Modified Natural IVF

Modified Natural IVF is a highly cost effective hybrid approach to IVF. This novel method combines a normalized menstrual cycle with classical IVF laboratory techniques. CRM is one of the few clinics in the world offering this approach to assisted reproduction.

Traditional IVF requires medications to “hyperstimulate” the growth of multiple eggs. These medications are expensive and are associated with certain potential health risks. There must be careful monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness. Recovery of oocytes (eggs) is performed with a conscious intravenous sedation. These requirements lend to increased cost and time commitment, but the result is an increased number of oocytes and embryos available for transfer. In addition, cryopreservation of “surplus” embryos for transfer in a subsequent non-stimulated cycle may be available.

“Modified Natural” IVF is just that. As in the normal ovulatory cycle, in which one follicle (developing oocyte) is produced and is available for release and fertilization, the Modified Natural IVF cycle typically results in the production of just one follicle. Following medications and serial monitoring, this oocyte is “retrieved” in the office under light sedation. Typically, one egg will be retrieved and combined with approximately 50,000 sperm in a Petri dish. The resulting single embryo will be transferred into the uterus two to three days later.

Modified Natural IVF provides an affordable way to answer questions about egg quality, sperm-egg interaction, early embryonic development and endometrial implantation. Modified Natural IVF is for patients 37 years and younger who do not have a male factor problem. To be eligible, couples also must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Tubal disease: Bilateral tubal occlusions should be proven.
• Endometriosis: Traditional treatments have been unsuccessful.
• Cervical factors: Usual corrective measures have failed.
• Unexplained infertility: Conventional treatments have been unsuccessful.

Modified Natural IVF is a cost-effective approach, is logistically easier than traditional IVF, and cycles may be repeated monthly.