DuoStim IVF (Double Stimulation)
Collect eggs twice in one menstrual cycle
Duo stim allows us to collect a batch of eggs before and after ovulation, increasing the number of eggs you can bank in a single menstrual cycle.
Demeter Fertility’s Dr David Knight pioneered the technique over a decade ago to support patients who need to harvest eggs quickly.
Benefits of DuoStim
- Doubles the chances of collecting eggs in a single cycle
- Increases the chance of getting a high-quality egg
- Reduces the number of separate IVF cycles needed
Why DuoStim can be a strategy when time is the enemy
Many standard IVF approaches follow a monthly rhythm: stimulation, egg collection, then recovery and waiting for the next cycle.
DuoStim creates an additional opportunity to collect eggs by using both the follicular phase (start of cycle) and the luteal phase (after ovulation).
This means you have more opportunities to bank eggs quickly, potentially speeding up the IVF process.
Is DuoStim right for me?
DuoStim IVF (double stimulation IVF) is designed for highly motivated patients who need a faster way to bank eggs.
It may suit you if you:
Are 40+ and want to reduce the time spent waiting between cycles
Low ovarian reserve (low AMH / low AFC)
Have previously had a low egg yield (“poor response”)
Are preserving fertility before chemotherapy or other time-sensitive treatment
Are travelling interstate or internationally for IVF treatment and prefer a more time-efficient plan (where clinically appropriate)
It’s important to note that DuoStim is not a “better IVF” option for everyone. It is a time-focused approach that may be considered for certain patients where appropriate.
Timeline comparison
| Process | Time needed to collect 2 batches of eggs | Next steps | |
| Standard IVF | Stimulate → collect eggs → wait for the next cycle → repeat | 8-10 weeks across 2 menstrual cycles | Egg freezing or standard IVF |
| DuoStim | Stimulate → collect eggs → short recovery → stimulate again → collect eggs | 3-4 weeks across 1 menstrual cycle |
DuoStim is more intensive than a standard single stimulation cycle and requires careful timing, monitoring and decision-making.
Your timeline can vary based on:
- your cycle and how your ovaries respond
- medication protocol
- whether your plan includes embryo creation and freezing, and any genetic testing steps
It’s important for you and your specialist to discuss the pros and cons of DuoStim carefully so you can make an informed decision about your fertility treatment.
DuoStim success rates in Australia
Because fertility care is highly individual, success depends on age, ovarian reserve, sperm factors, embryo development, and transfer planning.
According to a 2024 meta-analysis, DuoStim does not lead to higher pregnancy or live birth rates compared to standard IVF. However, DuoStim can:
Increase the total number of oocytes, mature oocytes and embryos compared with a single stimulation, and
More quickly lead to a healthy embryo through prenatal genetic testing
DuoStim costs versus standard IVF
A DuoStim cycle typically costs slightly less than two full, separate IVF cycles, offering a financial saving for those requiring multiple stimulations. Because of how medication is covered under the PBS, the initial medication cost has the potential to cover what is required for both stimulations within the DuoStim process.
DuoStim can also potentially help you avoid other cumulative costs, including:
- more months of appointments and monitoring
- additional travel costs (particularly for interstate or international patients)
- more time off work across multiple cycles
- the emotional burden of a longer IVF process
A consult is the right place to map cost against your likely response and timeframe, so the plan is aligned with your priorities.
What should you do next?
You may feel the clock ticking if you need to harvest eggs quickly because you’re seeking IVF over 40 or IVF for low ovarian reserve. Similarly, if you’re about to start chemotherapy, you may be seeking a fast way to bank eggs.
We encourage you to book a consultation and ask whether DuoStim IVF (double stimulation IVF) is appropriate for your circumstances.
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Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.