The many names of Minimal Stimulation IVF and if its worth it.

Is mild stimulation IVF really worth the hype? For some, this low-cost alternative to a conventional IVF cycle seems too good to be true. But, contrary to popular belief, even with fewer eggs and embryos, clinics like New Hope garner good results from Mini IVF cycles.

What is Minimal Stimulation IVF?

Mini IVF – also called Light IVF, Eco IVF, or Gentle IVF – is carried out within a woman’s natural menstrual cycle. Conventional IVF focuses on collecting a large number of eggs whereas Mini IVF focuses on collecting fewer, better quality eggs.

By using gentler stimulation methods and working with the body’s natural cycle, rather than against it, we aim to collect eggs of significantly higher quality. The treatment time for Mini IVF is around two weeks and uses lower medication doses, reducing the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) from overstimulation. Even with fewer eggs, which to some might translate to worse results, Mini IVF has equivalent success rates to conventional IVF and New Hope’s team has seen great success with this protocol.

Benefits of Mini IVF:

• High egg quality
• Better Implantation
• Shorter Treatment Periods
• Less invasive
• Easier on the body

So what’s the aim of trying a minimal stimulation IVF cycle over conventional IVF?

Mini IVF is a great alternative for those looking to improve the overall quality of their egg follicles. If you’re in your late thirties and forties and have a low AMH level, indicating a low ovarian reserve, a mini IVF cycle may help produce more viable eggs for fertilization and implantation. Pumping your ovaries with hundreds of units of Menopur, Follistim, and Ganirelix might do more harm than good at that point in your fertility journey.

Its less aggressive protocol is gaining popularity compared to the standard IVF cycle. It’s kinder on the body, it’s cheaper, and it’s a more comfortable solution for those struggling with other IVF treatments.