Today, many couples may face challenges in their journey to natural conception due to health conditions or chronic stress. Fortunately, science has evolved, and assisted reproductive technology is now helping countless women and couples fulfill their dream of building a family.
IVF vs. Mini IVF — two potential solutions include traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF) and Mini IVF, a modified approach to conventional IVF. Let’s explore both methods:
What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?
IVF is a method in which mature eggs are collected from the woman and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilized eggs are then placed in an incubator for 2 to 6 days under controlled conditions until they develop into embryos.
Before the egg retrieval, the woman undergoes hormonal treatment involving medications and injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs. This process allows the fertility specialist to select healthy eggs and increase the chances of success.
What is Mini IVF?
Mini IVF is a gentler version of traditional IVF. Unlike standard IVF, in Mini IVF the woman receives a lower dose of hormonal medication. This results in the production of fewer eggs and reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and other potential complications, while still offering high success rates.
IVF vs. Mini IVF: How to Choose
Choosing between IVF and Mini IVF is an important decision that should be made together with your fertility specialist. The choice depends on several factors, including:
Medical History
Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or other reproductive disorders may influence which method is best suited for you.
Age
Age is a key factor. Women under 35 often have better success rates with conventional IVF. However, Mini IVF may be a better option for women at risk for ovarian hyperstimulation.
Couple’s Preferences
If a woman cannot take high doses of medication due to age or health reasons, Mini IVF may be the right alternative. On the other hand, if the goal is to maximize success rates and retrieve multiple embryos, conventional IVF may be preferred.
Which Method is Right for You?
Regardless of the method chosen, the fertility specialist and the clinic you partner with will play the most critical role in your IVF success.
Dr. Ioannis Zervomanolakis, a reproductive gynecology specialist and head physician of the Southeastern Fertility Solutions team, is a founding member of Hygeia IVF Embryogenesis. He holds a PhD in Reproductive Medicine from the University of Bonn and has worked in leading university clinics in Germany and Austria. With over 25 years of experience, he has helped patients from across Greece and Europe navigate a wide range of fertility challenges.
If you’re ready to begin your journey to motherhood, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to answer all your questions and support you every step of the way.