Natural Cycle IVF - Success Rates, Who Should Consider & Costs

An alternative approach to the traditional IVF which focuses on using the naturally developed egg rather than stimulating multiple eggs with high-dose hormones.

Natural cycle IVF is a gentle and effective way that is gaining popularity among patients who want a less invasive experience.

The following article will look into the different aspects to pursue this option or hopeful parents.

What Is Natural Cycle IVF and How Does It Work?

Natural cycle IVF requires only a single dominant egg naturally produced by a woman during her menstrual cycle. This egg is retrieved and fertilized with the following steps playing a crucial role:

• Monitoring ovulation with scans and hormone tests

• Fertilizing the egg in the lab

• Transferring the embryo into the uterus

The process removes the need for high-dose ovarian stimulation which makes the process more affordable and less harmful for the mother’s body.

Who Should Consider It?

IVF may be recommended for:

• Women with low ovarian reserve who may not respond to stimulation drugs.

• Patients ready to avoid or minimize hormonal side effects.

• Couples with personal or moral concerns about creating and freezing multiple embryos.

• Individuals for whom standard IVF has been unsuccessful.

Natural Cycle IVF Success Rates

The gentler nature of this process may be healthier for the patient’s body, but it has lower chances of success. Natural cycle IVF success rates ranges from 7-15% per cycle.

Some women still prefer this approach due to the reduced risk, low cost and the natural process. In contrast, the patients with unexplained fertility experience better results using standard protocols.

Unexplained fertility IVF success rates are generally around 30-40% for women under 35. And it gradually declines with age.

Does Age Matter in IVF Success Rates? 

One of the most important factors in any type of IVF, age plays an important role - more than the health of the eggs or sperm, it is the age that determines the success rate.

Women over 40 face a decline in outcomes which requires donor eggs for a better chance at pregnancy. This is mainly because the egg quality and ovarian reserve naturally decreases with age.

This makes early intervention or egg freezing an important consideration if planning late pregnancy.

Do both ovaries produce eggs in IVF treatment?

In conventional IVF, fertility medications stimulate both ovaries to produce eggs which increases the chance of successful retrieval.

However, in natural IVF, the naturally released eggs can be retrieved. Women with just a single ovary can still pursue IVF, though they may have fewer eggs.

Patients with conditions like PCOS can benefit from ovarian stimulation - but under careful monitoring.

How Much Does IVF Cost in the US?

IVF is expensive, and costs differ significantly by location. For example, the prices in the US, UK and Europe can be higher in comparison to the other part of the world.

In the US, average cost per cycle $12,000–$15,000, while natural IVF cycle is usually less expensive due to the minimal use of medication.

Does insurance cover IVF treatment? In the United States, coverage depends on the state laws and employer benefits. Only a handful of states mandate some level of fertility coverage.

In Europe, access is more affordable and many countries cover IVF either fully or partially under their healthcare system.

 

Also Read - Frozen vs. Fresh Embryos: Which Makes Healthier Babies?

What are the risks and benefits of IVF?

IVF has some risks despite being generally safe:

Benefits of natural IVF:

• Fewer to no injectable hormones

• Lower cost in comparison to traditional IVF

• A more natural approach to assisted pregnancy

• Reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)

Risks of this IVF:

• Lower success rates per cycle in comparison to conventional IVF

• Only a single egg is retrieved, which limits the chances unless multiple cycles are pursued.

• Not ideal for everyone, especially older patients or those with severe infertility factors.

How can I prepare for IVF?

1. Choose the Right Clinic - Research success rates, patient reviews, and lab quality.

2. Optimize Health Before Treatment - Maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and reduce alcohol intake.

3. Understand Financial Options - Look into grants, loans, or clinic payment plans.

4. Plan for Multiple Cycles - Success often requires more than one attempt.

Also Read - IVF Treatment : Tips to Increase Success Rate

What are the alternatives I can consider?

If IVF isn’t the right fit, other options you can consider:

• IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) with less invasive, lower success rates.

• Donor Eggs/Sperm - Higher success for older women or severe male infertility.

• Surrogacy - For those unable to carry a pregnancy.

So, Is Natural Cycle IVF Better?

IVF is a life-altering experience, so, when you choose either the traditional or natural cycle type, making the decision depends on several factors. One of those is the success rate.

Choosing natural-cycle IVF at ages lower than 40 can bring you better success rates. On the other hand, traditional IVF is your answer if you are 40 or above, as more eggs are available for in-lab fertility.

Would you like recommendations for IVF clinics in the US or Europe - our team can help you pick the right one!