Why don’t all clinics offer Natural Cycle IVF?
Most clinics tend to rely on the old adage of strength in numbers. NCIVF uses only one embryo and relies on technique and timing rather than, “the more, the better.” While more than one embryo is certainly advisable for some patients, there are many who have a strong chance of success when transplanting only one.
Are there any drugs at all involved in NCIVF?
There is only one injection of HCG administered to promote full maturation of the egg before retrieval. There are no other injectable medications.
Do patients normally need to attempt NCIVF more than once?
Every patient and every circumstance is different. Success rates using NCIVF are lower than stimulated IVF, but that does not mean you will definitely need to undergo more than one treatment. Because ovarian stimulation drugs are not required, if more than one attempt is necessary, it can usually be performed the very next cycle.
I am considering IUI. Is NCIVF a better option?
To date there have been no head to head studies that answer that question. With NCIVF, an actual embryo is placed directly inside the uterus. With IUI, sperm that is placed inside the uterus must then travel to the upper reproductive track to meet the egg, hopefully fertilize, and only then implant in the uterus. Thus NCIVF may be a better option when compared with IUI.
Are all procedures performed onsite?
Yes, at Dominion Fertility all procedures and laboratory work are conveniently performed in our Arlington office.
Who are the best candidates for NCIVF?
Patients less than 35 years of age with regular menstrual cycles and normal ovarian reserve would have the best chances with Natural Cycle IVF. When considering conventional IVF, patients who fit the best candidate description should first consider an attempt with NCIVF.
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