When going for IVF cycles, there is hope that everything will go as planned. But sometimes, you will encounter something that is out of your control, which may lead to you having to cancel the IVF cycle. Canceling can be a very tough decision, but it is important to understand that such things happen more frequently than expected and, in most situations, are to protect your health or improve the chances of a successful cycle in the future.
There are a number of possible reasons for canceling the IVF cycle, such as the way your body reacts to the medications, undiagnosed health issues that may create an issue in the process or even the simple matter of time frames. Understanding the possible causes and what to expect in cancelations can help you be more prepared during this phase of your journey.
What Does Cancelling an IVF Cycle Mean?
An IVF cycle is considered canceled when the procedure is paused before the stage of either egg retrieval or embryo transfer. This decision is usually made by the fertility specialist because the cycle is not going well or because further progression may risk the chances of success.
Although it can be disappointing, canceling an IVF cycle doesn’t have to end your plan to have a baby. In fact, it is usually a choice that can be made to help ensure a better possibility for a future cycle. Be it because of a very low response to the medications or the risk posed to the patient’s health, canceling enables the doctors to tailor the strategy and focus on the most suitable factors.
Medication Response: A Common Factor in IVF Cancellations
How your body responds to fertility medications is one of the most important factors in an IVF cycle. These medications are designed to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs, increasing the chances of a successful outcome. However, if your response is too weak, producing very few eggs, or too strong, leading to risks like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), your fertility specialist might recommend canceling the cycle.
This decision is not about giving up but about protecting your health and setting you up for future success. Adjusting the medication protocol based on how your body responds can improve outcomes in the next cycle. It’s important to remember that every person’s body reacts differently, and finding the right approach often takes time and fine-tuning. Canceling a cycle due to medication response allows your medical team to create a safer and more effective plan for your unique needs.
How Health Concerns Can Lead to IVF Delays
Your health matters because it can impact the success of IVF. Sometimes, the cycle can be put on hold or even canceled due to unexpected health-related events like infections, hormonal changes, or changes in physical state. Whatever decisions are made, they involve your safety and the chances of recovery that you have at the specific moment.
Although these are setbacks, they will enable your medical team to resolve any issues before advancing treatment. It is undoubtedly prudent to take a break to ensure that the chances of success are maximized and that one feels more at ease. Above all, never forget that taking care of your health is part of the process and is fundamental in the journey to fertility.
Embryo Quality Issues: When to Reconsider Your Cycle
The quality of embryos in an IVF cycle is regarded as a key element in determining success. However, it is not uncommon to encounter cases where a number of embryos do not progress normally due to poor quality. Your fertility specialist may recommend postponing the cycle to review the strategy or improve the chances of success in future cycles in such instances.
Although it is not the easiest of choices to make, it is crucial to understand that when the quality of the embryos is placed first, it is the best chance for a successful pregnancy. Thus, the decision to stop, try to understand the problems, and look for other methods is a good one as it puts the patient in a position that is most suited for the circumstances.
Financial Reasons for Cancelling an IVF Cycle
Most IVF cycles have a financial obligation, which, unfortunately, could force patients into the difficult decision of stopping a cycle. The factors that may prevent a patient from resuming might include:
- Unanticipated medical needs.
- Changes in the family’s financial situation.
- The need to stop for the time being and consider future expenses.
However, such a decision should in no way discourage patients who desire to have children from pursuing their aspirations. It also makes you look for other resources/budgets and revise your plans in order to be ready. Most families face similar problems, and there is support to help you through this stage of your journey.
Alternatives to Explore After an IVF Cancellation
There are several options available that allow you to look towards the future with optimism. Based on your circumstances, your fertility specialist will explain your next steps. You might look into modifying the treatment plan for the next cycle, donor eggs or embryos, frozen embryo transfer, and so forth. For some, the option of pursuing other paths of parenthood, like gestational surrogacy or adoption, opens new options. No two journeys are the same, and considering these options will allow you to select the one best suited to your family.
How to Prepare for Your Next IVF Cycle
It is a good idea to consult your fertility specialist to find out what caused the cancellation of the cycle and whether any modifications to the treatment plan need to be made. Nutrition, physical activity, and stress management techniques are integral to leading a healthy lifestyle and pursuing fertility treatment. Emotional support during this phase can also prove to be beneficial, whether it comes from a partner, friends, or a therapist.
No cycle of IVF is ever wasted. Each aims to achieve something, and each subsequent cycle’s chances of success are also increased. Don’t worry—you’re in safe hands—your doctors will be there to help you throughout the process.
FAQs
Can I cancel my IVF cycle?
Yes, you can cancel an IVF cycle at any time before or during the process, typically due to health concerns, personal reasons, or medical advice.
What percentage of IVF cycles are cancelled?
Around 10-20% of IVF cycles are canceled, often due to poor ovarian response or other medical issues.
When will I ovulate after cancelled IVF?
After a canceled IVF cycle, ovulation typically occurs naturally within a few weeks, depending on your individual cycle.
What happens to follicles after cancelled IVF?
If an IVF cycle is canceled, the follicles may stop growing, and your body will likely reabsorb them or they may shrink.
Canceling an IVF cycle can be an emotional and challenging experience, but it’s often a necessary step to protect your health or improve your chances of success. These decisions are made with your best interests in mind, whether due to medication response, health concerns, financial challenges, or embryo quality issues. With the right preparation and support, your path to parenthood remains possible, even after setbacks.
