Gentle IVF

Many people are concerned about potential deleterious effects from the medications used in IVF.  Although the safety records of these drugs are very reassuring there are now protocols available using a more gentle approach with lower doses of stimulation.  These protocols tend to be significantly shorter than conventional approaches and are not usually associated with the side effects commonly encountered with more traditional approaches.  Treatments usually last in the region of 12 days and usually 2-4 eggs are collected.  One of the principles underlying gentle IVF is that although there is a reduction in quantity of eggs collected, there maybe an improvement in the quality of these eggs.  Gentle IVF is often performed also with elective single embryo transfer to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy.  This approach may not be suitable for all patients and you are advised to discuss this option specifically with your consultant.