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What are the consequences of a low response in an IVF cycle?

By Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 01/16/2026

In this video, Silvia Azaña, an embryologist at inviTRA, explains what the consequences of a low response in an IVF cycle are:

The goal of controlled ovarian stimulation in an IVF treatment is to retrieve a sufficient number of eggs and achieve the transfer of at least one embryo. Therefore, the objective is for several ovarian follicles to develop, unlike what typically happens in a natural cycle where only one egg is released.

That is precisely why the low response of the ovaries has undesirable consequences, since a low number of eggs are obtained for fertilization. That way, the probability of pregnancy decreases, since there is an increased risk of having to cancel the planned embryo transfer procedure.

It is possible that the poor responder woman needs continuous accompanyment and emotional support, since the chances of cancing the cycle are higher, having to repeat the stimulation treatment a greater number of times.

Moreover, the quality of the eggs might deteriorate, particularly when the underlying cause is related to age. This compromises the ability to obtain viable blastocysts for the transfer, which would worsen the situation for these women.

 Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez
Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez
B.Sc., M.Sc.
Embryologist
Graduate in Health Biology from the University of Alcalá and specialized in Clinical Genetics from the same university. Master in Assisted Reproduction by the University of Valencia in collaboration with IVI clinics.
License: 3435-CV
Embryologist. Graduate in Health Biology from the University of Alcalá and specialized in Clinical Genetics from the same university. Master in Assisted Reproduction by the University of Valencia in collaboration with IVI clinics. License: 3435-CV.