Is It Time To Throw In The IVF Towel?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a multi-stage process that often leads to a healthy baby. The assisted reproductive technology (ART) is responsible for the birth of thousands of babies yearly. While effective, the procedure can be frustrating for many. IVF often requires multiple cycles of egg retrieval, hormone medication use, testing, and implantation use. Couples going through 4, 5, or more cycles of IVF are not uncommon. There comes a point where the couple must decide if moving forward with yet another cycle is the best solution. Perhaps there is another path. Some couples may benefit from surrogacy, a process that can finally produce that amazing bundle of joy.
Reasons for multiple IVF failures
Why is IVF a simple procedure for some but a long, complicated series of unsuccessful cycles for others? Repeated failures are undoubtedly frustrating and stressful for hopeful parents. However, IVF’s success is dependent on many factors. Embryo quality can be a potential reason for multiple IVF cycles. There may be a genetic abnormality that prevents the embryo from implanting or developing in the endometrium. Poor sperm or egg quality can also impact success rates. One of the biggest issues is repeated implantation failure (RIF), where the uterine lining is not receptive to embryo implantation. An underlying condition, like endometriosis or an abnormally shaped uterus, may hinder IVF. Other factors, such as autoimmune disease or lifestyle dangers, may lead to multiple unsuccessful cycles.
The lowdown on surrogacy
After many IVF attempts, couples can begin to lose hope about the possibility of parenthood. Surrogacy can step in and provide the missing piece in this difficult puzzle. A surrogate is a woman who can carry and deliver a baby for another couple or the baby’s intended parents. Also called a gestational surrogate, the embryo initially intended for the couple is implanted into the surrogate instead. While the surrogate carries the child to term, there is no genetic link. Most surrogates are provided by an agency or fertility clinic. The institution performs a strict vetting process to ensure the surrogate is willing and capable of carrying out the pregnancy.
When to consider working with a surrogate
Surrogates are a solution for medical reasons preventing pregnancy, such as a hysterectomy or health risk to the mother. Same-sex male couples and single men who hope to be parents also get help from a surrogate. In the realm of IVF, surrogates are recommended after multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts. The surrogate will prepare to receive the embryo by taking hormone medication to thicken the uterine lining. The embryo is then implanted and monitored for pregnancy. The fertility team and intended parents will work with and support the surrogate during the pregnancy and delivery.
Dissecting surrogacy challenges
Surrogacy is not a simple process. There are ethical and legal hurdles the intended parent and surrogate must address. Surrogacy can also require additional costs, including medical bills, legal fees, and compensation for the surrogate. This technique is also a unique journey for all involved. The emotional stress and the anxiety leading up to delivery can be overwhelming. All parties can benefit from emotional support. Despite these challenges, surrogacy can be life-changing for the intended parents, opening a path to having a biological child, which was once considered closed.
There is a path to parenthood
IVF has brought joy to millions of hopeful parents. Yet, there are a few that face disappointment due to repeated unsuccessful attempts. The fertility clinic may recommend a gestational surrogate if the embryos are viable. Surrogacy is an option that can finally change the hopeful parents’ fortunes after months of grief. Take the first step by opening a conversation with each other and the fertility clinic. After assessing the unique circumstances and explaining the process, parenthood through surrogacy may be possible.
