Traditional in-vitro fertilization (IVF) has become the most popular fertility treatment method for women. In-vitro fertilization is accomplished by first giving the woman high doses of stimulating hormones in order to produce as many mature eggs as possible. The eggs are then extracted and then manually fertilized with sperm outside of the woman’s body, before returning the resulting embryos into the uterus. IVF has been highly successful for a number of fertility patients. However, there is another option for those who don’t want the intensive, high-cost process that IVF requires, called minimal stimulation IVF. This process can be successful for those with special cases, and for those that cannot afford or handle the traditional IVF process.
Difference Between Minimal and Traditional IVF Stimulation
Minimal Stimulation IVF, also referred to as mini-stim IVF, is a more minimal process than traditional IVF, hence the name. The first step in in-vitro fertilization is stimulating the woman with hormones in order for her to produce high-quality, mature eggs. IVF requires high doses of hormones for the creation of as many mature eggs as possible. This step can be intense for some women, especially those that do not have high egg counts.
For women who have low egg counts, and cannot handle the regular IVF protocol, a fertility specialist may recommend minimal stimulation IVF as a solution. The goal of minimal stimulation IVF is to use lower doses of oral medication in order to produce only a few mature eggs, rather than try to produce as many eggs as possible. This way, the eggs that are matured as a result of minimal stimulation are more assured for successful fertilization.
Who Should Consider Minimal Stimulation IVF?
Minimal stimulation IVF is often recommended if traditional in-vitro fertilization is unsuccessful for multiple cycles. Additionally, women should consider minimal stimulation IVF if:
- They are over the age of 40, as fertility rates rapidly decline and thus it’s necessary to start a fertility treatment plan as soon as possible
- They have low tested levels of Follicule Stimulating Hormone (FSH), a hormone that stimulates the maturation of eggs in the ovaries
- They have low ovarian reserves, meaning that their number of eggs is already greatly diminished through age and other factors
Minimal stimulation IVF is best suited for women who cannot handle the time commitment, high cost, and intensity that traditional IVF requires. Mini-stim IVF has reduced unwanted side effects that other fertility treatments may have due to the gentler doses of medications.
Minimal Stimulation IVF Treatments in New Jersey
If you believe that you or a loved one is the perfect candidate for minimal stimulation IVF fertility treatments, our specialists at South Jersey Fertility Center can help you! We understand that everyone’s fertility journey is different, so we offer a wide range of fertility services and treatments to help you achieve your dream of starting a family. Contact us or schedule a visit to one of our fertility clinics today to discover your winning fertility treatment plan!