What is the probability of conception for couples entering an IVF program?

The outcome of 4225 couples undergoing 8207 in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles over a six year period has been analysed using life table analysis. Pregnancy was expressed as a 'clinical pregnancy - fetus visible on ultrasound' per stimulated cycle oocyte collection, with pregnancies obtained from frozen embryos being referred to the cycle where they were collected. We found that only 1 in 200 patients proceeded beyond six cycles and the cumulative per cent pregnant was 20.7% after the first cycle, with nearly half pregnant within three and over two-thirds being pregnant within six cycles. We find this is a useful way to present the chance of pregnancy to prospective couples.