Just finished the egg retrieval and now the doctor wants me to go for a second round? It’s overwhelming to think about it, especially since we got 11 mature eggs already. Has anyone else had a similar experience or any advice to share? Feeling a bit lost here.
In order to have two children, it is recommended to have at least 6 euploid embryos. However, achieving 6 euploids from 11 eggs is highly unlikely. It may be beneficial to consider another egg retrieval procedure based on your doctor’s advice.
Could age be playing a role in this situation? It’s worth noting that freezing eggs without sperm can have a higher rate of attrition when thawing to fertilize. For example, you might start with 11 eggs, end up with 6 after thawing, 3 fertilized, etc. My first round resulted in 10 eggs fertilized and 2 euploids, leading us to a second cycle. Take your time to make a decision that feels right for you, without feeling rushed.
The clinic informed me that around 50% of eggs may be lost at each stage of the process. Therefore, from 11 eggs, we can expect to have 5-6 fertilized and around 3 embryos. Ultimately, not all of these embryos may be euploid, and on average, 3 euploid embryos are needed for one living child. So, it is probable that another retrieval may be necessary to obtain 6 euploid embryos for two living children. Although there is a chance this process may not precisely follow this pattern, it is likely to be close. It would have been helpful if the rationale behind this was explained thoroughly instead of just scheduling the procedure, causing frustration for you.
Begin researching attrition rates for your age group, as much as we wish to be exceptions, we typically are not. I have experienced 5 egg retrievals, resulting in 4 euploid embryos and 1 mosaic embryo out of the first 4. Be ready for lower numbers, it will help to make it slightly easier.
It is not advisable to undergo another retrieval if you plan to freeze your eggs. I did three egg retrieval procedures and created embryos with both fresh and frozen eggs after my fourth retrieval. Despite having 30 frozen eggs, I only obtained two blasts and one Day 7 euploid with a 30% chance of success. On the other hand, my 14 fresh eggs resulted in 8 blasts and two highly graded euploids. Frozen eggs may not be as effective as waiting a few months to use fresh eggs to make embryos. It is recommended to avoid additional retrievals until you are able to create embryos. In response to your question about the number of euploid embryos needed per child, it is typically three per child. Success rates for ICSI can vary depending on age, with younger individuals having better chances of obtaining more blasts. With 11 eggs, you may expect around 8 to survive the thaw, 5 to fertilize, and the number of blasts produced will depend on age. If you are 35, you may get around 3 blasts. However, these numbers are more applicable to fresh eggs. In my experience, I obtained only two blasts from 30 frozen eggs.
This is my personal experience: At 29, I had 19 eggs retrieved and ended up with 4 embryos. I now have a 2.5 year old, one failed transfer, and am currently 31 weeks pregnant with one embryo still frozen. Based on statistics, I would recommend considering a second retrieval as more than 2 embryos may be needed, requiring more than 4 eggs.
My doctor recommended that I have a minimum of 3 euploids after genetic testing for two children, possibly due to my age and the testing.
If embryos are not created and only eggs are frozen, I would definitely consider undergoing another retrieval process. Early stage eggs do not freeze as well due to being single-celled, which may affect their survival during thawing. It is important to be prepared for this possibility.
In the case of creating embryos, it is important to consider the attrition rate. Approximately 80% of retrieved eggs will be mature, 70% will fertilize, and 60% will develop into blastocysts, with success rates varying by age. It is important to be aware of this attrition rate and plan accordingly if multiple children are desired. Time should not be wasted in this process.
I hope doctors would have a dialogue rather than rushing through. I was informed that the average number of eggs for a successful live birth is around 19-20. However, this may vary for you! At 33, this information made me decide to undergo another round of treatment to ensure I have enough eggs at an optimal age.
It really varies for each individual. Some may need multiple embryos, while others may have success with just one. Each IVF journey is unique, influenced by personal factors and diagnosis. It’s important to do what feels right for you, as there are no one-size-fits-all answers. Financial, physical, emotional, and ethical considerations all play a role in decision-making during this process.
Despite the logical reasoning, it’s surprising. After the ER visit, you are in the process of recovery and remaining optimistic. It’s overwhelming having to wait an additional three months. I just want to acknowledge that you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, even though the advice is well-intentioned 
.
“The Hunger Games are a reality. Good luck to you. Just keep in mind, time is your enemy.”
I am 36 years old with an AMH of 1.8, and my husband’s sperm is perfect. I have two sons from a previous marriage and conceived them naturally with no trouble. I didn’t think I would have any fertility issues, but after my first egg retrieval, only one blastocyst was produced. It was disappointing, but it was PGTA normal. Now, I am preparing for my second egg retrieval tomorrow. I was naive to think that one retrieval would be enough, and the attrition rate was a surprise to me.
I understand how you feel, as I also recently had my first egg retrieval on 4/9. It was overwhelming for me too when the nurse immediately asked about plans for another retrieval right after I woke up from anesthesia. It felt like they were brushing off the physical and emotional toll of the ER process. I know the importance of being prepared for potential additional retrievals, but it’s also okay to feel the need to take a moment to process everything. Sending positive thoughts your way.
I wish my doctor was more proactive. When I asked for a second opinion, he looked at me like I was from another planet.
It required 71 eggs, 49 mature ones, to achieve 14 blasts and 8 euploids - I consider myself fortunate. Your doctor’s advice is on point.