female fertility

In the world of reproductive medicine, the boundaries of what's possible are constantly being pushed further by advances in technology and science. For many, the journey to parenthood is straightforward, but for others, it's a path marked by challenges and the need for medical intervention. As a fertility doctor who has worked with countless patients over the years, I understand the desire to build a family, regardless of the obstacles that may stand in the way. 

Among these challenges, menopause has traditionally been seen as a definitive end to a woman's fertility. In this article, I’ll answer the question, can a menopausal woman get pregnant with donor eggs? 

Understanding menopause and fertility

Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman's reproductive years, characterized by the cessation of menstrual cycles for twelve consecutive months. This transition typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 but can happen earlier or later. Menopause signifies the depletion of ovarian follicles and a significant decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, hormones crucial for ovulation and pregnancy.

The question of fertility during or after menopause is complex. Naturally, menopause signifies the end of a woman's ability to conceive using her own eggs. However, this does not mean the end of her capacity to carry a pregnancy to term. The uterus, if healthy, can still support a pregnancy with the help of hormonal support, regardless of the woman's age or menopausal status.

Can you get pregnant with donor eggs after menopause?

Donor egg IVF is a common path for those who cannot conceive using their own eggs. This process involves using eggs donated by a younger woman (if you work with Cofertility to match with an egg donor, the donor donates half of the eggs retrieved and keeps the other half for her own future use), which are then fertilized with sperm (from a partner or a sperm donor) in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are transferred to the recipient's uterus.

For menopausal women, donor egg IVF offers a viable path to pregnancy. The critical factor is then the ability of the uterus to maintain a pregnancy. Before the procedure, the recipient undergoes hormonal treatment to prepare the uterus for implantation, mimicking the hormonal conditions of a natural pregnancy. 

All pregnancies carry risks, and pregnancy over 45 is no exception. One small study followed 45 healthy mothers ages 50-63 who used donor eggs, and found that 35% experienced pregnancy-related hypertension (high blood pressure), 20% experienced gestational diabetes, and 78% had a cesarean section. It is important to undergo a consultation with your OBGYN or a high-risk specialist to ensure pregnancy is safe. For those who cannot safely or healthfully carry a pregnancy, surrogacy is also an option.

Read more in: What Matters More: The Age of My Egg Donor, or of Who is Carrying The Pregnancy?

It’s important to remember that your age when you (or your gestational carrier) get pregnant is not as important as the age of the eggs. That means your chances of success getting pregnant, no matter your age now, is better with younger eggs. But how do you get younger eggs? For some lucky women, they can use eggs they froze years ago. But for most of us, getting younger eggs means turning to egg donation. 

Is there an age limit for IVF with donor eggs?

Technically, there is no age limit (legal or otherwise) in the United States for pursuing IVF with or without donor eggs.  But ASRM discourages IVF for women older than 55, and some clinics set their own age limits for patients they will treat. 

For women over 45 years old, ASRM advises:

• “Comprehensive” medical testing for cardiovascular and metabolic fitness to ensure the safety of the mother and baby during pregnancy 
• Psychosocial evaluation to determine if support is in place to raise a child to adulthood
• Counseling patients on potential increased medical risks related to pregnancy

For families using donor eggs and a gestational carrier, ASRM would advise that the family undergo psychological evaluation to ensure the parents are equipped to raise the child at an older-than-average age. 

Navigating the journey with Cofertility

At Cofertility, we've embraced a unique egg sharing model that empowers donors and helps families find the perfect egg donor match quickly and easily. We understand the multitude of questions and concerns that come with considering donor egg IVF, from the screening process for donors to the potential outcomes of the IVF cycle.

Our approach is rooted in compassion and understanding, acknowledging the emotional and financial investment involved in fertility treatments. That’s why we've designed the most parent-friendly Baby Guarantee in the market, aiming to alleviate some of the financial stress and uncertainty that can accompany this journey. Our goal is to provide you with the care and support we would want for our own families, guiding you through every step of the process.

Addressing concerns and providing support

We know that considering donor eggs, especially during or after menopause, is a significant decision. Concerns about the donor's health and the success rate of the procedure are common. Our rigorous screening process ensures that all donors meet stringent health criteria. Additionally, advancements in reproductive technology have significantly improved the success rates of donor egg IVF, offering encouraging news for those who choose this path.

The decision to pursue pregnancy through donor eggs is deeply personal and involves careful consideration of many factors, including physical, emotional, and financial aspects. At Cofertility, we are here to provide information, support, and guidance, helping you navigate these considerations and make informed decisions about your fertility journey.

Summing it up

The question of whether a menopausal woman can get pregnant with donor eggs is met with a hopeful yes, thanks to the remarkable advancements in reproductive medicine. At Cofertility, we stand at the forefront of these innovations, committed to serving all families with a vision of inclusivity and support. Our unique egg sharing model and comprehensive care approach aim to set a new standard for excellence in the field, offering a beacon of hope for those dreaming of building their family. As we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in fertility treatment, we promise to provide the support, care, and innovation needed to turn those dreams into reality.

Read more

• How to Talk to Your Doctor About Working with Cofertility
• I'm a Fertility Psychologist. Here's What I Want You to Know About Growing Your Family Through Egg Donation
• Am I Too Old to Become a Parent?
• What You Should Know About Getting Pregnant with Donor Eggs in Your 40s and 50s

Going through fertility treatments to build your family is hard enough, deciding when it’s time to move onto donor eggs can feel impossible. It’s not just the genetic tie that you might be thinking about, but also the time, money, and commitment. 

How many attempts with your own eggs are reasonable before considering alternative options like donor eggs? While there's no single right answer, this guide will help you confidently make your decision.

First consideration: your age

Understanding the impact of age on fertility is helpful. Knowing the chances of IVF success with and without IVF can help you predict the chances of it working in either scenario.  

Females are born with a finite number of eggs, and both the quantity and quality of those eggs diminish over time. This decline in fertility accelerates significantly after the age of 35. According to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), the average live birth rate per IVF cycle using a woman's own eggs is around 53% for women under 35, but falls to just 4% for women over 42. These statistics highlight the challenges associated with using your own eggs at an older age.

If you have already spent a lot of time, effort, and money on failed IVF, you may be eager to move forward with donor eggs and have a baby ASAP. The good news is that the chances of success with donor eggs has more to do with the age of the donor than the age of the mother (or gestational carrier). 

The time to match with a donor can be just days (we have hundreds of pre-qualified donors ready to match with your family). After that, a donor cycle with fresh eggs can take 60-90 days from match to completion of the cycle. Frozen eggs can be quicker, but it sometimes means you can’t meet the donor beforehand.  

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As you can see from the SART data above, the chances of getting pregnant per cycle is much higher with donor eggs and the gap increases with age of the patient. 

Read Dr. Meera Shah’s article Donor Egg Success Rates: a Breakdown.

Second consideration: your ovarian reserve

Your fertility doctor will likely perform a series of tests to assess your ovarian reserve – the remaining supply of eggs in your ovaries.  These tests provide a more personalized estimate of your chances of success using your own eggs. Key tests include:

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): A high FSH level, particularly on day 3 of your menstrual cycle, can indicate diminished ovarian reserve.
• Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH): A low AMH level suggests a lower egg count and may signify reduced responsiveness to fertility medications.
• Antral Follicle Count (AFC): Performed via ultrasound, this test counts the number of small, developing follicles in your ovaries. A lower count could indicate a lower ovarian reserve.

These hormone tests will give you and your doctor a good idea of your chances of success. In fact, your chances of success with IVF are even more correlated with your AMH than your age. 

Third consideration: the emotional impact of unsuccessful attempts

The journey of infertility often comes with significant emotional burdens. Experiencing multiple unsuccessful attempts with your own eggs can lead to disappointment, frustration, anxiety, and even depression. It's super important to prioritize your mental health during this process. Seek support from therapists specializing in infertility, join support groups, or lean on loved ones for emotional strength.

Think about how many failed attempts using your own eggs you are willing to endure before moving on. And keep in mind, donor eggs may increase your chances of success but they aren’t a guarantee. 

Fourth consideration: finances

Unfortunately, fertility treatments can be costly, and using donor eggs will likely increase those expenses. Before making decisions, have a realistic understanding of your financial resources.  Explore options like insurance coverage, financing plans, or grants that might help offset treatment costs.

Read more in How to Finance Your Infertility or Egg Donation Journey

Fifth consideration: time

Time is a precious factor in the fertility journey, especially as you grow older.  Every month, every cycle, counts. If you've experienced multiple unsuccessful IVF attempts with your own eggs, the time it takes to pursue additional cycles may significantly impact your chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.  And, as you age, it increases the likelihood of a higher risk pregnancy. It's important to consider your desired timeline for building a family and how pursuing further IVF with your own eggs may align with those goals.

When should I switch to donor eggs?

While there's no hard-and-fast rule, your doctor may suggest donor egg IVF if you meet some of these criteria:

• Age over 42: Success rates with own eggs decline sharply after 42, and donor eggs offer a significantly higher chance of pregnancy.
• Diminished ovarian reserve: Test results indicating low ovarian reserve may encourage a quicker transition to donor eggs to increase your chances of success, especially if you’re over age 40.
• Multiple failed cycles or pregnancy losses: After several unsuccessful attempts with your own eggs, it may be time to explore other options to avoid further emotional and financial strain.
• Genetic factors: If you are a carrier of a genetic condition, using donor eggs can minimize the risk of passing it on to your child.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to continue with IVF using your own eggs or transition to donor eggs is deeply personal. There is no right or wrong choice.  The best way to navigate this decision is through open communication with a trusted fertility doctor, a counselor, fertility coach, or even a religious leader if your faith plays a significant role in your family planning decisions. They can assess your individual circumstances, discuss the pros and cons in greater detail, and help you make a decision that aligns with your goals and values.

Remember: There is no shame in using donor eggs. It's a testament to your unwavering desire to build a family. Choosing donor eggs empowers you to take control of your fertility journey and create the family you've always dreamed of.

Finding your path to parenthood

The journey to parenthood can take many unexpected turns. While the desire for a biological connection is understandable, remember that the love you have for your future child transcends genetics.  If you decide to move forward with donor eggs, you're making a powerful choice based on love, commitment, and your unwavering determination to build a family.

Donor eggs offer a path to parenthood that might have seemed impossible before. Don't hesitate to explore this option with open-mindedness and a willingness to learn.  Connect with agencies like ours that specialize in egg donation, we can guide you through the process, address your concerns, and provide the support you need throughout your journey.

You are not alone. Communities, support groups, and mental health professionals specializing in infertility can offer invaluable support and understanding.

Remember: Building a family is guided by love. Whether through your own eggs or through the generosity of a donor, you are embarking on a beautiful journey toward fulfilling a profound desire.

Read more:

• I'm a Fertility Psychologist. Here's What I Want You to Know About Growing Your Family Through Egg Donation
• Does Using Donor Eggs Decrease the Chance of Miscarriage?
• Six Reasons Why Egg Sharing is a Better Egg Donation Model for Intended Parents

Experiencing infertility can be a rollercoaster of emotions. While you're struggling to conceive, it can be particularly difficult to share in the joy of others as they announce pregnancies or welcome new babies into the world. I’m a fertility psychologist and I have worked with countless individuals struggling with infertility. This article explores the complex emotions surrounding infertility and offers strategies for navigating this challenging terrain.

Allow Yourself to Grieve

Struggling with infertility can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience. It can make it difficult to find joy and happiness for others, especially those who are experiencing the very thing you desire most. It's natural to feel sadness, anger, or even envy when you're struggling with infertility and are watching others around you achieve their family building goals. Acknowledging these feelings rather than suppressing them can be the first step towards healing. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions without judgment. Understand that feeling these feelings does not make you a bad person; it makes you human. It’s a natural reaction to a difficult situation.

Cultivate Self-Compassion

During this time, be aware of how you speak to yourself. It is very easy for self-criticism to show its face during difficult times. When you catch yourself, think how would I speak to a friend going through a similar situation? Would I tell them to get over it? Or that they must have done something to deserve this? Probably not. So, talk to yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would a friend in a similar situation. 

Cultivating self-compassion is a helpful starting point to healing. So is engaging in self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit.  Things like journaling, art, music, exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature or with loved ones are just a few things that you can do. 

Embrace Gratitude 

This can be such a difficult time that it can seem impossible and maybe even annoying to focus on the positive aspects of life. But sometimes keeping a gratitude journal where you list things you're thankful for each day can help shift your focus away from what you believe you lack to what you actually  have. Acknowledge and celebrate small victories in your life, even if they seem unrelated to your fertility journey. Reflect on how your experiences have shaped you and consider the personal growth that has come from facing these challenges. Even if doing some of these things shifts your mind a tiny bit, each day those tiny movements add up. Like they say a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. 

Establish Healthy Boundaries

It's important to set boundaries as this is a form of self-care and a way to protect your emotional health. Recognize what situations, conversations or people cause you the most stress and start putting up the boundaries. If attending baby showers is too painful, it's okay to not attend. But there may be times that you feel obligated to attend so you can find ways to be happy for others that feel right for you. This might mean sending a card or a gift instead of attending in person or spending time together after the event. 

Seek Support and Community

Talking to others who understand what you're going through can be incredibly helpful. Consider joining a support group, where you can share your experiences and feelings with others who are facing similar challenges without fear of judgment. A professional therapist can also be beneficial in that they can provide you with tools and can offer a safe space to express your emotions  in a healthy way.

Navigating infertility is a deeply personal journey. By acknowledging your feelings, practicing self-compassion, seeking support, and setting boundaries, you can begin to find happiness for others while also caring for your own emotional well-being. Remember, it's okay to prioritize your own needs and to seek help when needed. It's okay to not feel happy for others immediately. With time you can find a way to balance your own struggles with genuine happiness for others.

Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR) is a condition that affects many women, often catching them off guard as they embark on their journey to parenthood. While receiving a DOR diagnosis can be challenging, understanding the condition is the first step in navigating your reproductive options. This article aims to demystify DOR, explore its prevalence, discuss the chances of conception, and outline the available options for those diagnosed with this condition.

What is diminished ovarian reserve (DOR?)

Diminished ovarian reserve refers to a reduction in the quantity of your remaining eggs. Every female is born with all the eggs she'll ever have, and this number naturally declines with age. However, some experience a faster decline than expected for their age, leading to a diagnosis of DOR.

DOR is not the same as infertility. While it can make conception more challenging, it doesn't necessarily mean pregnancy is impossible. Instead, think of DOR as a warning sign that your reproductive window may be shorter than anticipated. The sooner you get a DOR diagnosis. The sooner you can begin to explore your reproductive options, including treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing, and potentially increase your chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.

How common is diminished ovarian reserve?

The prevalence of DOR increases with age, but it can affect women of all ages. According to one study, approximately 10% of women seeking fertility treatment are diagnosed with DOR. However, this number may not accurately represent the general population, as many women with DOR may not seek fertility treatment or may remain undiagnosed.

Age is the most significant risk factor for DOR. As women approach their late 30s and early 40s, the likelihood of experiencing DOR increases significantly. However, DOR can also occur in younger women too, sometimes due to genetic factors, medical treatments like chemotherapy, or unknown causes.

Some lifestyle factors have also been known to contribute to a diminished ovarian reserve. Smoking is one of the most significant factors, as a history of heavy smoking can accelerate the loss of eggs and may lead to earlier menopause. 

Diagnosing diminished ovarian reserve

Diagnosis of DOR typically involves a combination of blood tests and ultrasound imaging. The most common blood tests measure levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). High FSH levels or low AMH levels can indicate DOR. Additionally, an ultrasound to count antral follicles (small follicles in the ovaries) can provide further insight into ovarian reserve.

It's worth noting that these tests provide a snapshot of your current ovarian reserve, not a prediction of your ability to conceive. A low ovarian reserve doesn't necessarily mean you can't get pregnant, just as a high reserve doesn't guarantee conception.

Chances of getting pregnant with diminished ovarian reserve

The probability of achieving pregnancy without assistance (meaning “the old fashioned way”) when diagnosed with DOR varies widely depending on individual factors, including age, the severity of the condition, and overall health. A study published in JAMA found that women aged 30-44 with low AMH (an indicator of DOR) did not have a significantly different probability of conceiving after six months of trying.

However, these statistics don't tell the whole story. Some women with DOR do conceive unassisted, while others may require IVF or donor egg IVF. Every woman's fertility journey is unique, and statistics can't predict individual outcomes.

Options for women diagnosed with DOR

If you are facing infertility due to DOR or other reasons, the good news is that there are options. Here are some paths you might consider:

1. Fertility treatments

For women with DOR who wish to conceive using their own eggs, fertility treatments can potentially improve the chances of pregnancy. These may include:

• Ovulation Induction: Medications to stimulate egg production
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A procedure where sperm is placed directly into the uterus
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A process where eggs are fertilized outside the body and then transferred to the uterus

It's worth noting that success rates for these treatments may be lower in women with DOR compared to those with normal ovarian reserve. A fertility doctor can give you a better idea of your chances of success based on your unique health history. 

2. Egg donation

For some women with DOR, using donor eggs may offer the best chance of achieving pregnancy. This option allows for the experience of pregnancy and childbirth, even if the child isn't genetically related to the mother. Success rates with egg donation are generally higher than when using your own eggs

3. Adoption

Adoption is another path to parenthood for those diagnosed with DOR. While it doesn't involve a genetic connection or the experience of pregnancy, it offers the opportunity to provide a loving home to a child in need.

Conclusion

DOR is a challenging diagnosis, but it doesn't have to mean the end of your dreams of parenthood. By understanding your condition, exploring your options, and working closely with healthcare providers, you can make informed decisions about your fertility journey.

Remember, DOR is a medical condition, not a personal failing. It's okay to feel frustrated, sad, or anxious about this diagnosis. Many women find it helpful to seek emotional support, whether through counseling, support groups, or open conversations with loved ones.

Ultimately, the path you choose will depend on your personal circumstances, values, and goals. Whether you decide to pursue fertility treatments, consider egg donation, explore adoption, or take a different route entirely, know that there are multiple ways to build a family and experience the joys of parenthood.

Your fertility journey may not look exactly as you imagined, but with perseverance, support, and the right medical guidance, you can navigate the challenges of DOR and move forward with hope and determination.

Find an amazing egg donor at Cofertility

At Cofertility, our program is unique. After meeting with hundreds of intended parents, egg donors, and donor-conceived people, we decided on an egg donation model that we think best serves everyone involved: egg sharing.

Here’s how it works: our unique model empowers women to take control of their own reproductive health while giving you the gift of a lifetime. Our donors aren’t doing it for cash – they keep half the eggs retrieved for their own future use, and donate half to your family.

We aim to be the best egg-sharing program, providing an experience that honors, respects, and uplifts everyone involved. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Human-centered. We didn’t like the status quo in egg donation. So we’re doing things differently, starting with our human-centered matching platform.
• Donor empowerment. Our model empowers donors to preserve their own fertility, while lifting you up on your own journey. It’s a win-win.
• Diversity: We’re proud of the fact that the donors on our platform are as diverse as the intended parents seeking to match with them. We work with intended parents to understand their own cultural values — including regional nuances — in hopes of finding them the perfect match.
• Baby guarantee. We truly want to help you bring your baby home, and we will re-match you for free until that happens.
• Lifetime support: Historically, other egg donation options have treated egg donor matching as a one-and-done experience. Beyond matching, beyond a pregnancy, beyond a birth…we believe in supporting the donor-conceived family for life. Our resources and education provide intended parents with the guidance they need to raise happy, healthy kids and celebrate their origin stories.

We are obsessed with improving the family-building journey — today or in the future — and are in an endless pursuit to make these experiences more positive. Create a free account to get started today!

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is often seen as a beacon of hope for those struggling with infertility. However, the journey to parenthood through IVF isn't always straightforward, and for many, it can end in disappointment. If you're reading this because your IVF treatment didn't result in a successful pregnancy, know that you're not alone. At Cofertility, we understand the emotional toll this can take, and we're here to support you through this challenging time.

In this article, we'll explore the reality of IVF success rates, reasons why IVF might not work, and most importantly, what steps you can take moving forward. We'll discuss how to process your emotions, decide whether to continue treatment, and understand your options, including egg donation. We'll also walk you through what to expect after a failed IVF cycle and provide guidance on making the difficult decision to try again or explore other paths to parenthood. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive, compassionate information to help you navigate this challenging phase of your fertility journey.

The reality of IVF success rates

Before we dive into next steps, it's important to understand that IVF failure is more common than many people realize. According to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), the average live birth rate for IVF across all age groups is around 30% per egg retrieval. This means that for about 70% of cycles, IVF doesn't result in a live birth.

These statistics aren't meant to discourage you, but to help you understand that if IVF didn't work for you, you're in the company of many others who have faced similar challenges. It's a difficult reality, but it's also an opportunity to reassess, regroup, and consider your options moving forward.

Reasons IVF doesn't work

Understanding why IVF might not have been successful can be crucial in deciding your next steps. While every situation is unique, here are some common reasons why IVF cycles may not result in pregnancy:

• Age factor: As women age, both the quantity and quality of eggs decrease, making the number of viable embryos per cycle fewer.
• Embryo quality: Sometimes, even if fertilization occurs, the resulting embryos may not be of high enough quality to implant successfully.
• Implantation issues: In some cases, the uterine environment may not be receptive to embryo implantation.
• Genetic factors: Chromosomal abnormalities in embryos can prevent successful implantation or lead to early miscarriage.
• Underlying health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as endometriosis or autoimmune disorders, can affect IVF success rates.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and being significantly overweight or underweight can all impact IVF success.
• Unexplained factors: Often, despite everything appearing to be optimal, IVF still doesn't result in pregnancy for reasons that aren't fully understood.

What to do when IVF doesn't work?

1. First, process and give yourself time to grieve

The emotional impact of a failed IVF cycle shouldn't be underestimated. It's completely normal and valid to feel a range of emotions - disappointment, anger, sadness, or even a sense of loss. It is so important to acknowledge these feelings and give yourself time to process them.

Consider the following steps:

• Allow yourself to feel: Don't try to suppress your emotions. It's okay to cry, to be angry, or to feel whatever you're feeling.
• Seek support: Talk to your partner, friends, or family. Consider joining support groups or speaking with a therapist who specializes in fertility issues.
• Practice self-care: Engage in activities that bring you comfort and joy. This might be anything from reading a book to taking a relaxing bath or going for a walk in nature.
• Take time off if needed: If possible, take some time off work or reduce your commitments to focus on your emotional wellbeing.

Remember, there's no set timeline for grieving. Be patient with yourself and take the time you need.

2. Then decide if you want to keep trying with IVF

After you've had time to process your emotions, the next step is to consider whether you want to continue pursuing fertility treatments. This is a personal decision that depends on various factors, including:

• Your emotional readiness
• Your financial situation
• Your age and overall health
• Your doctor's recommendations
• Your personal values and beliefs

It's important to have open and honest conversations with your partner (if applicable) about your feelings and expectations moving forward. Remember, it's okay if you're not on the same page immediately - these discussions often take time.

3. Know your options, including egg donation

If you decide to continue your fertility journey, it's important to understand all your options. These may include:

• Trying another round of IVF
• Exploring egg donation
• Looking into embryo adoption
• Considering traditional adoption
• Choosing to live child-free

At Cofertility, we specialize in egg donation and believe it can be a wonderful option for many individuals and couples. Egg donation can significantly increase the chances of a successful pregnancy, especially for those who have had multiple failed IVF cycles or who are of advanced maternal age.

Our unique Split program allows intended parents to receive half of the eggs retrieved from a donor, while the donor keeps the other half for her own family-building journey. This approach not only makes egg donation more accessible but also creates a special connection between donors and recipients.

What is the process after a failed IVF?

If you decide to pursue further treatment after a failed IVF cycle, the process typically involves the following steps:

1. Follow-up consultation: Your fertility doctor will review your cycle in detail, discussing what went well and what could be improved.
2. Additional testing: Your doctor may recommend further tests to identify any issues that might have contributed to the unsuccessful cycle.
3. Treatment plan adjustment: Based on the review and any new test results, your doctor may suggest modifications to your treatment plan. This could involve changes in medication, different timing, or alternative options like egg donation.
4. Mental health support: Some clinics offer counseling services or can refer you to mental health professionals specializing in fertility issues.
5. Physical preparation: If you decide to try again, you may choose to wait for a certain period to allow your body (and mind) to recover. Use this time to focus on your overall health and wellness.

Looking ahead with hope

Regardless of the path you choose, know that there is hope. At Cofertility, we've seen many individuals and couples find their way to parenthood through various means, including egg donation. We've also supported those who have chosen to embrace a child-free life and find fulfillment in other ways.

If you're considering egg donation as your next step, we're here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Our team understands the challenges you've faced and is committed to providing you with the support and information you need to make the best decision for your family.

Remember, your worth is not defined by your fertility journey. You are strong, resilient, and deserving of support and love, regardless of the outcome of your IVF treatment. Whatever you decide, we at Cofertility are here to support you every step of the way.