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Mini IVF

Item: Los Angeles Reproductive Center
Rating: 5
Author: Ashley Jebbia

While in vitro fertilization (IVF) is effective, some patients do not respond well to the drugs used for ovarian stimulation.

This is why Drs. Nurit Winkler and Marc Kalan offer mini IVF, an effective alternative to the popular infertility treatment.

Learn how this IVF technique has helped patients in Encino, Los Angeles and Bakersfield, CA, build their families...

What Is Mini IVF? Key Differences Between IVF and Mini IVF

Also known as minimal or low stimulation IVF, the process shares the same basic principles as traditional IVF. In both procedures, fertility drugs are used to stimulate the ovaries so that they produce eggs to be used in an IVF cycle.

During mini IVF protocols, fewer fertility drugs are used during ovarian stimulation. This leads to fewer eggs to use during the IVF procedure.

Mini IVF protocols can vary based on the needs of the patient. In addition to fewer fertility drugs, the dosage may be reduced, or the drugs could be weaker than conventional medications.

Is Mini IVF the Same as Natural IVF?

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No. While a mini IVF cycle uses some fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries, natural IVF uses no ovarian stimulation medications at all.

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Reasons to Consider Mini IVF Is It the Right Fertility Option for Me?

Potential Drawbacks of Mini IVF

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Despite the benefits of mini IVF for certain patients, the procedure does have some downsides worth considering. For one, the success rates for minimal stimulation IVF are lower than traditional IVF since fewer eggs are produced. In addition, if a cycle fails, another mini IVF cycle may need to be performed to retrieve additional eggs. This can drive up the cost in the case of multiple failed cycles.

Our Fertility Doctors Are Here for You 5-Star Reviews for the Los Angeles Reproductive Center

Dr. Kalan is the most amazing doctor I have ever had! He truly cares about his patients and I cannot say enough good things about him. I wish I could see him throughout my whole pregnancy! But he is so amazing and he is always there for any questions or concerns I have. Thank you, Dr. Kalan, for being an exceptional, caring doctor!

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Dr. Winkler has been a blessing to myself and my husband's life. I swear she is multi-talented from fertility down to talk therapy. She was willing to make our dreams come through by working with us every step of the way financially, and mentally.

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Mini IVF vs. Conventional IVF

Some individuals believe that mini IVF protocols are safer for theoretical reasons, however, there is no evidence to support this. Our fertility doctors can help you consider the facts and weigh your fertility treatment options.

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The Mini IVF Process

The mini IVF procedure follows the same path as the standard IVF process. During a consultation at our Encino or Bakersfield, CA, office, we will walk you through exactly what to expect:

Ovarian Stimulation

Approximately two to four days into the patient's cycle, they are given fertility drugs that encourage the ovaries to produce high-quality eggs.

Monitoring Medication Response

In the days following ovarian stimulation, fertility specialists monitor the patient's condition, noting their uterine lining, follicle development, and hormone levels as the IVF procedure unfolds. When the time is right, medication is used to help induce ovulation.

Egg Retrieval

Egg retrieval is a crucial part of the IVF procedure. During egg retrieval, a tiny hollow needle is used to carefully harvest viable eggs. Sperm that will be used for the cycle is collected or thawed at the same time as egg retrieval.