Antega South Africa · Learning Videos
Dr Antonio Rodrigues looks at repeated unsuccessful IVF from the clinic's side: what gets reviewed, and what can be changed for a further attempt.
After two or three cycles without a pregnancy, a good review works through the cycle step by step — response to stimulation and egg numbers, egg and sperm quality, fertilisation, how embryos developed in the laboratory, the lining and the transfer itself, and whether anything in general health, thyroid function or the uterine cavity needs attention. Sensible changes include a different protocol, ICSI where fertilisation failed, blastocyst culture, single embryo transfer, hysteroscopy where the cavity is in question, or genetic testing in specific situations. Antega adds a caution about the other half of this conversation. Interventions sometimes offered after repeated failure — immune testing, natural killer cell testing, intralipids, immunoglobulins, routine aspirin or blood thinners, endometrial receptivity testing, assisted hatching, endometrial scratching, microbiome testing, PRP and G-CSF — are not supported by good evidence of a higher live-birth rate for most patients, and some carry real risk. Where one is proposed, ask whether it is being offered because of a specific finding in your case, what the trial evidence shows, what it costs, and whether it would be better done within a research study. Nothing in this recording should be read as standard South African or international practice.
Recorded in 2023 and reflecting one clinician's approach, not a national protocol. Antega has added current evidence context on add-on treatments after repeated unsuccessful IVF; where a test or treatment in this area is offered to you, check it against our add-on guides first.
Use these guides for general background, and check the South Africa organisations named on this page for local detail.
Dr Mohamed Cassim goes through the points in an IVF cycle where things can fall short — egg and sperm quality, fertilisation, embryo development, the lining of the womb and implantation.
Clinical psychologist Mandy Rodrigues talks about the emotional weight of repeated unsuccessful IVF, and what helps people carry it.
Michelle Groenewald, who works in perinatal bereavement support through the Hope Box Initiative, talks about living with pregnancy and baby loss.
This video was produced by Fertility Show Africa Expert Talks (programme curated with IFAASA and SASREG) and is shared for education only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your own doctor or fertility clinic. Naming an organisation does not imply a partnership with Antega.
