For individuals struggling with infertility, traditional treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be physically, emotionally, and financially demanding. However, advancements in reproductive technology are improving a less invasive and potentially more affordable alternative: in vitro maturation (IVM).
How IVM Differs from IVF
IVM presents a promising option by reducing the time, cost, and physical burden associated with fertility treatments. Unlike IVF, which relies on hormone injections to stimulate egg maturation inside the body, IVM involves retrieving immature eggs from the ovaries and maturing them in a laboratory setting. This eliminates the need for extensive hormone treatments, making the process gentler on the patient.
While IVF has remained the gold standard in fertility treatments due to its higher success rates, IVM is gaining traction as new scientific techniques improve its effectiveness. Since the first IVM birth in Korea in 1991, the method has traditionally resulted in fewer mature eggs and embryos than IVF, leading to lower success rates. However, recent advancements in reproductive medicine are closing this gap, making IVM a more viable option for certain patients.
The Advantages of IVM
IVM offers several benefits over conventional IVF, including:
- Fewer hormonal injections: Eliminating the need for high-dose gonadotropin stimulation reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a dangerous side effect of IVF.
- Shorter treatment duration: Without the extended hormone stimulation phase, the process is quicker and involves fewer medical visits.
- Lower costs: With fewer injections, lab tests, and monitoring appointments, IVM is expected to be significantly more affordable than IVF.
- Less physical and emotional strain: IVM’s gentler approach reduces the toll fertility treatments take on patients.
Who Can Benefit from IVM?
IVM may not replace IVF entirely, but it could be a safer and more effective option for specific groups, including:
- Patients at high risk for OHSS: Those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or naturally high follicle development—known as “hyper-responders”—are particularly susceptible to severe side effects from IVF stimulation. IVM provides a safer alternative.
- Egg donors undergoing multiple retrieval cycles: IVM could make egg donation less taxing on the donor’s body.
- Cancer patients preserving fertility: Individuals needing urgent cancer treatment often lack the time for a full IVF cycle. IVM’s shorter timeline offers a potential solution.
A More Humane Approach to Fertility Treatment
As demand for fertility treatments rises, experts emphasize the need for solutions that are not only effective but also patient-friendly. Dina Radenkovic, CEO of biotech company Gameto, highlights a growing recognition in the industry that fertility treatments must become more humane. With continued advancements, IVM could provide thousands of aspiring parents with a less stressful and more accessible path to parenthood.
Related topics:
In Vitro Maturation: A Less Invasive, More Affordable Alternative to IVF
Abu Dhabi’s IVF Success Rate Soars to 51% in 2024: A Hub for Fertility Innovation
