When to Move On & When to Stop Fertility Treatments

When to Move On with IVF and Other Fertility Treatments

In the world of fertility treatments, each treatment cycle should be viewed as an independent event. This means that if one cycle fails, it does not affect the chances of success for the next cycle. 

This cycle independence holds true for at least the first three treatment cycles of any protocol. Therefore, the cumulative pregnancy rate should be assessed over multiple cycles—typically three to four—not just after a single attempt.

When considering when to move on to the next fertility treatment option, it’s essential to evaluate the outcomes of previous treatments. Some important factors to review include:

• Ovarian response: Did the ovaries produce an appropriate number of follicles?
• Sperm quality: Did the sperm tolerate the sperm wash during intrauterine insemination (IUI)?
• Uterine lining: Did the endometrium reach the desired thickness for implantation?
• Ovulation: Were the eggs released from the follicles?
• Hormone levels: Were hormone levels optimal for the treatment?

By examining these responses with your physician, you can decide whether to continue with the current treatment plan or move on to another protocol. Most success occurs within the first three treatment cycles, making this a reasonable period for a reassessment consultation with your fertility specialist.

It’s also important to reflect on your emotional comfort with treatments. Your feelings and willingness to continue might evolve as you experience successes and setbacks. For example, a couple who initially ruled out In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) may find themselves open to the option after a few cycles of FSH injections and IUI.

When to Stop Fertility Treatments

Deciding when to stop fertility treatments is one of the most challenging choices for couples facing infertility. To make this decision, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your goals and comfort with different paths to parenthood.

• Clarifying your objectives: Some couples have the goal of having a baby in their home and are open to options like adoption or egg donation to achieve this. Others may decide that if they cannot conceive with their own eggs and sperm, they may stop pursuing fertility treatments or consider gestational surrogacy.
• Personal preferences: These decisions are deeply personal and vary from couple to couple. While one couple may enthusiastically move forward with egg donation IVF, another may decide not to proceed with surgical interventions like laparoscopy to treat endometriosis.

Unfortunately, your fertility doctor may not be able to offer a definitive answer on when to stop treatments. Doctors are trained to provide options and alternatives, but the decision of what is best for you ultimately rests with you and your partner.

Fertility treatments are a journey with many decisions along the way. Whether moving on to the next treatment or deciding to stop, it’s important to have a solid understanding of your personal goals and what feels right for you.

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For support in making these decisions or to discuss your treatment options, contact San Diego Fertility Center. We are here to guide you through every step of your fertility journey.