When it comes to understanding in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment success rates, it can feel a little overwhelming - especially when you are faced with several percentages and fertility terminology. We strive to make choosing a fertility clinic as uncomplicated and seamless as possible. Below, you'll find a breakdown of what to consider when comparing fertility treatment success rates and what they mean.
It is important to understand what IVF success rates actually represent. They indicate the percentage of treatments at each clinic that have resulted in a pregnancy or a live birth, which are often compared to the national average.
When comparing success data, it is essential to know that the number of embryos transferred does not necessarily correlate with live births or pregnancies, as not all embryo transfers lead to a successful outcome.
Furthermore, the percentage does not accurately reflect an individual’s chances of becoming pregnant. Other factors can influence your chance of conception including age, underlying fertility issues and whether you opt for a fresh or frozen embryo transfer.
While clinic expertise and quality significantly affect IVF rates, various other factors also influence the outcome.
Age is a crucial factor in success rates and overall fertility. As women age, fertility naturally declines, and the quality and quantity of their eggs begin to decline, especially those aged over 35.
Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, can influence IVF success rates. Following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can contribute to the production of high-quality eggs and sperm. It is recommended that you includea variety of fruits and vegetables, vitamins and nutrients into your diet to support fertility health. Smoking and excessive alcohol intake can negatively impact egg and sperm development, so limiting these can help.
In IVF, higher-quality embryos are more likely to implant in the uterus, leading to a higher chance of a successful pregnancy. The quality of an embryo is assessed using an EmbryoScope™, an incubator with built-in cameras, which provides a score and time-lapse of the embryo's growth. Embryos are graded from A to F, with A being the best quality.
Frozen embryo transfers generally have a higher success rate compared to fresh embryo transfers, and this can be due to several factors, including hormonal levels. During a fresh transfer, individuals often experience elevated oestrogen levels due to ovarian stimulation medication, which can negatively affect implantation.
In contrast, frozen transfers allow the body to return to a more natural hormonal balance, potentially improving the chances of successful implantation. However, it is important to note that fresh cycles can also be effective for certain individuals, as success depends on a variety of factors, including age and personal circumstances.
When comparing IVF success rates, it is essential to understand what to look for. Make sure the success rates are verified and reported from a verifiable source such as the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).
It’s also important to be aware of how the data is presented and focus on the rates of live births per transfer, as not all transferred embryos result in a successful pregnancy.
Additionally, make sure you consider the age and treatment that is being analysed. However, remember that your decision shouldn’t be solely based on the clinic you choose. Factors such as infertility and age can also impact the outcome of your treatment. Don’t worry, this will be discussed in more detail during your consultation.
At TFP Fertility, our medical team works hard to enhance your chances of conception, and our success rates exceed the national average.
In 2023, the percentage of IVF treatments that resulted in a live birth was:
40% for women aged under 35 (national average 32%)
31% for women aged 35 to 37 (national average 26%)
28% for women aged 38 to 39 (national average 19%)
18% for women aged 40 to 42 (national average 13%)
16% for women aged 43 to 44 (national average 11%)
20% for women aged over 40 (national average 19%)
Our local TFP Fertility clinic pages provide success rates for our clinics, which gives you an idea of the percentage of IVF cycles that have resulted in a positive outcome.
Try customising your search or removing filters
Speak to our patient support team for advice about your options and to book your first consultation with a fertility expert.