Experiencing miscarriage can be challenging emotional. If you’re considering whether to try IVF again after a miscarriage or explore other options, know that there is support available to you.
It is important to take your time, and when you are ready, you can explore your other options.
This article will share resources to get support and guide you through the factors to consider, including the causes of miscarriages after IVF, testing and detection methods, and alternative options such as surrogacy and adoption.
Support After an IVF Miscarriage
Coping with a miscarriage after IVF can take time, and many families find comfort in sharing their experiences and getting support. It’s normal to grieve and seek support during this time. Therapy or counseling can be invaluable in processing your emotions and finding coping strategies.
In addition to getting support from family, friends, and counseling professionals you can find a sense of community and support from groups like these ones:
- Remembering Our Babies
- Support Groups and Forums
- Share Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support
- M.E.N.D.
- BabyCenter’s Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss Community
Understanding Miscarriages After IVF
Miscarriages after IVF can be particularly disheartening after investing so much hope and effort. Several factors can contribute to miscarriage, including chromosomal abnormalities, uterine conditions, and hormonal imbalances. While doctors may screen and catch some factors before beginning IVF, it is possible to have unpredictable issues during IVF.
Even if you get preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), chromosomal abnormalities can still occur. Uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids or polyps, might not always be detected before implantation. Understanding these factors can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your next steps.
Determining the Cause of a Miscarriage After IVF
To address the cause of miscarriage after IVF, comprehensive testing is crucial. Uterine evaluations, including hysteroscopy or ultrasound, can reveal structural issues that might affect implantation and pregnancy. Blood tests can help assess hormonal levels and identify any deficiencies or abnormalities.
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can help screen embryos for genetic conditions before transfer, though it’s not foolproof. Discuss these testing options with your doctor to understand their relevance to your situation and how they might impact your decision.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor After an IVF Miscarriage
After an IVF miscarriage, it’s essential to have a clear conversation with your healthcare provider. Here are some questions to consider:
What might have caused my miscarriage, and what tests should I undergo to identify potential issues? Are there any specific changes or treatments you would recommend for my next IVF cycle? How can we improve the chances of a successful pregnancy in the future? What support services or specialists can assist me in this process?
These questions can help clarify your options and guide you in making the best decision moving forward.
Should I Try IVF Again After a Miscarriage?
Deciding whether to try IVF again after a miscarriage is a deeply personal choice. Consider the factors discussed, including the causes of previous miscarriages, the results of any testing, and your emotional readiness.
If you choose to proceed with IVF, working closely with your healthcare team and addressing any underlying issues can improve your chances of success.
Alternatively, exploring adoption or surrogacy might provide new pathways to building your family. Take your time to reflect on your options and seek support as needed.
Exploring Alternative Options: Surrogacy After Failed IVF
If you’re contemplating whether to try IVF again or consider other options, surrogacy could be a viable path. Surrogacy offers a chance to share a genetic connection to your child while a surrogate will carry.
Surrogacy can provide higher rates of success for women who have not had success with IVF. Surrogacy might be particularly beneficial if pregnancy health or uterine issues are a concern, as surrogates must meet certain requirements with their agency and clinic. Some surrogate requirements we ask our surrogates to meet are:
- 21-40 years old
- BMI of 19-32
- Have had at least one successful pregnancy
- No major pregnancy or delivery complications
In addition to meeting qualifications based on the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s (ASRM) standards, they are also thoroughly screened by a fertility clinic.
Surrogacy provides hope where other options may have fallen short. By working with a trusted agency, you’ll have access to experienced surrogates who are committed to helping you build your family.
If you have embryos ready from IVF, you can get started on your surrogacy journey in an average of 1 - 6 months. You can also read more about surrogacy after IVF here.