IVF and ICSI
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Patient Information
IVF and ICSI Success Rates in Australia
What is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment where eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the uterus to achieve pregnancy. IVF is commonly used for couples experiencing infertility due to factors such as ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, or unexplained infertility.
What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a specialized form of IVF. It involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg to assist fertilization. ICSI is often recommended for couples with male infertility issues, such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape.
How successful are IVF and ICSI in Australia?
Success rates for IVF and ICSI depend on several factors, including the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of eggs and sperm. In Australia:
In Australia, the success rates of IVF and ICSI vary significantly with age:
– Women under 30: The live birth rate per embryo transfer is approximately 43-48% for IVF and ICSI combined.
– Women aged 35-37: The success rate drops to around 32-40% per embryo transfer.
– Women aged 40-42: The live birth rate is much lower, at about 13-22% per embryo transfer.
– Women over 44: The success rate is minimal, at 2-5% per embryo transfer.
These rates highlight the impact of age on fertility outcomes.
ICSI success rates are similar to those of standard IVF, as the primary difference lies in the fertilization process. ICSI is particularly effective for overcoming male infertility issues.
What factors influence success rates?
– Age: Younger women generally have higher success rates due to better egg quality.
– Cause of infertility: Certain conditions, such as male infertility, may benefit more from ICSI.
– Clinic expertise: Success rates can vary between clinics, so choosing a reputable clinic is important.
What do Australian guidelines recommend?
The Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) and other national guidelines emphasize:
– Evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs.
– Transparent communication about success rates and potential risks.
– Avoiding unnecessary interventions.
Are there risks associated with IVF and ICSI?
Both procedures are generally safe, but risks may include:
– Multiple pregnancies (if more than one embryo is transferred).
– Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) due to hormonal medications.
– Rarely, complications from egg retrieval or embryo transfer.
When should I seek fertility treatment?
You should consult a fertility specialist if:
– You have been trying to conceive for over 12 months (or 6 months if over 35 years old).
– You have known medical conditions affecting fertility, such as PCOS or endometriosis.
– You experience irregular periods or other symptoms of infertility.