Minimal stimulation IVF means fewer meds and lower costs.
Minimal stimulation IVF takes the same basic approach as traditional IVF, but there are some key differences. With standard IVF, you’ll take high doses of fertility medications for optimal ovarian stimulation. But with minimal stimulation IVF, you might not use fertility drugs at all, or you could be prescribed an oral dose of clomiphene citrate and given a simple hCG trigger shot. In general, minimal stimulation IVF is cheaper than standard IVF; however, the outcome can be quite different.
Consider your plans for the future when considering minimal stimulation IVF.
A traditional full IVF cycle allows about 10 to 12 eggs to be produced, but only a few can be implanted. For women or couples who are certain they’ll continue to build their family in the coming years, freezing leftover embryos makes sense because you’ll be able to opt for a frozen embryo transfer the next time around—rather than a full IVF cycle. But if you’re not sure if you want to have more children, minimal IVF stimulation may be the best option for you.
Minimal stimulation IVF usually produces enough eggs for a single IVF cycle.
With no leftover eggs, it removes the decision of how to handle additional eggs.
We can help you decide between minimal IVF versus traditional IVF.
Despite the advantages, not all women are candidates for minimal IVF. You won’t get results if you have very low levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or if you don’t ovulate or release eggs normally. Our physicians may recommend minimal IVF for:
- Women who do not release many follicles, even with full stimulation IVF
- Those at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
- Budget-conscious women or couples who are having their last child
- Anyone not interested in embryo cryopreservation, whether for personal, ethical, or religious reasons