The Clock Is Ticking On Fertility
More adults over 40 are attempting to get pregnant, and for good reason. Women and men are delaying starting a family to pursue business or career goals. Others are establishing long-term relationships at this age. Whatever the reason, fertility rates are significantly lower at 40, and adults are more likely to have infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a go-to option for couples struggling to conceive. At the same time, IVF success rates decline in relation to patient age. Understanding these challenges and the potential options for the aging IVF patient can boost the chances of success.
IVF success rates for women over 40
IVF requires the creation of embryos using sperm and eggs from the intended parent. One or more embryos are then implanted into the woman’s uterus, combining science and medicine in a truly innovative way. IVF success rates fall sharply after age 40, with some at less than 10%. A root cause is due to the diminished ovarian reserve experienced by women at this age. The ovaries produce fewer quality eggs, making IVF cycles more difficult. Women are also more likely to suffer from reproductive conditions or hormone imbalances that affect egg quality. These factors make IVF failure more likely.
The male age and sperm quality over 40
Men generally have healthy sperm, even at an advanced reproductive age. Yet, older male partners also influence IVF success rates. Statistics show that men aged 40 and above can reduce IVF rates by as much as 46%. The aging male can also contribute to repeated miscarriages. Sperm quantity and quality can decline over time. The reduction in sperm quality can lead to less viable embryos and poor implantation rates.
Getting the best out of each IVF cycle
Fertility clinics understand the many challenges of IVF over 40 and implement strategies to increase success rates. Tailoring ovulation stimulation protocols to match the patient can help. Some patients may benefit from higher doses of gonadotropins, while others need a milder stimulation regimen. Complimentary therapies, such as heparin, low-dose aspirin, immunotherapy, or acupuncture, may help with IVF success. Fertility clinics also try strategies like assisted hatching, addressing uterine abnormalities, and embryo scratching to boost implantation rates. For IVF in patients over 40, every advantage counts.
Exploring donors for IVF success
Repeated failed IVF cycles can lead to fertility clinics suggesting donors increase success rates. Another individual will provide a sperm sample or eggs to create embryos for IVF. Donor eggs or sperm often come from younger individuals with a healthy reproductive profile. Potential parents can enlist someone to donate or use a fertility bank. IVF with donor sperm or eggs has higher success rates. The issue lies with the emotional decisions surrounding donors, as at least 1 partner will not have a biological link to the child.
Genetic testing can help
Implanting the best possible embryos can help couples over 40 improve success rates. Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) looks for a series of chromosomal issues that can potentially lead to a failed IVF cycle. This test can also help future parents avoid passing on genetic conditions to the child. The fertility clinic ensures that the best possible embryo is used in each IVF cycle.
Do you need a surrogate?
IVF success rates may improve with a gestational surrogate. This is a woman who carries the IVF embryo on behalf of the parents. Some couples may have endometrial lining issues or may have damage to the uterus. A surrogate increases the success rate of IVF cycles but will not have a genetic link to the child. Potential parents will need to consider the emotional, legal, and financial needs of surrogacy.
Achieve higher IVF success rates
IVF patients over 40 will face low success rates, especially when using harvested eggs and sperm. Poor egg and sperm quality, uterine lining problems, and declining fertility all make IVF more difficult. Clinics know these obstacles and have implemented steps to increase success rates. Expect multiple IVF cycles while fertility clinics attempt PGT, assisted hatching, and other strategies. Patients over 40 should also explore other options like donors or surrogates. IVF can be an emotionally charged journey, but on the other side lies the hope of a happy bundle of joy.
