It is beautiful to dream of a child. IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a special way to help couples have a child when it is difficult to do naturally. It brings hope for many families around the world.

But sometimes, IVF does not work on the first attempt. It can feel heartbreaking. You may be surprised why this happened and what you should do next.

You are not alone. Many couples face this challenge. The good news is that understanding the reasons can help you make a better plan for the future.

In this blog, you will learn the main reason why IVF can fail. If your IVF effort is not successful then you will also get simple steps.

Why IVF Fails: Common Reasons

IVF is a powerful tool that helps couples to have a child. But sometimes, even when everything looks right, it can fail. Let us talk about the main reasons why this can happen.

1. Poor Embryo quality

Embryos with genetic abnormalities cannot successfully transplant. Even if they appear healthy under a microscope, hidden issues can prevent development. Factors such as maternal age and quality of sperm can affect fetal feasibility.

2. Maternal age

As the age of women, especially after 35, egg quality declines. Old eggs are more likely to have chromosome defects, which reduces the chances of successful implantation and increases the risk of abortion.

3. Uterine abnormalities

Conditions such as fibroids, polyps, or scarring can interfere with fetal implantation. An unhealthy uterine lining can prevent the fetus from attaching properly.

4. Poor ovarian response

Some women produce low eggs despite stimulation. It is common in people with low ovarian reserves, often due to age or hormonal imbalance.

5. Implantation failure

Even with a healthy fetus, implantation may not occur. This can be caused by uterine issues or unexplained factors. Sometimes, the exact cause remains unknown despite a complete testing.

6. Male factor infertility

Poor sperm quality, including low count or abnormal shape can obstruct fertilization. Male genetic issues can also affect fetal development.

7. Lifestyle factor

Habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity and chronic stress can negatively affect fertility. The health and lifestyle options of both partners play a role in IVF success.

8. Immuneor blood clot disorder

Rarely, the immune system can attack the fetus, or prevent implantation on blood clotting issues. These conditions are less common but IVF can affect results.

What to do if IVF fails: Smart steps to move forward:

When the IVF fails, it may feel heartbreaking. But this is not the end of your journey. Next time you have smart moves to improve your opportunities. What can you do here:

1. Consult your fertility specialist

The first step is to talk to your doctor. Ask for complete review of your IVF cycle. Your doctor will go through the exam result and lab report. They can help you understand what can be wrong. Every case is different, so it is important to find answers that are unique to you.

2. Do additional tests

Sometimes, more tests can give new clues. Your doctor may suggest a genetic testing of your fetus. It is called PGT-A.  It checks whether the fetus has the correct number of chromosomes.

You may also need hysteroscopy. This is a simple test where the doctor looks inside your uterus. This scar can find hidden problems like tissue or polyps. In some cases, an immune panel can be tested. It checks if your body is reacting against the fetus.

3. Modify the treatment protocol

Your doctor may suggest changes in your treatment. They can accommodate the dose of your medicine. Sometimes, switching on a separate medicine can help.

Your doctor may also change the way the fetus moves. You can try a frozen fetal transfer instead of a fresh. Or they may suggest transferring the fetus to the blastocyst phase, when it is five days old.

4. Focus on improving lifestyle factors

Taking care of your health can promote your opportunities. What can you do here:

  • Keep a healthy weight (BMI in the general range).
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
  • Manage stress through consultation, yoga or meditation.

Even small changes can bring a big difference. A healthy body is more ready to support pregnancy.

5. Consider using donor eggs or sperm

Sometimes, the problem is accompanied by the quality of eggs or sperm. If this is the case, using a donor eggs or sperm can be a good option.

Donor eggs or sperm often come from young, healthy people from ART bank. It can increase the chances of having a healthy baby.

6. Explore other reproductive options

If multiple IVF fails, there are still ways to build your family. You can consider:

  • Surrogacy: Another woman takes the child for you.
  • Adoption Eclipse: Giving the needy child a loving house.
  • Other assisted reproductive technologies (ART): New treatment can fit your condition.

Your doctor can guide you for the best next step based on your needs.

Conclusion

Going through IVF is a big journey. When it fails, it can break your heart. But remember, you are not alone. Many couples face the same struggle and still find their way for paternity.

Understanding why IVF fails is the first step towards success. With the help of your doctor, new tests, healthy options and sometimes new paths such as donor options, your dream can still come true.