In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most common form of assisted reproductive technology. When parents want to conceive a child, but fertility drugs and artificial insemination haven’t worked, an IVF procedure is usually the next step. If you’re going to carry the pregnancy, here’s what to expect throughout the process and how to improve your odds.  

How to Boost Your Chances of a Successful IVF Procedure

1. Undergo Pre-IVF Screening  

Before an IVF procedure, you’ll need several tests to ensure viability. If you use your own eggs, hormone profiling can help determine if you need hormonal therapy before scheduling a retrieval. Many patients end up taking a form of birth control to help regulate their hormones at this stage.  

If you’re carrying the pregnancy, you should also have a transvaginal scan of your fallopian tubes, uterus, and ovaries. If the doctor sees anything that could interfere with the pregnancy, such as a hydrosalpinx, they will recommend treatment options based on your condition. Even in serious cases of hydrosalpinx or endometriosis, surgical intervention can help improve your fertility, and IVF treatment boosts those chances even further. 

2. Work With a Skilled Physician  

In preparation for the egg retrieval, your doctor will likely prescribe a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a luteinizing hormone (LH), or a combination of both, which will cause your ovaries to produce more than one egg during ovulation.

When the doctor can retrieve more than one egg for an IVF procedure, they're more likely to have a successful implantation. For patients over the age of 40, transferring more than one fertilized egg can improve the odds, although this approach also raises your likelihood of having twins. 

3. Lifestyle Changes  

Losing weight, if you are overweight or obese, can be very helpful. In addition, if you are a high performance athlete or you exercise intensely, you may be asked to cut down. Other measures to help include improving your diet with more plant-based and less processed options and undergoing fertility acupuncture. Be sure to take a prenatal vitamin also.  

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey toward parenthood, Diamond Institute for Infertility & Menopause in Millburn, NJ, will help. They offer advanced fertility treatments, including IVF procedures. Dr. Matan Yemini and Dr. Ndidiamaka Onwubalili are passionate about helping people realize their dream of having children, and they make patients feel completely relaxed. To schedule a consultation, call (973) 761-5600 or visit their website to learn more about their services.