Starting your IVF treatment is a significant decision in anyone’s life. At first, many people may have one question: “If it fails, can I opt for IVF the second time?”
Well, it depends on various parameters. No one can guarantee whether you are capable of a second IVF treatment on the first go. But remember, your IVF doctor is there to guide and support you. If you are planning to visit a clinic, know these things beforehand. Welcome to this post, where you will understand everything clearly.
How Many Times Can You Try IVF?
As mentioned, the chances of success after a single IVF cycle are not guaranteed. Many couples do not conceive on the first attempt, and that is completely normal. Fertility specialists have found that success rates typically rise with each cycle, at least for the first few rounds. For younger women, particularly those under 35, studies suggest that up to six cycles might give them the best odds.
Doctors often suggest re-evaluating once you reach four or five cycles, especially in your late 30s or 40s. That could mean reassessing the protocol, considering donor options, or changing clinics. The longer the journey continues without a result, the more important it becomes to pause.
A woman under 35 years can try up to four cycles. On the other hand, women over 40 years must consider other options after 1-2 cycles.
What are the risks of doing IVF multiple times?
Pushing through cycle after cycle may seem brave, but it’s not without complications. Some of the concerns include:
- Emotional exhaustion
- Financial pressure
- Hormonal impact
- Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
- Ectopic pregnancies
- Carrying multiples
Why do some people stop after two or three cycles?
Success does not always increase with a greater number of attempts. The first or second cycle for some offers is critical. Maybe it reveals how your body responds to medications. Maybe the embryo quality isn’t what was expected. Or maybe the endometrium, the uterus lining, was not ready. Whatever it is, a good IVF Doctor will use that information to adjust the plan, not blindly repeat it.
When repeated attempts show the same challenges, most clinics won’t encourage endless cycles. Instead, they’ll likely bring up alternatives: donor eggs, donor sperm, or even surrogacy.
What May Affect Your IVF Limit?
Not everyone starts at the same place. Here are some of the key factors that influence how many cycles you might realistically consider:
Age
This is the big one. Fertility declines with age, and so do the odds of success. The difference between starting IVF at 30 versus 42 is significant in the number of cycles your doctor might suggest.
General health
Pre-existing conditions like diabetes, thyroid issues, or heart problems may limit how your body tolerates fertility medications. That can naturally shorten your treatment plan.
Fertility diagnosis
If your challenge is mild male-factor infertility or blocked tubes, your chances of success may be higher with fewer attempts. But if the issue involves low ovarian reserve or repeated failed implantations, your plan might look different.
Emotional bandwidth
This doesn’t get talked about enough. IVF is draining, both emotionally and financially. It can affect your relationship, work life, and mental health. That’s why many people choose to pause—or stop altogether—after a few cycles.
Finances
Many families make tough decisions based on what their bodies can handle and what their budgets can bear.
Support from your IVF Doctor
A skilled, communicative doctor makes a huge difference. Their support, guidance, and understanding of your unique circumstances can significantly impact your IVF journey.
What If IVF Does Not Work for You?
Hitting the wall after multiple cycles is disheartening, but it’s not the end. Some patients choose to stop. Others shift direction. Here are a few paths worth exploring:
- Embryo genetic testing (PGT) to screen for abnormalities before transfer
- Switching to donor eggs or donor sperm
- Using a gestational carrier if the uterus is not receptive
- Adoption, domestic or international
- Embryo donation
- Fertility counselling to process the next steps
Final thoughts
There’s no single answer to how many times you can go through IVF treatment. But what matters most is finding your answer. With the right IVF Doctor, an honest look at your circumstances, and a clear understanding of the Process of IVF, you’ll know when to keep going.
