Are you struggling to get pregnant and considering medical intervention? Traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF) and mini IVF are two possibilities that may be able to help.
Here at our California Center for Reproductive Health offices located in West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Encino, Valencia, and Alhambra, Drs. Eliran Mor and Tina Koopersmith along with our highly trained staff provide personalized care during every step of your fertility journey.
We treat patients with a variety of health issues that may be impacting their fertility and offer a wide range of treatment options including IVF and mini IVF. We also work with international patients.
Mini IVF vs IVF
Also known as minimal stimulation IVF, mini IVF is a state-of-the-art advanced reproductive technology that is similar to traditional IVF. In both cases, you are monitored during your cycle and the steps involved are the same including retrieving the egg, having it fertilized with sperm in the lab, and transferring the embryo(s) into the uterine cavity.
The main differences between IVF and mini IVF are the number of eggs and the method in which they are obtained. During traditional IVF your ovaries are stimulated with injectable hormones (gonadotropins) to encourage the growth of multiple eggs. In some cases, additional protocols and medications are used as well.
During mini IVF your ovaries are typically only minimally stimulated using oral ovulation medication such as Clomid. Gonadotrophins in low doses may or may not also be used depending on your situation. This typically leads to fewer eggs. However, with less drug exposure during stimulation and egg retrieval, you experience decreased health risks and discomfort.
Depending on the medication recommended for you in your treatment plan you may also be able to avoid or substantially reduce the use of daily drug injections with mini IVF. Due to less medication used and a simpler protocol, a cycle of mini IVF is less expensive than regular IVF. You also do not have to wait as long between cycles.
Factors to consider
Whether IVF or mini IVF is the best procedure for you depends on your medical factors including age, ovarian reserve, and more. Our doctors work closely with you to develop a customized plan for the best results to fit your needs.
If you’re frustrated by yet another month of unsuccessfully trying to get pregnant, call us at 818-907-1571 or click our “request appointment” button to make an appointment today.
