IN VITRO FERTILIZATION: WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME?

6 November 20252′ read5 sections

CONTENTS

Medical factors
Biological factors
Psychological readiness
The role of personalisation
Conclusion

A couple's decision to go ahead with in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an important step on the road to parenthood. There is no absolute rule that determines when the right moment is, as every case is different. However, there are specific medical, biological and psychological factors that help in making a well-informed decision.

Medical factors

IVF is recommended when natural attempts to conceive have not been successful for more than twelve months (or six months if the woman is over 35).
In addition, IVF is an option in cases of:

Blocked fallopian tubes
Endometriosis
Low ovarian reserve
Male-factor infertility, such as reduced sperm motility or count
Repeatedly unsuccessful insemination treatments or other assisted reproduction methods

Biological factors

Age remains a decisive factor for fertility. From the age of 35 onwards, egg quality and quantity decline, which affects the chances of a successful pregnancy. Early investigation through tests such as AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) measurement gives a clear picture of ovarian reserve and helps plan treatment more effectively.

Psychological readiness

The decision to have IVF is not only a medical one but also an emotional one. The process requires mental resilience, patience and support from those around you. Communication with your doctor, proper information and guidance at every stage reduce stress and build confidence.

The role of personalisation

The success of each cycle depends on personalising the treatment. Assessing the medical history, hormonal markers and ultrasound findings allows the doctor to tailor the process to each woman's needs. Modern medicine now offers a wealth of tools, from preimplantation genetic diagnosis to innovative embryo culture methods, significantly increasing success rates.

Conclusion

The "right moment" for IVF is the one where scientific assessment, psychological readiness and the desire for parenthood come together. With the right medical guidance and ongoing support, every couple can move safely and hopefully towards the goal of parenthood.

At Dr. Alexandros Traianos's Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Fetal Medicine, every fertility story is approached with scientific precision, empathy and respect for each couple's needs.

TAGSreproductive medicine centrereproductive healthfertilityin vitro fertilizationmedical advicepregnancy planningassisted reproductioninfertility

ABOUT THE DOCTOR

Dr. Alexandros Traianos

Gynecologist · Specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Fetal Medicine

He supports scientific excellence in clinical practice and recognizes the possibilities offered by modern reproductive methods to couples who wish to have a child of their own.

His profile

The content of this article is for information only and does not replace a medical examination and advice.

All articles

Frequently Asked Questions most frequently.

Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve conception after one year (or 6 months in the case of a woman over the age of 35) of normal, regular sexual intercourse. In other words, when a year has passed without the woman becoming pregnant, the couple should consult their treating physician, so that the cause preventing pregnancy can be identified and subsequently addressed. However, we should all be aware and not forget that age is the most critical factor for female fertility, and that an individualized approach to each couple is the "golden key" that solves the problem.

Of course not. In approximately one third of cases, infertility is due to the woman (female factor), while in another third of cases it is due to the man (male factor). In the remaining third, it is due to both partners (both the man and the woman) or even to unknown factors.

• alcohol • narcotic substances • environmental toxins, including pesticides and lead • smoking • health problems • medications • radiotherapy and chemotherapy • age

In general, specialists agree that the fact that a couple has already had a child may be considered evidence that, at least initially, there is no infertility problem. It is like a small test that has been carried out and shows that they “succeeded” at least once. On the other hand, however, we should be aware that circumstances may have changed in the meantime and that a problem may have developed (e.g., the man may have had an inflammation affecting the quality of his sperm, or something may have occurred that affects female fertility: an inflammation, gynecological surgery, an abortion, etc.). In any case, therefore, if a reasonable period of time (one year) passes and a couple is unable to achieve a pregnancy, then, with the help of their doctor, they should investigate whether a problem causing infertility has arisen.

Success rates vary at each IVF center. Very important factors also include the woman’s age, her hormone levels, and, of course, her husband’s sperm. In general, rates are around 45% or slightly higher for women up to 35 years of age.

The number of treatment cycles a woman may undergo is not fixed. It is certain that in our country there are highly qualified obstetrician-gynecologists and well-organized infertility treatment centers that provide excellent medical services in this field. Provided that the appropriate indications are present (e.g., ovaries that respond to stimulation treatment, a good-quality endometrium, etc.), the success rate—particularly with the use of newer techniques and biotechnological medicines, which demonstrate increased bioactivity compared with conventional urine-derived medicines—reaches a cumulative rate of approximately 65%–70% after 4 treatment cycles.

Egg retrieval takes 10–15 minutes, is not painful, is performed under sedation, and after the procedure is completed you can return to your activities.

The association between IVF medications and the risk of developing cancer is the greatest concern for women participating in these programs. However, numerous literature references gathered from reliable scientific studies and published in reputable medical journals worldwide are reassuring and do not confirm this concern.

At Dr. Traianos' Reproductive Medicine Center, we offer egg and sperm cryopreservation services for individuals who have a personal or medical reason and require this service. We use the most advanced vitrification technique for the freezing of sperm and eggs.

Medical factors

Biological factors

Psychological readiness

The role of personalisation

Conclusion

The first step is a discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions most frequently.

When is a couple considered infertile?

Is infertility only a female problem?

What increases the risk of male infertility?

I already have one child, but I am now having difficulty becoming pregnant again. Could a problem have arisen with me or with my partner?

What is the success rate of in vitro fertilization?

How many times can a woman undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Is egg retrieval painful?

Can IVF medications cause cancer?

Can I freeze my eggs or my sperm?