Everything You Need To Know About In Vitro Fertilization

Previous Pregnancies

Maclean's

If a woman and her partner have had a successful pregnancy in the past, then this increases the chances of IVF being successful. Since her eggs and his sperm have intermingled with success before, then they have already been shown to be compatible. If a couple has a history of recurrent miscarriage, then this may be an indication of lowered success with IVF. Recurrent miscarriage is characterized by the loss of two or more pregnancies. For approximately half of these miscarriages, the cause is unknown. The most known causes of miscarriages are chromosomal abnormalities in either parents, advanced maternal age, hormone issues, medical conditions such as Celiac disease, Lupus, or thyroid problems. Family history could also influence issues with reproduction. See your doctor to get tested for the underlying causes of recurrent miscarriage.

Smoking And Alcohol Use

When either partner smokes, the chances of IVF success decline. Women who smoke may need a higher dosage of fertility drugs to stimulate their ovaries. Smokers, in general, have lower implantation rates than non-smokers. People who smoke often require twice as many IVF attempts. Alcohol can also impair fertility, but the exact impact is unknown. In a study of more than 2500 couples undergoing IVF, the researchers found that couples who drank four or more drinks a week just prior to undergoing fertility treatments, they had a 48% higher risk of failed fertilization and a 21% lowered chance of a live birth. While most couples undergoing IVF abstain from alcohol during the cycle, it may be important to limit it before starting IVF as well.