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Mini IVF: 
In Vitro Fertilization with minimal stimulation

Assisted Reproduction Treatments

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What is Mini IVF?

Mini IVF, or in vitro fertilization with minimal stimulation, is an assisted reproductive technology that uses reduced doses of hormonal medication to stimulate the ovaries.

Unlike conventional IVF, the goal is not to obtain the largest possible number of eggs, but rather a smaller quantity, thus reducing potential side effects and costs.
This technique is indicated for women with low ovarian reserve or those who desire a treatment with less medication and a lower number of eggs than they could otherwise obtain.

What does Mini IVF involve?

The process is similar to that of conventional in vitro fertilization, but with differences in the stimulation:

  • Mild ovarian stimulation:
    with low doses of hormones or even in a natural cycle.
  • Follicular puncture:
    The eggs are extracted from the ovaries.
  • Laboratory fertilization:
    Mature eggs are fertilized with the sperm of the partner or donor.
  • Embryonic culture:
    development of the embryos for 5 or 6 days.
  • Embryo transfer:
    placement of an embryo in the uterus.

Advantages of Mini IVF

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  • Less medication and therefore lower costs.
  • Gentler and better tolerated treatment in patients with a high ovarian reserve.
  • Lower risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
  • There is a belief that gentler stimulation results in "fewer but better quality eggs." Current scientific evidence demonstrates this to be completely false. The follicle (the structure containing the egg) that manages to grow is not necessarily the one containing the highest quality egg, but rather the one with the most membrane receptors to capture more hormones, in cases where there is insufficient hormone to stimulate all follicles to grow. Currently, the dose of ovarian stimulation does not affect egg quality. To maximize the chances of IVF success, we always recommend having a high number of eggs. However, the recommendation is personalized in each individual case.

Disadvantages of Mini IVF

  • Fewer eggs are retrieved, resulting in fewer embryos available.
  • More cycles may be necessary to achieve the same success rate as with conventional IVF.
  • It is not always recommended, especially for young women with good ovarian reserve.

Who is Mini IVF for?

Mini IVF is recommended for:

  • Women with low ovarian reserve.
  • Patients who have not responded well to conventional IVF.
  • Patients seeking a treatment with less medication.
  • Patients who, for various reasons, do not wish to have frozen embryos.

Difference between Mini IVF and conventional IVF

Aspect Mini IVF Conventional IVF
Stimulation Mild, with little medication High, with higher doses
Number of eggs Few (2–6) More (8–15)
Cost Lower Higher
Indications Low ovarian reserve Younger women or those with good ovarian reserve
Risk of OHSS Very low Variable (avoided with specific strategies)

Mini IVF success rate

The chances of pregnancy depend primarily on the woman's age and ovarian reserve.

In general, the success rate is somewhat lower than with conventional IVF, although in some cases (such as low ovarian response) it can be a good option.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mini IVF

Does Mini IVF hurt?
How many eggs are retrieved in a Mini IVF?
Is Mini IVF cheaper than conventional IVF?
Is Mini IVF recommended for all women?
Can embryos be vitrified in Mini IVF?

Take the first step

At Institut Marquès, we offer Mini IVF as a personalized alternative for women with low ovarian reserve or who prefer a gentler treatment.
Our medical team will advise you on choosing the treatment best suited to your needs.
Request your first free consultation and discover if Mini IVF is the right option for you.

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