Chapter16 - Natural cycle IVF

Summary

In vitro fertilization (IVF) in natural cycles or with minimal stimulation has gained worldwide attention and interest for both normal-responder and poor-responder patients. The incidence of poor-responder patients is estimated to be about 10%, and patient age is often related with low response to gonadotropins, reflecting a decline in the ovarian reserve of follicles. Patients undergoing ovarian stimulation after the failed cycle require a rest between stimulated cycles. The natural cycle is a valid alternative to expensive controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), at least in poor-responder women, especially in younger women, where the pregnancy rate was comparable to that observed in the general IVF population. Natural cycle IVF is a suitable and feasible alternative to ovarian hyperstimulation in poor-responder patients. Natural cycle IVF should be suggested by physicians as an alternative to expensive ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins or before proposing egg donation, especially in women under 40 years old.