IVF fertility treatment is not always 'one size fits all'

Experts are encouraging couples undergoing In vitro fertilisation (IVF) fertility treatment to consider an individually-tailored approach, after new evidence suggests that high doses of hormones administered during treatment could be harming chances of conception.

IVF treatment has been used with increasing levels of success to help couples to conceive since the first ‘test tube baby’ was born to parents in the UK in 1978. The treatment is expensive and there is no guarantee of success. However, new studies may alter how the IVF treatment is administered.

By individualising treatment and adjusting dosage accordingly, couples may enjoy increased chances of success early on in their treatment, relieving the need for multiple attempts which are expensive and which, if unmonitored, may actually decrease chances of conception by damaging the lining of the womb.

By monitoring a patient’s individual response and tailoring treatment accordingly, doctors may help to increase couples’ chances of having a baby.

Dr David Robertson, director of IVF at Tawam Hospital, Al Ain said: “The treatment of infertility, especially when using IVF, can be a difficult process. It is a process that can be conducted in many different ways, depending on the philosophy of the doctors responsible for determining the best approach.

“The best approach is one that maximises the chances of conception success in each individual, by taking into account the fact that each woman is different and should be treated that way.”

In some cases doctors are now considering ‘Tailored Treatment IVF’, in which doses of hormones are reduced resulting in fewer eggs being gleaned but which may increase chances of conception.

“Doctors should be issued with strict guidelines to monitor a patient’s response to fertility,” continued Dr Robertson. “In these cases, low-dose, individually tailored ovarian stimulation, coupled with strict monitoring is essential, to avoid the complications that can occur.

“Furthermore, there is a significant cultural overlay to infertility in the Gulf and it is essential for any clinic to provide appropriate support and encouragement, as well as appropriate treatment. What is often not recognised is the fact that both husband and wife are affected and both require support. Easy access to fertility specialists, gynaecologists, urologists/andrologists [male specialists] and counsellors is essential.”

Dr Robertson pointed out that it is essential that to address some of these issues and to ensure that physicians working in this field are appropriately qualified and experienced, and they have the facilities to deal with any complications that may arise.

“Happily, this process is now underway and legislation has been passed in the UAE to address this,” he added.
 

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.