QuestionHello,
I am in the process of undergoing an IVF cycle for the second time, in hopes to have a second baby. With my first cycle, I was lucky enough to conceive on the first attempt and have a successful pregnancy. I am now 31 years old and my infertility is based on endometriosis. Are the success rates higher given that I have been pregnant before and what are the rates at this age? I know it varies depending on the site. I am going to a well known facility in Boston, MA. Thank you for your help.
AnswerHello Sarah from the U.S.,
I am surprised that your doctor has not answered this question for you. It should have been part of your counseling in discussing your treatment options or second IVF cycle. Please keep in mind that pregnancy rates vary according to the clinic. At 31 years old, you have two major pluses on your side, one is that you are still young and still have great pregnancy rates. The average rates for your age group in the U.S. is as high as 50%. In our center, it is 76% with a delivery rate of 63%. In addition, studies have shown that if you have been pregnancy before, your chances are higher if compared to a woman of the same age who has never achieved pregnancy.
The CDC just released the IVF statistics for 2008 (they always lag by two years), so you can look up the CDC ART statistics site, and look up how your clinic did in 2008. You could always ask your clinic for their current rates as well. I am sure they will share them with you.
Don't necessarily expect that it will work again on the first try, however. Only about 60% of patients achieve pregnancy on their first try. The other 40% will take two to three tries. You were certainly very fortunate to be successful on the first try of your first cycle, but that may not be the case again. Be prepared for it not to be.
Good Luck,
Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf
