Minimal Stimulation IVF

About Minimal Stimulation IVF

One of the main goals of IVF is to safely obtain as many mature eggs as possible, in hopes to maximize the chances of retrieving normal embryos for transfer. IVF typically involves high doses of stimulating medications however, for women with a low egg reserve, this traditional strategy for ovarian stimulation doesn’t always result in more eggs at the time of retrieval. For women whose ovaries provide 5 or fewer eggs per cycle, aggressive stimulation may not be cost effective. These women may benefit from minimal stimulation IVF, which uses a gentler stimulation protocol, with a lower dose of hormonal medications.

Candidates for Minimal Stimulation IVF

This option is most often used effectively after experiencing unsuccessful IVF cycles with a more traditional medication protocol. Women with high FSH or a low ovarian reserve are often candidates as well. This approach can also reduce unwanted side effects that could be encountered with higher dose medications.