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Ioannis K. Raptis is an accredited physician (MIC II certification) for performing advanced laparoscopic and hysteroscopic procedures by the German Society for Gynecological Endoscopy (AGE). The majority of patients are offered the option of laparoscopic and robotic procedures without hospitalization.
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The mini in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an alternative form of assisted reproduction, considered more mild and more targeted compared to conventional in vitro fertilization. It emphasizes egg quality rather than quantity, through reduced administration of hormonal therapy or the use of milder medications, which do not cause intense ovarian stimulation.
Thus, with minimal medication use, the development of high-quality embryos is achieved, increasing the likelihood of fertilization.
Under specific conditions, mini in vitro fertilization (IVF) offers significant advantages compared to the conventional procedure. The main advantages include:
The mini IVF procedure includes all the main stages of a conventional in vitro fertilization process, but with a lower amount of medication. These are:
Treatment usually begins on the second or third day of the cycle and includes a low dose injectable medication or simply an oral tablet, or a combination of both. The development of the follicles is then closely monitored with ultrasound scans and blood tests in order to accurately determine the timing of egg retrieval.
When the follicles reach the desired size, egg retrieval is performed. This is carried out using a fine needle through the vagina under light anesthesia.
The eggs retrieved from the patient are fertilized in the laboratory with sperm from the partner or a donor. The resulting embryos then develop for 5–6 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.
Depending on the medication protocol used, embryo transfer may be performed in the days immediately following egg retrieval or at a later time after embryo cryopreservation. In this context, the procedure may be carried out with or without hormonal preparation of the endometrium.
Mini in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a strategic option for women with specific characteristics. More specifically, it is often indicated for:
The success rates of the procedure depend on various factors, mainly the woman’s age and the indication. When the procedure is performed in younger women due to low ovarian reserve, the chance of success reaches 65–70%. However, when it is performed in women over 40 due to ovarian depletion, the chance of success decreases to 20% or even lower.
Despite its significant advantages, mini in vitro fertilization is not the best option for all cases. When the patient is not of advanced age (under 38 years old) and ovarian reserves are good, conventional in vitro fertilization achieves higher fertilization rates. Additionally, the mini IVF method is not applied in cases of egg freezing, where the goal is to secure the maximum possible number of eggs.
In conclusion, mini in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an alternative, mild form of assisted reproduction. With the appropriate guidance from a specialized physician, this procedure can be an effective option for couples who have not responded to conventional treatments, for women with reduced ovarian reserve, and for those who prefer a more conservative therapeutic approach.
Dr. Ioannis Raptis, Obstetrician – Gynecologic Surgeon, a graduate of the Frankfurter Hormonschule and a “Certified Practitioner” of the International School of Gynecological and Reproductive Endocrinology (ISGE), has extensive experience in assisted reproduction.
For specialized guidance and support in all matters related to assisted reproduction, the doctor and his team are at your disposal. Contact us.
