Treatment Overview
Dual Stim IVF (Double Stimulation IVF) is an advanced fertility protocol designed to maximize the number of high-quality eggs retrieved within a single menstrual cycle. Unlike traditional IVF, which involves one stimulation phase per cycle, Dual Stim IVF includes two consecutive ovarian stimulations — one during the follicular phase and another during the luteal phase.
This approach allows fertility specialists to collect eggs twice in the same month, significantly enhancing efficiency, especially for women with diminished ovarian reserve or time-sensitive fertility needs.
Korean fertility clinics have pioneered this protocol with AI-assisted cycle tracking, personalized hormone dosing, and state-of-the-art embryology labs. By combining cutting-edge reproductive technology and individualized care, Korea has become a global leader in dual stimulation IVF success rates, particularly among women seeking fertility preservation or rapid embryo accumulation for genetic testing.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of Dual Stim IVF is to increase egg yield within a limited time frame, giving patients more embryos for fertilization, freezing, or preimplantation genetic testing (PGT).
Core benefits include:
- Higher total egg and embryo count within one cycle.
- Reduced time needed to complete multiple IVF rounds.
- Particularly effective for patients with low ovarian reserve or poor response to stimulation.
- Improved chances of producing at least one viable blastocyst for transfer.
- Opportunity for rapid embryo banking before cancer treatment or aging-related decline.
- Increased flexibility in treatment scheduling.
Korean fertility programs emphasize precise hormonal monitoring and controlled ovarian stimulation using advanced analytics to optimize egg maturation while ensuring safety and comfort.
Ideal Candidates
Dual Stim IVF in Korea is ideal for:
- Women with low ovarian reserve or poor response to previous IVF cycles.
- Patients over 38–40 years old with limited time for egg retrievals.
- Individuals seeking fertility preservation before medical treatments like chemotherapy.
- Couples pursuing PGT-A or PGT-M testing, where multiple embryos are needed.
- Women with irregular cycles or those who need to maximize outcomes in fewer attempts.
This protocol is particularly valuable for patients who cannot wait several months between cycles due to biological or personal constraints.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although Dual Stim IVF is safe when performed under expert supervision, potential risks may include:
- Temporary bloating or discomfort from extended hormonal stimulation.
- Mild fatigue or mood changes due to continuous medication.
- Rare risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
- Possible emotional stress from condensed treatment timelines.
- Slightly higher medication costs compared to a single stimulation cycle.
Korean fertility centers mitigate these risks through careful dose adjustments, daily hormone tracking, and advanced cycle management technologies.
Surgical Techniques Used
Dual Stim IVF combines standard IVF techniques with extended cycle management and high-precision reproductive endocrinology. The key difference lies in the dual stimulation and retrieval phases.
Techniques include:
- Controlled Ovarian Stimulation (COS): Customized doses of gonadotropins administered twice — during the follicular and luteal phases.
- Ultrasound-Guided Egg Retrieval: Minimally invasive procedure performed under sedation after each stimulation phase.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Used to fertilize mature eggs for optimal fertilization rates.
- Blastocyst Culture: Embryos are cultured to day 5–6 to select the strongest for transfer or freezing.
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): Optional testing for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.
- Cryopreservation (Vitrification): Embryos or eggs from both retrievals are frozen for later transfer.
Korean IVF laboratories are internationally recognized for their precision embryology and advanced incubator systems that ensure stable culture conditions for embryo development.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery from Dual Stim IVF is generally smooth, with most patients resuming light activities the following day.
Typical aftercare involves:
- Resting for several hours post-egg retrieval.
- Avoiding vigorous activity for 1–2 days.
- Continuing prescribed medications for hormone balance and uterine support.
- Monitoring mild bloating or pelvic tenderness.
- Performing a follow-up visit before starting the second stimulation phase.
- Receiving emotional and nutritional support throughout the treatment cycle.
Korean fertility centers also integrate wellness programs such as acupuncture, nutritional therapy, and stress management to improve hormone balance and overall reproductive health.
Results & Longevity
Dual Stim IVF delivers outstanding results for patients needing rapid or enhanced egg collection. Because it utilizes both phases of a single cycle, the total number of mature eggs retrieved can nearly double compared to standard IVF.
Typical success outcomes:
- Average egg yield increase: 1.5–2× compared to single stimulation.
- Cumulative pregnancy rates: 55–70% (depending on age and embryo quality).
- Improved blastocyst formation rates in low-responder patients.
- Reduced total time to pregnancy by up to 50%.
Long-term results show that embryos derived from luteal-phase stimulation are equally healthy and viable as those from follicular-phase retrievals, ensuring high-quality outcomes.
Treatment Process in Korea
The Dual Stim IVF process in Korea is carefully structured for efficiency and precision. Korean fertility clinics are equipped with advanced ultrasound, hormone analytics, and laboratory automation systems that ensure flawless cycle synchronization.
Step-by-step treatment flow:
Initial Consultation & Hormone Assessment
A comprehensive fertility evaluation including hormone testing (AMH, FSH, E2), ultrasound scans, and medical history review to determine protocol suitability.
First (Follicular Phase) Stimulation
Controlled ovarian stimulation begins early in the cycle using individualized medication dosing. Follicles are monitored closely, and an hCG or GnRH agonist trigger induces final maturation.
First Egg Retrieval
Performed under sedation approximately 36 hours after the trigger injection. Mature eggs are retrieved, fertilized, and cultured in the lab.
Second (Luteal Phase) Stimulation
A new round of stimulation begins within 3–5 days after the first retrieval, even before the next menstrual period.
Second Egg Retrieval & Fertilization
The process repeats, and retrieved eggs are fertilized through IVF or ICSI.
Embryo Culture & Cryopreservation
All embryos from both retrievals are cultured, graded, and frozen for later transfer. Some may undergo PGT if desired.
Embryo Transfer
After uterine preparation in a subsequent cycle, the best embryo(s) are transferred into the uterus under ultrasound guidance.
Why Korea Leads in Dual Stim IVF
Korea is recognized as a top global destination for fertility innovation, offering the most advanced Dual Stim IVF programs supported by:
- AI-driven ovulation and stimulation control systems.
- Precision embryology laboratories using time-lapse imaging and xeno-free media.
- Highly experienced reproductive endocrinologists with international expertise.
- Streamlined care for local and international patients.
- Affordable yet world-class fertility treatment costs compared to Western countries.
Korean fertility centers integrate advanced science with holistic care, delivering both technical excellence and emotional support throughout the IVF journey.
Cost Range
The cost of Dual Stim IVF in Korea depends on medication dosage, the need for genetic testing, and cycle complexity.
- Standard Dual Stim IVF Cycle: USD 6,000 – 9,000
- Advanced Dual Stim IVF (with AI monitoring, ICSI, or PGT): USD 8,000 – 12,000
- Medication & Hormone Monitoring Add-ons: USD 1,500 – 2,500
- Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): USD 2,000 – 4,000
Many Korean fertility centers offer multi-cycle or combination packages, making the treatment accessible for both domestic and international patients.
Popular Clinics
Korea is home to several leading fertility institutions offering specialized Dual Stim IVF programs with global accreditation and high success rates.
CHA Fertility Center (Seoul & Bundang)
A world leader in IVF innovation, known for precision hormonal management, AI-driven embryo selection, and dual stimulation expertise.
Asan Medical Center – Department of Reproductive Medicine
Offers individualized protocols and hormone monitoring for patients with low ovarian reserve.
MizMedi Women’s Hospital (Seoul)
Provides comprehensive fertility care with advanced double stimulation and embryo banking systems.
Hamchoon Women’s Clinic
Specializes in mild and dual stimulation IVF with personalized medication plans.
G Clinic (Seoul)
Known for affordable, high-precision dual stimulation IVF and strong patient support programs.
