Embryo Grading and How It Influences IVF Outcomes

IVF embryo quality grading predicts the quality of the blastocyst to be implanted. As one of the key factors affecting IVF success, it gives your fertility specialist an insight into embryo viability and a chance to determine the embryo most likely to grow into a full-term pregnancy. What Is Embryo Grading? Embryo grading is the evaluation of the quality of embryos for implantation. This scientific process involves assessing specific criteria, including: 1)      Cell structure: Are the cells uniform & symmetrical? 2)      Development stage: Has the embryo reached the appropriate stage for its calculated age (day-3 or day-5 blastocyst)? 3)      Fragmentation level: Does it show signs of abnormal fragmentation? A higher grade shows a stronger chance of a successful implantation and subsequent pregnancy. Always remember, however, that embryo grading isn’t the only factor contributing to success of an IVF cycle. How Embryo Grading Influences IVF Outcomes Higher grade embryos are more likely to:         Implant successfully in the uterine lining         Develop into a healthy, full-term pregnancy         Reduce need for multiple IVF cycles While advantageous to struggling couples, external factors like uterine health, genetic compatibility, and lifestyle choices can play a significant role in the success rates of these graded embryos. Limitations of Embryo Grading While embryo grading can be regarded as an invaluable tool, it can’t perfectly predict the future of the pregnancy. Some of its limitations include :         Grades don’t include genetics: An embryo that looks perfect under the microscope could still carry risks of chromosomal abnormalities.         Health & Lifestyle factors: Uterine health, hormone levels, and even stress can affect outcomes.         Grades vary by clinic: Grading systems are subjective and may differ between fertility centers. While embryo grading is an irreplaceable tool in IVF, it’s merely a single piece of the puzzle. For optimal care, consult your fertility specialist for a treatment plan unique to your personal health needs. Remember, success in IVF is a combination of science and individualized care strategies. This article is intended for educational purposes only. All contents here are general in nature and do not take into account your personal circumstances. Please consult with your health care professional to ensure you get the right diagnosis and treatment.

How Timelapse Monitoring is Transforming IVF Success

The evolution of promising assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures like Timelapse Monitoring has brought about a marked change in IVF solutions. Having this method as a reliable way of assessing embryo and egg health has been crucial to the increase of successful outcomes in rounds of IVF treatment. Let’s get right into how Timelapse Monitoring has been bringing about change to the fertility scene. What is Timelapse Embryo Monitoring? Timelapse embryo monitoring is a non-invasive imaging technology in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures to assess the health and viability of an embryo or its components. This setup consists of a series of high-definition cameras that continuously capture high-resolution images of embryos at regular intervals throughout their cycle before implantation. These images are then scrutinized for morphokinetic analysis, to assess cleavage patterns, blastulation timing, and allow embryologists to detect developmental anomalies early. This then helps fertility specialists pick out the healthiest most likely viable embryo to prepare for implantation. Why Timelapse Monitoring Matters The key factor here is its reliability in predicting the viability of an embryo or egg. In traditional methods, embryos were assessed periodically through their cell counts, the approximate number of divisions, and the presence of the zona pellucida. However, this only resulted in a fraction of the implantations actually carrying on. In contrast, timelapse monitoring automatically captures high-definition images of the embryo at set intervals. This means that fertility experts now have a clearer picture of nearly the entire division process leading up to implantation, giving them deeper insight into the viability of the embryo based on various factors. The implementation of Timelapse Monitoring has since resulted in increased implantation rates reaching double that of the traditional method.  How Timelapse Monitoring Helps in IVF Traditional embryo assessments were not only invasive, they required the intervention of humans – natural sources of error. But, with Timelapse Monitoring, looking into the embryonic cell at its various stages can be accurate and less invasive, in that it :       Does not require biopsies of the embryo       Minimizes handling of the embryo, preventing physical damage       Details morphology, cell division timing, and captures nearly every stage in crisp clear images. Come In AI & Big Data With AI, Timelapse Monitoring takes a step further with complex and defined algorithms detecting key developmental stages to be compared to their historical data. As a result, AI can now compare, contrast, and reliably determine which embryos have the best chance of survival at implantation. This could very well be a game-changer, further shooting up existing IVF success rates. The adoption of Timelapse Imaging to support IVF efforts are expected to completely change fertility and ART procedures as we know it. As AI models become more precise in their predictions, embryo selections will have a higher success rate, making IVF an even more reliable method of conception for those with dreams of parenthood. This article is intended for educational purposes only. All contents here are general in nature and do not take into account your personal circumstances. Please consult with your health care professional to ensure you get the right diagnosis and treatment.

FAQ: IVF in Malaysia

Are you and your partner trying to conceive but struggling with fertility issues? Do not worry because you are not alone. Many couples face barriers when trying to conceive, but with advancements in technology, there are multiple ways to start a family. One of the most popular options is In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF), which is a procedure that has helped many couples achieve their dream of parenthood. However, it’s important to have a good understanding of the IVF procedure before deciding if it’s the right fertility treatment for you. Here are some commonly asked questions for couples considering IVF in Malaysia.    What is IVF? IVF is a medical procedure involving fertilising eggs outside the women’s body and transferring them back into the womb. The eggs will be surgically removed and placed in a laboratory dish. Then, the sperm from the male partner will be inserted into the egg for fertilisation. After a few days, the fertilised egg will be transferred back into the womb to achieve pregnancy.   How does IVF work? There are several medical procedures involved to help a couple overcome fertility problems. The entire procedure may take about 4 to 6 weeks.  Generally, the IVF procedure consists of the following: Ovarian stimulation – In this first step of IVF, a woman is given hormonal medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The medication would increase the chances of obtaining matured egg for fertilisation. The doctor will continue monitoring the woman’s hormone levels occasionally. Then, the doctor will perform ultrasound scans to track the growth and development of the eggs. Egg retrieval- Once the eggs have matured, they are surgically removed from the woman’s ovaries. Usually, the woman will be under general anaesthesia during this process. Then, a transvaginal ultrasound-guided needle is used to aspirate the fluid from the follicles that contain the eggs. The fluid will then be sent to the IVF lab. Sperm collection – The male partner is asked to provide a semen sample on the same day as the egg retrieval. The laboratory will then process it to obtain the healthiest and most motile sperm. Fertilisation – The retrieved eggs and the processed sperm are combined in a laboratory dish and placed in an incubator to allow fertilisation. The fertilisation process can take several hours, depending on the quality of the eggs and the sperm. Embryo transfer – The final IVF step involved transferring the selected embryos into the woman’s womb. It is usually done under ultrasound guidance, using a thin catheter to place the embryos into the womb through the cervix. The woman will then need to wait about two weeks to see if the embryos have been implanted. Successful implantation will result in pregnancy.   Who can undergo IVF? IVF is recommended for couples trying to conceive for more than six months or a year without success. It can also be suggested for couples with certain fertility problems like Endometriosis, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), damaged or blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count and other severe fertility problems.   Is IVF painful? IVF is generally not considered a painful process. However, depending on person to person, it can be discomforting and painful. Some women may experience mild discomfort during the egg retrieval process, which can be typically managed through pain medication and general anaesthesia. After egg retrieval, they may experience side effects like headaches and mood swings. It is best to consult the doctor to help manage discomfort and ensure you are as comfortable as possible.     How successful is IVF in Malaysia? According to Malaysia Travel Healthcare Council, Malaysia recorded a 65% success rate for its IVF treatment in 2017, compared to the global average rate of 50%. It is important to note that IVF success rates can vary significantly depending on the clinic and each couple’s circumstances. Some clinics may have higher success rates due to their expertise, experience and use of advanced techniques and technologies. Thus, it is important to research and choose the clinic for a successful IVF.   How many cycles of IVF are needed to achieve pregnancy? The number of IVF cycles varies from person to person. Some couples may conceive after only one cycle, while others may require multiple cycles. For women under 35, the success rate of IVF is generally higher, and it is possible to achieve pregnancy within one to three cycles. However, for women over 35 years old, the chances may decline, and it may take several cycles of IVF to achieve a successful pregnancy. IVF can be emotionally and financially stressful, and some couples may choose to stop after several unsuccessful cycles. However, do not give up. Always consult and discuss your options and pregnancy chances with your fertility doctor.   What is the cost of IVF in Malaysia? IVF treatment costs differ according to the hospitals or clinics and the specific services required. On average, a single cycle of IVF can be around RM 14 000 to RM 25 000. Certain fertility problems may require additional medication or procedures, increasing the overall cost. It is best to consult the doctor to determine the best option for your fertility problem.   Are there any financial assistance available for couples facing financial problems? The Malaysian government provide an alternative to finance fertility treatment. Couples can now fund IVF treatment through withdrawal from their Employee Provided Fund (EPF). Legally married couples below 55 can now apply from their Account 2 savings for fertility treatments such as IVF, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). There is no limit as to how much a couple can withdraw. However, it is important for couples to clear their doubts regarding EPF before proceeding with financial aid.  Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msx5mrCQUa8&t=3s   Can IVF be combined with other treatments? IVF can be combined with other treatments to increase the chance of successful pregnancies. Some of the treatments include: ICSI – ICSI is a technique involving injecting a single sperm directly into the egg. This treatment is

Find Out How Much Is the IVF Treatment?

How Much Is the IVF Treatment for Couples with Fertility issues?  For many couples, starting a family is a dream they hope will come true. Unfortunately, not everyone can conceive naturally. This is where I believe, In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) becomes a viable option. IVF has been around for many years and has helped millions of couples achieve their dreams to get pregnant and have a child. However, a common question that arises is “how much is the IVF treatment?”, but before getting into the details of the costing or price, I think it is important to first understand the essentials of the IVF treatment. What is IVF Treatment? In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a fertility treatment that involves fertilising an egg with a sperm outside of the womb in a laboratory dish, after which the resulting embryo is transferred back into the womb. Typically, IVF is used when other methods of conception, like Intrauterine insemination (IUI), have failed. It is often considered the last resort for couples trying to conceive. The IVF procedure starts with the use of fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then harvested and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. After fertilisation, the resulting embryos are monitored to track their development before being transferred into the womb, where they implant and develop into a healthy pregnancy. Who can benefit from IVF treatment? IVF is suggested for couples facing severe infertility problem. Some of the problems include: Fallopian tube blockage Fallopian tube blockage can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg, making it difficult to conceive naturally. IVF can bypass this fertility problem as it would not involve the fallopian tube during fertilisation. It works by retrieving the eggs from the ovaries and fertilising them with sperm in the lab. The resulting embryos can then be transferred to the uterus.  Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) PCOS can make it difficult for women to ovulate regularly due to imbalance in hormone level. It may be caused by the increased level in testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH) or from having insulin resistance. These problems can make the conception more challenging. IVF can help by using medication to stimulate ovulation and retrieving the eggs for fertilisation in the lab. Endometriosis Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, sometimes in the fallopian tubes, and can cause pain and affect fertility. For couples with endometriosis, IVF can be an option because it bypasses the need for the sperm and egg to meet in the fallopian tubes, which may be affected by the condition.  Uterine fibroids Uterine fibroids are growths that can develop in the uterus and affect fertility. Depending on the size and location of the fibroids, they can interfere with the implantation of a fertilised egg. IVF can help by transferring the fertilised eggs directly into the uterus.  Problems in sperm production or function Men having problems with sperm production or function indicates fertility problems. The problem in sperm includes low sperm count, sperm with poor motility or abnormally sized sperm. If any of these problems are found during a sperm analysis, then IVF may be suggested. Alternative options for fertility treatment besides IVF. IVF is not the only option for couples struggling with fertility problems. There are other fertility treatments available that may be less invasive and costly. Before knowing how much is the IVF treatment, get to know the other alternative options that can also aid fertility problems. Some of the alternative treatments besides IVF include: –       Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) IUI involves placing washed sperm directly into the womb. IUI treatment begins with monitoring the woman’s natural menstrual cycle to determine the optimal time for the procedure. Sperm is then collected, washed and concentrated in the laboratory. The concentrated sperm is then inserted into the uterus lining using a thin catheter. This process increases the chances of the sperm reaching and fertilising the egg, resulting in a successful pregnancy. IUI treatment is often used in cases of unexplained infertility or when the male partner has a low sperm count or mobility. It is also suggested by doctors for women who have mild fertility problems such as mild endometriosis.  –       Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) ICSI is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that can be used to treat male infertility factors, such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape. ICSI involves the injection of a single sperm directly into the cytoplasm of the egg using a specialized pipette, bypassing the natural barriers to fertilization. The fertilized egg, now called an embryo, is then cultured in a laboratory for a few days before being transferred into the woman’s uterus. ICSI has been shown to be an effective treatment option for couples experiencing male infertility factors, as well as for those with unexplained infertility or other fertility issues. How much is the IVF Treatment? The cost of undergoing IVF treatment can vary significantly and is influenced by several factors, including medical history and the clinic chosen to perform the procedure. In Malaysia, the average cost of a single cycle of IVF treatment ranges between RM 14,000 to RM 25,000, with some reputable clinics charging up to RM 25,000 per cycle. Additionally, medications or other procedures may incur additional fees depending on your specific fertility problem. Couples may require multiple treatment cycles before achieving a successful pregnancy, so it’s important to consult with a doctor and understand the personalized cost of treatment. Fortunately, financial assistance is available to those who may struggle to afford IVF treatment. I often advise my patients to explore government programs, insurance coverage, or financial assistance programs related to fertility treatments.  I believe that you can determine the best course of action to pursue your dream of starting a family.by gathering enough information and speaking with your doctor regarding your condition.  Financial Aid in Malaysia Many families do crowd-funding where grandparents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and

Wondering What is IVF Treatment?

What is IVF Treatment and how it helps couples with infertility issues conceive? Many couples facing infertility issues might have heard about fertility treatments such as IUI and IVF. But many are still wondering about what is IVF treatment and how exactly this treatment can help them to get pregnant. In Vitro Fertilization commonly known as IVF or test tube baby is a type of assisted reproductive technology that fertilises an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory dish. Upon fertilisation, the embryo will be transferred to the woman’s womb to help her achieve a successful pregnancy. Getting IVF treatment can be an emotional roller coaster ride for many couples with fertility issues. Thus, the couple needs to understand the process and procedures involved in the treatment so that they can be physically and mentally prepared to undergo the treatment.   Getting to know the 6 Basic Steps of IVF Treatment Step 1: Consultation and Fertility Assessment Typically, the journey to IVF starts with consultation and fertility assessment with a fertility specialist. During the consultation, the fertility specialist will conduct a review of the couple’s medical history and ask them to undergo a physical examination and fertility assessment. The assessments may include pelvic and abdominal ultrasound scans, semen analysis, and blood tests. These assessments are done to check the overall health and find the potential cause of the couple’s inability to conceive. After reviewing the results of the medical assessment, the doctor may suggest the couple to opt for IVF treatment depending on the severity of the fertility problem. During the consultation, the couples are encouraged to ask as many relatable questions as possible to understand their condition better. Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation The next step in an IVF cycle is to stimulate the ovaries to allow multiple eggs to mature. This process is done by taking daily injections of hormones in certain dosages as instructed by the doctor. The hormonal injections typically start on the 2nd day of the woman’s menstrual cycle. It will be taken continuously for five days. After the 5th day, the doctor will do an ultrasound scan to check the growth of the eggs. Subsequently, the doctor will continue the injections for another five days, making a total of 10 days of injections. Then, the doctor will do another ultrasound scan to check the best time to retrieve the eggs. The retrieval process will only happen when the eggs reach 17mm and above. Step 3: Egg Retrieval Once the eggs are matured, the egg retrieval process will be done. The patient will be given a form of anaesthetic that helps her to relax and be pain-free during the procedure. The matured eggs are retrieved using a transvaginal ultrasound. A long thin needle is inserted through the vagina and guided to the ovaries using ultrasound imaging. Then, the eggs are removed from the ovarian follicles and placed in a dish containing a special solution. The dish is then put in an incubator before proceeding to the next steps. The egg retrieval process usually takes about 10 – 15 minutes. After the egg retrieval, some patients may experience mild cramping, bloating, bleeding, or spotting. These side effects should resolve within a few days. It is advisable to talk to the fertility doctor if the effects are severe. Step 4: Fertilisation On the same day of egg retrieval, the male partner will have to give a sperm sample. After getting the sample, the embryologist will proceed to choose the best egg and sperm and fertilise it in the lab. The first step of fertilization process involves insemination. It is the process of combining the egg and sperm in a petri dish which will then be placed in an incubator to form an embryo. Step 5: Embryo transfer This step is done once the embryo is formed and ready to be implanted in the uterus. Before the embryo transfer, the woman will be given medications to prepare the uterus lining. The embryos are then placed into a thin catheter, inserted through the cervix, and into the uterus. The embryos are gently pushed out of the catheter and into the uterus. The entire procedure is commonly done without using any sedation. After the embryo transfer, the patient will be advised to rest for a few hours and to avoid strenuous activity for the next few days. What to do after the Embryo Transfer? Typically, there is a two-week waiting period before taking the pregnancy test. This time can be emotionally and physically challenging for many couples. Understanding what is IVF treatment and procedures helps to keep the couple remain calm and mentally prepared to face the result. Here are a few things that the couples may be advised to do after the embryo transfer: Take a good rest Getting IVF treatment is a potentially life-changing procedure, so it is better to relax and take it easy for the next couple of days. After the transfer, the patient will be advised to rest well and reduce strenuous physical activity. They will be encouraged to priorities self-care and do enjoyable things that do not involve vigorous movements such as watching movies or reading. It is important for them to pamper themselves and keep their mind relaxed and calm during the waiting period.   Continue the medications Doctors may prescribe progesterone tablets or pessaries, or even injections. The patient should continue these medications at the appropriate time. It helps with the embryo implantation process. Although, it isn’t very pleasant to take these medications but hang in there for this may help to ensure a successful pregnancy. Eat healthily It is important to stay healthy during this time. Practice healthy eating habits and continue taking the multivitamins and folic acid prescribed by the doctor. Getting more information about what is IVF treatment, prenatal care and diet is vital to a healthy pregnancy journey and can make a big difference.  Be in a Supportive Environment It is advised for the patient to

Our Pregnancy Success Rate

The Key to Our Pregnancy Success Rate Having to go through repeated miscarriages and failed embryo transfers can be heartbreaking. However, opting for the right treatment at the right time has a high potential to improve the patient’s chance of conceiving and increase our pregnancy success rate. It is important to do the necessary tests to find out the problems and try appropriate treatment. There are various treatment options to treat your fertility issues and help you to get pregnant.  Improving the Odds For some couples, having a child can be a difficult process due to physiological factors. Did you know that up to 25% of clinical pregnancies end up in failure? Clinical pregnancy here refers to the pregnancy verified by the doctor through an ultrasound or fetal heartbeat. There are various reasons for clinical pregnancy to fail, but I believe that the combination of the right treatment at the right time can increase the chances of successful pregnancies.   Reasons for Failure There is a number of reasons why some patients did not achieve live birth or clinical pregnancy. Here are a few reasons why your IVF might have failed. –     Chromosomal Abnormalities For an IVF process to be successful, there must be a ‘chromosomally normal’ embryo where the number of chromosomes is perfectly normal. If it is not, it will lead to failure of the procedure or worse, a miscarriage. The abnormal chromosomes affect the quality of the embryo. In many cases, this condition occurs more commonly in women over 35. –     Age Chances of miscarriage increase as you grow older. You gradually lose the best eggs. If you are 35 and above, you have a higher risk of getting a miscarriage. At 35, the percentage of miscarriage is about 20%. At age 40, the percentage increases to 40% and at 45, it shoots up to 80%. Thus, when you conceive, there is a high chance that the embryos may be abnormal. –     Blood disorder Another possible reason is when you suffer from blood disorders which affect the immune system. A condition that can occur is Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome. It refers to abnormal clots forming behind a growing placenta, leading to miscarriages. –     Health issues Women with underlying health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid problems, may have chances of miscarriages. A womb with an abnormal shape can also be a contributing factor in miscarriages. The womb should be of normal shape and dimension with a smooth inner lining. Besides that, if the woman has a polyp or uterine fibroid making the womb lining irregular, it can also cause miscarriages. What aspects do we look into before suggesting the right treatments? Once the problem is detected, the treatment can be decided. The treatment will be personalised according to the patient’s chances of conceiving. To personalise the treatment, there are four areas that we look into: –     Ultrasound Scan of The Womb and Ovaries Ultrasound scans are done to check for problems in the womb and ovaries. It can detect abnormal structures of ovaries or unusual growths like fibroids or cysts. –     X-Ray To Check For Blocked Fallopian Tubes This X-ray test is done to check the uterus and fallopian tubes. It can help detect fertility problems that occur from blocked fallopian tubes. If the tubes are blocked, the sperm can’t travel to the egg or fertilized egg cannot pass through to the uterus. This leads to infertility problems. –     Hormonal Blood Test This test helps to identify hormonal imbalances that can affect infertility. The blood test checks a hormone called progesterone. It checks whether a low level of progesterone influences the infertility rate. The Anti-Mullerian hormone level is also tested to check the ovarian reserve which refers to testing how many eggs you have. Other tests include checking the level of Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid and prolactin in the blood. –     Sperm Test Sperm tests check the health of the sperm. It helps to determine if there is any sperm dysfunction that may cause failure in pregnancy. If there are low sperm counts, there may be lifestyle changes you have to make. Moreover, you might be given medications to increase sperm production. You may also have to undergo ICSI or IVF treatment depending on the sperm count.  What are the treatment options available? There are many treatments available for infertile couples. However, finding the proper treatment at the right time is the key to our pregnancy success rates. Here are a few treatment options that may be suggested by your fertility doctor after assessing your condition.   –     Timed Intercourse Firstly, we can advise couples to have intercourse around the most fertile day of the woman’s ovulation cycle. Timed intercourse is simple and can be effective for some couples. Firstly, you have to determine your ovulation or fertility window. It is usually 12 to 14 days before the next period starts. Having intercourse during this time increases the chances of pregnancy. –     Prescribing Hormonal Medications We can also prescribe hormonal medications to help regulate or induce ovulation. The medicine helps to increase the production of eggs in a woman. –     Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) IUI is suggested for patients who do not have complicated infertility issues. The husband’s sperm is processed and injected directly into the womb during this treatment. The semen sample collected will be washed to concentrate the sperm and remove the seminal fluid. It will then be injected near the patient’s ovulating time to increase conceiving. IUI procedure can increase the success rate of conceiving by 15% to 20%. The Test Tube Option In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) It is popularly known as a ‘test tube baby.’ A woman is given a hormonal injection for ten days during this process. It will help the eggs to mature quickly. After that, we will extract the eggs while you are under anesthesia. Upon egg retrieval, sperm is injected directly into the egg to fertilise. We will then

Success Stories of IVF

Success stories of IVF: Giving Hope After a Failed IVF When your IVF treatment fails, it is common to undergo moments of grief. In times like this, the success stories of IVF can help to make you stay positive and hopeful. Many couples who have conceived and have a baby via the test tube baby method have previously experienced multiple failures. One thing common in most of these couples is their persistence and determination to fulfil their parenthood dream. IVF journeys can be rough and drain you emotionally, mentally and psychologically, but always remember that there is hope after a failed IVF. You can also be a part of the success stories of IVF.   The Impact of failed IVF The “what ifs” and blaming after a failed IVF can be endless. Whenever a couple fails to get pregnant after the IVF treatment, they usually go through grieving. It starts with denial, where they refuse to accept that the treatment has failed. It then leads to feeling angry towards everything. They begin to blame the situation and everyone for the failure. They will start to ask questions like, “What if my IVF failed because I parked the car too far from my workplace and exerted myself whilst walking?” or “Doctor, maybe you didn’t do enough for this IVF to be successful”. These “what ifs” scenarios and unhealthy thoughts make them more depressed and exhausted. Then, slowly, the couple starts to accept the situation. The grieving they go through is somewhat similar to one who has lost a child. As much as a failed IVF affects couples, it affects our fertility team too. Any unfavorable outcome is devastating for us. My nurses, my embryologist and I put in our hearts and soul to do everything possible in hopes of a successful IVF outcome. We do everything possible to deliver happy news to couples. However, sometimes it just doesn’t happen. The average success rate of IVF globally is under 50 per cent. More than half of those who undergo IVF do not get pregnant. A hard fact to digest, but it is the truth. Coping with Failed IVF Going through various steps during IVF may exhaust you physically and emotionally. The process, which includes hormone injections, egg extraction and an embryo transfer over 2 to 6 weeks, can be tiring for those undergoing the IVF treatment. It is a challenging journey for many couples out there. Thus, I understand how devastating it must be for you when the treatment fails. I usually suggest my patients to give time for their body and mind to rest and heal. Here are some suggestions that you can considered if you have failed your IVF treatments. • Stop Blaming Yourself  The failed IVF treatment may cause you to think of all the “what ifs” and you may start to blame yourself for the failure. It is important for you to know that IVF success rates are affected by various factors. Even under promising cases, the transfer of fertilised eggs may not end with a positive result. Anything can happen. The fertility specialist will usually analyse and explain the next step after IVF. So, stop blaming yourself. Talk to your fertility doctor and plan your next step patiently. • Take a Break I would advise a couple that failed IVF to take a break. You may feel the rush to hop on to do another IVF cycle. However, give yourself and your partner a break. Stop all medication and take as much time as you need to grieve and accept the failure. Some patients even deeply mourn after a failed IVF. To these couples, I advise them to seek the right help. Getting proper aid will direct you to prepare emotionally and physically for the next cycle or to take the next step. • Approach a Fertility Coach For couples who are deeply mourning and do not know what to do next, I suggest they meet our Fertility Coach, who will help them cope with their failed IVF. You may feel depressed, guilty, and worthless. Sometimes, the inability to express emotions can also be overwhelming and isolating. Our Fertility Coach is a great help. She provides extra mental and emotional support while assisting couples in navigating through their fertility struggles. She can help couples work through their feelings and advise them on the best fertility plan. She will give you the support you need to function through the grief. • Read or listen to Success Stories of IVF Reading or listening to success stories of IVF is an excellent way to cope. These stories shared are usually filled with the struggles and emotional rides couples faced during their journey. It may not be the same for you. However, hearing similar stories may give validations to your feelings. The stories could be a reminder that you are not alone in this journey. It can give you hope and help you cope with your journey. • Get Involved with Fun Activities Couples need to engage themselves in different activities that can distract them from their problems. They may go cycling, attend yoga classes, watch movies, gardening, take art classes and many more. Such activities may give them peace of mind and make them feel good. It also is a good distraction from dwelling much on the failure of IVF. What to Do Next? I see failure as an opportunity to begin again – but more intelligently. When an IVF fails, there can be various reasons. Usually, I will review a couple’s latest IVF procedure to determine which areas could be improved to help boost the odds of success the next time. Depending on a couple’s situation, I may order additional tests such as: Immune System Tests- It is a test that figures out any issues that may cause the IVF treatment to fail. It checks different aspects of the immune system. When the immune system is over- or under-activated, it may result in repeated pregnancy loss or infertility.