle to another, which is why success rates often improve across the first three IVF cycles.
Other factors that can affect implantation
At MiFertility, we work to identify and manage other issues that could reduce the chance of implantation. These may include:
- Hydrosalpinx: fluid in the fallopian tubes from a previous infection
- Fibroids: particularly those that distort the shape of the uterine cavity
- Endometriosis, and adenomyosis
If these conditions are ruled out or treated appropriately, embryo quality and chromosomal health become the key factors influencing IVF outcomes.
How lifestyle changes may support fertility
A healthy lifestyle can improve your overall metabolic health, which in turn may support better fertility outcomes.
- Nutrition: A diet rich in antioxidants, like a Mediterranean-style diet, may support both egg and sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress and improving DNA integrity.
- Supplements: Antioxidant-based supplements may also be helpful for some people.
- Exercise: Regular aerobic activity, stress management, and good sleep can all support overall wellbeing. However, we recommend avoiding high-impact exercise during treatment cycles; please talk to us if you’re unsure.
- Avoiding harmful substances: Smoking and excessive alcohol can have a negative impact on egg and sperm quality. We strongly recommend avoiding both when planning or undergoing fertility treatment.
Why weight and BMI matter
Maintaining a healthy weight is important for both fertility and pregnancy health. Research shows that IVF success rates can be lower for women with a BMI over 30. Higher BMI can also increase the risk of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preeclampsia. A healthy BMI is also associated with lower miscarriage risk.
For male partners, a healthy weight may also support sperm quality and overall reproductive health.
Can egg and sperm quality be improved?
While we can’t change age or genetics, some factors, like lifestyle, can support egg and sperm quality. Healthy eating, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking or excess alcohol are all small steps that may make a meaningful difference over time.
Common signs that should not be ignored
If you’re trying to conceive and noticing any of the following, it’s worth speaking with a fertility specialist:
- Painful, heavy, or irregular periods
- Pain during sex
- History of pelvic infections or surgery
- Multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles
- Concerns about fibroids, cysts, or endometriosis
- Miscarriages or failed embryo transfers
These could be signs of underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, which we can investigate through detailed ultrasound assessment.
Managing conditions like endometriosis or fibroids
At MiFertility, we offer detailed pelvic ultrasound scans to help identify conditions that may affect fertility, such as fibroids and endometriosis.
- Fibroids: While common, fibroids that significantly distort the cavity of the uterus can reduce the chance of implantation. Surgical removal may be recommended in these cases.
- Endometriosis: This condition affects more than 25% of women with fertility challenges. It may cause symptoms like pain, heavy bleeding, or sometimes no symptoms at all. Mild cases may benefit from surgery if trying to conceive naturally; however, evidence for improved IVF outcomes with surgery is less clear.
- Adenomyosis: A form of endometriosis within the uterine muscle, which can reduce implantation rates and increase miscarriage risk. There are limited surgical options, so treatment often involves hormonal management tailored to the individual.
What can you do before starting IVF?
We often encourage patients to:
- Focus on achieving a healthy weight and lifestyle
- Stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake
- Take recommended supplements if advised
- Keep physically active with moderate exercise
- Seek support for mental wellbeing
These steps can support your body’s readiness for treatment, and potentially your response to stimulation.
What can help improve response to mild IVF?
Mild IVF uses lower doses of medication to stimulate the ovaries. Lifestyle factors, such as maintaining a healthy BMI, reducing inflammation, and supporting hormonal balance, can all play a role in improving ovarian response.
We’ll tailor every protocol based on your hormone levels, ovarian reserve, scan findings, and medical history.
Supporting your emotional wellbeing during IVF
The emotional side of fertility treatment is just as important as the physical. We understand how challenging this journey can be.
At MiFertility, we support your psychological wellbeing and can refer you to experienced fertility counsellors such as Liz Bancroft (Hope Affirm Thrive), who has personal insight into the IVF experience.
Whether it’s leaning on loved ones, talking to others going through IVF, or seeking professional support, finding what works for you is an important part of the process.
Read our latest articles on fertility treatment and IVF in Perth
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Why ivf fails
Personalised care at every step
At MiFertility, we’re committed to helping you understand your fertility and supporting you with clear information, personalised planning, and compassionate care. If your IVF cycle hasn’t worked, know that you’re not alone, and that we’ll work together to explore your next steps with honesty and hope.
You can book a consultation easily, or get in touch if you just want to ask a few questions. We’re always here to help. Watch out for our instagram posts on ‘the mild ivf guy’ where Dr Deval gives his opinion on various fertility related aspects, and visit our facebook page: ‘MiFertility’ for similar educational content.
Clinic location
Monash IVF West Leederville
166-168 Cambridge Street
West Leederville WA 6007