Minimal stimulation IVF, sometimes referred to as mini IVF or gentle IVF, uses lower doses of fertility medication than traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF) during the egg stimulation process and sometimes at egg retrieval. During a traditional IVF cycle, patients use gonadotropin hormone injections to produce a number of eggs within the ovaries.

But unlike a typical IVF cycle’s injections, mini IVF primarily uses an oral medication (Clomid) to induce ovulation prior to an egg retrieval. This greatly reduces the number and dose of hormone injections.

• Less expensive
• Less drug dosages
• Less likely to have leftover embryos to freeze
• Less likely to require anesthesia for egg retrieval
• Less possibility for a multiple pregnancy (twins or more).
• Fewer clinic visits, ultrasounds and bloodwork
• Less possibility for drug reactions, including OHSS

Mini-IVF is an option for many women considering the IVF treatment because it is safe and less expensive. But it is not advisable for all such women. Mini-IVF is especially beneficial for patients who meet the following criteria.

• • Women who have diminished ovarian reserve
  • Couples concerned about using strong stimulation drugs
  • Couples looking for a lower-cost option
  • Couples requiring timely treatment

While having fewer resulting embryos may be an advantage for some, it may be considered a disadvantage of mini IVF for patients with different family goals. Other disadvantages include:

• Since mini IVF results in fewer eggs and embryos, it is statistically less successful than standard IVF.
• multiple mini-IVF cycles may be required to achieve pregnancy, resulting in an additional cost to the patient for each attempt.