Hien and her husband experienced unexplained infertility. In 2016, they underwent three consecutive in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles in Japan, resulting in eight unsuccessful embryo transfers. Seven years later, they tried another IVF cycle with two more transfers, but still couldn't conceive.

The couple decided to seek treatment in Vietnam at the Assisted Reproduction Center of Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City (IVF Tam Anh TP HCM). Doctor Le Xuan Nguyen assessed Hien's condition and found that her ovarian reserve was diminished, but not completely depleted.

Hien underwent ovarian stimulation, retrieving eight mature eggs, which resulted in four day-5 embryos. Artificial intelligence (AI) software monitored the embryos' development, grading one embryo as a grade two and three as grade three. All embryos were frozen for transfer at the optimal time.

"For couples with long-term infertility and multiple failed transfers, determining embryo quality before uterine transfer is crucial," Dr. Nguyen said.

Dr. Le Xuan Nguyen consults with a patient. Illustrative photo: Thanh Luan

In June, Hien returned to IVF Tam Anh for the embryo transfer. Dr. Nguyen performed an endometrial biopsy, which revealed inflammation, and prescribed medication. Hien's uterus also showed widespread endometriosis with multiple fibroids, which fortunately weren't located in positions that would hinder embryo implantation. After treating these conditions, Dr. Nguyen transferred a good quality day-5 embryo, resulting in a successful pregnancy for Hien, 43, and her 64-year-old husband. The pregnancy is currently at 7 weeks and progressing well.

The couple returned to Japan, sending ultrasound results to Dr. Nguyen for coordinated monitoring of the pregnancy. They have three remaining frozen embryos for future attempts to expand their family.

According to Dr. Nguyen, about 60% of patients treated at IVF Tam Anh TP HCM are older couples with long-term infertility, low ovarian reserve, and previous failed embryo transfers. These patients face complex medical issues and significant psychological pressure. For patients returning abroad, doctors prescribe longer-term medication and collaborate with international physicians for monitoring and treatment to enhance effectiveness. In 2024, the overall pregnancy rate after embryo transfer for women over 40 at IVF Tam Anh TP HCM was over 48%.

Hoai Thuong

*The patient's name has been changed