Mild and minimal stimulation IVF

Mild and minimal stimulation IVF describe approaches that use lower amounts of ovarian-stimulating medicine than conventional IVF protocols, aiming to retrieve a smaller number of eggs while reducing medicine burden, cost and the risk of OHSS. Minimal stimulation typically uses very limited medicine, sometimes alongside oral ovulation-inducing medicines, while mild stimulation sits between minimal and conventional approaches. These approaches may suit women who respond poorly to higher-dose stimulation, those at higher risk of OHSS, or those who prefer a gentler approach, though fewer eggs are generally retrieved per cycle, which can mean more cycles may be needed to obtain a similar number of embryos compared with conventional stimulation. The suitability of this approach is judged individually by the treating fertility specialist.

Also known as: mild IVF, minimal stimulation IVF, mini-IVF

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.