Mini IVF vs. IVF: Which Treatment Option Is Right for You?
Couples who are having difficulty conceiving have several treatment options, including mini IVF (in vitro fertilization) and standard IVF. While mini IVF has a lower up-front cost than traditional IVF, its success rate is also lower, meaning multiple rounds may be necessary. In the end, patients may end up paying more for the total cost of their treatment. Our fertility specialists at the Los Angeles Reproductive Center in Los Angeles, CA, can help you determine whether mini IVF or IVF is the best fertility treatment for your needs. Dr. Marc Kalan and Dr. Nurit Winkler can explain everything you need to know about the two options during an in-depth consultation.
Mini IVF: A Closer Look
Due to lower initial costs, many fertility clinics advertise mini IVF as a clear-cut alternative to traditional IVF. Claims include high pregnancy rates with little to no fertility drugs. This treatment often sounds enticing to patients, and understandably so. Unfortunately, there is simply no evidence to support these assertions.
It is important to understand that live birth rates are substantially lower when compared to standard IVF. As a result, more cycles are typically necessary for a successful pregnancy. Therefore, patients may actually spend less money over time when choosing traditional IVF. At the Los Angeles Reproductive Center, we believe in transparent communication – and we strive to be open and honest with our patients about their treatment options.
How Are Mini IVF and IVF Different?
Mini IVF and IVF both involve fertilizing one or more eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting. The primary difference lies in the methods used for ovarian stimulation. For example, in standard IVF, the female patient is given fertility drugs to stimulate the development of the ovarian follicles. Generally, these ovarian stimulation medications are administered via injection over eight to twelve days.
Overall, the majority of patients seeking fertility treatment will be better suited for standard IVF.
In contrast, mini IVF involves administering a very low dose of fertility drugs using injections or oral medications. Once ovulation has been initiated, the rest of the procedure is quite similar to standard IVF.
Candidates for Mini IVF
Overall, the majority of patients seeking fertility treatment will be better suited for standard IVF. However, if you are ideologically opposed to creating multiple embryos, have a diminished ovarian reserve, or you do not respond well to gonadotropin injections, then mini IVF could be an option for you. Mini IVF might also be safer if a woman's health would be negatively impacted by fertility medication. It is also worth noting that a 2016 research study concluded that mini IVF completely eliminates the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Flexible Financing Is Available
If cost is the primary reason for considering mini IVF over standard IVF, we encourage you to speak with our team. At the Los Angeles Reproductive Center, we offer a variety of financing options so that all couples can consider traditional IVF as a fertility solution. We will also work carefully to maximize your applicable insurance coverage.
Contact Us to Learn More
Choosing a fertility treatment that is right for you can be challenging. Dr. Kalan and Dr. Winkler at the Los Angeles Reproductive Center are committed to helping patients determine an option that will effectively meet their needs and provide the best chances for conceiving. To find out more about your treatment options, contact us online or give us a call at (661) 889-5173.
