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    • How Many Times Should You Try IVF Before Giving Up?

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      Because of the emotional, physical, and financial toll exacted by IVF, it is preferable that a couple undertake the process with the mindset that they will be in it for more than one attempt. If a couple can only afford one treatment cycle, IVF may not be the right course of action. Recall that on average, with conventional IVF, there is only about one chance in three that it will result in a live birth, and there is a tremendous letdown if it fails. It is thus unreasonable to undergo IVF with the attitude that “if it doesn’t work the first time, we’re giving up.” In vitro fertilization is a gamble even in the best of circumstances.

      Statistically speaking, a woman under 40 years of age, using her own eggs, having selected a good IVF program is likely to have a better than 70% chance of having a baby within three completed attempts – provided that she has adequate ovarian reserve, (the ability to producing several follicles/eggs in response to gonadotropin stimulation), has a fertile male partner (or sperm donor sperm) with access to motile sperm, and has a normal and receptive uterus capable of developing an “adequate” uterine lining. Women of 39-43 years of age who meet the same criteria, will likely have about half that chance (35%- 40%).

      When the most “competent” embryos are selected for transfer using a new genetic process (introduced into the clinical arena by SIRM in 2005), known as comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), the birth rate per single, completed IVF cycle is likely to exceed 60% (regardless of the age of the egg provider) and, more than 85% within three such attempts.

      Unfortunately, there will inevitably always be some women/couples who in spite of best effort at conventional IVF will unfortunately remain childless. In my considered opinion, it rarely advisable to undergo more than three IVF attempts using the same approach each time. There is of course one important caveat: in women where the reason for repeated IVF failure is finally uncovered, it would indeed be justifiable (assuming there are sufficient emotional, physical and financial resources) to continue trying, using a defined and new approach that addresses the reason for prior failures. Simply stated, “the time to stop trying is when there is no remediable explanation for repeated failure to achieve a viable pregnancy”.

      One very interesting case comes to mind. It happened a few years back when I consulted with a 42 year old Australian patient (she happened to also be a physician) who had undergone 22 prior failed attempts at IVF elsewhere. After determining that the reason for prior failures (at least in part) was due to a hitherto unrecognized immunologic implantation dysfunction (IID), I took her through yet another IVF attempt using selective immunotherapy. She conceived (using her own eggs) and went on to have a healthy baby boy. This case serves to point out that the time to stop doing IVF should not always be based on the number of prior failed attempts alone.

      When conventional IVF (with or without egg donation and/or CGH embryo selection) fails to yield a successful outcome, other options such as ovum donation, IVF surrogacy, or adoption should be considered.

      Although it is the right of any healthy women who has a uterus and is capable of producing even one follicle/egg to have the right to decide on doing IVF using her own eggs, given the very low success rate after 43 years of age (less than 10% per attempt and under 25% within 3 tries) it is my opinion that women over 43 years should be advised to rather do egg donor IVF. Here, regardless of the age of the embryo recipient, the IVF birth rate after a single attempt is about 60% – and better than 80% within three IVF attempts.

      Couples who choose to undergo IVF should be encouraged to view the entire procedure with guarded optimism, but nevertheless must be emotionally prepared to deal with the ever‑present possibility of failure. It is important for IVF patients to be made to realize from the outset that an inability to become pregnant should never be considered a reflection on them as individuals.

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      70 Responses to “How Many Times Should You Try IVF Before Giving Up?”

      1. Kay says:

        Dr. Sher,

        Through my internet research I have found you to be a reprooductive endocrinologist who is knowlegable, trustworthy, and compassionate. I just signed up to receive a consultation on your website. I want to know what IVF protocol you feel is the most aggressive protocol for someone who is running out of time. My RE said that the micro-dose lupron flare portocol that he has me on is the best he has to offer. I wonder if he is conservative at times. Although, my RE is very intelligent he has many other responsibilities and cannot give me the individualized attention that I suspect you provide your patients. My RE is at a university setting. Here is my history in a nutshell. I am 39 and I have an elevated FSH level of 14. I have had 2 prior IVF attempts without success. (I had previously tried IUI's without success too – however, my husband's semen samples with the IUI's were inadequate to the level of 2.5 million after washing on one occasion.) With both IVF cycles the same stim meds were utilized. Lupron 10 units (40mcg/0.1ml) twice daily for 2 days followed by Gonal-F 300 units twice daily with Luveris 75 units in the evening (while continuing the lupron) for about 1 week untill enough follicles were of appropriate size by ultrasound monitering. (I was prescribed ovidrel as well.) I began progesterone 50mg IM on the evening after egg retrieval both times. I was given a short course of doxycycline with both attempts. I was prescribed a short course of steroids both attempts – methylpred 4mg tid for 3 days beginning post retrieval. I was told to take a baby asprin daily after egg retireval with both attempts. With the first attempt 3 high quality embryos were transferred on day 3 and ICSI was used. No pregnancy. With the second attempt the same basic protocl was utilized with the addition of viagra suppositories 25 mg every 6 hours for 10 days during stim and I had a spontaneous cycle where 2 endometrial biopsies were performed for promotion of a more hospitable endometrial lining. He used estrace to suppress me during the latter half of my spontaneous cycle with the second IVF just prior to stim. I had a weak positive pregnancy test 2 weeks post egg retrieval- hcg of 29. The level did initially climb almost doubling every 2 days briefly – I had a miscarriage 1 week after my initial weak positive pregnancy test. With the second attempt I had 4 high quality embryos transferred on day 3. I did not have any embryos to freeze with either attempt. 8 and 6 eggs were retrieved with my cycles respectively. (Some eggs were immature and some did not fertilize properly and some just were not high quality embryos that had to be discarded.) I wonder about your thoughts on intralipids for me as well as other stim protocols that might produce more mature eggs. Would you think that more immunologic factors should be investigated at this point?

        Please advise.
        Thanks. Kay

      2. Dear Kay,

        Sorry for the delay in responding.

        I would respectfully point out that in my opinion microflare protocols are suboptimal for women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Please read my article that deals with "IVF ovarian stimulation: An individualized aproach" ..elsewhere on this blog. What you need is an agressive agonist antagonist conversion protocol-A/ACP (to be found in an article I wrote for this blog, elsewhere).

        Also IUI ( proudly a procedure that I introduced into the field in the early 80's) is relatively contraindicated in cases of DOR…see my article on IUI elsewhere in this blog.

        You certainly need IVF with a very customized protocol of stimulation. …and you need it soon.

        I look forward to our telephone consultation when we can explore your issues in detail.

        Geoff Sher

      3. B says:

        Dr. Sher,

        I'm looking for a professional opinion in my case. My husband and I have been TTC for 3+ years. We are both 27. We have been diagnosed as unexplained infertility.

        Our first IVF cycle resulted in 12 eggs, 9 of which fertilized, and only 2 made it to 8-cell embryos that were transferred on day 3. The remaining embryos stalled and were unable to be frozen. The cycle resulted in BFN.

        Our second IVF cycle resulted in 14 eggs, 12 of which fertilized, and only 2 made it to blastocyst and were transferred on day 5. Again, the remaining fertilized embryos stalled and were unable to be frozen. The cycle resulted in BFP but I just miscarried at 7 weeks, the baby stopped growing at 6 weeks.

        My question is regarding the possibility of a genetic issue or incompatibility between my eggs and my husband's sperm that results in slow growing or poor quality embryos. Given the fact that out of 21 fertilized eggs only 4 have gone on to be viable embryos, could that lead one to believe something more series is going on genetically?

        My RE said it is impossible to answer this question and I am looking for a second opinion.

        Thank you for your time.

        Brittney

      4. First off…This is highly unlikely to be an inherent egg defect. You are simply too young for this explanation. Unless there is significantly abnormal sperm, the most likely explanation is the protocol of ovarian stimulation used.

        Please see elsewhere on this site, an article I posted on November 22nd 2010 entitled "An Individualized Approach to Ovarian Stimulation…".

        Feel free to call and discuss your case with me.

        Geoff Sher

      5. Evelyn Fuentes says:

        I am 32 and had 2 IVF and both have failed. First cycle I was on Lupron,menopur,folistim,estradiol and crinone 8%. RE told me out of 12 eggs 7 fertilize and 2 embryos (4CB and 3BB) of good quality where transferred on day 5. RE told me, out of the 5 that were left only 2 were frozen 5AA and 4AA. I had my last FET on 2/6/13 and my RE transferred both of my last embryos. Meds Lupron,estradiol and crinone 8%. And then on 2/15/13 RE told me that this cycle failed. I asked him why, he said that its a 40%. Please advise me if my RE missed anything or if I need a different protocol? My husband and I have beenTTC for 4 years now. Can you please help us?

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          At 32 with 4 blastocysts transferred, given that 1:2 should be chromosomally normal, the fact that no pregnancy resulted raises the question as tro whether there was an implantation problem. This needs to be thoroughly evaluated, taking into consideration anatomical uterine factors, thickness of the estrogenized uterine lining and immunoloogic factors.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, (www.IVFauthority.com). When you get there look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand column. Then type in the following subjects into the bar, click and this will take you to all the relevant articles I posted there.

          1. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          2. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          3. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          4.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          10.“Embryo Banking”

          11. “Egg Donation”

          12. “Gestational Surrogacy”

          13. “IVF Success Rate Statistics: The Time Has Come to Revise the Present Reporting System”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a telephone or Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail.. While an audiovisual (Skype) interaction is much more personable and preferable than a discussion by telephone, either will suffice.

          Geoff Sher

      6. Heather says:

        Dr Sher,

        We just did our first round of ivf and included PGS. We had 8 eggs, 6 fertilized and 3 made it to blast. All 3 tested abnormal. My question is should we do a 2nd round? Have you heard of women having normal embryos after having all abnormals?

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Indeed…It happened with me and my own daughter at 40Y. First round…zero normal. 2nd round -only 2 months later, and with the identical stimulation protocol…6 normal.

          Geoff Sher
          800-780-7437

          Make certain that the PGS done is CGH.

      7. Heather says:

        I just got the detailed report. We had one monosomy 15, monosomy 21 and monosomy 21. Does that tell you anything about our chances to have a successful round?

        Thank you so much for your time.

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          It tells me that all the embryos were aneuploid (“incompetent”). This almost always stems from the egg rather than the sperm. Virtually no one is born with all their eggs aneuploid. Aneuploidy is always present in some eggs and the incidence increases with age. It also increases with certain conditions such as PCOS. Most importantly, the incidence is influenced by ovarian hormonal environment which in turn is very much affected by the protocol of ovarian stimulation used.

          I think I might be able to help here.Please go to the home page of this blog, (www.IVFauthority.com). When you get there look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand column. Then type in the following subjects into the bar, click and this will take you to all the relevant articles I posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          5. Factors affecting egg and embryo quality”

          6. “Staggered IVF”

          7. ” Embryo selection: The critical factor in IVF”

          You might consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a telephone or Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail.. While an audiovisual (Skype) interaction is much more personable and preferable than a discussion by telephone, either will suffice.

          Geoff Sher

      8. Heather says:

        Revised : 15, 21 and 22. Sorry!

      9. Evie says:

        I’ve been searching the internet to help me figure out my next step and running into your website has given me more information and I look forward to your opinion regarding my situation.

        Here is my situation, I just turned 40(not much time left) and have PCOS. I was diagnosed with PCOS for at least 10 years. I’ve been taking Metformin and currently on 1000mg twice a day. Taking metformin has finally regulated my period (35 days cycle) for the past 4-5 years.

        What has been on my mind lately is should I try again and get a second opinion…I went through my first IVF cycle in November and retrieved 26 eggs. I transferred 2 embryos(4AB and 4BB) and that turned out a negative. I did a FET in January transferring 3 embryos(4bb and 2 4BC) and that was also negative. After consulting with my RE, RE stated my egg reserve maybe not good because of my age, but I was wondering if there anything wrong with my lining. According to the RE and staff it was fine, but gut feeling was telling me what if something is wrong with my lining. I didn’t ask any questions because doctor’s are the experts in this matter. RE also stated that I may have to use donor eggs but I want to avoid that as much as possible to figure out what is wrong with me. RE did not do any other testing and I am wondering if the RE should have tested my immune system or something to find if there were other contributing factors besides my age and PCOS.

        Also, prior to IVF I had done a HSG test and showed both tubes were blocked. RE stated that he can go in and unblock them if I wanted to. That also made me think and confused me that I am looking for a second opinion but don’t know where to go or start because we have only one clinic in the city I live in.

        I am not sure what to do and hope what I wrote made sense. I guess I am looking for suggestion or opinion of what can my next step be.

        I appreciate your help.
        Evie

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Respectfully, if you make as many eggs as you do, you cannot have diminished ovarian reserve. It is true that PCOS women tend to have difficulty with egg quality but individualizing the protocol of ovarian stimulation can go a long way towards addressing that issue. You do not need an egg donor, in my opinion. What you need is an individualized approach to ovarian stimulation followed by Staggered IVF with CGH embryo selection (see below)

          Please go to the home page of this blog, (www.IVFauthority.com). When you get there look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand column. Then type in the following subjects into the bar, click and this will take you to all the relevant articles I posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “PCOS”

          4. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          5.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          6. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          7. “Staggered IVF”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail.

          Geoff Sher

      10. brenda says:

        Dr Sher,
        I am 34 with good AMH normal scans etc. Husband has very low count and poor motility. We gave just failed our first cycle of ivf with icsi. I received bcp down regulation and then final F and liver is then Cetrotide. Retrieved 15 eggs, however only 7 were mature. Of the 7, 4 fertilized with icsi but only 2 survived to day 3. Anxious that they wouldn’t make it (had planned for 5dt) we implanted day 3. Unfortunately it didn’t work. I’m heartbroken but also worried about the eggs…why would only half be mature? and only half fertilized with icsi, is that low? Is there also an egg problem? Do you think we should try again? Thank you for your expert opinion.

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          At 34, it is highly unlikely to be an intractable egg issue. I need much more information to comment intelligently.

          Feel free to call 800-780-7437 and set up a Skype consultation with me to discuss.

          Geoff Sher

      11. brenda says:

        Sorry, predictive text errors. I was on luveris gonal F and Cetrotide.
        Thanks.

      12. Patricia says:

        Hello, I just found out today that my first round of IVF /ICSI yielded no results. I am 43 and DH is 49. Sperm count and motility a major issue; ER says I have ovaries of 35 y/o. First round used Follistim and Menopur. Retrieved 15 eggs, 6 fertilized, 2 morula for day 5 transfer and none to freeze. Progesterone since transfer.Wondering how long I should wait for round 2 and if advice to amend protocol . Gratefully…

      13. I am 44 years old, and just completed my third IVF tratment. I had 16 eggs, 9 matured, 6 fertilized. 4 grade AA, 2 grade AB. Four implanted, 2 did not make it to cryo. They say my numbers all look good. What do you suggest for me next?

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Egg donation will give by far the best results. However, the next best is “Embryo Banking” with Staggered IVF…see below.Please go to the home page of this blog, (www.IVFauthority.com). When you get there look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand column. Then type in the following subjects into the bar, click and this will take you to all the relevant articles I posted there.

          1. Embryo Selection: “The critical factor in IVF”

          2. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          3.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          4. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          5. “Staggered IVF”

          6.“Embryo Banking”

          7. “Egg Donation”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail.

          Geoff Sher

      14. Melanie says:

        Dr Sher,
        I am 39 years old and about to go through my 2 round of Ivf. I have a permanent ileostomy from crohn’s disease. I’ve had 2 hsg tests and my fallopian tubes are patent. We underwent 2 unsuccessful iui’s and our first Ivf they took 6 eggs. All 6 were injected via icsi but only 2 eggs survived, on day 2 1 was 4 cell and the other 2 cell and they were transferred on day 2 but unfortunately they didn’t survive.
        I was 38 years old at the time of our first Ivf. My fsh levels are “slightly elevated” according to the hospital, my fsh was 12 last count I think my lh was 7. I am currently taking all my vitamins so my body is in best condition for the next cycle. I would appreciate your views on how I should approach my next cycle and my chance of concieving. Thank you. Melanie

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          It is about choosing the optimal (but aggressive) strategic protocol for ovarian stimulation while at the same time recognizing that some of your health issues could be autoimmune-related thus necessitate an evaluation for immunologic implantation dysfunction.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com. When you get there look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand column. Then type in the following subjects into the bar, click and this will take you to all the relevant articles I posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          8. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      15. Kristy says:

        Dr. Sher,
        I am 32 and recently found out that my first frozen embryo transfer failed. This is also following a failed fresh transfer. My ivf cycle yielded 25 eggs, 20 fertilized, 13 became blastocysts and 10 were found to be normal following cgh. Considering the statistics you have on your site regarding success rates with cgh I am confused as to why it has not been successful for me. I would also like to add that I have had 3 natural pregnancies that all ended in miscarriage during the first trimester so I know that I can get pregnant. Do you have any insight as to what we should be doing differently?

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          I strongly suspect that you have a hitherto undiagnosed implantation dysfunction.Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1.”Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          2. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          8. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          9. “Staggered IVF”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      16. emily says:

        Dr. Sher,
        I am a 37 year old woman diagnosed tubal factor. We have done 3 rounds of IVF since 2010 ( 2 fresh with own eggs and in March one fresh DE cycle). 1st cycle was chemical pregnancy (d&c@ 10 weeks) after 2 very good blasts transferred. 2nd cycle total fail with 4 good 3 day embryos transferred. Most recent DE cycle transferred 2 excellent blasts and beta was a 3 (presumed chemical). After chemical pregnancies, I was given no explanation other than “it just happens”. I am overweight, but very active. I have had 2 normal pregnancies when I was 21 and 22 years. My initial bloodwork (thyroid and diabetes) did not seem to raise flags. I have to wonder if something else is wrong, though, since we failed with donor eggs (from a 20 year old healthy girl)!
        We have 2 frozen from donor cycle, but until we are sure I have been properly diagnosed, I don’t want to transfer again.

        My questions:
        1. My uterus has not been a concern because I have 2 teenagers from 1st marriage. Current hubby has great SA. Do you feel further testing should be conducted on me in regards to implantation issues? If so, which tests?

        2. We switched to donor eggs because of 2 failures and an fsh of 10. Do you feel moving to donor eggs was a good decision? Or, if implantation was cause of failures, would another cycle with own eggs be reasonable?

        Thanks for your insight in advance!
        Emily

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          This sounds very much like an implantation dysfunction that can be anatomical, lining related or immunologic. The fact that you have two teenage children might make an autoimmune implantation dysfunction unlikely but not an alloimmune dysfunction (see below). Most importantly, use of donor egg will not counter the latter either. We should discuss this.Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          In the meanwhile, please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          Geoff Sher

          • emily says:

            Dr. Sher,
            You confirmed what my “gut” has been telling me. I am having a “scope” of my uterus (have already had HSG and saline ultrasound) on May 10. Following this test I will, certainly, contact your office for consult. As I am a teacher, travel becomes easy for me during summer vacation. I truly hope you can complete my diagnosis so treatment can be determined. I would be delighted if findings indicate use of my own eggs is possible.

            Thanks for such prompt reply and good information. Looking forward to our consult.
            Emily

      17. sarah says:

        Hello,

        I just had a failed ICSI cycle and have lots of doubts. my boyfriend has antisperm antibodies (for unknown reasons). we did 2 failed IUIs before. im 35 and he is 36. i have multifollicular ovaries. in the ICSI cycle, my eggs took a while to get big enough, and when they did my estradiol went really high even though from the number of follicles (about 13, with some small and some big) it didn’t look like. i was coasted for 4 days and got very stressed. EC yelded 6 eggs; 5 were mature, 3 fertilised normally. because there were only 3, the doctor decided on a day-3 transfer of 2 6-cell embryos. he said my lining was “textbook”, but the cycle failed. we have a frozen 6-cell embryo waiting now. we are wondering whether the antisperm antibodies can be linked to problems such as chromosomal issues that we might not be aware of. whether we should test for these, and which tests would be recommended if so. the doctor says my AMH is normal for my age. i am also afraid of future side effects of all these drugs. any advice would be really appreciated … thank you.

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          The sperm antibodies are not a problem when you use ICSI. This sounds like a possible ovarian stimulation issue. I suggest you call 800-780-7437 for a Skype consultation and let us discuss.

          Geoff Sher

      18. leigh says:

        Hi Dr Sher,

        First off, thanks for building such an informative and authoritative website on infertility-related issues. It has been a great source of comfort to me in my research.

        I’m 35, and have just failed my second fresh IVF/icsi cycle after 2 failed FETs last year. All three were 3-day transfers with two good-to-excellent quality 7-10 cell embryos each (blastocyst transfers are not encouraged in my country for some reason). My first IVF/icsi cycle 4 years ago was a success, resulting in the birth of my lovely daughter.

        Both fresh cycles had similar long protocols (on 150 gonal-f and 200 puregon respectively), both resulting in 20-21 eggs retrieved and around 12-15 eggs fertilised. I had 8 embryos to freeze the first time, and now i have 5 frozen embryos awaiting my next FET.

        My qn is: since the number and quality of embryos are relatively high, do i have an implantation issue? My lining for all the cycles have always been good at 12mm thick. But then my first cycle was a success, so I’m really confused as to why the previous 3 cycles with good quality embryos have failed to implant. BTW, we are resorting to IVF due to serious MFI (on all factors and count). How should i proceed any differently for my next FET/ fresh cycle? Thanks in advance for your kind advice!

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          You have likely just diagnosed your own problem. Indeed, the most likely explanation for recurrent “unexplained” IVF failure in relatively young women who have had morphologically good quality embryos transferred to an apparently anatomically sound uterus, is immunologic implantation dysfunction. I think I might really be able to help here. Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          In the interim, please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          8. “Unexplained IVF Failure”

          Sincerely,

          Geoff Sher

      19. leigh says:

        I would just like to add that i have no known fertility issues, and have been maintaining a healthy lifestyle/diet, and that I had complete placenta previa during my pregnancy and had a C-section. Would this somehow have impacted on the implantation failures in my last 3 cycles since? Also, my last failed fresh cycle was done at a different clinic from the first successful fresh cycle and 2 following failed FETS. Thanks again

      20. Corinna hines says:

        Hello dr sher!
        I am 28 years old and have had lots of female issues since I was 19! As a result I have had several Dnc which led me to scar tissue within my uterus! My husbands and I yvhave been trying to conceive for 3 years. We were able to conceive last June on my left ovary but ended in a miscarriage at 12 weeks. That time we conceived using 200 mg clomid and a trigger shot. After seeking an RE we found out our miscarriage was most likely due to scar tissue we didn’t know was there. I had my scar tissue removed in jan and just received word that our first attempt at ivf failed. I was on 10 units of Lupron and 75 units of bravlle as well as menopur…they increased my menopur and follistim toward the end as I wasn’t getting very many follicles. My ovarian score was 12 prior to stimming which I was told was average for my age! From my ivf they only obtained 6 eggs with 4 beingimmature leaving just 2! Both of those fertilized with an 8 cell and 6 cell with a 3 day transfer. I continuously asked my re if my lining was ok and they assured me over and over it looked perfect! My husbabnd wants to try again as we were told it takes 2 times for average success. If we do it again we would like to use eggs from my sister however I am vey concerned that it may not work again due to my

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Hi Corina,

          I really think we should talk . perhaps I can help you shed light on your situation and find a solution. On the face of it it does sound like an implantation dysfunction. However it needs to be thoroughly evaluated before you try again.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          8. “Asherman’s syndrome”

          9. “Endometrial thickness and IVF”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      21. Jodi says:

        Hi Dr. Sher,

        I am currently 33 years old and on the way to my fourth IVF cycle. Luckily after our stimulation we had 40 eggs retreived, 38 viable and 36 matured. So far I have been through a fresh cycle: negative; frozen cycle: a chemical pregnancy; third cycle: positive but with 2 embryos transferred at fair quality which resulted in a miscarriage. Now my husband and I are moving into our 4th round and wondering if something else might be wrong. Do you think we should insist on transferring only good or excellent embryos? The first and second time we only transferred one, third time 2 and this next time will be 2. Also, my mother is a five year breast cancer survivor and I am worried about a lot of estrogen exposure. At what point do we condsider a surrogate? I have always responded to the estrogen but hate the feeling of being on hormones. Thank you,

        Jodi

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          The fact that at such a young age (33Y) when you would expect 1/2 embryos to be chromosomally normal and competent and you have with numerous embryos not achieved a viable pregnancy means that this is not likely to be an inherent egg/embryo issue. It is more than likely that you are dealing with implantation dysfunction that more than likely is due to immunologic implantation dysfunction.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          2. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          3. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          4.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          5. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      22. Kim says:

        Hi Dr Sher,

        I am 33, husband 35, both have normal tests results – chromosome, immune, hormone, lap, hysteroscopy, hsg, sperm etc. We have done 6 cycles of IVF, 2 of these resulted in a chemical preg and m/c at 8 weeks both with OHSS, the others negative. Each cycle produces 12 – 22 eggs, 80% fertilization rate, but only 2-4 good enough embryos to transfer on day 3. Have tried various different protocols but not much change, doctor now suggesting egg donor. Would very much appreciate your opinion.

        Kim

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Respectfully, in spite of your representations above, I strongly suspect an implantation dysfunction which unless addressed, will result in your continuing to spin your wheels.

          Might I suggest you go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          2. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          3. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          4.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          5. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Perhaps you should consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      23. Nicole says:

        Dear Geoff

        I have had 5 full stimulated cycles of ivf icsi starting at age 32 now 35. I achieved pregnancy 1st go but ended due to a blighted ovum then achieved a successful pregnancy on 4th full cycle. I have PCOS and my husband’s count is 2million per mil. My son is 2 and we are trying for a 2nd child except the first cycle has failed with 10 eggs retrieved we only had 4 fertilize, 2 transplanted on day 3 none to freeze. With my son I self prescribed baby asprin and was put onto Clexane during 1st week and up to 13 weeks of pregnancy due to OHSS. I always now wonder whether it was the Asprin and Clexane that made this a successful pregnancy or that fact that I had a blighted ovum initially (which I had to have removed) rules that out? I’m interested in your thoughts on this.
        Regards
        Nicole

      24. Lisa says:

        Hello Dr Sher,
        OI really enjoy reading these forums. I have a question to ask. I am 34 years old and did a FET; resulted in a chem pregnancy. I transferred 2 excellent embryos from ICSI and PGD, grown out to day 5. I was placed on the antagonist protocol and had 24 eggs at retrieval. In the end only 4 were chromosomally normal. Both my husband and i have Beta Thal minor traits. I was never tested for Vit D deficiency and I was reading that being deficient i this vitamin can have an impact on embryo implantation. Is this true? My levels were really low and I was Prescribed 50,000IU twice weekly. I never took these pills. Could this be a causative factor that affected the outcome of my FET? PMHX: one blighted ovum prior to IVF…was still vit d deficient also.
        thank you
        lisa

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Honestly Lisa, I doubt that this is related to vitamin D deficiency. There are so many other much more plausible factors. Since 2 chromosomally normal embryos were transferred in the mix and you did not conceive, the most important is implantation dysfunction.

          The same recommendations apply to you as I made to “Amruta’s” post today (see above). Please see these and call 800-780-7437 to set up a Skype consultation with me.

          Geoff Sher

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          I honestly do not believe that vitamin D deficiency explains your predicament.

          Geoff Sher

      25. Lisa says:

        Hi Geoff,

        I’m currently 32, since last 4 years trying for pregnancy.
        Two misscarriges in 2 years (around 5 week) natural Pregnacy & (around 10 week) with Clomid 50 mcg.
        In 2011 feb started taking clomid 50,100,150 for 7 months no succes then tried IUI with Clomid 150,for one month and later IUI with fertility medications- failed.
        In mid 2012 performed IVF with fertility Medications retrived 4 eggs and 2 were fetilized transfered 2 embrios on 3 day – result failed.When discussed with doctor asked me reduce weight(My height is 5.6″ ,weight @ 257lbs).
        As I have tyriod issue it is hard to reduce but tried to reduce to 10 to 12 lbs for next ivf cycle
        Changed the doctor for IVF 2 ,In early 2013 permored Ivf 2 with medications retrieved 6 eggs and 4 were fertilized 2 made to Morala stage on Day 5, Transfered 2 morulas on Day 5 again failed.
        When we disscused with doctor he check all the reports and told this may be because of the slow egg growth or the eggs might got arrested after the transfed and he suggested to loose weight.
        So trying to loose weight(215lbs) so far reduced (From 257 to 226)
        My questions is If i get the pregancy naturally why it is becoming so hard?
        Main concern is Time & age, is it good to try other IVF around weight @ 215lbs instead of waiting to reduce more weight?
        or do we have any other tests to be done or differnt way to improve the egg quality?How do we know it is improved or not?

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          It would be important to test for antithyroid antibodies and for natural killer cell activity (by the K-562 target cell test). The reason is that 50% of women whom have antithyroid antibodies also have activated NK cells and in such cases it can cause implantation dysfunction.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “Thyroid autoimmune disease and IVF”

          2. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          3. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          4. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          5.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          6. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      26. Lisa says:

        Geoff Sher
        last 6 months back tested antithyroid antibodies and results look good.Still do we need to do
        K-562 target cell test?
        Lisa

      27. Ana says:

        Dear Dr. Sher,

        I got pregnant for the first time when I was 31 after about 8 months of trying. We discovered at 20 weeks that our baby had a big deletion in chromosome 15 and ended up loosing the baby at 23 weeks. We were told this was really bad luck as both our chromosomes are completely normal. We have been trying since then and apart from one or two chemical pregnancies, I have been unable to get pregnant again.

        I am now 33 years old (4 months away of turning 34) and just went through my first ivf cycle. We have done all tests including HSG and nothing seems to be wrong, though my husband had slightly low sperm count and low on good shape but the doctor said he had enough good sperm to produce a baby. So we thought ivf would be the solution.

        I wonder if you could help me understand what went wrong and if the problem we have is with my eggs? They retrieved 22 eggs and fertilized half with ICSI and half naturally. 9 eggs fertilized. 3 blasts were biopsied on day 5 and all were abnormal. One had deletion of chromosome 15, one trisomy 19 and one trisomy 20. We had one that was biopsied on day 6 and frozen and we are waiting the results for this one. Can you help me understand what happened? Is it a problem with my eggs?

        Thank you in advance
        Ana

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Hi Ana,

          In a woman of 34, only about 1:3 embryos are chromosomally normal so what happened to you could be just plai bad luck. The fact that there were several types of aneuploidy and only one involved chromosome pair 15, would support that view.

          The protocol for ovarian stimulation is also very important.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com . When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          5.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          6. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          7. “Staggered IVF”

          8.“Embryo Selection: The Critical factor in IVF”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      28. Jessica says:

        Hi.
        I am 30 and want to know if you could help. My husband(low sperm count 2.5 mil due to vericoc.) and I have had 2 ivf and 2 fet. Pregnant with all 4. Ivf #1: 13eggs 12 mature 11 fertilized 3 blasts frozen
        2 8cell transferred- lossed twins 23 weeks ptl
        Fet: 2 survived thaw (bb) one transfered, mc 5 weeks ( great beta)

        Ivf#2: (doctor changed med to menepur, ivf1 was follistem)
        6 eggs 6 mature 5 fertilized, transferred 2 8 cell, 2 blasts
        Frozen: 2 transferred- eptopic ( both tubes removed)

        Fet#2: both blasts transferred (ba,bb)= chemical
        My question is, would this be a implantation issue, egg/sperm or a genetic issue? My hormone levels have been good and lining always 10 or above at transfer. My clinic hasn’t been very helpful with my concerns and questions. Thank you for your time.

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Jessica…your age and history makes this highly suggestive of an underlying implantation dysfunction. I really think I can help you.Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail. In the meantime, please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com. When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          8. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Regards.

          Geoff Sher

      29. Vanessa says:

        Hi Dr sher,
        We have just had our 10th failed IVF cycle. We started when I was 36 I am now 41. I have changed drs and am now with a doctor who is willing to experiment and try what he can. I have been on the Colorado protocol, been on liverish, aspirin, prednisone and all the goodies.on our 8th attempt we fell but miscarried twins at 9 weeks. At first they thought it was an implantation issue now e dr tHinks it was egg quality so we had the cgh genetic testing.only had one egg out of 11 transferred and yesterday we found out it didn’t work . I have been diagnosed with adenomyoisis and pcos however I normally get 12-21 eggs. This round was my lowest egg count. Just before my transfer I was also diagnosed with anaemia and being iron deficient . I am having more tests done in relation tmthat now to seenwhatnthe problem am be. I know I am not getting any younger and egg donation is a viable option but I feel like I can do it at least once with my own egg.i had a child when. Was 21 however she passes away when she was 2.no genetic problems. I just feel like I’m not getting answers, if I can pop out lots of eggs and my lining is ok(supposedly) then what else do I need to do…. Any suggestions, advice, wisdom,ideas would be greatly appreciated.
        Kind regards
        Vanessa

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Vanessa,

          I would very much like to discuss your case with you. There are 2 issues here. The first is to select an individualized and strategic protocol of stimulation that will best protect your eggs through meiosis and optimize their chromosomal competence (see below). The second is directed at what I believe to be the most likely reason for your numerous filed cycles and your miscarriage…namely an implantation dysfunction.

          You need immunologic evaluation, CGH embryo selection, Staggered IVF with embryo banking and then selective embryo transfer to a receptive uterus. This needs to happen before you run out of time.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com. When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Staggered IVF”

          7.“Embryo Banking”

          8. “Embryo Selection: The Critical factor in IVF”

          9. “Use of the Birth Control Pills in IVF”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      30. Tracy says:

        Hi Dr Sher,

        My background: Age 36, unexplained infertility. Seven years ago I had a natural pregnany that resulted in miscarriage at 7 weeks. Two years ago My husband and I went through IUI with a pregnancy ending at 7 weeks. Pathology results came back as trisonomy 16. After 3 more failed IUI’s (all using GonalF) we moved on to IVF using Menopur, Follistim, Cetrotide and bby aspirin. This first IVF (5 eggs retrieved, two resulted in 5-day blasts and 1 transferred resulted in a miscarriage at 7 weeks. Our second round of IVF (same medication protocol, 10 eggs retrieved, all fertilized 5 made it to 5 day blasts and 1 transferred) resulted in a chemical pregnancy.
        We have had all of our genetic test results, karyotyping and clotting tests come back as normal.
        We attempted our first FET (transfered two) which resulted in a negative result. Before continuing the madness of another round of IVF, perhaps with a new Dr and considering PGS, is there anthing else that could be causing this repeated loss and failure? Egg quality or Implantation Issues?
        Kind Regards,
        Tracy

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Usually it is an egg quality issue that is primarily a function of age but can also be affected by the protocol used to stimulate.

          Feel free to call 800-780-7437 if you wish to discuss.

          Geoff Sher

      31. HP says:

        I am a healthy 37-year-old, all tests normal, but…never been pregnant. Not even a chemical or miscarriage. We tried for a year, then moved on to ART.

        After 3 failed IUIs, we did our first IVF (Bravelle, Menopur, Ganirelix) with ICSI.

        They retrieved 15 eggs, 11 were fertilized, and by Day 3 there were still 8 developing. On Day 5, they had all stopped growing.

        Our RE said this is a very bad sign, but that she could not tell if it was a sperm or an egg issue–but she seemed to think bad eggs.

        She advised trying again with the hopes getting a better batch (slightly tweaked dose and with PICSI), but admitted that if they all arrested again that it meant we would not be able to have a biological child.

        I am so sad and stunned. Is there something wrong with my eggs? Should we give up if the same thing happens again?

        Again thoughts would be so appreciated.

        HP

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          We really should discuss this . I think I might be able to help here.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com. When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4 “Traveling for IVF from Out of State/Country– The Process at SIRM-Las Vegas” (posted on March, 21st 2012)

          5.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          6. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          7. “Staggered IVF”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      32. Lisa says:

        Dr. Sher
        TTC for 4 years no problems detected with my husband or myself, Did 1sr round of IVF retrieved 18 eggs, had 11 embryos, all 11 didn’t make it past 3 day transfer was cancelled. Is it normal to loose all embryos at the same time? Dr. ordered blood work for husband & myself for Y chromosome deletion & Karyotype if tests come back normal how common is it that this will happen again to the embryos?

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          IT could be the protocol of stimulation. See #s 1-3 b3low.

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com. When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          5. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      33. Nicole says:

        Dr. Sher,
        I have a question. I have been diagnosed with mild PCOS ( I have regular cycles every 32-36 days) and my husband has severe mail factor (last count was 6 million, ‘sluggish”? motility and 1% normal morphology). Despite this have had 5 pregnancies, 4 early miscarriages and 1 live birth (severe hyperemesis was my only pregnancy complication). I have never used fertility treatments to conceive but IVF with ICSI has been recommended. I have the homozygous C mutation for MTHFR and elevated T helper cells (per RIP). The immune testing was actually done by my OBGYN and the RE that we saw said he does not give immune issues a lot of weight. So given my history should I seek out a clinic that does focus on these issues? I am very new to all of this and not sure what I should do at this point. Thanks so much!

        • Geoffrey Sher says:

          Respectfully I strongly differ from the opinion that immune issues are not a likely cause here. In fact this sounds to me like an immune issue (possibly alloimmune.).

          Please go to the home page of this blog, http://www.IVFauthority.com. When you get there, look for a “search bar” in the upper right hand corner. Type the following subjects into the bar, click on it and it will take you to all the relevant articles posted there.

          1. “An Individualized Approach to Ovarian stimulation” (posted on November 22nd, 2010)

          2. “Ovarian Stimulation in IVF: Why is it important to down-regulate LH?”

          3. “Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol”

          4. “Immunologic Implantation Dysfunction” (posted on May, 10th and on May 16th respectively.

          5. “Embryo Implantation………” (Part-1 and Part- 2—-Posted August 2012)

          6. “Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)

          7.“A personalized, stepwise approach to IVF at SIRM”; Parts 1 & 2 (posted March, 2012)

          8. “IVF success: Factors that influence outcome”

          Consider calling 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 to arrange a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

          Geoff Sher

      34. Nicole says:

        I am 33 and my husband is 49, I am guessing age is relevant.

      35. Geoffrey Sher says:

        We will do so on Monday!

        Geoff sher

      36. Geoffrey Sher says:

        Irene…the answer is a “qualified yes”, subject to a due diligence process of course.

        Call 800-780-7437 or 702-699-7437 on Monday morning and set up a Skype consultation (free of charge to those who reside in the United States or Canada) with me so we can discuss your case in detail

        Geoff Sher

      Leave a Reply

       

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      IVF programs currently report their outcome statistics in a number of categories: a)      Number of IVF cycles initiated in a given year b)      Number of single and multiple pregnancies that occurred c)      Number of cycles that res... more
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      I wish to share a very interesting case with you; one that I’m pretty sure will meet with the approval of some and evoke criticism by others. Before I even tell you about it, let me say that I and my team thought long and hard before going ahead wi... more
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      Couples have for centuries sought to influence the gender of their offspring. More than seven centuries ago the ancient Chinese developed a birth calendar said to be able to predict gender on the basis of when conception occurred. Later, the ancient ... more
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      Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin along so-called meridians (energy channels). It has been used in China for centuries to regulate and treat many health disorders including ailments involving the female reproductive sys... more
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      ALLOIMMUNE VS. AUTOIMMUNE DYSFUNCTION Alloimmune Implantation Dysfunction Every human being has two DQ-alpha genes. One is contributed by the father and the other by the mother. In a small percentage of patients undergoing IVF, paternal-maternal DQ-a... more
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      It is an unfortunate reality that many IVF programs attach little importance to factors that affect embryo implantation in general, and immunologic implantation dysfunction (IID) in specific (see below). Perhaps the lack of attention given to evaluat... more
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      IVF patients, especially those who find themselves inexplicably repeatedly failing treatment after treatment are no longer willing to blindly accept platitudes from those who would ignore the role of immunologic causes of IVF failure while unable to ... more
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      For about 10% of all infertile couples, the cause of the infertility cannot be readily determined using conventional diagnostic methods. Such cases are often referred to as “unexplained infertility.” The truth, however, is that in most su... more
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      For more than a quarter century, medical scientists have attempted to defy the biological clock by freezing a woman’s eggs to preserve her fertility. Most of these efforts have failed. Consider the fact that since the birth of the world’s 1st “... more
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      RL, a 31-year-old woman, presented with a 7 year history of inability to conceive, in spite of 2 prior fresh and 1 frozen IVF attempts, where a total of six good quality blastocysts had been transferred to her uterus.  Her husband PL, had normal spe... more
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      The following is a case study of a recent patient that came to me for treatment.  CJ, a 34 year old, and her husband RJ (age 35) presented to me with a six-year history of infertility. Based on semen analysis, RJ, who had initiated two pregnancies i... more
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       Please refer to last week’s blog post, where Karmann tells in her own words her struggles with recurrent miscarriage – nine miscarriages to be exact – and her long journey  of heartbreak, disappointment, and finally – hope.... more
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      In observation of National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), I wanted to share the touching story of a couple that I first met last year – after they had already experienced 8 years of heartbreak and frustration.  Their story is representativ... more
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      Background: About two years ago, I received a call from a gentleman that I will call “John”. John was a movie producer who stated that he and his partner “Brian” had been in a monogamous same-sex relationship for 7 years and each wanted to si... more
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      Background: Maria (fictitious name), a childless 34-year-old Hispanic lady, presented with a history of having had five (5) successive spontaneous pregnancy losses at 7 weeks gestation, all due to hydatidiform moles. Four (4) of these losses were ... more
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      Mary (fictitious name), a 54 year menopausal woman, presented at SIRM-Las Vegas for IVF using an egg donor. She had been menopausal for 7-plus years and had NOT been on any hormone replacement therapy. Mary gave a history of having undergone IVF with... more
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      I consulted with a 36 year old lady (whom I will refer to as “Sandra”) and her partner, about 18 months ago. She and her husband of 5 years had been having regular unprotected intercourse throughout this time and had been unable to conceive. Sand... more
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      About 18 months ago I saw an Asian Indian couple who presented with a very interesting history. The female partner (whom I will refer to as DB) had regular menstrual cycles and normal ovarian reserve, was ovulating regularly and had a fertile male pa... more
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      This is the second in a series of posts taken from questions that have been submitted to me via email, website, or discussion boards.  This question is from a patient who had a healthy baby from her first pregnancy, but then went through a period of... more
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       Please refer to last week’s blog post, where Karmann tells in her own words her struggles with recurrent miscarriage – nine miscarriages to be exact – and her long journey  of heartbreak, disappointment, and finally – hope.... more
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      This is the second part of a two-part post on IVF failure. In my January 22nd post, I discussed what I often refer to as the “seed” variable in the “seed/soil” relationship – the embryo. This week’s post will address the “soil” variab... more
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      This is the 19th in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. Early pregnancy loss – whether due to miscarriage or chemical pregnancy – is due to two major factors. In more than 70-80% of cases the cause is attributable to... more
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      This is no. 18 in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. While it is true that IVF failure can be due to preventable factors, it is as important to understand that optimal medical care does not always equate with an optimal outcome... more
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      This is #17 in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. For women whose advancing age and/or ovarian resistance make having a baby with their own eggs unfeasible or unlikely, IVF using donated eggs from a young donor (under 35 years)... more
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      This is the 16th in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. Immediately following implantation, the root system (trophoblast) of the embryo begins to release the pregnancyhormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) into the surround... more
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      This is the 15th in a series of responses to common questions about failed IVF There is little doubt that stress and emotional lability plays a role in the normal physiological/hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle.After all, Eskimos often stopp... more
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      This is the 14th in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. In vitro fertilization establishes an abnormal hormonal environment in the uterus.In some cases (especially older women and those with a diminished ovarian reserve), high o... more
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      This is the 13th in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. Virtually everyone recognizes that pregnancy with multiples (especially triplets or greater) is associated with a high incidence of premature delivery that has serious cons... more
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      This is the 12th in a series of answers to common questions about failed IVF. (Note: I’ll be hosting a live video chat on Aug. 2 on the topic of Failed IVF where I’ll discuss the issues addressed in this series of posts and take your ques... more
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