Natural IVF at PFCLA

Lower risk of side effects

The risk of side effects posed by natural IVF is lower due to the absence of fertility medications. Possible side effects you could avoid through natural IVF include: 

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
• Bloating
• Mood swings
• Tender breasts

Note: To increase the chances of implantation success, our doctors can recommend hormone supplements and non-stimulation medications, such as progesterone. Please note, however, that your body only releases up to one mature egg during natural IVF. 

Greater affordability

Natural IVF is more affordable since it doesn’t require fertility medication, which ultimately reduces the overall treatment costs. 

Note: Some patients consider Natural IVF as a way to avoid twins or multiples. However, the best way to avoid multiple pregnancies is by transferring only one embryo at a time --which can be done during traditional IVF cycles, too.

Lower success rates

When patients undergo natural IVF, there is less control over the cycle. In fact, success rates are typically three to four times higher with traditional IVF.

Less certainty and control

Some providers consider natural IVF a less stressful procedure than conventional IVF because it involves fewer injections. However, natural IVF still requires the egg retrieval procedure and there’s an increased likelihood that the cycle is cancelled, premature ovulation takes place, or there is no egg to retrieve.

Possibility for additional procedures

As only one egg can be produced during each natural IVF cycle, additional retrievals will need to happen to produce more eggs if a pregnancy is not successful.

Individuals at risk of certain cancers

Natural IVF is a safer treatment for women who are:

• At risk of hormone-related cancers
• Have a family history of hormonal cancers

Individuals seeking to reduce possible side-effects

Individuals seeking fertility treatment but who do not wish to take ovulation medications due to the possible associated health risks make great candidates for natural IVF. 

Couples or individuals with religious or personal preferences

Natural IVF may be a great option for you if you want to reduce the amount of assisted reproduction necessary for conception due to your religious or personal preferences.