When a couple begins In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “What is our success rate?” From the perspective of an embryologist, predicting the success rate involves focusing primarily on embryo-related factors—the components that directly determine the potential of the pregnancy.
How Success is Determined in the IVF Lab
The success of an IVF cycle hinges on the quality of the gametes (egg and sperm) and the quality of the embryo created from them. An embryologist places importance on three key factors:
- Egg Quality: The quality of the egg (oocyte) on the day of the retrieval (oocyte pickup) is the foundational factor.
- Sperm Quality: The quality of the sperm collected on that very same day is equally critical.
- Embryo Quality: After the sperm is injected into the egg (or placed with the egg) and fertilization occurs, the quality and overall standard of the developing embryo are assessed.
The Prediction of Success Rate
The embryologist’s assessment is based entirely on the evaluation of these embryo-related factors. By analyzing the quality of the egg, sperm, and the resulting embryo’s development, the team can provide a prediction of the potential success rate to the couple.
This focus ensures that the medical team prioritizes the creation and selection of the highest quality embryos, which is essential for a successful IVF outcome.
