How Many Follicles Is Good for IVF? [Realistic Expectations]

One of the most common questions we hear from people going through IVF is: How many follicles is “good”? Is my number normal? What if I have fewer than expected?

If you’re in the middle of a stimulation cycle—or anxiously waiting for your next scan—these numbers can feel like everything. At fertie, we’re here to help you understand what they mean, how they affect your IVF journey, and why quality matters just as much as quantity.

Let’s break it down, gently and clearly.

What Are Follicles in IVF?

Follicles are small sacs in your ovaries that can each contain an immature egg. During IVF, your goal is to grow multiple follicles so your doctor can retrieve as many mature eggs as possible during egg collection.

Not every follicle contains a viable egg—and not every egg will fertilize or develop into a healthy embryo. So having more follicles usually increases your chances of success—but it’s not the only thing that matters.

How Many Follicles Is Considered “Good” for IVF?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s a general guide:

• 10–20 follicles: Often considered a great response

• 5–9 follicles: Still promising—many people get pregnant with this number

• 1–4 follicles: Lower response, but success is still possible (especially with good egg quality)

Your doctor will likely monitor both:

• The number of growing follicles

• Their size (usually aiming for 16–22mm before retrieval)

What’s considered “good” also depends on your age, diagnosis, and IVF goals.

What If You Have Fewer Follicles?

This can be tough to hear—but it doesn’t mean IVF won’t work. Some key things to keep in mind:

• Quality matters more than quantity. One healthy egg can become one healthy baby.

• Some people with low follicle counts do multiple cycles and bank embryos over time.

• If you consistently produce low follicle numbers, your doctor may recommend alternative protocols—or even consider egg donation as an option.

And remember: follicle counts can fluctuate cycle to cycle. A lower-than-expected number doesn’t mean you’ve failed.

How Age and AMH Levels Play a Role

• Age impacts both the number and quality of eggs

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) gives a general idea of ovarian reserve

• People under 35 typically produce more follicles per cycle, but this isn’t always the case

Your response to stimulation is as individual as your fingerprint—and your protocol may be adjusted cycle to cycle based on how your body responds.

Final Thoughts

A “good” follicle count isn’t a fixed number—it’s one that gives you options, based on your unique age, egg quality, and goals. While more follicles can boost your odds, what really matters is how your care team personalises your plan—and how you feel supported along the way.

Whether you’re prepping for your first cycle or regrouping after a tough one, understanding the numbers can give you clarity. And you deserve that clarity.

👉 Inside our Fertility 101 course, we walk you through follicle growth, egg quality, and IVF success factors—so you feel informed and empowered every step of the way.

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Disclaimer: Prices and treatment protocols vary by clinic and individual. Always consult with your fertility specialist for accurate, up-to-date pricing and guidance tailored to your situation.