Yes, IVF treatment can sometimes fail even when good-quality embryos are transferred. While embryo quality is a crucial factor, successful pregnancy depends on several other medical and biological conditions.
According to Dr Bhavana Mittal, one of the best IVF doctors in Delhi, IVF failure does not mean the end of the fertility journey. Careful evaluation, personalized treatment planning, lifestyle optimization, and advanced techniques such as genetic testing or modified embryo transfer protocols can significantly improve future success.
Below are the key reasons explained in simple points:
Uterine Receptivity Issues - Even a healthy embryo needs a receptive uterus to implant. Problems with the uterine lining, such as thin endometrium, inflammation, or poor blood flow, can prevent implantation.
Implantation Failure - Implantation is a complex biological process. Sometimes embryos fail to attach to the uterine wall despite appearing perfect under the microscope.
Hidden Genetic Abnormalities - An embryo may look good morphologically, but still have chromosomal or genetic abnormalities that prevent implantation or lead to early failure.
Hormonal Imbalance - Proper levels of hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen, are essential. Hormonal fluctuations can affect embryo implantation and early pregnancy support.
Immune Factors - In some cases, the body’s immune system may mistakenly treat the embryo as a foreign object and prevent implantation.
Endometrial Timing Issues - The uterus has a particular “implantation window.” If the embryo transfer does not perfectly match this window, implantation may not occur.
Underlying Medical Conditions - Conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, PCOS, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids can negatively impact IVF outcomes.
Lifestyle and Stress Factors - High stress levels, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, or poor nutrition can reduce implantation chances even with good embryos.
Previous Uterine Procedures or Scarring - Past surgeries, infections, or repeated procedures may affect uterine health and implantation potential.
Individual Biological Response - Every woman’s body responds differently. IVF success is not entirely predictable, even under ideal conditions.