Ovoria Blog

Egg Donor | Things You Should Know About Donating Your Eggs

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 16:54:42 GMT

Egg Donor | Things You Should Know About Donating Your Eggs

Egg donation is a vital process in fertility treatments, offering individuals and couples the chance to conceive when natural conception is not an option. If you are considering becoming an egg donor in the UK, it is essential to understand the process, requirements, and regulations that guide egg donation. This article provides an overview of everything you need to know, using reputable sources and up-to-date information.

Egg Donation and Role of the Egg Donor

Egg donors play a crucial role in fertility treatments, helping recipients who are unable to conceive with their own eggs. The process typically involves donating eggs to be fertilised with donor sperm or the recipient’s partner’s sperm through in vitro fertilisation (IVF). The resulting embryos are then transferred to the recipient’s womb.

Becoming an egg donor is a generous act that helps create families. Egg donors are not genetically responsible for children conceived through their donation. Instead, their contribution is seen as a gift with no legal parental rights or responsibilities.

Egg Donor Requirements

To become an egg donor in the UK, certain criteria must be met. These requirements ensure the health and safety of both the donor and the potential child born from the donation. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), the UK regulatory body for fertility treatment, outlines the following standards:

Age : Donors should be aged 18–35, though exceptions may apply for specific circumstances.
Health : Potential donors undergo medical screening to rule out genetic, hereditary, or infectious conditions.
Lifestyle : Donors must not engage in activities that pose risks to their health or the health of the eggs, such as smoking or substance abuse.
Commitment : Donors must be willing to attend all medical appointments and follow the egg donation process diligently.

At Ovoria, we employ additional requirements to ensure optimal donor eggs. In addition to those previously mentioned, we employ the following criteria:

A stricter age requirement : We only accept women between 18 and 32 years of age.
Exceptional mental health : Donors must, in addition to meeting physical requirements, have an excellent mental health.
Proven fertility : Donors must have a history of at least one successful pregnancy.

Egg Donors UK - Regulatory Framework, Number of Children Conceived, and More

Egg donation practices and regulations vary significantly around the world, reflecting cultural, ethical, and legal differences. In this section, we focus on egg donation in the UK, highlighting the regulatory framework that governs the process, the number of children conceived through egg donation, and other key considerations. Topics such as donor rights, compensation, and anonymity are also addressed, providing a comprehensive overview of how egg donation is managed in the UK.

Regulations

In the UK, egg donation is regulated by the HFEA to ensure ethical practices and safeguard the rights of donors, recipients, and donor-conceived children. Key regulations include:

Ten-Family Limit : Eggs from a single donor can be used to help create children for up to ten families.
Donor-Conceived Children’s Rights : At the age of 18, children conceived using donated eggs can request non-identifying information about their donor. They can also access identifying information, such as the donor’s name and last known address, if provided.
Compensation : Egg donors can receive up to £985 per cycle to cover expenses, but it is illegal to pay donors for their eggs in the UK.
Anonymity : Donors provide a goodwill message and non-identifying details for recipients and donor-conceived children but cannot remain completely anonymous.

Egg donation in the UK adheres to strict legal and ethical standards, ensuring donors are fully informed and consent to the process.

Donor Conceived Children in the UK

According to HFEA (2024), approximately 4,100 children were born with the help of donors in 2019. This means that one out of every 170 births are made possible through the generosity of donors. Out of these 4,100 children, 1,300 are conceived through egg donation, while 2,800 are born by the help of a sperm donor.

Other Considerations in the UK

Counselling Requirements

In the UK, counselling is mandatory for all egg donors to ensure they fully understand the emotional, physical, and legal implications of their decision. This process helps donors reflect on the potential impact of their donation, including future contact with donor-conceived children. Counselling also provides emotional support, preparing donors for any challenges they may encounter.

Limits on the Use of Donated Material

Eggs donated in the UK are strictly regulated to ensure ethical use. Donated eggs are primarily used to create embryos for the recipient’s fertility treatment, either immediately or through freezing for future use. The HFEA prohibits commercialisation or distribution of donated eggs beyond their intended purpose, safeguarding donor and recipient rights.

Donor Identification Information Storage

The HFEA maintains a comprehensive database that stores both identifying and non-identifying information about donors and recipients. This ensures donor-conceived children can access accurate records when they turn 18, including details about their donor’s name, date of birth, and last known address. This system fosters transparency and prioritises the rights of donor-conceived individuals.

Egg Donor Process - Each Step Potential Donors Must Go Through

The egg donation process involves several key stages to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved. Here is an outline of the steps:

Initial Screening : Potential donors contact a licensed UK fertility clinic or an egg bank in the UK. The donor team conducts initial interviews and reviews the donor’s medical history.
Counselling : Counselling is mandatory to ensure donors fully understand the process, legal implications, and potential emotional impact.
Medical Assessments : Screening includes blood tests, genetic testing, and a pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the donor’s ovarian reserve.
Preparation : The donation cycle begins with hormonal injections to stimulate the ovaries. This process ensures multiple eggs are collected during a single cycle.
Egg Collection : Eggs are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure under sedation. This step typically takes about 30 minutes, and donors can resume normal activities within a few days.
Post-Donation Care : Follow-up appointments ensure the donor’s health and recovery. Eggs collected are then fertilised to create embryos for the recipient’s fertility treatment.

Potential Risk Factors for Egg Donors

Although egg donation is generally very safe, women who are considering becoming a donor should be aware of potential risks.

Mild Reactions to Fertility Drugs : Side effects like headaches, nausea, bloating, or mood swings are relatively common but usually mild. These affect a small percentage of donors (ASRM, 2022) and are easily managed. Always inform the clinic if symptoms occur.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) : This rare condition occurs in less than 1% of cases and is typically mild when it does happen. Severe OHSS, which can include abdominal swelling, pain, nausea, and shortness of breath, is extremely rare, with a prevalence of 0.1–0.2% in well-monitored cycles (HFEA, n.d.; ASRM, 2022). Clinics monitor donors closely to reduce the risk.
Infection from Egg Retrieval : The risk of infection after egg retrieval is very low due to the use of sterile techniques. Fewer than 1 in 1,000 cases might experience an infection, which is treated with antibiotics (Practice Committee of the ASRM, 2022)
Bleeding or Injury During Egg Retrieval : Complications such as internal bleeding or injury to surrounding organs occur in fewer than 0.1% of cases . Clinics use ultrasound guidance to minimise risks during the procedure (ASRM, 2022; NHS, n.d.)
Emotional and Psychological Impact : Emotional challenges, such as concerns about the future of donor-conceived children or anxiety about the process, vary among individuals. Professional counselling is provided to help manage these emotions (HFEA, n.d.; Fertility Network UK, n.d.)
Anaesthesia Risks : Reactions to sedation or anaesthesia are rare, occurring in less than 1 in 10,000 cases . Most are mild and temporary, such as dizziness or nausea after the procedure (NHS, n.d.).
Long-Term Fertility Concerns : Current research indicates no evidence that egg donation negatively affects future fertility when performed by experienced professionals. Ovarian reserve is unaffected in the vast majority of cases (ASRM, 2022; Fertility Network UK, n.d.)
Risk of Multiple Donation Cycles : While rare, donors undergoing multiple cycles could face cumulative hormonal exposure, increasing the risk of mild side effects or complications slightly. However, guidelines recommend limiting cycles to ensure safety (ASRM, 2022; HFEA, n.d.)

Become an Egg Donor - Donate Your Eggs

Choosing to donate your eggs is a decision that can change lives. This selfless, altruistic act will enrich the life of individuals who are struggling to conceive naturally. Considering that recent years have shown a trend of increased infertility, the impact of the decision to become an egg donor is greater than ever. If you are considering to give the gift of life, we are happy to aid you in the journey of donating your eggs. Don't hesitate to reach out - we are here for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

References

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. (n.d.). Egg donation: What is egg donation? Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.hfea.gov.uk

British Fertility Society. (n.d.). Becoming an egg donor. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.britishfertilitysociety.org.uk

National Health Service (NHS). (n.d.). Egg donation. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.nhs.uk

Fertility Network UK. (n.d.). Egg donation FAQs. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://fertilitynetworkuk.org

American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Guidelines for gamete and embryo donation. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.asrm.org

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. (n.d.). Egg donation: Risks and safety. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.hfea.gov.uk

National Health Service. (n.d.). What happens during egg donation? Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://www.nhs.uk

Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Complications associated with ovarian stimulation. Fertility and Sterility, 118(3), e1-e14.

Fertility Network UK. (n.d.). FAQs about egg donation. Retrieved January 11, 2025, from https://fertilitynetworkuk.org

How to Check Your Breast for Lumps - Breast Self-Exam | Ovoria

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 19:26:18 GMT

Home I Blog I Breast Self-Exam: How to Check Your Breast for Lumps

Breast Self-Exam: How to Check Your Breast for Lumps

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed type of cancer globally, mainly affecting women, and it is crucial to learn how to check your breast for lumps for early detection and timely treatment. In this article, you will learn the importance of breast self-exam and breast awareness, as well as how to check your breast for lumps. It will also look at detecting early signs of cancer and the role of breast examination in detecting and preventing cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness: The Importance of Breast Self-Exams

Breast cancer is a disease characterised by the abnormal growth of breast cells leading to the formation of tumours. This condition can be life-threatening if untreated, as the lumps can spread from one breast to the other, or even to the rest of the body. Therefore, the critical factor for successful cancer treatment lies in early detection, and breast self-exams play an essential role in this regard.

By performing the tests, you will understand the normal appearance and feel of your breasts. Thus, you can quickly notice and report any slight change or abnormality to your doctor for a proper, timely diagnosis. As a result, the physician can detect the disease during the early stages when it is treatable. Changes in your breasts may result from various conditions and not necessarily cancer. However, many women have reported having cancer after discovering a lump during a breast self-exam.

‘Check Your Breasts’

As mentioned above, not all lumps or changes in your breasts are a sign of breast cancer. But, it is essential to remember that early detection enables you to seek medical assistance quickly, leading to early diagnosis. Therefore, being proactive about your breast health can help increase your chance of improved treatment outcomes. Ensure you examine your breasts regularly to be in constant knowledge of your breast health.

Staying Breast Aware: Signs, Symptoms, and Self-Exams Demystified

Breast cancer has increasingly become a great concern for many people. Thus, it is crucial to understand the early symptoms, how to perform the breast self-exam and general breast health. Find a detailed discussion of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and self-exam procedures below.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Some of the common breast cancer signs include:

Thickening or lumps: a swelling or lump in the breasts or underarms is one of the most noticeable indications of breast cancer. Remember, not all growths necessarily indicate the presence of cancer; some may be benign (non-cancerous).
Changes in breast size or shape : you should take any unusual alteration in the shape or size of your breasts seriously.
Nipple abnormalities : nipple inversion and variation in texture like scaliness, ulceration, redness, or strange discharge (that isn’t milk) can be worrisome signs.
Pain in the breast or nipple : although breast cancer rarely inflicts pain, you should report any unusual persistent nipple or breast discomfort to your doctor for evaluation.
Skin changes: look out for any difference in appearance of your breast skin or nipples.
Enlargement or swelling of the lymph nodes: the presence of swollen lymph nodes in your collarbone area or armpits could be an indication of spreading cancer cells.

The Right Self-Exam Procedures

Knowing how to carry out a self-exam is critical to staying breast-aware and taking care of your breast health. For successful self-exams, take into consideration the following:

Understand your breasts: familiarise yourself with your breasts’ regular look and feel. Thus, you should know your breasts’ texture, size, and shape, including how they feel around your menstrual cycle.
Please choose the appropriate time: it is best to check your breasts monthly at the same time, preferably a few days after the end of your menstrual period. During menstruation, your breasts are usually tender or swollen, and the results may be unreliable.

How to Perform a Proper Breast Self-Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide

Knowing the detailed procedure for performing a self-exam enables women to stay breast-aware, and will additionally help them detect early signs of breast cancer.

Visual Inspection

Start by taking off your shirt and bra, then stand upright in front of a mirror with your arms relaxing on your side. Check if your breasts are the usual shape, size, and colour. Note any difference in breast skin texture, size, shape, or noticeable swelling or nipple inversion to your doctor.

Raise Your Arms

Next, raise your hands above your head and press your palms together. Inspect your breasts again in the new posture and take note of any visible changes as above.

Examine Breasts While Lying Down

After doing a visual inspection, Proceed with a physical exam. Using a couch or bed, lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your left hand behind your head. Examine your left breast with your right hand.

Use the three middle finger pads to press and feel the whole breast and underarm, applying different pressure levels from light to medium and dense. Light pressure will let you feel the breast skin and tissue immediately underneath. You will feel the middle and deep breast tissue with medium and firm pressure.

To ensure you cover the entire breast, move your hand in a circular pattern, starting at the nipple and widening the circles as you progress. Alternatively, you can move in side-to-side or top-to-bottom motions.

Repeat on the Other Side

Then, reposition the pillow to your left shoulder, placing your right hand behind your head. Examine your right breast using your left hand, following the same steps as your left breast above. Consult your doctor if you find a lump during your inspection for further screening and guidance.

Check the Nipples

Squeeze your nipples gently and check for any strange discharge. As mentioned earlier, this could be a sign of cancer. Therefore, you should report any unusual breast secretion to your doctor for testing and diagnosis.

Examine While Standing or Sitting

Lastly, you can examine your breasts while seated or standing. You can also perform the exam in the shower if you find it easier with your skin wet.

Underarm Examination

Stand upright with your right hand relaxed on the hip. Use your left-hand palm to reach and feel your right armpit for lumps or swelling. Repeat the procedure on your left underarm.

Lump or No Lump: The Truth About Breast Self-Exams and Breast Cancer Risk

Breast self-exams are an essential tool for early detection and monitoring of breast cancer. However, several fears and misconceptions surround the self-exams. It is therefore essential to understand the significance of the exams even when you don’t detect any lumps.

Lumps Are the Only Symptom of Breast Cancer

One common misconception is that there is no need for self-exams if you feel no breast lumps. It is essential to understand that the purpose of breast self-exams is not only to detect tumours but also other changes in the breasts that may indicate potential issues. Moreover, not all breast cancers manifest as a lump. There are more signs and symptoms of breast cancer that are identifiable through these exams.

The Presence of Lumps Means You Have Cancer

Some individuals avoid examining their breasts, fearing they could find a tumour and that it could automatically mean they have cancer. Please remember that not all breast lumps are cancerous. Research shows that approximately 80% of breast lumps are benign. Therefore, breast inspection is a critical component of proactive breast healthcare. Besides, it is crucial to consult your doctor if you discover any abnormalities during the exam for a professional diagnosis.

Breast Self-Exams: Your First Line of Defense Against Breast Cancer

Breast examination is essential to early breast cancer detection and peace of mind. The significance of self examinations goes beyond cancer detection, and plays an important role in maintaining overall breast health.

Early detection helps save lives: regularly checking your breasts can help detect breast cancer in its initial stages, improving the chances of effective treatment.
Promotes awareness and empowerment : the examinations empower you to take charge of your breast health. Knowing what’s normal for your breasts enables you to identify any changes and take prompt action.
Self-exams complement medical screenings: although self-exams cannot replace medical screenings, they complement other cancer detection techniques. Screenings are a crucial component of routine check-ups and are recommendable. However, the exams allow for ongoing monitoring between your scheduled breast cancer screening appointments.
Emotional well-being: routine breast exams can offer emotional reassurance and peace of mind by reducing anxiety and increasing confidence in your breast health.

Detecting Early Signs: Recognizing Breast Changes and Lumps

Understanding breast cancer signs and symptoms is critical for early diagnosis and prompt medical intervention. Some common symptoms include:

Presence of mass or lumps in breast tissue : breast tumours are among the most common symptoms of breast cancer. However, having them doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer; they could be benign cysts.
Variations in breast shape or size: changes including shrinkage, disproportion, or swelling of breasts can also be a sign of breast cancer. Also, any unusual changes in the breast skin texture require further examination.
Nipple-linked changes: changes related to nipples can also be indicators of breast cancer. You should seek the doctor’s advice immediately if you notice nipple inversion (turning inward) or unusual discharge (besides breast milk).
Persistent, localised breast pain or tenderness: breast pain unrelated to menstruation can be another worrisome symptom of breast cancer. You should seek medical assistance and evaluation by your physician if you experience such pain.

Please remember that exhibiting any of these signs does not necessarily imply that you have breast cancer. However, you should immediately consult your primary care doctor if you notice these signs. Your doctor will conduct a proper medical examination and relevant breast cancer screening to help clarify your situation.

The Role of Breast Self-Exams in Early Detection and Prevention

Breast self-exam is a critical tool in combination with regular clinical exams and mammograms regarding early detection and prevention of cancer. Mammograms may be ineffective in women with dense breast tissue, and self-examining bridges the gap in aiding early detection in such cases.

Research shows that alongside routine clinical exams, breast self-exam can help reduce breast cancer mortality significantly. In the studies, self-exams helped detect more early-stage breast cancer than clinical exams only.

Moreover, by regularly examining your breasts, you become familiar with your breast health and stay vigilant. Thus, you are more likely to pursue medical assistance when you spot any breast changes leading to early diagnosis and improved chances of successful treatment.

Breast cancer is a global health concern affecting approximately one in every eight women. The symptoms include breast swellings, changes in the shape or size of the breast, dimpling, other skin abnormalities, or any variation in the nipples or unusual discharge. By performing regular breast inspections, you become familiar with your breasts’ usual feel and appearance. Thus, you can quickly notice any changes and seek further evaluation and screening to clear potential concerns. If diagnosed, you can access timely medical intervention, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Hopefully, this guide has helped you know how to check your breast for lumps and be breast-aware!

References

BREASTS, WHEN TO EXAMINE YOUR. "Breast self-examination". Retrieved from http://www.losolivos-obgyn.com/_backup/info/medinfo/general_health/breast_care/breast_self_exam.pdf

Sultania, M., Kataria, K., Srivastava, A., Misra, M. C., Parshad, R., Dhar, A., ... & Thulkar, S. (2017). Validation of different techniques in physical examination of breast. Indian Journal of Surgery, 79, 219-225. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12262-016-1470-5

O'Malley, M. S., & Fletcher, S. W. (1987). Screening for breast cancer with breast self-examination: A critical review. JAMA, 257(16), 2196-2203. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/365753

Frequently Asked Questions

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Symptoms

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 08:19:49 GMT

Home I Blog I Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Symptoms

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Symptoms

Data from WHO show that about 70% of women with PCOS are undiagnosed because they show no PCOS symptoms. Thus, it's unsurprising that many women seek to understand this condition. This article delves into the causes and most common symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Moreover, we will discuss some of the treatment options available.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance problem commonly affecting women of reproductive age. This condition causes swelling of the ovaries with several small external tumours. Also, it disrupts ovulation and can lead to infertility.

Common Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS vary from person to person. They may include:

Irregular, light, or missed periods
Weight gain
Cysts on ovaries or enlarged ovaries
Oily skin or acne
Excessive growth of body hair (hirsutism) in areas such as the stomach, chest, and back
Saggy skin in armpits or neck
Infertility
Hair thinning or baldness
Thick or dark skin patches under breasts, in the armpits, and behind the neck

Sometimes, the symptoms resemble those of other conditions, and it could be challenging to tell. A pelvic examination with a reproductive endocrinologist can help clarify your situation and determine suitable treatment.

Irregular Periods – Or No Periods at All

As mentioned above, PCOS affects ovulation due to hormonal imbalances. As a result, you may experience prolonged, irregular, fewer – less than nine periods a year – or sometimes missed menstruation as a primary symptom.

Hair – Excessive Growth or Thinning/Loss of Hair

Most women with PCOS often experience overproduction of androgen hormones, also known as male hormones. The imbalance may cause male pattern baldness (hair loss of the head) or unwanted body and excess facial hair growth.

Weight Gain

Many women with PCOS experience weight management problems; the hormonal imbalance can trigger abdominal weight gain.

Oily Skin or Acne

The hormonal changes can lead to clogging of hair follicles. Consequently, dead skin cells and sebum (skin's natural moisturising oil) may start plugging out of the pores, causing lesions or oily skin.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is another common PCOS symptom; hormone fluctuations may result in the body cells improperly responding to insulin. The resistance can cause increased insulin production and risk of type 2 diabetes.

Skin Darkening

Sometimes, you may experience darkened skin in areas like under the breasts, groyne, or neck.

Depression and Mood Swings

The hormonal fluctuations may increase the risk of depression or anxiety, irritability, or mood swings.

Difficulty Conceiving

Infrequent or missed ovulation associated with PCOS may cause challenges in getting pregnant naturally. But having PCOS should not let you give up on your dream of starting your family. A reproductive endocrinologist can help you conceive using assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment.

PCOS Causes

The exact cause of PCOS is yet to be known. However, there are several factors believed to be contributing to this condition. They include:

Insulin resistance : when your body can't respond efficiently to insulin, your insulin levels will rise and may interrupt hormonal balance, causing PCOS.
Genetics : studies suggest that genetics is a potential PCOS cause. Thus, your risk of PCOS increases when a close relative like a sister or mother has the condition.
Hormonal imbalances : an imbalance in the reproductive hormones, such as elevated androgen levels, plays a part in advancing PCOS.
Weight : PCOS is associated with being overweight. However, studies are still ongoing to establish the relationship.

PCOS Treatment

Although no cure for PCOS exists, there are various treatment options. The primary goals of PCOS treatment are:

To regulate hormone levels
Restore menstrual regularity
Improve fertility
Manage symptoms like excess hair growth and acne
Minimise the risk of long-term health problems like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases

Some of the available PCOS treatments include the following:

Insulin-sensitising drugs help improve insulin sensitivity, increasing your hormonal and metabolic balance. Thus, they can help regulate menstruation and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Medications : your doctor may prescribe birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles. They also recommend anti-androgen drugs to help limit acne and excessive hair growth.
Lifestyle changes : Healthy choices can help manage the symptoms and reduce complications. These comprise maintaining a healthy body weight, a balanced diet, managing stress, and exercising regularly.
Surgical intervention : in case of severe symptoms, a surgical procedure may be necessary to remove ovarian cysts.
Fertility treatments : the physician may prescribe specific fertility drugs to prompt ovulation and help you get pregnant. They may be oral pills or injectables. If you cannot conceive naturally, the doctor may recommend using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with egg donation .

Conclusion

To conclude, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal problem affecting about 8% to 13% of women of reproductive age globally. This condition disrupts ovulation, causes elevated androgen levels, and can significantly impact fertility.

Some common PCOS symptoms include irregular or missed periods, excessive hair growth or thinning, weight gain, acne or oily skin, and insulin resistance. Although PCOS has no cure, healthy lifestyle choices and early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and prevent the long-term effects of the disorder.

Suitable PCOS treatment may vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and underlying causes. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult your fertility healthcare provider. A reproductive endocrinologist can help design a suitable treatment program to improve your quality of life and fulfil your dream of having your baby.

References

Mukerjee, N. (2020). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Symptoms, Causes & Treatments-A Review. International Journal of Science and Research, 9(7), 1949-1957. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343554873_Polycystic_Ovary_Syndrome_PCOS_Symptoms_Causes_Treatments_-A_Review

Hart, R., Hickey, M., & Franks, S. (2004). Definitions, prevalence and symptoms of polycystic ovaries and polycystic ovary syndrome. Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 18(5), 671-683. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521693404000914

Lindholm, Å., Andersson, L., Eliasson, M., Bixo, M., & Sundström-Poromaa, I. (2008). Prevalence of symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 102(1), 39-43. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0020729208000659

Frequently Asked Questions

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - What Causes PCOS

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 07:31:11 GMT

Home I Blog I Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - What Causes PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - What Causes PCOS

According to research, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) contributes to about 40% of all female infertility cases globally, and every woman needs to learn what causes PCOS. In this article, we look at PCOS's potential causes and symptoms, as well as address how to treat PCOS and more.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder where the female body produces excessive androgen hormones. PCOS causes swollen ovaries covered with fluid-filled sacs or cysts.

Moreover, the hormonal imbalance interferes with the functioning of the ovaries, causing irregular or missed ovulation. As a result, you may experience delayed or absent menstruation, making it difficult to get pregnant.

What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?

There are various symptoms of PCOS, which may vary from one woman to another. The most common PCOS symptoms include:

Infrequent, light, or missed menstrual periods
Excess hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism)
Thick or dark skin patches below the breasts, behind the neck, and under the armpits
Abdominal area weight gain
Saggy skin in armpits or neck
Thinning hair or baldness
Enlarged ovaries with several cysts
Infertility
Oily skin or acne

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is not yet known. However, studies suggest that the disorder could arise from the ovaries, the hormone-producing glands, or the brain's function regulating hormone levels. Let's look at some of the potential PCOS causes in detail:

Level of Androgen

Research shows uncontrolled and excessive androgen hormone production inhibits follicle development, causing irregular or no ovulation. Besides, the imbalance leads to swollen ovaries with several cysts. As a result, you may experience missed or irregular periods and struggle to conceive.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance occurs when your body cells become insensitive to the insulin hormone. As a result, your blood sugar levels could rise, and you may have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and higher levels of insulin.

Studies suggest insulin resistance is associated with increased androgen hormone secretion, increasing your risk of developing PCOS.

Hormone Imbalance

Some studies point out a correlation between PCOS and hormonal imbalance. Many women with PCOS reportedly have various hormone fluctuations, such as:

Reduced sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which regulates the action of testosterone
Excessive testosterone or male hormone secretion which causes excessive facial and body hair growth
High levels of prolactin: prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production during pregnancy
Increased luteinizing hormone (LH) levels: LH prompts ovulation

Genetic Mutations/Changes in the Womb

PCOS is a complex hormonal problem that results from several factors, including genetic changes. Any changes in the womb or genetic mutations impacting the ovaries relate to PCOS in one way or the other.

A recent study reported several aromatase gene mutations contribute to the onset of PCOS. According to the findings, the mutations caused increased blood androgen levels and ovary dysfunction, increasing the risk of PCOS.

Family History of PCOS

Family history and genetics significantly influence PCOS development. A survey revealed that first-degree female relatives of women with PCOS had higher chances of getting affected than those whose families had no PCOS history. Therefore, PCOS is hereditary; if your mother or sister has it, you will likely develop it too.

Lifestyle Factors

Some lifestyle factors can increase your risk of having PCOS or aggravate the severity of the disease or its symptoms. For instance, being overweight can increase your risk of hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance. Also, poor diet, stress, and an inactive lifestyle can contribute to the advancement of PCOS.

Treat PCOS

There are various PCOS treatment options. Your physician will recommend a personalised treatment based on your health status, severity of symptoms, and fertility preference. If you do not wish to have a baby, your options may include:

Physical activity and diet adjustment : adopting a healthy diet and regular physical exercise can help you lose excessive weight and improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the severity of your symptoms.
Oral contraceptives to help regulate your menstrual cycles and reduce androgen hormone levels and acne
Diabetes medication to improve insulin sensitivity, minimise androgen levels, and curtail excessive hair growth.

If you plan to get pregnant, your doctor may recommend the following treatment options:

Medication to stimulate ovulation : the physician may prescribe ovulation-stimulating drugs to help restore regular ovulation and improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Physical activity and diet adjustment : adopting a healthy diet and regular physical exercise can help you lose excessive weight and improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the severity of your symptoms. Also, this can help regularise your ovulation.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment : your doctor may recommend ART treatment, such as IVF with egg donation , to help you get pregnant if the above options aren't helpful.

Conclusion

If untreated, PCOS can cause discomfort, anxiety, and long-term health problems such as ovarian cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and infertility. Studies are still ongoing to establish what causes PCOS. Presently, some researchers have pointed out several factors aiding the emergence and advancement of the condition. They include lifestyle, hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors.

If you experience any symptoms or suspect having PCOS, consult your fertility doctor. After an evaluation, they can develop a suitable treatment to help improve your quality of life. Besides, your physician can help regularise your ovulation and increase your chances of becoming a parent.

References

Pasquali, R., Stener‐Victorin, E., Yildiz, B. O., Duleba, A. J., Hoeger, K., Mason, H., & Legro, R. S. (2011). PCOS Forum: research in polycystic ovary syndrome today and tomorrow. Clinical endocrinology, 74(4), 424-433. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1365-2265.2010.03956.x

Balen, A. (2004). The pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome: trying to understand PCOS and its endocrinology. Best practice & research clinical obstetrics & gynaecology, 18(5), 685-706 . Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S152169340400094X

Franks, S., & Berga, S. L. (2012). Does PCOS have developmental origins?. Fertility and sterility, 97(1), 2-6. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1365-2265.2010.03956.x

Frequently Asked Questions

Early Miscarriage – An Early Loss of Pregnancy

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 15:35:36 GMT

Early Miscarriage – An Early Loss of Pregnancy

Globally, about 26 million miscarriages happen every year, and early miscarriage accounts for 80% of all these cases. Thus, it's crucial for everyone planning to have a baby to learn about this problem. In this article, you will find a comprehensive analysis of the symptoms and causes of early miscarriage. Also, some actionable steps will be discussed so you can minimise your risk of miscarriage within the first twelve weeks of pregnancy.

Understanding Early Miscarriages – Pregnancy Loss in the First Trimester

Early miscarriage or early pregnancy failure occurs when you lose your embryo during the first trimester. Miscarriages often happen on their own, primarily due to the baby not developing properly, which may result from various factors. Globally, approximately 10 to 20 out of 100 pregnancies end in miscarriage. The loss of pregnancy can be a painful and devastating experience. Fortunately there are some therapies and medications that can help reduce your risk of miscarriage.

Early Miscarriage Symptoms

Many miscarriages happen before you realise that you are pregnant. Thus, it can be challenging to recognize that you have had a loss of a pregnancy. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the signs and indications of an early miscarriage can help you understand and enable you to take prompt action.

Although a miscarriage is irreversible, seeking early intervention is crucial to ensure your uterus returns to normal, as well as preventing future recurrences. Please consult your fertility healthcare provider immediately for proper evaluation, support, and treatment if you notice any of the following symptoms during the first weeks of pregnancy.

Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding is the most noticeable symptom of miscarriage. Your experience may vary from spotting to heavy bleeding. But light vaginal bleeding is a common occurrence in the early stages of pregnancy, and regular check-ups with your obstetric gynaecologist can help detect anything unusual.

Abdominal Pain

Pregnant women commonly experience mild abdominal pain or cramping during the first trimester. This pain results from the changes your body is undergoing, including the expansion of the womb, constipation, and stretching of ligaments. However, intensive or persistent abdominal pain could be a sign of a miscarriage.

Passing Tissue

If you have a miscarriage, you may pass pregnancy tissue or an unusual vaginal fluid discharge from a burst baby sac. It may be difficult to tell if you have passed your baby because the tissue can take the appearance of a blood clot, which may not be consistent. If you pass any unusual tissue during the first trimester of pregnancy, wrap it and take it to the hospital for examination.

Back Pain

Another common symptom of pregnancy loss is mild to severe lower back pain. Just like regular period cramps, uterine contractions that result from a miscarriage can induce lower back pain. Pain medications can help relieve the pain, but you should consult your doctor for further assistance.

Decreased or Loss of Pregnancy Symptoms

If you suddenly cease to experience pregnancy symptoms such as breast tenderness, cravings, and morning sickness, it could be a sign of a miscarriage. However, some women do not exhibit some of these symptoms, and it may not necessarily mean you have lost your baby. Therefore, it is best to visit your doctor for a proper diagnosis as soon as you notice any changes.

Pelvic Discomfort

Another worrisome sign of miscarriage is pelvic discomfort. The cramping pain in the pelvis could result from the body trying to expel the pregnancy tissue or contractions from the uterus returning to the pre-pregnancy shape and size. Seeking early medical assistance can help prevent long-term impact and improve your chances of having a baby.

What Causes a Miscarriage?

Presently, it may not be possible to tell why a woman has a miscarriage. However, research shows that certain health conditions may lead to a miscarriage. Understanding these causes is crucial in taking actions that help reduce your risk of early miscarriage. The most common potential causes of miscarriage include the following:

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Sometimes, errors occur during chromosomal duplication and division, leading to abnormal chromosome numbers (aneuploidy). Such errors are sporadic because they happen by chance and are not inheritable. The abnormal chromosomes are less compatible with life and can lead to miscarriage.

Hormonal Imbalances

The endometrium may fail to develop in preparation for implantation due to hormonal Imbalances such as elevated prolactin levels. As a result, the uterus won't be able to support and nourish the embryo, leading to miscarriage.

Uterine Abnormalities

Research shows that about 15% of women with uterine abnormalities experience miscarriage. You can have uterine abnormalities from birth, or you may acquire them later in life. Most of these abnormalities cause a deficiency in nutritional support for your baby, increasing the risk of miscarriage.

The most common uterine abnormalities include:

The shape of the uterus: a normal uterus has a triangular cavity and an inverted pear-like shape. In some cases, one can be born with an abnormally shaped uterus with an abnormal or smaller cavity, reducing its capacity to support pregnancy.
Uterine fibroids: submucosal fibroids can damage the endometrium or distort the uterine cavity, affecting implantation and growth of the embryo.
Uterine polyps are non-cancerous uterine growths or scars that appear like skin tags. These scars result from surgical treatments and can obliterate your uterus, causing miscarriage. Luckily, uterine polyps are manageable.

Maternal Age

Women who are older than 35 have higher rates of chromosomal abnormalities in their ova. Therefore, your risk of stillbirth and miscarriage increases with age. If you plan to get pregnant and have children later, you can reduce this risk by freezing your eggs in your early 20s.

Lifestyle Factors

Some lifestyle habits increase your risk of miscarriage;

Smoking exposes the foetus to carbon and limits oxygen, thus increasing the risk of losing your baby.
Heavy alcohol intake and the use of illegal drugs like cocaine can be harmful to your unborn baby.
Weight problems: research shows that miscarriages are common in women who are overweight or underweight.

Others

Other factors that can cause miscarriages include;

Physical trauma.
Blood clotting disorders (thrombophilia).
Diseases that compromise the endocrine system, like diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and thyroid disorders.
Some autoimmune diseases, such as celiac disease, systemic lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Preventing an Early Pregnancy Loss

Most miscarriages happen by chance and are not preventable. However, having a miscarriage does not necessarily mean you cannot have a baby. You can help reduce the risk of pregnancy loss by taking actions such as:

Seeking Early Antenatal Care

A recent study established that early antenatal care (ANC) visits can help reduce early pregnancy loss by about 43%. Therefore, seeking early ANC is one of the best ways to reduce your likelihood of having a miscarriage.

Maintaining a Healthy Body Weight

Being obese (having a BMI of above 30) increases your risk of losing your pregnancy. The best approach to a healthy weight during pregnancy is losing the extra weight before getting pregnant. Your doctor can help recommend a weight loss specialist or clinic.

Adopting a Healthy Diet During Pregnancy

Although a healthy diet is a crucial aspect of living a healthy life all the time, it is more critical during pregnancy or when planning to conceive. You must eat various food categories to give your body the proper nutrients for the baby's growth and development.

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health

Studies reveal that exposure to psychological stress can increase the chances of early miscarriage. Therefore, you should prioritise your emotional well-being during pregnancy to minimise this risk. Ensuring you get quality sleep, practising mindfulness, strengthening social connections, reducing stress, and building resilience can help improve your emotional health.

Avoiding Alcohol and Illegal Drugs

Research shows that alcohol can pass from your bloodstream to your baby through the placenta. Thus, drinking during pregnancy can have a severe impact on the baby's growth and development and may result in miscarriage or premature birth.

Avoid or Quit Smoking During Pregnancy

As mentioned earlier, cigarette smoking denies your unborn baby sufficient oxygen besides exposing it to harmful chemicals. It would be best if you considered quitting or avoiding smoking during pregnancy to increase your chances of a safe pregnancy.

Treating or Managing Underlying Conditions

Sometimes, early pregnancy loss may be due to identifiable underlying medical conditions. In this case, treating these conditions can help prevent further miscarriages. Such conditions include weakened cervix or cervical incompetence, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), PCOS, uterine fibroids, and diabetes.

Scheduling Regular Check-Ups

Most importantly, scheduling periodic check-ups is crucial during pregnancy. Regular medical exams and ultrasounds help determine the progress of your baby. Moreover, during these examinations, the doctor can detect any underlying condition that could impact the foetus and take timely action.

Conclusion

Losing a pregnancy can be a painful and devastating experience. Sometimes, you may lose your baby before realising you are pregnant. Some warning signs of an early miscarriage include vagina bleeding, abdominal pain, passing tissue, back pain, pelvic discomfort, and decreased pregnancy symptoms.

The common factors that can cause early miscarriage are chromosomal abnormalities, hormonal imbalance, uterine abnormalities, advanced maternal age, lifestyle factors, and endocrine disorders.

While miscarriage is not preventable, you can reduce the risk of losing your baby during early pregnancy by seeking early antenatal care, maintaining a healthy body weight and diet, and making healthy choices by avoiding smoking alcohol and illegal drugs. Moreover, scheduling regular check-ups, including ultrasound, is crucial to ensuring a safe pregnancy.

References

van den Berg, M. M., van Maarle, M. C., van Wely, M., & Goddijn, M. (2012). Genetics of early miscarriage. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-Molecular Basis of Disease, 1822(12), 1951-1959. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0925443912001494

Arck, P. C., Rücke, M., Rose, M., Szekeres-Bartho, J., Douglas, A. J., Pritsch, M., & Klapp, B. F. (2008). Early risk factors for miscarriage: a prospective cohort study in pregnant women. Reproductive biomedicine online, 17(1), 101-113. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1472648310603008

Larsen, E. C., Christiansen, O. B., Kolte, A. M., & Macklon, N. (2013). New insights into mechanisms behind miscarriage. BMC medicine, 11(1), 1-10. Retrieved from https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1741-7015-11-154

Frequently Asked Questions

What Causes Endometriosis?

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:44:05 GMT

Home I Blog I What Causes Endometriosis?

What Causes Endometriosis?

While several theories explain what causes endometriosis, its aetiology remains inconclusive. About 10% of women of childbearing age have endometriosis globally; hence, it's a crucial topic. This comprehensive outline enlightens you about endometriosis, its causes, common symptoms, and the available treatment options. Please keep reading to find out more!

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis occurs due to the ectopic development of tissue similar to the lining of your womb. Endometriosis tissue grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, pelvis, and behind the uterus. In rare cases, this tissue may spread beyond the pelvic region and implant on your lungs, bladder, cervix, and other body parts.

In regular menstrual cycles, the endometrium thickens to support a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn't happen, the endometrium sheds and exits through the vagina during your periods.

Despite the location of the endometrial tissue, it keeps on responding to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, leading to cyclic menstrual-type bleeding in the affected organs. However, unlike your standard menstrual periods, this blood gets trapped in the pelvic cavity, causing intermittent inflammation and swelling.

Hence, endometriosis causes agonising painful menstruation. The recurrent bleeding may cause scarring, fibrous tissue, and chocolate cysts formation. Over time, the growths can expand and distort your pelvic organs, causing infertility. In some cases, endometriosis can cause ovarian cysts called endometriomas.

Though endometriosis can significantly affect your everyday life, your doctor can prescribe effective treatments to relieve symptoms.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The severity of symptoms of endometriosis depends on the location of the endometrial tissue and varies from woman to woman. However, some women remain asymptomatic. Sometimes, physicians discover it during other procedures, like an infertility examination. The primary symptoms include:

Pelvic Pain

The most noticeable sign of endometriosis is pelvic pain. The pain may start just before your menstruation, last during, and sometimes a few days after the menstrual period. If you have endometriosis, you may experience different types of pain, which include:

Severe menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), which worsen over time
Long-term lower back and pelvic pain that heightens during periods.
Persistent painful intercourse (dyspareunia) or occurring after intercourse
Painful urination (dysuria) or pain when pooping (dyschezia), especially during menstruation. Occasionally, you may see blood in your urine (hematuria) or stool (hematochezia).

There's no link between the severity of your pain and the degree of the condition. You may have agonising pain with a mild form of the disease. You may also have little discomfort with a severe stage of the disease. Either way, your gynaecologist can help you alleviate symptoms and pain.

Menstrual Irregularities

Endometriosis may display through unusual menstrual abnormalities like heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia), intermenstrual spotting or bleeding (metrorrhagia), and periods lasting more than seven days.

However, other conditions, such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), may cause menstrual irregularities. Therefore, if these irregularities occur often, you should schedule a pelvic examination to establish the cause.

Infertility

Studies have revealed that doctors often diagnose endometriosis in women experiencing difficulty conceiving. Therefore, it remains one of the leading causes of female infertility. Ectopic endometrial tissue may block your fallopian tubes and prevent eggs from reaching the uterus, reducing your chances of getting pregnant.

In some cases, it may lead to hormonal changes and impaired implantation. Suppose you have unexplained difficulty conceiving with other signs of endometriosis. In that case, your fertility doctor can help establish a suitable solution for a successful pregnancy.

Bowel/Digestive Problems

Besides discomfort with bowel movements, you may also experience diarrhoea, bloating, nausea, or vomiting, particularly during your periods.

What Causes Endometriosis?

The true cause of endometriosis is unknown. However, research points out certain factors contributing to its development. Common explanations behind endometriosis aetiology include

Never Giving Birth

Nulliparity or never giving birth increases the risk of developing endometriosis. Nulliparous women have more exposure to menstruation and oestrogen hormones than multiparous women.

Oestrogen hormones and oestrogen-like substances influence endometriosis. Every month during your menstrual cycle, you get oestrogen exposure. Pregnancy stops your periods for up to nine months, reducing this exposure and risk of endometriosis.

Some studies suggest that the risk is up to 10 times lower. Also, having more children can reduce the risk even more.

Frequent Menstrual Cycles

Specific problems with your menstrual flow, such as short and frequent menstruation, can increase your risk of developing endometriosis. You will likely develop endometriosis if you have monthly cycles shorter than 27 days or if your periods last seven days or longer. Besides, women whose first menstruation (menarche) starts before age 11 may develop endometriosis due to early exposure to the hormone oestrogen.

High Levels of Oestrogen

Endometriosis is primarily an oestrogen-dependent condition. Oestrogen triggers inflammation, facilitating disease progression. When oestrogen levels increase abnormally, it may lead to excessive endometrial cell growth, increasing the chances of disease development.

Low BMI

Studies have established that women with a lower BMI (less than 18.5kg/m2) have a higher risk of endometriosis. A high BMI may lead to insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, which increase the production of adrenal androgens. Increased androgen levels reduce your risk of endometriosis.

Besides, high BMI contributes to infrequent or absent menstruation, decreasing the risk of endometriosis.

Genetic Factors

Studies have discovered that endometriosis runs in some families. Therefore, genetic factors contribute to its development. If you have a first-degree family member with endometriosis, you may have a higher risk of acquiring the genes.

Having distant relations, such as aunties with endometriosis, also increases the probability of developing this condition. You can inherit endometriosis from both maternal and paternal sides.

Immune System Dysfunction

The immune system protects your body from diseases. Suppose you have a faulty or weak immune system. In that case, it may fail to detect and destroy/stop the ectopic endometrial cells. As a result, you may experience inflammation and develop lesions and scar tissue. Women with rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a higher risk of developing endometriosis.

Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Research shows that environmental toxins, such as organochlorine pesticides and dioxins, cause endometriosis. Additionally, if you have exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), you may have a higher risk of developing endometriosis.

Retrograde Menstruation

Sometimes, when you have your menstruation, some endometrial cells that shed may travel back through the fallopian/uterine tubes to the pelvic cavity. This phenomenon is known as retrograde or reverse menstruation.Then, the cells may get implanted and grow, resulting in endometriosis. However, retrograde menstruation occurs in many women, and the body's immune system clears most of these cells.

Treatment Options for Endometriosis

Currently, there's no cure for endometriosis. However, various treatment options exist to manage symptoms and prevent endometriosis complications like infertility. The goal of endometriosis treatment is to:

Relieve pain
Improve fertility
Remove the ectopic endometrial tissue
Lower chances of reoccurrence
Prevent complications of endometriosis

Treatment options vary depending on symptoms' severity, age, and personal preference. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor before treatment.

Sometimes, treatment may be unnecessary if you have mild symptoms, have no fertility issues, or are in the perimenopausal stage, where symptoms could disappear without treatment. Treatment methods for endometriosis include:

Pain Medication

Your doctor may prescribe you pain-relieving medication. Pain relievers that can help reduce endometriosis-related pain include:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include ibuprofen, diclofenac, voltarol, and mefenamic acid.
Simple analgesics such as paracetamol to treat mild pain
Opioid-based painkillers for severe pain.

Inform your doctor if the pain doesn't improve within a few weeks. They may prescribe alternative medication.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone-based treatments suppress hormone production in the ovaries, preventing ovulation and stopping the menstrual period and thickening of the endometrium. Some standard hormone therapy options include:

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs)
Intrauterine devices (IUCDs)
Vaginal contraceptive ring
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs
Progestogens

Some women experience menopause-like symptoms such as sweating and hot flashes while using hormone therapy. Therefore, you may need to start on low doses. It's important to note that symptoms improve only when using the treatment; if you stop, the symptoms may return.

Hormone treatment is, however, not suitable for pregnant women or those desiring pregnancy. Studies show that hormone treatment may cause congenital malformations and difficulty achieving pregnancy. However, hormone therapy doesn't permanently affect your fertility; it is reversible once you stop the treatment.

Your fertility healthcare provider can help you determine if hormone treatment is proper for you after evaluating your symptoms.

Surgery

Your doctor may recommend surgery to destroy or remove endometriosis tissue and improve symptoms. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the growth. Sometimes, doctors combine surgery with other treatment methods, such as hormone therapy. Standard surgical procedures for treating the disease include:

Laparoscopy (Keyhole Surgery)

Laparoscopy is a relatively gentle surgical procedure where the surgeon makes a small incision in your abdomen. The process involves using a tube-like instrument called a laparoscope and other instruments to view inside your body and cut/destroy the lesions.

In this approach, doctors remove the endometrial tissue through general anesthesia so you don't feel any pain during the procedure. Moreover, research shows that the removal of endometriosis using laparoscopy improves fertility.

Laparotomy

Alternatively, your doctor may use laparotomy, a major surgical procedure that cuts through the abdominal wall. Usually, doctors recommend laparotomy for severe endometriosis or if it is untreatable by laparoscopy.

Hysterectomy

In rare cases, doctors may advise hysterectomy, an irreversible surgical procedure, when other treatment options are unsuccessful. Although it's not the first treatment option for severe endometriosis, it's a standard treatment involving surgical uterine removal.

Hysterectomy is recommendable in women with other uterine conditions like adenomyosis, a form of endometriosis where the endometrial-like tissue invades the muscular wall of the uterus.There are three types of hysterectomies including:

Partial hysterectomy – Removal of the uterus but not ovaries and cervix
Total hysterectomy – Removal of the uterus and cervix
Hysterectomy and oophorectomy – Removal of the uterus and one or both ovaries

Talk to your specialist about other treatment options if you desire pregnancy. Hysterectomy may not be the right option as it involves removing the uterus, and you won't carry a pregnancy afterward.

Complementary Treatments and Alternative Medicine

Several treatment methods can complement the current medical treatment. This treatment involves relieving pain with approaches such as:

Traditional Chinese medicine
Acupuncture
Herbs and supplements
Chiropractic care
Mind-body practices like meditation and yoga

Some women report improvement in symptoms with these approaches. If you decide to use some of these complementary and alternative treatments, discuss them with your doctor before using them since they may interfere with other medications.

Lifestyle Changes

Regular physical exercises, a balanced diet, a healthy sleep schedule, and stress management can help you cope and relieve symptoms of endometriosis.

Conclusion

Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological condition that can significantly affect your daily life. Studies are still ongoing to establish the exact cause of endometriosis. Some common symptoms include menstrual irregularities, difficulty achieving pregnancy, and chronic pain.

While there's no identified cure for endometriosis, some medications, surgery, alternative medicine, and lifestyle changes can relieve pain and manage symptoms. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand what causes endometriosis and take the right action to help improve your quality of life.

References

Vercellini, P., Viganò, P., Somigliana, E., & Fedele, L. (2014). Endometriosis: pathogenesis and treatment. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 10(5), 261-275. Retrieved from https://www.nature.com/articles/nrendo.2013.255

Endometriose | Kinderwunschklinik InviMed. (n.d.). Www.invimed.de. Retrieved January 12, 2024, from https://www.invimed.de/endometriose

Benagiano, G., Brosens, I., & Lippi, D. (2014). The history of endometriosis. Gynecologic and obstetric investigation, 78(1), 1-9. Retrieved from https://karger.com/goi/article-abstract/78/1/1/149444/The-History-of-Endometriosis

Frequently Asked Questions

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Treatment Options

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 09:53:34 GMT

Home I Blog I Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Treatment Options

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Treatment Options

According to recent WHO statistics, PCOS is the most prevalent impediment to female fertility globally; hence, it is crucial to learn about PCOS treatment options. This article explores various PCOS treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery. Additionally, some of the most common symptoms and potential causes of PCOS will be highlighted to help you better understand this condition.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a leading female endocrine disorder that manifests as disruptions in metabolic and reproductive functions. The fluctuations in hormone levels associated with PCOS, especially androgens, affect the ovary function, causing irregular ovulation. As a result, many women with PCOS experience irregular or missed menstrual periods and may struggle to get pregnant.

Treatment for PCOS

Presently, there is no proven cure for PCOS, and studies to establish one are ongoing. However, many different treatment options can help reduce the severity of the sickness and improve fertility. If diagnosed with PCOS, your fertility doctor can help determine the appropriate treatment option depending on your symptoms. The available treatments for PCOS include:

Medicines

Your physician may prescribe different medications based on your symptoms and whether or not you plan to have a baby. If you are trying to get pregnant, the prescription may include the following:

Letrozole : although it is a cancer medication, letrozole also helps stimulate the ovaries to ovulate, increasing your chances of conception.
Clomiphene : this drug stimulates the pituitary glands to secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that triggers ovarian follicle formation and ovulation, increasing your likelihood of getting pregnant.
Metformin : high insulin levels contribute to delayed or missed ovulation in PCOS patients. Metformin helps induce ovulation by increasing your insulin sensitivity.
Gonadotropins : Gonadotropin injection can increase your chances of conception by stimulating the maturation of follicles and regular egg release from the ovary.

If you still struggle with fertility problems, your healthcare provider may recommend Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment, such as IVF, in addition to medications, to enhance the chances of successful conception. However, if you do not intend to get pregnant, your doctor may prescribe medications such as:

Diabetes medication : the action of diabetic medicines can help lower insulin resistance and limit androgen production, hence reducing acne and excessive hair growth.
Birth control pills : the doctor may prescribe you oral contraceptives to help control your menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, helping minimise facial hair growth and acne.
Other medications: your healthcare provider may recommend certain medicines like Eflornithine or Spironolactone to help reduce the impact of excessive androgen on your skin. Also, they may prescribe progestin to help reduce the risk of endometrial cancer and regulate your periods.

Surgery

If medication does not successfully limit androgen production, your doctor may recommend laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD). LOD is a simple, non-painful surgical procedure that involves the use of a laser with the help of a tiny camera (laparoscope) to destroy androgen-producing tissue in the ovaries. This procedure can help restore hormone balance and regular ovulation, increasing your chances of getting pregnant.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle modifications can help manage PCOS symptoms, lower its long-term health risks, and improve fertility. They include:

Reduce/Manage Stress: Persistent stress can contribute to hormonal imbalance. Apply stress-relieving methods such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. Also, ensure you get sufficient sleep and prioritise self-care.
Eat Healthily : Adopt a balanced diet with more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and less cholesterol. Also, avoid sugary drinks, snacks, and processed foods that can affect your insulin sensitivity. Moreover, eating complex carbohydrates and fibre-rich foods like legumes, non-starchy vegetables, and whole grains can help manage your blood sugar levels.
Quit Smoking: Tobacco smoking can negatively impact insulin sensitivity and heighten the risk of cardiovascular issues already prevalent in women with PCOS.
Weight management: If you have PCOS, it is crucial to maintain a healthy weight. Shedding excessive weight can help improve ovulation regularity, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance. Routine physical activity and reducing starch and cholesterol intake can help manage weight.

PCOS Symptoms

Some of the primary symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) include:

Irregular menstruation : the most prevalent symptom of PCOS is irregular, prolonged, or unpredictable menstrual cycles
Elevated androgen levels: another common symptom of PCOS is excessive androgen, which may cause severe acne and excess hair growth.
Polycystic ovaries: PCOS may contribute to underdeveloped follicles (small cysts) on the ovaries that can't release eggs.
Insulin resistance: this is also common in many women with PCOS, and it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Weight management issues : many PCOS patients struggle with insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar levels that can result in body weight gains. Moreover, PCOS patients often have trouble losing weight.
Mood changes : another common PCOS symptom is that you may experience anxiety, depression, or mood induced by hormonal imbalances.
High blood pressure : women suffering from PCOS are also more likely to experience high blood pressure.

Importantly, different women experience different sets and severity of PCOS symptoms. Therefore, your situation may differ from others. Most importantly, you should consult a fertility doctor for appropriate diagnosis and treatment if you experience these symptoms.

PCOS Causes

Research is still ongoing to establish the exact cause of PCOS. However, studies suggest that various factors may contribute to the development of this condition. Such potential causes of PCOS include:

Hormonal Imbalances : PCOS is associated with excessive androgen (male hormone) production and imbalances in other hormones, including FSH, LH, and insulin. The imbalances disrupt ovary function and may also increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Chronic Inflammation : Some studies suggest low-grade chronic inflammation may impact insulin sensitivity and hormone production, affecting ovulation and fertility.
Insulin Resistance : Many PCOS patients have low insulin sensitivity. Thus, their bodies can't effectively use insulin, causing elevated insulin levels. High insulin levels may trigger excessive androgen production, which can affect ovulation.
Lifestyle Factors : Some lifestyle factors like being obese or overweight, inactive, and eating a poor diet can lead to PCOS. Moreover, poor lifestyle choices can also contribute to pregnancy complications.
Environmental Factors : Research shows that prolonged exposure to some environmental elements, like endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), can cause PCOS. Chemicals such as pesticides, plastics, and various pollutants contain EDCs.
Genetic Factors : Statistics show that PCOS runs in some families, which suggests that it could be a hereditary disease. Therefore, specific genes may be responsible for this condition.

It's crucial to remember that these are potential causes, and PCOS is a complex condition with multiple factors at play. Your individual PCOS experience may differ from others. Therefore, seeking guidance from a fertility specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment is always advisable.

Conclusion

PCOS is a complex hormonal problem responsible for most female factor infertility cases globally. While its cure is still unknown, several PCOS treatment options can significantly help improve the symptoms and prevent the associated long-term health problems. Management may include medications or surgery, depending on your symptoms and fertility preference.

Some primary signs of PCOS are irregular periods, insulin resistance, polycystic ovaries, mood swings, and elevated androgen levels. There is no conclusive information on the exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome. However, studies suggest potential contributing factors, including hormonal imbalances, inflammation, insulin resistance, and genetic and environmental factors.

Remember, you can still achieve your dream of having a baby even if diagnosed with PCOS. It is crucial to consult a qualified reproductive andrologist. They can help identify a personalised treatment plan that suits your requirements. Moreover, healthy lifestyle choices significantly help in managing PCOS.

References

Hoeger, K. M., Dokras, A., & Piltonen, T. (2021). Update on PCOS: consequences, challenges, and guiding treatment. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 106(3), e1071-e1083. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/106/3/e1071/5992309

Badawy, A., & Elnashar, A. (2011). Treatment options for polycystic ovary syndrome. International journal of women's health, 25-35. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/IJWH.S11304

Ndefo, U. A., Eaton, A., & Green, M. R. (2013). Polycystic ovary syndrome: a review of treatment options with a focus on pharmacological approaches. Pharmacy and therapeutics, 38(6), 336. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3737989/

Frequently Asked Questions

Missed Miscarriage – Signs and Symptoms

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 14:39:57 GMT

Home I Blog I Missed Miscarriage – Signs and Symptoms

Missed Miscarriage – Signs and Symptoms

Unlike other miscarriages, a missed miscarriage often shows no signs, and it can be hard to detect. Thus, it is unsurprising that many people seek information about this issue. This publication takes a deep dive into the common symptoms, causes, and available treatment options to help you understand a missed miscarriage, and address how long it takes for the miscarriage to become apparent.

What is a Missed Miscarriage?

A missed miscarriage or missed abortion is an early pregnancy loss that stays undetected, and the dead foetus remains in the womb for longer than usual. This particular miscarriage is distinguishable from other miscarriages by lack of the typical symptoms of miscarriage, like cramping or vaginal bleeding.

This experience can be emotionally challenging as you remain hopeful and expectant, unaware of your loss until a medical exam or ultrasound reveals the absence of a foetal heartbeat.

The unique nature of missed miscarriages further complicates the grieving process. The lack of physical symptoms delays and deepens the emotional impact as it takes longer for the realisation of the loss of pregnancy to sink in. As a result, you may feel confused or guilty, wondering why your body didn't show any signs.

Due to the unique challenges that accompany a miscarriage, it is crucial to join local support groups or seek professional assistance if you experience a pregnancy loss. Emotional support, guidance, and understanding can be helpful in the healing process.

Common Signs and Symptoms of a Missed Miscarriage

A missed miscarriage often shows no signs, and it can be hard to detect. However, it is essential to be conversant with potential indications. Some primary signs and symptoms that may indicate you have a missed miscarriage are listed below.

Lack of Foetal Movement

The most prevalent symptom of a missed miscarriage is the absence of foetal movement. You should be concerned if you have been experiencing regular moves from your baby and the movement decreases or stops abruptly.

Reduced Pregnancy Symptoms

Another common symptom related to this type of miscarriage is the decline in pregnancy signs, such as frequent urination, breast tenderness, fatigue, and nausea. If you notice a sudden reduction or complete disappearance of these signs, it may be an indication of a miscarriage.

Vaginal Bleeding or Spotting

While missed miscarriages do not often manifest in heavy bleeding, you may experience light bleeding or spotting. However, in some cases, vaginal bleeding occurs during normal pregnancies, and it is crucial to consult your doctor for proper assessment.

What Causes a Missed Miscarriage?

While there is no proven cause, several factors can contribute to a missed miscarriage. The most common potential causes include:

Chromosomal abnormalities are the most prevalent cause of a missed miscarriage. An example of such abnormalities is an unusual number of chromosomes (aneuploidy), making the foetus incompatible with life.

Hormonal imbalances , mostly inadequate progesterone levels, can also contribute to a miscarriage.
Uterine or cervical structural issues such as septate uterus or fibroids can hinder the implantation and growth of the embryo, increasing the risk of a missed miscarriage.

It is critical to schedule an examination with your fertility healthcare provider if you experience any concerns about a miscarriage.

How Long Does it Take for a Missed Miscarriage to Become Apparent?

How long the miscarriage becomes apparent varies from woman to woman. Sometimes, you may discover it during a routine prenatal checkup or ultrasound before it shows any noticeable signs. At times, it may take several weeks or months to become apparent. The delayed realisation can heighten emotional stress.

Usually, you would recognize a missed miscarriage when an ultrasound scan shows no development in your baby. Still, you may not have felt any signs of a miscarriage, like cramping or bleeding. However, your experience may differ from another person's experience. The miscarriage may manifest differently in some women compared to others. Therefore, if you suspect anything, consulting your fertility healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and support is crucial.

Physical Recovery and Treatment Options

Physical recovery following a miscarriage may vary depending on your circumstances. Various treatments can aid recovery, and your doctor will advise on the appropriate options after an evaluation. They include:

Expectant Management

This option is best if you prefer a more natural process and can comfortably wait for the body to miscarry naturally. Expectant management involves letting the body expel pregnancy tissue with no medical intervention. However, your doctor will closely monitor the process to ensure safe completion.

Medication

Your physician may prescribe certain medications to prompt uterine contractions and eject the pregnancy tissue. This option is suitable if you wish to speed up the miscarriage process and reduce physical distress. Usually, medication requires scheduling follow-up consultation for successful treatment.

Surgical Intervention

Surgical intervention or dilation and curettage (R&C) involves the removal of the pregnancy tissue through a dilated cervix. Your doctor may recommend this option under the following circumstances:

When there is an infection
When there is an incomplete miscarriage (when some pregnancy tissue remains in the womb after miscarriage)
When medication or expectant management is unsuccessful

Emotional Support

Besides physical recovery, you may require emotional support to help cope with the pregnancy loss. Joining support groups or sharing your feelings with loved ones can be helpful. Additionally, you can seek professional assistance.

Conclusion

Overall, a missed miscarriage can be a physically and emotionally distressing experience. This condition seldom shows symptoms, and you may only discover it during a routine prenatal checkup. The primary signs of this kind of miscarriage may include a lack of foetal movement and reduced pregnancy symptoms.

Some potential causes of the miscarriage include structural issues with the uterus or cervix, chromosomal abnormalities, and hormonal imbalances. Available treatment options to help with physical recovery include expectant management, medications, and surgery.

Emotional support is vital in coping with the loss of pregnancy. Most importantly, you should schedule an evaluation with a qualified fertility specialist for a professional review and further support if you experience any of the above symptoms or suspect a miscarriage.

References

Jurkovic, D., Ross, J. A., & Nicolaides, K. H. (1998). Expectant management of missed miscarriage. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 105(6), 670-671. Retrieved from https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1471-0528.1998.tb10184.x

Jurkovic, D., Overton, C., & Bender-Atik, R. (2013). Diagnosis and management of first trimester miscarriage. Bmj, 346. Retrieved from https://www.bmj.com/content/346/bmj.f3676.abstract

Coomarasamy, A., Gallos, I. D., Papadopoulou, A., Dhillon-Smith, R. K., Al-Memar, M., Brewin, J., & Quenby, S. (2021). Sporadic miscarriage: evidence to provide effective care. The Lancet, 397(10285), 1668-1674. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)00683-8/fulltext

Frequently Asked Questions

Miscarriage Risk by Week

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 13:50:51 GMT

Home I Blog I Miscarriage Risk by Week

Miscarriage Risk by Week

Globally, about 30% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, constituting the importance of understanding the miscarriage risk by week. In this article, we delve into the miscarriage statistics, recurrent miscarriage risk factors, and coping strategies. We also look into the impact of ectopic pregnancy on miscarriage risk and measures to help reduce the risk of pregnancy loss.

Miscarriage Rates by Week

Miscarriage is the loss of pregnancy during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. About 80% of miscarriages occur during the first trimester of pregnancy before the 12th week. The risk of miscarriage significantly drops as the pregnancy grows through the second trimester and beyond. The table below represents a summary overview of miscarriage risk week by week of pregnancy.

Please remember that the above figures are general estimates, and your situation may differ depending on circumstances. If you have a history of miscarriage or you are concerned about your pregnancy, consult your fertility healthcare provider for professional assistance.

Common Risk Factors and Signs of Miscarriage

The primary signs of miscarriage include vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, passing tissue, back pain, and reduced pregnancy symptoms. Also, if a pregnancy ultrasound detects no heartbeat, it could mean the loss of a pregnancy.

The common risk factors of miscarriage comprise advanced maternal age, chromosomal abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, and uterine abnormalities such as uterine fibroids and polyps. Moreover, some lifestyle factors like obesity, smoking, and alcohol and drug abuse can contribute to miscarriage.

12 Weeks In: Miscarriage Rates and Statistics in the Second Trimester and beyond

After the first trimester, which spans approximately 12 weeks of pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage tends to decrease. Research indicates that the rate of miscarriage drops to around 2-3% after week 12 of pregnancy. This reassuring decline provides hope for expecting parents and signifies a higher likelihood of a successful pregnancy extending past the first trimester.

Recurrent Miscarriage: Causes and Coping Strategies

Recurrent miscarriage, or multiple early pregnancy losses, is the occurrence of 3 or more miscarriages in a row before reaching the 20th gestation week. This experience can be emotionally challenging and distressing for couples trying to start a family. It is important to note that early pregnancy loss, or spontaneous abortion, often occurs by chance and is not necessarily a result of your fault.

Causes of Recurrent Miscarriage

Understanding the possible causes is crucial in efficiently managing and preventing recurrent miscarriages. Some of the primary complications that may lead to multiple miscarriages include:

Genetic Abnormalities: The presence of chromosomal malformations in you or your partner can increase your risk of miscarriage. Genetic counselling can help detect potential genetic issues and guide conception decisions.
Hormonal Imbalances: Hormone imbalances, including progesterone levels and thyroid problems, can impact pregnancy viability, ultimately leading to recurrent miscarriages.
Structural Problems: Uterine anatomical abnormalities like uterine fibroids or septum can affect embryo implantation and contribute to repeated pregnancy losses.
Autoimmune Disorders : Certain immune system disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus or antiphospholipid syndrome, can result in blood clotting issues, increasing the miscarriage risk.
Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle practices such as alcohol abuse, smoking, illegal drugs, and prolonged environmental toxin exposure can increase the likelihood of miscarriages.

Coping Strategies for Recurrent Miscarriage

Some helpful coping strategies to consider include:

Self-Care: Prioritise activities that improve your well-being, such as yoga, sufficient rest, exercise, and mindfulness or meditation.
Seek Emotional Support: Having supportive family and friends or joining local support groups of people with similar experiences can be helpful. Also, you can consider professional therapy to help heal from the emotional impact of miscarriage.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle : Eat a balanced diet, exercise moderately, and maintain a healthy weight. It would be best if you also quit harmful habits such as alcohol abuse or smoking.
Communicate with Your Partner : Promote honest and open communication with your partner. Sharing your hopes, fears, and feelings can help strengthen your bond during challenging times.
Seek Medical Evaluation: Going for a medical evaluation with a qualified fertility doctor is crucial. A comprehensive exam can help detect the underlying cause and determine a suitable treatment option. The examination may involve hormonal assessment, genetic testing, blood tests, immune evaluation, and ultrasound.

Ectopic Pregnancy and Its Impact on Miscarriage Risk

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an embryo gets implanted and develops outside the womb, mainly in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies often lead to miscarriage.

The immediate risks of an ectopic pregnancy include possible fallopian tube rupture, which can lead to life-threatening severe internal bleeding. Hence, timely diagnosis and management of this condition is crucial in reducing its risks. You should consult your doctor immediately if you experience the following symptoms:

Fainting or dizziness
Vaginal bleeding
Abdominal pain
Shoulder pain.

Having an ectopic pregnancy has a potential impact on future pregnancies as it increases the chance of experiencing another ectopic pregnancy. The risk may vary from one woman to another. Still, studies suggest that it is higher than for those without a history of the condition. However, appropriate medical care can help you have future successful pregnancies after experiencing an ectopic pregnancy. Moreover, early detection is critical in preventing the associated life-threatening complications.

Physicians can run diagnostic tests like laparoscopy, ultrasounds, or blood tests to evaluate hormone levels if they suspect an ectopic pregnancy. Based on the test results, they may recommend different treatment options, such as:

Surgery for removal of the pregnancy or fallopian tube
Medications to induce the termination of the ectopic pregnancy

The suitable treatment option will depend on parameters like the size of the pregnancy, gestational age, and overall health.

Reducing Risk: Lifestyle Choices and Miscarriage Prevention

A healthy lifestyle is critical to your overall well-being, especially during pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps in reducing your risk of miscarriage. Find some lifestyle choices that can help improve your health and increase your chances of a safe pregnancy below.

Avoid Harmful Substances

It's imperative to abstain from alcohol consumption, smoking, and use of illicit drugs during pregnancy. These substances negatively impact foetal development, and thus increase the likelihood of miscarriage.

Proper Prenatal Care

Seeking early prenatal care is crucial for monitoring your and your child's health. Frequent check-ups, appropriate vaccinations, and necessary screenings can help detect and address any potential risk.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Being obese or underweight can contribute to miscarriage. You should attain and maintain a healthy body weight before getting pregnant.

Genetic Counselling

If your family history has genetic disorders or if you and your partner have concerns about any hereditary conditions, seek genetic counselling for evaluation and guidance. Genetic testing can help assess potential causes and take suitable measures to prevent pregnancy loss.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Properly managing chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid disruptions is vital during gestation. Such conditions can lead to miscarriage if unaddressed.

Conclusion

Understanding the miscarriage risk by week and the potential causes is crucial in effectively managing and preventing early loss of pregnancy. The primary signs of miscarriage include abdominal pain, passing tissue, back pain, and vaginal bleeding.

The common risk factors of miscarriage are advanced maternal age, uterine abnormalities, chromosomal deformation, and hormonal imbalances. Living a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy, along with proper prenatal care, is critical in reducing your risk of miscarriage.

Remember, miscarriage is a complex issue; however, you are not alone. Seeking emotional support and professional help alongside medical evaluation can empower you to make informed decisions, increasing your chance of a future safe pregnancy.

References

Ammon Avalos, L., Galindo, C., & Li, D. K. (2012). A systematic review to calculate background miscarriage rates using life table analysis. Birth Defects Research Part A: Clinical and Molecular Teratology, 94(6), 417-423. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/bdra.23014

Garcıa-Enguıdanos, A., Calle, M. E., Valero, J., Luna, S., & Domınguez-Rojas, V. (2002). Risk factors in miscarriage: a review. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 102(2), 111-119. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0301211501006133

Maconochie, N., Doyle, P., Prior, S., & Simmons, R. (2007). Risk factors for first trimester miscarriage—results from a UK‐population‐based case–control study. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 114(2), 170-186. Retrieved from https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2006.01193.x

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Male Infertility: Unveiling the Causes of Male Factor Infertility

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:40:02 GMT

Home I Blog I Understanding Male Infertility: Unveiling the Causes of Male Factor Infertility

Understanding Male Infertility: Unveiling the Causes of Male Factor Infertility

Reports show that 17.5% of adults have fertility issues globally, where infertile males account for about 50% of all cases. This article explores the common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for male infertility. Moreover, it will look at unexplained infertility in men and how male infertility can affect your reproductive health.

Understanding Male Infertility

Male infertility is a man's inability to impregnate a woman. This condition results from various factors that affect the quality and quantity of sperm released per ejaculation. Thus, your semen may contain sperm with suboptimal parameters like low sperm count, poor motility, or morphology;

Having a low sperm count means your semen contains fewer viable sperm to fertilise your partner's egg, ultimately reducing the chances of conception.
With poor sperm motility , sperm cannot swim up the female reproductive system and fertilise the eggs.
Poor sperm morphology or irregularly shaped sperm may be unable to penetrate and fertilise the egg, making it difficult for your partner to get pregnant naturally.

However, thanks to assisted reproductive technology (ART), a fertility specialist can help you achieve a successful conception through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Therefore, if you and your partner are struggling to get pregnant, you should seek a fertility specialist to receive an evaluation.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

Male infertility can result from various conditions and factors, including sperm abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, infections, genetic factors, lifestyle factors, and other issues related to the reproductive health of men.

Sperm Abnormalities

Irregular sperm parameters such as poor motility, abnormal sperm morphology, and low sperm count are one of the primary causes of male infertility. These factors can significantly minimise your potential to start a family.

Hormonal Imbalances

Imbalances in hormone levels are another primary cause of infertility. Hormones are critical in sperm production. Hence, instability, like inadequate testosterone or excessive prolactin, can contribute to infertility.

Infections

Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia, can result in scarring and inflammation in your reproductive system. These effects can cause blockages, hampering sperm movement.

Genetic Factors

Genetic abnormalities like cystic fibrosis gene mutations, Klinefelter syndrome, and Y chromosome microdeletions can negatively impact sperm production function and production.

Lifestyle Factors

Some habits, including alcohol abuse, smoking, and the use of illegal drugs like cocaine, can negatively influence your sperm quantity and quality. Similarly, poor diet and obesity can impede your fertility. Moreover, prolonged exposure to toxic substances like heavy metals, certain chemicals, and pesticides may damage your reproductive health.

Other Factors

Some underlying conditions and treatment procedures like radiotherapy and chemotherapy can contribute to infertility. Such conditions include:

Retrograde ejaculation (a condition where semen moves into the bladder during ejaculation)
Varicocele (enlargement of veins in the testicles blocking sperm movement).

Symptoms of Male Infertility

Male infertility signs and symptoms may vary from one person to another, depending on underlying causes. Although the symptoms are an indication of possible fertility problems, they do not automatically constitute infertility.

Erectile Dysfunction

Struggling to attain or sustain an erection is one of the most common signs of infertility, as you may be unable to participate in sexual intercourse and achieve conception.

Low Libido

Reduced or absence of interest in sex is another common sign of infertility. Low libido may occur due to psychological factors, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying conditions.

Abnormal Ejaculation

Ejaculation problems such as retrograde ejaculation, painful ejaculation, or premature ejaculation can be a sign of infertility.

Variations in Testicle Texture or Size

Changes in testicle texture, size, or shape may suggest the presence of hormonal imbalances or sperm production problems. The variations include small, abnormally hard, or soft testicles.

Swelling or Pain in the Testicles

Persistent discomfort or pain in your testicles may indicate infections such as varicocele, orchitis, or epididymitis, which can contribute to infertility.

Abnormal Semen Characteristics

Unusual semen characteristics like inconsistency in volume or colour may be a sign of problems with sperm transport or production.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances are also an indicator of infertility. Signs of hormonal imbalances include abnormal hair growth, reduced muscle mass, and fatigue.

Exploring Male Factor Infertility

As discussed above, male-factor infertility refers to the diminished ability of a man to initiate a pregnancy with his female partner. This condition significantly contributes to reproductive challenges facing couples in their attempt to conceive. Male infertility arises due to factors like;

Sperm abnormalities
Hormonal imbalances
Genetic disorders
Structural abnormalities in the male reproductive system

On the other hand, female infertility can result from conditions such as;

Uterine fibroids
Endometriosis
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Issues with cervical mucus
Poor nutrition
Damage or blockage of the fallopian tubes

Unlike female infertility factors, most male infertility factors like sperm count, morphology, and motility are measurable. Therefore, definite diagnostic tests, including semen analysis, can help assess male fertility. However, in some cases, male and female infertility coexist. Therefore, if you have difficulty conceiving, you and your partner should take a fertility evaluation to establish the potential cause.

Reproductive Health and Male Infertility

There is a direct link between your reproductive health and fertility. Living a healthy lifestyle is critical to enhancing your reproductive health, thus minimising the risk of infertility. Some of the ways you can improve your reproductive health include:

Maintaining a healthy weight : Obesity can disrupt hormone levels and lead to infertility. Regular physical activities can help improve your reproductive health and reduce your risk of infertility.
Eating a balanced diet : consuming a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fruits can provide your body with antioxidants and essential nutrients to enhance your reproductive function.
Making healthy choices by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, illicit drugs, and smoking can positively impact your reproductive health.
Managing stress by engaging in activities like meditation, hobbies, and exercise and getting sufficient sleep can be helpful. Poor sleep quality and chronic stress can disrupt hormone levels, hindering sperm production and hence increasing infertility risk.
Not engaging in unprotected sex; practising safe sex habits like using a condom during intercourse can protect you from STIs that can cause reproductive health problems and infertility.

Treatment Options for Male Infertility

Although no proven treatment can improve sperm quality, some techniques exist that can help increase your chances of conception. Some available treatment options for male infertility include:

Medical Intervention/Hormone Therapy

If low sperm count or poor motility is diagnosed as the cause of infertility, your doctor can recommend medication to boost spermatogenesis and improve motility. The drugs aim to trigger the pituitary glands to produce FSH and LH hormones needed for sperm production.

Surgery

Your doctor may recommend surgery to correct varicocele veins or unblock sperm ducts and enhance sperm movement.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Sometimes, after a fertility evaluation of both partners, your doctor may advise using ART methods to improve your potential of achieving a successful conception. Some of these methods include intrauterine insemination, in-vitro fertilisation, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

During an IUI treatment, the doctor collects your sperm sample, prepares it in the lab, and injects it into your female partner's uterus using a catheter. This treatment option is recommendable if:

You have a low sperm count
Your female partner's cervical mucus impedes sperm movement
You have functional issues like erectile dysfunction or impotence
Your seminal fluid contains anti-sperm antibodies

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

During IVF treatment, the doctor collects your sperm and harvests mature ovum from your partner. After some procedural preparation in the lab, they mix the eggs with sperm and let fertilisation occur. Then, they implant the fertilised egg (embryo) into your partner's womb to develop.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

ICSI involves injecting an egg with one healthy sperm and later transferring the embryo into your female partner's uterus. The procedure is similar to IVF except that the physician only uses one sperm and injects it directly into the egg. This procedure is recommendable if you have poor sperm morphology.

Lifestyle Changes

Some lifestyle changes that can help minimise the risk of infertility in men include:

Quit smoking cigarettes and marijuana.
Limit your coffee intake to three or fewer cups daily.
Quit drinking alcohol or limit your consumption to a maximum of 2 bottles weekly.
Adopt a healthy diet with more vegetables and fruits.
Keep a healthy body weight by exercising regularly.
Do not use performance-enhancing supplements such as anabolic steroids, which can reduce your sperm count, increasing the risk of infertility.
Make sure you get an adequate amount of sleep.
Minimise your exposure to harmful environmental toxins that can cause infertility.

These lifestyle changes can significantly improve sperm health and increase your chances of successful conception.

Unexplained Infertility in Men

Unexplained infertility in men is when there is no definitive cause of the fertility challenges experienced by the individual. Research shows that unexplained infertility in men accounts for approximately 25% of all male infertility cases. If you have unexplained infertility, all the regular fertility evaluation test results show optimal parameters. This condition can be challenging and stressful, especially if you aspire to start a family.

Diagnosing Unexplained Male Infertility

The primary challenge in diagnosing unexplained infertility is that semen analysis, the most applied assessment procedure, has inadequacies. The study can only scrutinise basic parameters like sperm count, morphology, and motility without clarifying any genetic abnormalities or functional aspects that may contribute to infertility.

Therefore, diagnosing unexplained infertility requires more extensive assessment, including a thorough physical examination, medical history, genetic testing, and hormonal profiling. Moreover, studies haven't exhaustively covered all potential male infertility causes, making diagnosis even more complicated.

Managing Unexplained Male Infertility

Addressing unexplained infertility calls for an all-inclusive approach focusing on all aspects of your health. Since lifestyle is a critical factor, you should consider adopting a healthy lifestyle and making healthy choices that can help improve your reproductive health. It is also vital to manage any chronic medical conditions that can lead to infertility.

Moreover, your doctor may prescribe specific medications and supplements to boost sperm quantity and quality. Antioxidants like coenzyme Q10 and vitamins C and E can also help improve sperm health and lower infertility risk.

Most importantly, psychological support is crucial in dealing with infertility. The frustration and uncertainty can take a toll on your emotional well-being. Therefore, it can be helpful to join local support groups or seek professional counselling to ease the emotional burden and improve your chances of successful conception.

Besides, remember that unexplained infertility does not necessarily mean you can't have children. You can still achieve your dream of starting your family through ART treatment.

Conclusion

Overall, male infertility is a complex reproductive health issue affecting many men of reproductive age. Symptoms may vary from one man to another, depending on the underlying causes. The potential causes of infertility in men range from sperm abnormalities and hormonal imbalances to genetic and lifestyle factors.

The available treatment options include hormone therapy, surgery, and ART treatment. Eating a balanced diet, quitting harmful habits, practising safe sex, and living a healthy lifestyle can help improve your reproductive health and lower infertility risk.

In cases where you and your partner have difficulties getting pregnant, you should consider consulting with a fertility healthcare provider to receive an evaluation. A fertility specialist will help you establish potential causes and recommend suitable treatment to improve your chances of having a baby.

References

De Kretser, D. M. (1997). Male infertility. The lancet, 349(9054), 787-790. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(96)08341-9/fulltext

Agarwal, A., Baskaran, S., Parekh, N., Cho, C. L., Henkel, R., Vij, S., & Shah, R. (2021). Male infertility. The Lancet, 397(10271), 319-333. Retrieved from https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32667-2/fulltext

Iammarrone, E., Balet, R., Lower, A. M., Gillott, C., & Grudzinskas, J. G. (2003). Male infertility. Best practice & research Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology, 17(2), 211-229. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521693402001475

Frequently Asked Questions

Fertility – Everything You Need to Know

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 09:23:17 GMT

Home I Blog I Fertility – Everything You Need to Know

Fertility – Everything You Need to Know

Statistics show that the average global fertility rate has dropped by half over the last 50 years, and everyone planning to have a baby should learn how to improve their conception chances.

What Is Fertility?

Fertility describes one’s ability to bear children. A fertile couple should be able to conceive within 12 months of regular unprotected sex. If they don’t, they could have problems with their level of fertility and should consider an evaluation with a reproductive health specialist to establish the cause.

To determine the female fertility status, the doctor may perform a screening to establish ovarian reserve and hormonal levels. A pelvic examination may also be necessary to check for structural features inhibiting fertility. In males, a semen analysis can help assess sperm health.

Female Fertility

Female fertility is a woman’s capability to get pregnant and give birth to her biological baby. A woman is most fertile during ovulation – when the ovaries release a mature ovum. However, the menstrual cycle is irregular in many cases, and it is difficult to predict the fertile days. Therefore, if you plan to have a baby, you should practice unprotected sex frequently to increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Male Fertility

Male fertility is a man’s ability to start a pregnancy with a female partner. Sperm health is the most significant determinant of a man’s fertility, which relies on aspects of the sperm such as shape, quantity, and movement.

Common Reasons for Infertility

There are several factors that may impact the fertility level of individuals. Below, you can find some of the most common causes of infertility for both women and males.

Reasons for female Infertility

Age : as women get older, their ovarian reserve reduces. Moreover, your chances of having unusual chromosomes and less viable eggs increase, making it difficult to become pregnant.

Lifestyle : if you are underweight, you could experience ovarian dysfunction. Also, strenuous exercise can negatively impact ovulation.
Uterine fibroids may hinder embryo implantation, impacting your fertility.
Cervical mucus complications : your cervical mucus becomes thinner during ovulation to allow sperm to swim, a failure which you may have difficulty conceiving.
Ovulation disorders such as hypothalamic amenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) can cause irregular or missed menstrual periods, lowering your chances of getting pregnant.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) : this upper female genital tract infection may damage the fallopian tubes, blocking the egg from passing through to the uterus
Endometriosis : this comes about when endometrial tissue develops outside the uterus. This condition can damage the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.

Reasons for Male Infertility

Age : sperm health declines with age. The quantity of viable sperm diminishes above 40 years, leading to infertility.
Lifestyle : excessive smoking and alcohol abuse can negatively affect sperm quality and lead to impotence. Also, being overweight is associated with reduced testosterone levels.
Stress : studies reveal that men who are undergoing a stressful life exhibit suboptimal sperm parameters
Drugs and medication : some drugs such as anabolic steroids, sulfasalazine, herbal remedies, chemotherapy medication, and illegal drugs like cocaine can affect the production and quality of semen.
Ejaculation disorders : having difficulty releasing semen during intercourse can limit your ability to make your partner pregnant
An infection, congenital disorder, or injury to the testicles can hinder spermatogenesis, affecting fertility.
Poor semen quality : if your ejaculate has a low sperm count, immotile or no sperm, your chances of conception will be minimal

Lifestyle Choices to Increase Fertility and Chances of Conception

Here are some of the natural ways to boost your reproductive health.

Protect Yourself Against STIs: Some infections like gonorrhoea and chlamydia are among the highest risk factors for fertility. Stick to one uninfected partner or use protection during sex.

Ensure You Are in Good Shape : Maintaining a healthy body weight helps promote regular ovulation and healthy sperm production.

Try to Minimise Stress Levels : Increased stress can impede human reproduction hormones (oestrogen, testosterone, and progesterone) and reduce your sexual function. Practise healthy and safe coping techniques, especially when trying to get pregnant.

Avoid or Quit Smoking: If you are smoking already, quit to prevent the effect of tobacco on your fertility.

Maintain a Healthy Meal Program: Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits full of antioxidants promotes improved sperm health.

Limit Vigorous Physical Exercise : Strenuous exercise can negatively impact hormone production and ovulation. However, moderate exercise is beneficial in increasing antioxidant enzyme levels that help protect sperm in men.

Cut Down on Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of ovulation disorders. Also, it can hamper sperm and testosterone production and lead to impotence in men. Moreover, alcohol can be harmful to your unborn baby.

Avoid Exposure to Toxins and Pollutants: Toxins and pollutants like lead and dry-cleaning solvents can affect your fertility. Wear protective gear when handling chemicals like pesticides to prevent skin contact.

Freeze Sperm/Eggs : Consult your doctor about collecting and freezing sperm or eggs to preserve your fertility before commencing cancer treatment (radiotherapy or chemotherapy).

Avoid Using Lubricants During Intercourse: Even if they don’t kill sperm, they might prevent them from swimming through the cervix.

Fertility Treatment – Egg Donation, IVF, and More

For couples or individuals who are trying to conceive, but are unable to do so due to fertility problems, there is a wide variety of fertility treatment options. Some of the most common ones include:

Hormones and Fertility Medication

Hormones and fertility drugs can help you regain regular ovulation and restore hormone levels. Moreover, counselling and medication can help treat ejaculation or erection disorders.

Surgery

If your fertility problem is due to fibroids, endometriosis, or sperm duct blockage, the doctor may recommend a surgical procedure.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure that involves directly placing sperm into the uterus with the help of a catheter. This placement maximizes the chances of fertilisation and is ideal if your sperm has low motility.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

With In Vitro-Fertilisation, the doctor collects sperm and a mature egg and then puts them close for fertilisation in the lab. After three to five days, they transfer the embryo to your womb.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

ICSI is comparable to IVF, except that in this case, the doctor injects one healthy sperm into an ovum. Your fertility doctor may recommend this procedure if the man displays poor sperm mobility.

Donor Sperm and/or Egg

If you have difficulty conceiving because either or both of you have a fertility issue, you can benefit from a donor egg or sperm with IVF treatment. Your fertility healthcare provider can help you identify a suitable sperm/ egg donor through their sperm and egg bank facility.

Donor Embryos

You may opt to use donor embryos if you haven’t succeeded in using the usual IVF. The treatment involves identifying a suitable frozen donor embryo, thawing, and transfer. However, the baby will be biologically related to you or your partner.

Why Is Knowledge Around Fertility So Important?

The global fertility rate is drastically declining. The leading causes of fertility problems are lifestyle and age-related. Avoiding harmful habits like smoking, drugs, and alcohol abuse and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help boost your fertility. Moreover, if you and your partner have tried conceiving unsuccessfully for one year, consult a reproductive endocrinologist for an evaluation. The specialist can help establish the cause and recommend a suitable fertility treatment to help with your journey to parenthood.

References

ESHRE Capri Workshop Group. (2005). Fertility and ageing. Human reproduction update, 11(3), 261-276. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/humupd/article/11/3/261/759255

Pincus, G. (2013). The control of fertility. Elsevier. Retrieved from https://books.google.no/books?hl=en&lr=&id=ehQlBQAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=fertility+&ots=HD3Vwi4B8H&sig=v_6i6D3z87E0Sn6hs6dFAr9oul4&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=fertility&f=false

Hirschman, C. (1994). Why fertility changes. Annual review of sociology, 20(1), 203-233. Retrieved from https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev.so.20.080194.001223

Frequently Asked Questions

Endometriosis Symptoms

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:20:31 GMT

Home I Blog I Endometriosis Symptoms

Endometriosis Symptoms

Globally, about 25% of reproductive-age women suffer from chronic pelvic pain, one of the vital endometriosis symptoms. Early detection can help reduce the impact of endometriosis. This article thoroughly explores the symptoms, enabling better recognition and understanding of endometriosis. It will also discuss the causes and treatments for endometriosis.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic disease that occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity in unwanted locations. This condition causes pelvic scarring and chronic inflammation. Moreover, endometriosis can lead to difficulty in getting pregnant.

Endometriosis is a common disorder affecting one in every ten girls and women of reproductive age globally. Consult your reproductive health provider if you experience:

Pelvic pain that heightens during menstrual periods
Severe period pain disrupting your daily life
Constipation, diarrhoea, or the presence of traces of blood in poo or pee during menstruation
Painful sex
Trouble conceiving
Painful pooping or peeing during menstruation

Early intervention can help diagnose endometriosis, prevent its advancement, and reduce the impact of the symptoms.

Endometriosis Symptoms

There are many symptoms of endometriosis, and the severity differs from one woman to another. Moreover, research revealed that the severity of the signs might not represent the seriousness of the disease. Let's take a detailed look at some common symptoms:

Pelvic Pain

One of the most common symptoms women with endometriosis experience is pelvic pain. The pain may persist past the periods and increase during sex, urination, or bowel movements. Analgesics and physical therapy can help reduce pain.

Painful Menstrual Cramps

Painful periods or dysmenorrhea are another most prevalent symptom of endometriosis. The pain may be frequent during, after, and even before your periods. Sometimes, it can be intense and spread out to your lower back through your legs, disrupting your daily life.

Pain During or After Intercourse

If you have endometriosis, you may experience severe pain during sex or afterward. Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia, results from endometrial tissue in locations like the bladder, ureter, bowel, fallopian tubes, and, in rare cases, the vagina.

Dyspareunia can rob you of your sexual intimacy and hurt your relationship. Open communication with your partner with the help and support of a fertility health specialist can help manage the symptoms and restore a healthy and happy sex life.

Heavy or Irregular Periods

All women have distinctive menstrual cycles; a typical situation for another woman might not be the case for you. Therefore, it may be difficult to tell when a particular symptom could mean something consequential.

Heavy periods are common but abnormal; it could indicate endometriosis or other gynaecological problems. You can tell you have an unusually heavy menstrual if:

Tampons or pads soak quickly (within one hour or shorter)
Bleeding goes on for more than a week
You feel like vomiting or nausea
You pass extensive blood clots

Women with endometriosis may also encounter spotting, post-period bleeding, or irregular periods. Non-period bleeding may be as heavy as actual menstrual periods. It can be helpful to have a gynaecological checkup when you experience these signs.

Pain With Bowel Movements

If the endometrial tissue develops in the rectum, intestines, bladder, or ureter, it can affect your urinary and bowel functions. As a result, you may experience bowel anomalies like bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or blood in poo. And you could feel pain when pooping.

If the impact is on the urinary function, you may feel pain while urinating or an increased urination frequency. You should seek advice from your doctor if you notice anything unusual. They can help detect underlying conditions and offer a timely solution.

Bloating or Nausea

Fluid retention and bloating are common bowel symptoms of endometriosis. A study revealed that more women suffering from endometriosis experience abdominal bloating than those without. Endometriosis may lead to belly bloating for several reasons, including:

Endometriosis can cause the formation of cysts with trapped blood in the ovaries, which may result in bloating.
Women with endometriosis are susceptible to fibroids and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which can cause bloating.
Endometriosis tissue can cause inflammation and swelling in the abdomen, leading to bloating and water retention.
Endometriosis usually causes digestive problems like constipation.

Infertility

Research shows that about 30% to 50% of women with endometriosis have infertility. Endometriosis can cause adhesion or scarring, which may block the fallopian tubes. As a result, the eggs will be unable to reach the womb, impairing your fertility.

Moreover, the inflammation caused by endometriosis may negatively impact implantation and egg quality. If you are struggling to get pregnant and suspect endometriosis, consulting your fertility healthcare provider can guide you on available treatment options.

Chronic Fatigue and Exhaustion

Sometimes, exhaustion and chronic fatigue can be a sign of endometriosis. Persistent pain, emotional stress, hormonal imbalances, and disrupted sleep due to discomfort can affect your well-being. Fatigue can have a significant impact on your daily life.

Overall, a multidisciplinary approach, including adequate rest, lifestyle changes, and emotional support, can help manage this condition.

Causes of Endometriosis

Although studies are ongoing to establish the exact cause of endometriosis, several factors are believed to contribute to its establishment. They include:

Age : endometriosis can affect any woman or girl with menstrual periods. However, it is most prevalent among women in their 30s and 40s. However, there are treatments to help increase your chances of conception.
Genetics : research has established that endometriosis runs in some families, meaning it could be a hereditary disease, and if your mother has endometriosis, for instance, you are likely to have it as well.
Direct cell implantation : sometimes, endometrial cells attach to other areas, such as the abdominal wall, after a surgical procedure like a hysterectomy or a caesarean section. The cells may eventually develop and form lesions.
Spread of cells: endometriosis may develop from endometrial stem cells spreading to other locations through the lymphatic system or blood.
Reverse/retrograde menstruation : Endometrial tissue flows backward into the pelvic cavity during reverse menstruation. The tissue may get implanted and grow, causing endometriosis.
Transformation of cells : other body cells outside the uterine cavity may transform into endometrial cells and grow into endometriosis tissue.

Treatments for Endometriosis

Endometriosis treatment aims to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life. There are various treatment options available. Your doctor will help identify which option is suitable depending on the severity of symptoms and your preferences. Some of the treatment options include;

Pain Medication

Your physician may prescribe you anti-inflammatory pills to help relieve pain. They may recommend using a combination of pain relievers in case of severe pain.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone treatments aim at reducing or stopping oestrogen production—some work by inducing temporary menopause. Oestrogen promotes the growth and shedding of endometrial tissue. If your body stops producing this hormone, the endometriosis tissue will shrink or stop growing, reducing the pain.

However, hormone-based treatments cannot help with adhesions. Moreover, they reduce your chances of conception while on treatment, but this effect is not permanent. The primary hormone therapies for endometriosis treatment include:

Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

This pill contains progesterone and oestrogen hormones. The medication works by suspending ovulation and making menstrual periods lighter. As a result, the periods are less painful if they occur.

Progestogens

Progestogens are artificial hormones that mimic the role of progesterone hormone to limit the growth of endometrium and endometriosis tissue. They include:

The contraceptive implant
The contraceptive injection
The intrauterine system (IUS)
Non-contraceptive progestogen tablets
Progestogen-only-pill

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) Analogues

GnRH analogues induce temporary menopause by reducing oestrogen hormone production, helping stop the advancement of endometriosis. Your doctor may also prescribe them as post-surgery (laparoscopic surgery) therapy to help lessen pain.

Surgery

The physician may recommend a surgical procedure to eliminate endometriosis tissue and relieve the symptoms. Also, surgery can help with adhesions or scar tissue. It would help if you discussed with your doctor the risks and benefits of each surgical procedure and your fertility preferences, and they will help you decide which option suits you. Some surgery options for endometriosis treatment include:

Laparoscopy or Keyhole Surgery

Laparoscopy involves removing endometriosis tissue or adhesions using special surgical instruments through minute cuts (incisions) in the skin. The surgeon applies anaesthesia during the procedure, and you won't feel pain. Laparoscopy can help improve your chances of getting pregnant.

Hysterectomy

This more complex surgical procedure involves removing the uterus and sometimes the ovaries. This procedure is more effective as endometriosis is unlikely to recur if the surgeon removes the cervix and ovaries.

However, hysterectomy is irreversible, and you should consider it only if you don't plan to have children and other treatment options aren't successful.

Alternative Therapies

There are pain and stress management techniques that you can use as complementary therapies alongside other treatments. They include the following:

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS): The technique involves electrically stimulating the skin above the pain source points to relieve pain. This therapy helps manage chronic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis.
Dietary changes: Research shows that adopting gluten-free diets rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and low nickel can help lessen the pain attributed to endometriosis.
Acupuncture therapy: some studies reported improved quality of life for endometriosis patients who use this therapy to manage pain.

Conclusion

Endometriosis is a condition that can significantly impact your day-to-day life and cause depression. Understanding endometriosis symptoms is crucial in reducing its impact. Some common signs of endometriosis include chronic pelvic pain, heavy or irregular periods, painful bowel movements, fatigue, and infertility. Treatment options available include hormone therapy, pain medication, and surgery. Moreover, lifestyle and dietary adjustments can help reduce the pain and impact of endometriosis. If you experience the symptoms outlined above, consult a reproductive endocrinologist. The physician can help identify a suitable treatment to improve your quality of life and chances of getting pregnant.

References

FEDELE, L., BIANCHI, S., BOCCIOLONE, L., DI NOLA, G. I. U. L. I. A. N. A., & Parazzini, F. (1992). Pain symptoms associated with endometriosis. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 79(5), 767-769. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/abstract/1992/05000/pain_symptoms_associated_with_endometriosis.27.aspx

Lemaire, G. S. (2004). More than just menstrual cramps: symptoms and uncertainty among women with endometriosis. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing, 33(1), 71-79. Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0884217503261085

Bulletti, C., Coccia, M. E., Battistoni, S., & Borini, A. (2010). Endometriosis and infertility. Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics, 27, 441-447. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10815-010-9436-1

Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment for Endometriosis

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 16:06:46 GMT

Home I Blog I Treatment for Endometriosis

Treatment for Endometriosis

Research shows that endometriosis contributes to approximately 25% to 50% of all female infertility cases globally, which makes endometriosis treatment a crucial topic of discussion. This article provides a detailed overview of treatment of endometriosis. Moreover, it discusses the prevalence of endometriosis, its symptoms, as well as its causes.

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the inner uterine wall or endometrium grows externally. Thus, the endometrium develops in the wrong locations where it is unwanted, such as:

Vagina
Outside and at the back of the uterus
Fallopian tubes
Diaphragm
Peritoneum
Ovaries
Rectum
Intestines
Bladder
Pelvic cavity

The tissue gets thicker, disintegrates and bleeds alongside each menstrual cycle. However, unlike the usual periods, the blood doesn’t find a way to exit the body and gets trapped.

This condition causes chronic inflammation that can lead to scarring in the pelvis. As a result, you may experience pain while urinating, having sex, or during bowel movements. Also, you may have difficulty trying to get pregnant.

Endometriosis is most prevalent among women of reproductive age and affects about 190 million women globally. This condition can significantly affect your life and may sometimes cause depression. However, there are therapies and treatments that can assist in relieving the impact.

Different types of endometriosis exist, characterised by the location of the tissue and how deep it penetrates. They include:

Superficial Peritoneal Endometriosis

Superficial peritoneal endometriosis occurs when the endometrial cells get implanted in the peritoneum, also known as the lining of the pelvic cavity.

Endometriomas

Endometriomas are fluid-filled dark cysts that form on the ovaries. They are also known as chocolate cysts because of their colour. The cysts often cause pain and can lead to infertility.

Deeply Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE)

The endometrial-like tissue invades the pelvic organs or other organs outside the pelvic cavity, such as the bladder, bowel, rectum, or vagina. DIE can cause severe pain, scarring, and adhesions (bands of fibrous tissue that stick organs together).

Abdominal Wall Endometriosis

Abdominal wall endometriosis is when the endometrial tissue grows in the abdomen, usually near a surgical scar, such as from a caesarean section or hysterectomy.

Endometriosis Treatment

While no known cure for endometriosis exists, treatment focuses on relieving the symptoms. The available options for treating endometriosis comprise hormone therapy, analgesics, and surgical procedures to eliminate endometriosis tissue.

The mode of treatment your doctor uses depends on several factors, such as the severity of symptoms, the extent of the condition, and your preferences and desires for fertility. Timely diagnosis and commencement of treatment are vital in managing the symptoms and controlling the impact of the disease. In further detail, let’s look at some of the most common alternative ways to treat endometriosis.

Hormone Treatment

Hormonal treatments aim to control the hormonal fluctuations that trigger the growth and shedding of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. These treatments include:

Birth control pills : Oral contraceptive drugs can help regulate the menstrual cycle and limit the development of endometrial tissue.
Progestin therapy : Progestin-only contraceptives, such as hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, or injections, can help suppress the growth of endometriosis.
Aromatase inhibitors : These are medications that block the enzyme responsible for the production of oestrogen. By inhibiting oestrogen production, these drugs reduce the growth of endometriosis and associated symptoms.
Gonadotropin hormone-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists : These medications induce a temporary menopause-like state, reducing oestrogen production and slowing down the growth of endometrial tissue. However, since this therapy causes menopause, it is usually used for a limited duration due to side effects like decreased bone density.
Danazol : This medication suppresses oestrogen and progesterone production, effectively reducing endometriosis symptoms. However, it may cause significant side effects and is usually considered a last resort option.

Conservative Surgery

In cases where medication does not effectively manage symptoms or when there are structural abnormalities, your physician may recommend surgery. Conservative surgery removes endometriosis lesions without interfering with your body organs.

The options include:

Laparoscopy : This minimally invasive procedure removes visible endometrial implants and scar tissue.

Laparotomy : In more severe cases, a larger incision may be necessary to remove deeply infiltrated endometrial tissue or cysts.

Hysterectomy With Removal of the Ovaries

This option involves removing the uterus and the ovaries. Your doctor may advise you to consider this when other treatments have failed, and you do not desire future fertility. Also, removing the ovaries reduces your risk of ovarian cancer.

However, if you are premenopausal, you will no longer have oestrogen protection, which may increase your risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. Therefore, your fertility doctor should help you evaluate your options and potential benefits and risks to make a suitable choice.

Pain Medication

Pain relievers like naproxen, sodium, or ibuprofen can be used to treat and alleviate mild to moderate pain associated with endometriosis. In more severe cases, stronger prescription pain medications may be prescribed.

What Are Some Symptoms of Endometriosis?

The signs of endometriosis may vary from person to person. Some people do not show any symptoms. Pelvic pain is the most noticeable, especially during sex, menstruation, defecation, or urination.

Other common symptoms may be:

Fatigue
Cramping or abdominal fullness
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Nausea or constipation
Irregular menstrual periods
Difficulty getting pregnant
Presence of blood in poo or pee during menstruation
Spotting between periods

Schedule a consultation with your reproductive health provider If you feel constant pain in your pelvis. Recording your symptoms before visiting the doctor can be helpful because some other conditions share similar signs.

What Is the Cause of Endometriosis?

Studies are still ongoing to establish the exact cause of endometriosis. However, presently, the most suspected factors contributing to the rise of the disease include the following:

Spread of Stem Cells

The endometrium stem cells multiply and move to other body parts through blood or the lymphatic system. The spread gives rise to endometriosis if the cells get implanted and grow in undesired locations.

Cellular Metaplasia

Cellular metaplasia is the transformation of cells into a different form than their original form. Cells outside the uterus undergo this change to become endometrium-like and start growing, causing endometriosis.

Retrograde Menstruation

Retrograde menstruation is when the menstrual bleeding flows backward and exits through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity during the menstrual period. As a result, endometrial-like cells may get implanted and grow outside the uterus, leading to endometriosis.

Deficiency in the Immune System

Problems with the body’s defence mechanism may cause failure to fight against ectopic endometrial cells. As a result, the cells will grow, leading to endometriosis.

Genetics

A recent global study revealed that some families have a history of endometriosis. Also, some ethnicities have more prevalence compared to others. This finding means you can inherit endometriosis from your family.

Implantation of Surgical Scar

Sometimes, endometrial cells may implant to an incision after a surgical procedure such as a caesarean section or hysterectomy. Then, they may develop into endometriosis.

Conclusion

Although endometriosis has no cure, hormone therapy, analgesics, and surgery can help manage symptoms and limit its advancement. The choice of treatment option depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms and whether you plan to get pregnant.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider specialising in endometriosis to determine the most suitable treatment approach based on your circumstances and goals. A multidisciplinary approach, including pain management, hormone therapy, and surgical interventions, may be necessary to effectively manage endometriosis symptoms and improve quality of life.

References

Olive, D. L., & Pritts, E. A. (2001). Treatment of endometriosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 345(4), 266-275. Retrieved from https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM200107263450407

Koninckx, P. R., Ussia, A., Adamyan, L., Wattiez, A., & Donnez, J. (2012). Deep endometriosis: definition, diagnosis, and treatment. Fertility and sterility, 98(3), 564-571. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0015028212017979

Schrager, S., Falleroni, J., & Edgoose, J. (2013). Evaluation and treatment of endometriosis. American family physician, 87(2), 107-113. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2013/0115/p107.html?sf25936725=1

Frequently Asked Questions

Bulky Uterus - Symptoms , Causes, and Treatment | Ovoria

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 09:56:35 GMT

Home I Blog I Bulky Uterus – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Bulky Uterus – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Studies show that a bulky uterus affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age globally. Thus, it is helpful to understand this condition and how it can impact your well-being.

This article provides a comprehensive overview to help you learn everything you need to know about a bulky uterus - including symptoms, its causes, and consequences of treatment options available.

What Is a Bulky Uterus?

A bulky uterus, or enlarged uterus, is the indistinct bulging in the uterine wall. Thus, the uterus becomes more extensive than usual. The uterus, or the womb, is a muscular and hollow organ between the urinary bladder and the rectum. A non-pregnant uterus has an inverted pear-shape, measuring approximately 8 cm long 5 cm wide, and has a thickness of 4cm. This size is equivalent to a clenched fist. During pregnancy, it stretches and expands to accommodate the growing embryo.

During labour, it contracts to push the foetus out of the birth canal. After approximately six weeks post-delivery, it returns to its pre-pregnant state and size.

A bulky uterus is more prevalent in perimenopause and menopause but can also occur in fertile years and may cause pain and anxiety.

What Are Some of the Symptoms of an Enlarged Uterus?

Symptoms of a bulky uterus depend on the cause and vary from person to person. The condition is sometimes asymptomatic, and you may not know if you have a bulky uterus. Often, it is detectable with a pelvic examination, such as an ultrasound. The most common symptoms include:

Unusual bloating or sensation of fullness and bulkiness around the belly.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding that's heavy and sometimes involves large blood clots.
Abnormalities of the menstrual cycle, such as prolonged menstrual periods and bleeding between periods
Pelvic pressure and pain
Frequent urination or incontinence due to its pressure on the bladder
Tiredness, paleness, and generalised body weakness
Fertility problems include difficulty conceiving, miscarriage, or premature delivery
Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
Pain in the back and legs
Mass around the lower abdomen
Post-menopausal bleeding

If you experience these symptoms, consult your fertility healthcare provider for an examination regarding the size of the uterus.

Causes of an Enlarged Uterus

There could be various reasons for an enlargement of the uterus besides pregnancy; they include:

Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyoma/Fibromyoma)

Fibroids are benign/non-cancerous growths or uterine smooth muscle wall tumours. Research shows that uterine fibroids affect approximately 80% of women. They appear like small lumps on the uterine wall and can grow to several pounds.

Uterine fibroids are more prevalent between ages 30-40. Besides, women with obesity or who are overweight have a higher risk of getting uterine fibroids.

Some uterine fibroids are asymptomatic. Others grow so big that the woman seems a few months pregnant. Symptoms of a bulky uterus with fibroids include:

Heavy bleeding(menorrhagia)
Bleeding between periods(metrorrhagia)
Firm mass around the pelvic region.
Excruciating lower back pain.
Discomfort during sexual intercourse(dyspareunia)
Frequent urge to urinate.

In most cases, fibroids do not require medical attention. However, if you experience extreme symptoms or discomfort, consult your gynaecologist. They will conduct a pelvic examination and recommend a suitable treatment procedure.

Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a condition where the uterine lining tissue, i.e., endometrium, grows directly into the muscular wall of the uterus. These growths cause widespread swelling and thickening of the uterus.

Adenomyosis primarily results from hormonal imbalance and affects women above 30 years who have never borne any children or are infertile. Adenomyosis is associated with:

Painful periods
Abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding

A routine examination can detect and manage this condition early.

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled or solid sacs that grow in or around the ovaries. They are usually asymptomatic and harmless and often heal on their own. However, they sometimes enlarge and rupture, leading to inflammation, heavy bleeding, and back pains. Your fertility healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat this condition and prevent complications.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a condition in which an imbalance between progesterone and oestrogen hormones prevents the normal shedding of the uterine lining during menstruation. This imbalance leads to abnormal or no menstruation, causing an enlarged uterus. Signs of PCOS include:

Infertility
Acne or oily face
Weight gain around the abdomen
Excess hair on the chest and stomach
Thick and dark skin patches on the neck, under the breasts, and armpits

The good news is that PCOS is manageable. Schedule an examination if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is a cancerous/malignant tumour on the inside lining of the uterus that mainly affects postmenopausal women. While its cause is unknown, it's curable when diagnosed early.

The first sign of endometrial cancer is vaginal bleeding that's not associated with menstruation, such as bleeding after menopause and spotting between periods. Other symptoms include pelvic pain, painful sex, and urination. Luckily, this condition is treatable through chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the stage just before menopause. The time leading to menopause is a common cause of an enlarged uterus due to fluctuating hormone levels. The uterus usually resumes its original size post-menopause. However, sometimes, the bulkiness persists, and you may require medical intervention if it causes discomfort.

Consequences – Impact of Bulky Uterus

Some of the impacts of a bulky uterus include:

Excessive Bleeding

Heavy and prolonged vaginal bleeding can lead to anaemia and generalised body weakness and hinder you from attending your favourite social events. Regular gynaecological check-ups can help detect and manage the symptoms early.

Pain and Pressure Around the Pelvic Region

You may experience pelvic pain, frequent urination, bloating, and swelling due to increased pressure on nearby organs. Your reproductive health specialist can help you find a solution to this problem.

Infertility and Pregnancy Problems

Studies have revealed that PCOS, fibroids, and adenomyosis increase the risk of infertility and pregnancy-related complications. You may experience premature labour or require caesarean section delivery. Fortunately, early diagnosis can help manage the underlying conditions and have a safe pregnancy.

Treatment for a Bulky Uterus

Treatment for an enlarged uterus focuses on managing symptoms and depends on underlying conditions and the severity of symptoms. The available treatment options include:

Medications

The doctor may prescribe contraceptives and hormonal therapies to reduce heavy bleeding. In addition, they may recommend Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and discomfort.

Surgery

In some cases, your physician may recommend a surgical procedure for the removal of the fibroids (myomectomy), removal of the uterus (hysterectomy), ovaries, fallopian tubes, and sometimes lymph nodes.

Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE)

UAE is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision to block blood flow to uterine fibroids, causing them to shrink.

Lifestyle Changes

Some lifestyle changes can help you manage and reduce the risk of an enlarged uterus. They include stress management, physical exercise, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol intake.

Conclusion

A bulky uterus is a common problem many perimenopausal women experience. Although this condition is often asymptomatic, its effects can negatively impact your fertility and disrupt your daily life. The signs of an enlarged uterus include frequent urge to urinate, pelvic pains, heaviness around your pelvic region, and difficulty conceiving.

You can reduce your risk of an enlarged uterus by adopting lifestyle changes such as engaging in physical exercise and limiting alcohol and caffeine. Scheduling regular pelvic exams can help detect the symptoms earlier, treat underlying conditions, and prevent long-term complications

References

Harmanli, O. H., Gentzler, C. K., Byun, S., Dandolu, V., & Grody, M. H. T. (2004). A comparison of abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy for the large uterus. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 87(1), 19-23. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0020729204002486

LevGur, M. (1996). The enlarged uterus. Relation of uterine size to symptoms and histopathologic findings. The Journal of Reproductive Medicine, 41(3), 166-170. Retrieved from https://europepmc.org/article/med/8778414

Salvig, J. D., Petersen, K. R., & Møller, B. R. (2005). Acute abdominal pain caused by torsion of an enlarged non-pregnant uterus. Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology, 25(1), 81-82. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/01443610400025689

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Symptoms Of Chemical Pregnancy?

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 12:48:44 GMT

What Are The Symptoms Of Chemical Pregnancy?

A chemical pregnancy is a miscarriage that occurs shortly after a positive pregnancy test. Nearly 50-70% of miscarriages are due to chemical pregnancies. Chemical pregnancies can be identified by bleeding around the time of a regular period. In the first trimester, the fetus is too small for an ultrasound to detect any chromosomal abnormalities.

For women who are trying to get pregnant, a chemical pregnancy may go unnoticed in the early stage as it mimics a normal menstrual period. But for women who are keeping track of their ovulation, they will notice changes in their body and will know that they have had an abortion.

Some women notice the signs of chemical pregnancy within a few days after conception. Those signs include:

Low levels of HCG hormone;
Delay in menstruation, particularly if the woman has regular periods;
Positive pregnancy test;
Menstrual bleeding;
Abdominal and pelvic pain;
A light period, particularly if woman has always heavy periods.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor for professional medical advice.

What Are the Causes of Bloating During Ovulation?

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 13:28:34 GMT

Home I Blog I What Are the Causes of Bloating During Ovulation?

What Are the Causes of Bloating During Ovulation?

Ovulation can cause a wide range of symptoms, from positive ones like heightened senses, higher energy levels, and sex drive to uncomfortable ones like bloating, breast tenderness, and one-sided abdominal pain.

Ovulation may produce a wide range of symptoms. Some women experience heightened senses, increased energy and sex drive, and optimism during their ovulatory phase. Other women report bloating, breast tenderness, and one-sided abdominal pain.

Ovulation is the release of an egg from your ovaries, which travels down the fallopian tubes and is ready to be fertilized by a sperm. In most women, ovulation occurs between days 11 and 21 of their menstrual cycles. We may experience bloating during ovulation typically around days 11 to 14 of our cycles.

During ovulation, bloating may occur due to an increase in estrogen levels before the luteinizing hormone surge. The luteinizing hormone surge happens just before ovulation.

One of the leading causes of bloating during ovulation is the hormonal changes that occur during and after ovulation. Hormonal changes may play havoc with your digestive tract. Because of high estrogen levels, the body may retain more water. Estrogen is produced by a luteinizing hormone which provides the body to release an egg. Bloating during ovulation is due to these changes in the body.

During the monthly cycle, many women may gain some weight due to fuller breasts and ovulation bloating. A woman can retain extra water during this time due to hormonal changes that cause increased sodium retention. This leads to bloating—and a possible weight gain—during ovulation.

What Are the Symptoms of Bloating During Ovulation?

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 09:23:11 GMT

Home I Blog I What Are the Symptoms of Bloating During Ovulation?

What Are the Symptoms of Bloating During Ovulation?

First of all, let’s define what is ovulation. Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovaries, which may or may not be fertilized by sperm. If fertilized, the egg will travel to the uterus and implant to develop into a pregnancy. However, if left unfertilized, the egg will disintegrate. Having a knowledge of ovulation can help a woman to achieve or to prevent pregnancy.

During ovulation, you may gain some weight due to fuller breasts and fluid retention in your belly. This weight gain is temporary and will go away after your period starts. You might crave salty foods like chips, cheese and processed foods during ovulation. Eating a lot of these salty foods can cause bloating and weight gain.

Apart from bloating, you may experience other symptoms and signs of ovulation that include:

Your vaginal discharge may increase and appear clear, stretchy, and wet. It may be present in your underwear or you may notice it while wiping after using the washroom.
Changes in basal body temperature (BBT): this temperature may rise slightly after ovulation. A woman can check her BBT using a thermometer at the same time each morning.
The cervix changes position at ovulation, becoming softer, higher, open and wet. However, you may have trouble identifying the position of the cervix without practice. To ensure that you notice these changes in your cervix, check it regularly.

What Information Can You Find Out In The Egg Donor Profile?

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:35:57 GMT

Home I Blog I What Information Can You Find Out In The Egg Donor Profile?

What Information Can You Find Out In The Egg Donor Profile?

The decision of undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation treatment can be emotionally complicated for recipients, especially when it comes to the process of choosing an egg donor. Finding the right and perfect egg donor can be challenging for some couples.

What Are the Advantages of Ovoria Egg Donor Catalogue :

Why is it better to choose Ovoria Egg Donor Bank? We offer:

220 egg donor profiles
Egg donors with photos
Anonymous and non-anonymous egg donors
Online and easy egg donor search
Transportation of oocytes to the partner clinic
Guarantees for intended parents

Our guarantee policy is as follows:

for a set of 6 oocytes, we guarantee one embryo of day 3 or 1 blastocyst (AA / AB / BA / BB)

for a set of 8 oocytes, we guarantee two embryos of day 3 or 1 blastocyst (AA / AB / BA / BB)

for a set of 12 oocytes, we guarantee three embryos of day 3 or 2 blastocysts (AA / AB / BA / BB)

The Egg Donor Profile

The egg donor profile includes three sections: donor personality, medical history and family overview.

In the section on donor personality, patients can get acquainted with such information as:

Information about the donor
Appearance (eye colour, hair colour, hair type, height, weight, body build, BMI)
Education (favourite subject in school, educational level, current occupation)
Clinical (blood group, genetics, vitrification protocol)
Talents and interests
Favourites (favourite colour, food, the season of the year, holiday)
Live credo

The medical section will provide information about infectious diseases and also personal health records, which consist of such questions as:

Do you currently have any allergies?
Are you currently breastfeeding?
Has anyone in your family, including you, experienced recurring and chronic physical symptoms that a physician has not evaluated yet?
How is your vision (without glasses)?
Do you wear glasses or contact lenses?
Do you have abnormal hearing?
What is the condition of your teeth?
If you ever worn braces or a retainer?
Are you a vegetarian?
Have you ever had surgery?
If you ever had hospitalization not previously mentioned?
If you ever had any complications resulting from surgery?
If you have or any member of your family had malignant hyperthermia or high fevers after surgery, injury or exercise?
If you have had any primary radiation or x-ray exposure?
Have you ever lived in Chernobyl or the surrounding areas since 1986?
Have you ever visited the exclusion zone?
If you ever had a blood transfusion, when?
Have you got any tattoos?
Have you ever smoked cigarettes?
If you take any medications at present, what are they?
If you have ever been advised to have any diagnostic testing, hospitalization or surgery that was not completed, please explain
If you ever had any severe trauma, please explain
If you have gained or lost more than 10 pounds in the last year?
If you have ever participated in mental health counselling?
What kind of alcoholic beverages do you drink?
Have you ever used intravenous drugs?
Have you ever been with a partner who may have used intravenous drugs?
Have you been treated for a substance, alcohol abuse, or addiction problem?
If you have any legal cases pending against you?

If you have problems finding your perfect egg donor, contact us, and we will provide all information about the process of choosing an egg donor. We will respond to you within 24 hours

You can contact us via phone:

United Kingdom: +44 203 807 90 07
Canada: +1 613 416 90 70
France: +33 17 997 89 88
Spain: +34 91 008 29 88
Brazil: +55 613 181 04 88

Egg Donation Process: Everything You Need to Know About Egg Donation

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:17:49 GMT

Home I Blog I Egg Donation Process: Everything You Need to Know About Egg Donation

Egg Donation Process: Everything You Need to Know About Egg Donation

Egg donation is a fantastic opportunity for couples struggling with infertility problems more than 12 months after unprotected sexual intercourse.

What is Egg Donation?

Egg donation is the process of assisted reproductive treatment where a woman donates eggs to enable another woman to conceive. Usually, this type of treatment involves In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) technology with fresh or frozen eggs.

The Egg Donation Process

The process of egg donation consists of 5 steps:

Step 1. Matching

You can book the oocytes at Ovoria Egg Bank by filling in the registration form on our website . By creating an account on our website, you will access the egg donor profiles. After choosing an egg donor, our specialist will confirm that the donor is available, and the process starts. Then the woman will get a list of all the examinations she needs to have.

Step 2. Screening and monitoring for the donor and recipients

During this step, the doctor will begin ovarian stimulation with the donor, but meanwhile, it's time to prepare the uterine lining with a hormone called Estradiol Valerate. Our doctors will control this process remotely, and at the end of this, female patients will have to do ultrasound scans.

Step 3. Egg retrieval

During egg retrieval, also known as egg collection, the egg will be retrieved from the donor and fertilized by injection of the partner's sperm. The sperm used can either be freshly delivered in the clinic or a frozen sample from previous delivery. After fertilization, embryos are cultivated for up to 5 days and then ready for transfer to the recipient's uterus.

Step 4. Embryo transfer

During the embryo transfer stage, the doctor will retrieve the egg from the lab and insert it into the uterus of the intended mother with the goal of starting a pregnancy.

Step 5. Pregnancy test

Two weeks after the previous stage, the intended mother will have to do a blood test for HCG. If it's positive – the treatment was successful and the patient is pregnant. The doctor will prescribe her medicines until your ultrasound scan for the next two weeks.

When do Women Need Donor Eggs?

Egg donation can be helpful in a few cases:

In case of premature menopause (defined as premature ovarian failure)
If the woman was diagnosed with reduced ovarian reserve
In situations when ovaries were removed or damaged
If a woman has a genetic or chromosomal abnormality
When there is an inadequate or no response to previous stimulations

What Are Requirements For Egg Donors?

Our egg donors meet the following criteria:

young fertile women at the age of 18-32
perfectly physically and mentally healthy
thoroughly screened and rescreened
without detrimental habits or addictions
with proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child)
without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs

For more extensive information, you can read about our egg donor requirements in detail.

The Process of Selecting Egg Donors

The first visit consists of:

ultrasound check to assess ovarian reserve, signs of recent ovarian stimulation, or pathology that contraindicates hormonal treatment;
blood draw for AMH;
Small talk with the psychologist and doctor about the whole process of donation.

The donor will take a complete blood count, blood type, and Rh test. Moreover, her blood sample will be used for extensive genetic screening. It is required to exclude the possibility of the donor being a carrier of genetic illnesses inherited by a future child.

Second visit: Interview with a donor and Psychological assessment

If the level of AMH is enough for egg donation, donor candidates will complete a comprehensive questionnaire, including details about family medical history. The donor will also undergo a psychological assessment to ensure her emotional stability. One of the mandatory requirements is signing a contract with the medical centre about participating in the egg donation program. In this way, the donor gets informed about the whole procedure, her rights, and her obligations. Moreover, by signing the contract, she gives consent to donate the oocytes and agrees to follow the doctor's prescriptions, as well as to take the necessary medical tests.

The gynecological evaluation of the donor includes:

General physical exploration
PAP-test
Vaginal smear
PCR, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (genital swab)

Blood screening : The donor's blood will be analyzed, and the complete blood count, blood type, and Rh will be tested. Moreover, her blood sample will be used for extensive genetic screening. It is required to exclude the possibility of the donor being a carrier of genetic illnesses inherited by a future child.

Monitoring & Stimulation : The donor will have several appointments with the doctor for an ultrasound check to make sure she is ready to begin two weeks of hormonal medications. If her ovaries are prepared, she will start taking stimulation medications injected under the skin through tiny needles. They are required to facilitate the maturation of more than one egg. There will also be about 3-5 additional clinical visits to monitor the donor's ovarian response to the medications.

Egg retrieval : After about 10-13 days of controlled ovarian stimulation, the donor will be scheduled for egg retrieval. The day and time of egg retrieval are based on her ovarian response to the medications. The procedure takes place under general anesthesia. The oocytes are retrieved vaginally under ultrasound control. Because of the anesthesia, the whole process will be painless for the donor. On the day of egg retrieval, she is recommended to be off work and rest.

Post-retrieval period : After egg retrieval, the donor may feel some cramping or fatigue similar to the period symptoms. If this is the case, she can take painkillers without a doctor's prescription. Most donors get back to work and normal activities within a day or two after egg retrieval.

Reimbursement : The donor will receive her reimbursement for the donation cycle on egg retrieval or the next day once we get an embryological report.

The Process of Screening Egg Donors

All our egg donors have been selected and screened by Ovoria quality requirements and operational procedures. According to the international ART associations guidelines, we examine donors by the EU-Tissue Directive 2004/23/CE and 2006/17/EC standards.

Lab and diagnostics tests

Blood type, Rh factor
HIV-1 Ag р24 and summary antibodies, including group О and HIV-2 (ECLIA)
Treponema pallidum, summary antibodies
PCR HBV (Real-time)
PCR HCV (Real-time)
PCR, Chlamydia trachomatis (genital swab)
PCR. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (genital swab)
Сomplete blood count
Coagulogram
CMV, IgМ
CMV, IgG
AMH, MIS
LH
Estradiol (E2)
FSH
Vaginal smear
PAP-test
Psychological counselling

Genetic tests

Karyotype
Cystic Fibrosis
Fragile X
SMA

Egg Donor Genetic Testing

Ovarian egg donor bank offers the possibility of Extended egg donor testing, which is an extensive analysis with a 400+ panel carrier screen identifying specific autosomal recessive and X-linked diseases. This information can help patients learn about the risks of having a child with specific genetic conditions. NGS sequencing of 418 genes (not hos-spon mutations) of most common recessive genetic disorders, including CNV for 33 genes:

Cx26
CFTR
PAH
SMN1
DMD
CYP21A2
FANCA
FANCY
GBA
HBA1,2
HEXA

COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 testing is mandatory for all egg donors listed in our database. The test is carried out twice during a stimulation cycle – within 30 days before oocyte retrieval and on the day of oocyte retrieval. COVID-19 testing is performed with a rapid Antigen Test for SARS-CoV-2. We also can perform PCR testing upon request.

Legal implications for egg donors in Ukraine

First of all, there is a list of reasons why recipients should choose Ukraine as a destination for In Vitro Fertilization with donor eggs:

Affordable cost
Perfect European type of egg donor
Egg donation is legally allowed in Ukraine
The opportunity to determine healthy embryos with PGD testing
Modern clinic with an experienced medical team

A method of assisted reproductive treatment (ART) where a woman donates her eggs to another person who has a fertility problem. According to the Order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine № 787:

Egg and sperm donation is anonymous
The surrogacy process is legal
The age for IVF treatment needs to be no older than 51 years
Same-sex relationships are not allowed to be treated
Single women can be treated
Embryos and eggs can be stored indefinitely

For more detailed information, you can visit our page addressing egg donors in Ukraine .

Donate your eggs

If you want to help other couples start a family and feel a sense of empowerment through enabling others to conceive, you can donate your eggs at Ovoria. Additionally, there are no negative long-term effects associated with the process. For more information, you can either contact us or visit our website.

Use donated eggs at Ovoria

If you suffer from a diminished ovarian reserve, genetic diseases, or any other factor that results in the inability to conceive naturally, we encourage you to undergo fertility treatment with donated eggs at Ovoria. You can visit our website or contact us for more information about the program.

Egg donation in the UK vs. Egg donation in Ukraine

Although egg donation is legal in the UK, there are several reasons why one should consider travelling to Ukraine for treatment. Firstly, the costs are often considerably lower than in the UK. Additionally, there are many reputable clinics in the country that have medical teams with years of experience in the field. Lastly, success in Ukraine is among the highest in Europe, making it an excellent choice for couples who are considering egg donation programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Vitro Fertilization Treatment: Everything You Need to Know About IVF

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 11:36:58 GMT

In Vitro Fertilization Treatment: Everything You Need to Know About IVF

Being pregnant is the real miracle of life. For some couples, having a child is a tremendous sensation and change in their life. But sometimes, couples can face problems with conceiving and then making a dream, in reality, can be challenging for them. That's why assisted reproductive technologies suggest so many fertility treatments for couples who are dreaming about family. For some couples, In Vitro Fertilization can be salvation in infertility issues and transform their dream into reality.

What is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)?

In Vitro Fertilisation is a part of Assisted Reproductive Technologies and this fertility treatment works by removing eggs, extracting sperm cells, and then manually combining the eggs and sperm in a laboratory dish. The embryo is then transferred to the uterus.

IVF procedure involves five main stages:

Ovarian stimulation: during the first step, a woman takes medication to produce healthy eggs. Most months, women make only one egg, but with IVF, they stimulate 10-15 eggs to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.
Egg retrieval: the next step of IVF treatment involves the harvesting of eggs. Egg retrieval is done while a woman sleeps under a general anaesthetic. Once completed, an embryologist examines the eggs under a microscope to count them.
Fertilization: the next thing that happens is the fertilization of eggs and sperm. The timing is crucial here. The eggs are retrieved, and then, after a few hours, they're fertilized with sperm. There are two ways to fertilize an egg: Conventional insemination or ICSI. In conventional insemination, the sperm is placed in a dish containing an egg to fertilize on their own. In ICSI, one sperm is injected into the cytoplasm of a fertilized egg using a needle.
Blastocyst culture: once the sperm fertilizes the egg, it becomes an embryo. The embryo is then placed in a unique incubator by an embryologist, where the embryo is provided with the proper condition to develop and grow. Adequate monitoring of the embryo is done for 5-6 days.
Embryo transfer: the final step is Embryo Transfer. Once the embryo develops to the blastocyst stage, it is implanted using a small catheter tube into the uterus. It usually takes place within 3-5 days after fertilization. Once the embryo is transferred to the uterus, it is allowed to the implant, and a blood test is carried on after two weeks to measure the hormone HCG.

Who Should Consider IVF Treatment?

The inability to get pregnant is increasingly common. Infertility can be a problem for both young and older women; it's more common for older women to have trouble conceiving. Besides age, there is a list of possible reasons for undergoing IVF:

Endometriosis: endometriosis is a condition when tissue from the inside of the uterus starts growing elsewhere in your body. The extra tissue can cause scarring and Inflammation that affects nearby organs, including your ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. A lack of ovulation characterizes it because of the imbalance in male and female hormones.
Blocked fallopian tubes: the fallopian tubes, also known as the oviducts, are the female reproductive organs that connect the ovaries to the uterus. They carry an egg from the ovaries to the uterus during ovulation every month. If the fallopian tubes are blocked, sperm cannot reach the egg, or if an egg is fertilized, it cannot get to the uterus. A common cause of blocked fallopian tubes is scar tissue, infection, and adhesion. If there's any damage or blockage in the fallopian tube, the sperm and egg may not meet correctly.
Premature ovarian failure : ovarian failure, also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when the ovaries lose their normal function of releasing a mature egg every month. A woman diagnosed with ovarian failure may have menopause earlier than the average.
Uterine fibroids: uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours in the uterus. They occur in women during their childbearing years and are very common. Fibroids may grow on the wall of the uterus.
Low sperm quality: a common cause of infertility is a low sperm count and motility. These issues, coupled with poor sperm quality, represent 90% of all infertility cases in men and anywhere from 20% to 40% in couples.
Low quality of eggs: sometimes infertility can result from egg quality problems caused by ageing or illness. In these cases, donor eggs can be used to develop embryos, then transferred to the woman's reproductive system.
Unexplained infertility : secondary infertility is an incapability to conceive or carry a healthy pregnancy to live after previously giving birth. It usually refers to couples trying to conceive for six months to one year.

What are The Possible Risks of IVF?

In Vitro Fertilisation has many advantages and allows making a dream of having a child into reality, but as with all medical procedures and treatments, this treatment can have risks and complications. Before couples decide to undergo IVF, getting familiar with all possible risks and difficulties connected with IVF treatment is better. There is a list of possible complications associated with fertility treatment:

Ectopic pregnancy
Multiple pregnancies
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
Fertility medication side effects

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome is one of the complications associated with infertility treatment, especially in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). That's why recipients who undergo IVF need to be aware of potential risks. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is an exaggerated response to excess hormones in women undergoing fertility drugs. The most common cause is taking injectable fertility medications for ovarian stimulation when it occurs. OHSS causes the ovaries to swell and become painful. The signs and symptoms of OHSS vary from mild to severe cases. The symptoms of mild OHSS include:

Mild and severe addominal pain
Nausea
Bloating
Severe pain
Mild weight gain

Some women are at higher risk and have more chances of developing OHSS if:

They suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
They are under 30 years old
The suffered OHSS before
The have 20 or more eggs collected

Ectopic pregnancy: ectopic pregnancy is another risk of fertility treatments as In Vitro Fertilization and Intrauterine Insemination. An ectopic pregnancy is a condition in which an embryo's development occurs outside the womb. The majority of ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tubes. But the fallopian tubes are incapable of holding a developing embryo, so it cannot develop properly.

Multiple pregnancy: multiple pregnancies is when the mother carries more than one baby in her womb. The most common type of multifetal pregnancy is twins, where two babies develop simultaneously in the womb. One in every twin pregnancy results in at least one baby dying or having a significant disability, and twin pregnancy increases the mother's risk of most pregnancy-related health problems.

There are a few problems associated with multiple pregnancies:

Anaemia
Miscarriage
Postpartum haemorrhage
Pre-eclampsia
Gestational diabetes

Miscarriage: unfortunately, there is evidence that pregnancies conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF) carry a slightly increased risk of miscarriage and congenital disabilities than natural pregnancies. According to a study by the American Pregnancy Association, there is a 15% to 20% chance of Miscarriage in healthy women who conceive naturally. Due to factors like maternal age, egg quality, and uterine abnormalities, women with IVF pregnancies are at higher risk of miscarriage.

Fertility medication side effects: there is a list of possible medications side effects:

Hot flashes
Nausea
Bloating
Feeling irritable
Headaches
Blurred vision
Changes in cervical mucus
Rarely multiple births
Swelling at the injection site

What Tests are Done Before The IVF Procedure?

When couples decide to have In Vitro Fertilisation treatment while visiting a fertility specialist, they will get a list of necessary tests before beginning the treatment. But in the beginning, the woman will need to undergo ovarian reserve testing. This testing consists of a few hormone blood tests that will allow understanding how many eggs the woman has. Also, during these tests, women need to test such hormones as AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone), FSH (Follicle- Stimulating hormone) and estradiol (estrogen steroid hormone). During the Follicle -Stimulating hormone test, the fertility specialist will get information about the quality of a woman's eggs. Besides these tests, there is a list of possible difficulties that couple need to undergo:

Testing for infectious diseases
Hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (HyCoSy)
Semen evaluation
Test for prolactin

Based on the results of tests, the fertility specialist and couple will choose safe and more effective fertility treatment for a couple.

How Can You Get Pregnant Naturally?

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 14:46:02 GMT

Home I Blog I How Can You Get Pregnant Naturally?

How Can You Get Pregnant Naturally?

It can be like taking a roller-coaster ride when you have trouble getting pregnant. You're excited to begin the journey of trying to get pregnant. But when you get your period every month, it may be disheartening and frustrating. And this is a common problem.

According to the research, around 84% of couples have problems conceiving after at least 12 months of regular unprotected sex.

But if the couple is trying to conceive for a few months and simultaneously thinking about infertility problems, there are some tips for getting pregnant. Using these tips will not guarantee getting pregnant but can increase the chances of pregnancy.

Some tips can increase your opportunity for getting pregnant faster and naturally.

Since fertility problems often occur in both men and women, both partners should follow the tips in the article.

Knowing your ovulation

For a woman, it is essential to know when her ovulation occurs for getting pregnant or prevent pregnancy to see when a woman has the most fertile window during the cycle. The most effective and natural way for conceiving is tracking ovulation. Thanks to this information, a woman can have sex on the few days before and when she has ovulation. Also, it is essential to recognize and notice the signs of ovulation while planning the family. Every woman is different, so the symptoms of ovulation can vary, but there is a list of possible symptoms of ovulation:

Breast tenderness
High senses
Abdominal pain
Increased libido
Headaches
Nausea
Increased basal body temperature:
Fertile cervical pain

If you tend to have a regular menstrual cycle, you likely ovulate two weeks before your period or fourteen days before. Tracking ovulation is necessary for tracking a woman's health to know a fertile window and recognize problems with a woman's body.

There is a list of possible techniques for monitoring and predicting ovulation;

Tracking a basal body temperature
Tracking changes in cervical mucus
Ovulation Predictor Kits
Using saliva ferning tests

Doing preconception checkup

Before getting pregnant, you may want to get a checkup, including chickenpox, measles, and hepatitis tests. Your doctor may also recommend supplements, including folic acid, for pregnant women. It would be best if you got sufficient folate before getting pregnant--it's essential during the initial months of pregnancy. It prevents congenital disabilities, so taking a folate supplement is necessary.

Maintaining a healthy weight

If you are overweight, you may have trouble conceiving. In women, excess fat produces more estrogen, which interferes with ovulation. Research suggests that overweight women can take twice as long to conceive as women with average weight. Male obesity can further reduce a couple's likelihood of conceiving by interfering with sperm viability, concentration, and male hormones. It is also essential to maintain an average weight to conceive naturally.

Quitting smoking

The link between smoking and getting pregnant is firmly connected. Smoking can also affect female and male reproductive systems, leading to infertility problems. According to the Journal of Biosocial Science studies, smoking affects conceiving and increases chances for conception. Moreover, smoking can increase the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy. Healthy pregnancy always begins with a fertilized egg and attaches to the uterus lining, but in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg can connect to the fallopian tube, cervix or ovary within the abdominal area.

Moreover, ectopic pregnancy can show the positive result of pregnancy tests, providing false results. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, every 50 couples can suffer from ectopic pregnancy at least once during their lifetime. Besides having an ectopic pregnancy, there is an increased risk of having miscarriages or infant morality because of changes in the female reproductive system. Smoking can also affect the uterus, which will lead to difficulty with embryo implantation to the uterus. But besides the impact on the female reproductive system, smoking can also affect male reproductive health and provide low sperm motility, leading to infertility problems and issues with conceiving because of chances of sperm quality and count. In the case of planning a family and getting pregnant, it is essential to quit smoking to increase the chances of getting pregnant in a natural way. If the couple has been trying to get pregnant for more than 12 months with the unprotected sexual course, it is time to visit a fertility specialist for finding out the reasons for problems with conceiving.

Reducing caffeine

The European multicenter study shows that consuming too much caffeine can provide problems with conception in natural ways. S what is the link between caffeine and issues with getting pregnant? Caffeine can affect the body and health with many receptors, such as adrenergic, serotonin, adenosine; during pregnancy, caffeine can affect the woman's uterus. Some studies also show the impact of caffeine on spontaneous abortion and problems with fetal growth. It doesn't mean that women need to stop drinking caffeine, but at least she needs to reduce the amount of caffeine to 3oo mg/d.

Reducing alcohol

According to the studies, drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause miscarriages or even stillbirth and provide intellectual abnormalities in unborn babies. FASDs is a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder that can have an unborn baby whose mother was drinking all during pregnancy. This condition can lead to behavioural and intellectual disabilities or problems such as low body weight, problems with memory, low IQ, problems with coordination, disabilities with ineffectuality, problems with sleeping, problems with bones, heart or kidneys, problems with learning, language delays.

Why Prenatal Care Is So Important and What Does It Include?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 11:34:23 GMT

Home I Blog I Why Prenatal Care is So Important and What Does it Include?

Why Prenatal Care is So Important and What Does it Include?

Pregnancy time is one of the most beautiful journeys, and every woman dreams of giving a new life at least once in her lifetime. But for having a healthy pregnancy and natural delivery, it is essential to maintain a healthy immune system.

Pregnancy is a happy, beautiful and life-changing experience for women. Though the body undergoes drastic changes to accommodate a new life and nurture it, Pregnant women are at higher risk of getting sick quickly because of their weaker immune systems. Pregnancy can have an impact on the immune system. During pregnancy, the woman's immune system is suppressed so that her partner's sperm, embryo, or fetus isn't rejected as a threat. As a result, the white blood cells, which are the cells of the immune system, lose their capability to fight against the body's enemies, such as infectious diseases and foreign invaders.

Women are more susceptible to illness during pregnancy. This can affect you and your growing fetus as well. That is why you need to maintain a healthy immune system during pregnancy.

There are some tips for prenatal care:

Maintaining a healthy weight.

Gaining weight is typical during pregnancy, but gaining too much weight can be dangerous for a woman and her child. What are the risks of gaining too much weight? It is important to remember that a woman hasn't to go on a special diet not to harm the baby's health during pregnancy. A balancing and healthy diet is the best option for a pregnant woman. The possible risks of gaining too much weight can be connected with complications and medical conditions such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women with overweight can have possible risks of having diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy. Moreover, overweight women may have a caesarean birth. The question is, how much eight is healthy to gain during pregnancy?

Here is recoomendation for gainhg weight during pregnancy:

Underweight (BMI < 18.5): Gain 28 — 40 lbs (about 1 lb/week)
Normal weight (BMI 18.5 — 24.9): Gain 25 — 35 lbs (about 1 lb/week).
Overweight (BMI 25 — 29): Gain 15 — 25 lbs (about 0.6 lb/week)
Obese (BMI > 30): Gain 11 — 20 lbs (about 0.5 lb/week)

There is a list of possible complications connected with overweight during pregnancy:

Increased risk of having hypertensive disorders
Increased risk of having preeclampsia
Increased risk of having diabetes
Increased risk of having caesarian birth
Increased risk of having a large-for-gestational-age infant
Increased risk of having complications with labour and delivery

But gaining too little weight during pregnancy can also provide complications. There is a list of possible complications:

Increased risk of delivering a baby with a small weight
Increased risk of having a premature baby

What can a woman do for having a healthy weight gaining during pregnancy?

Having a healthy and balancing dieting
Doing regular exercises
Reducing stress
Having proper sleep
Staying hydrating

Taking prenatal vitamins. Prenatal vitamins are supplements created for pregnant women with the necessary vitamins and minerals during pregnancy. But it doesn't mean that every pregnant woman needs to take prenatal vitamins. After consultation with a doctor, women can get a prescription for vitamins to fill gaps.

Which vitamins can a pregnant woman need during pregnancy?

Folic acid
Iron
Omega-3
Vitamin D
Vitamin C
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Vitamin B12
Zins
Magnesium
Calcium
Choline

Of course, taking prenatal vitamins is a fantastic opportunity to fulling the gap in your diet, but it is important to take prenatal vitamins according to doctor recommendations. Also, it is essential to have a diet with all the necessary nutrients for a normal baby's development and a woman's health during pregnancy. For example, it is necessary to take omega-3 and choline for developing a baby's brain, which women can consume from the diet. There is a list of foods with added omega-3:

Salmon
Flax
Tuna
Eggs
Spinach
Walnuts
Chia seeds
Cold liver oil
Hemp seeds

There is a list of foods highest in choline:

Chicken breast
Salmon
Green peas
Beef
Shrimp
Lean pork chops
Eggs
Low-fat milk
Pork
Peanut flour

But sometimes, women can not consume enough docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid from a diet. That's why it is better to take this omega-3 fatty acid in the form of vitamins.

Reducing stress. Reducing and preventing stress will help women for having a healthy immune system. There are many ways for reducing anxiety:

Meditation
Yoga
Deep breathing exercises
Listeting favorite music
Reading book
Taking a walk

When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test After IVF Treatment?

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 13:50:27 GMT

Home I Blog I When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test After IVF Treatment?

When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test After IVF Treatment?

To determine whether your IVF procedure and the cycle was successful, you'll go through several tests to pinpoint the cause of your infertility. Once that's done, the doctor will discuss fertility treatments options with you, and together rely on the reasons for infertility, you'll decide which treatment will be more suitable and successful for you. You take all the prescribed medication by your fertility specialist. During the first step, eggs are removed by a needle after taking hormone shots to make your eggs mature. The semen sample is submitted for testing. The embryo is made in the lab and kept for a few days before the IVF procedure. In the last step during the IVF cycle, the matured embryo is transferred to the uterus through a catheter.

What do you need then? After this appointment, your doctor will tell you about the precautions to take for the next two weeks until your next meeting. At that visit, we'll do a pregnancy test. These last two weeks of your IVF treatment are crucial to the outcome of the whole procedure. During these weeks, patients should be very cautious about their health and follow the doctor's instructions. The success of your IVF treatment depends on your compliance. The time leading up to the in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure was an exciting experience. However, the two weeks waiting for results are also crucial. The physical and emotional reactions differ from patient to patient during this 2ww (two-week wait). Some of the most common responses to this treatment are:

Incitation: The couple is excited about the prospect of having a baby and cannot wait for the 2ww to be over. Though most doctors prepare their patients for failure, every patient only thinks of success. They begin to discuss preparations they need to make for the baby, such as buying clothing and specific products. They also start preparing for pregnancy by purchasing guidebooks on the subject.

Anxiety: The patient is nervous about the outcome and fears failure of the IVF procedure. They are filled with dread and generally maintain a negative disposition. This is not conducive for implantation as emotions that resonate in the body cause reactions accordingly. The fear of failure can negatively impact the body, causing procedures to be unsuccessful. Doctors advise remaining calm and focusing on positive things during the 2ww.

Disobedience: A woman's attitude after an IVF procedure can be very nonchalant. It is good that she isn't too emotional, but it is also essential to be careful and adhere to health precautions at this time. Doctors tell patients on fertility treatments not to engage in any activity that might hamper the embryo's successful implantation.

Contingent: Some women have such a cavalier attitude after the IVF procedure that it is as if they could not care less. This attitude may be good in that it does not evoke uncomfortable emotions, but it may cause the patient to take her health for granted, and she may neglect to follow the doctor's orders regarding precautions that are crucial at this time. Doctors advise patients not to do anything that may hinder the embryo's implantation if it doesn't occur within a certain period.

After two weeks of pregnancy, the HCG hormone is tested for. The trophectoderm cells of the embryo produce the hormone once it implants. A high level of HCG hormone is required for a positive pregnancy test. The HCG level begins to increase on the day of implantation rapidly. Implantation can take anywhere from 3 to 8 days, depending on the type of transfer.

The 2-weeks wait is a significant time, and patients should be sure to follow their doctor's instructions to help ensure a successful IVF procedure.

IVF and Gender Selection: Is It Possible to Choose The Sex of Your Future Child?

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 10:31:24 GMT

Home I Blog I IVF and Gender Selection: Is It Possible to Choose the Sex of Your Future Child?

IVF and Gender Selection: Is It Possible to Choose the Sex of Your Future Child?

Nowadays, the world of technologies offers us many opportunities, especially for couples struggling with infertility problems such as PCOS, endometriosis, erectile dysfunction, blocked fallopian tubes, premature ovarian failure, uterine fibroids, low-quality eggs, low quality of sperm, unexplained infertility. Assisted reproductive technologies can offer fertility treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). Thanks to assisted reproductive technologies, many opportunities can help couples have a baby. In the beginning, the team will need to undergo tests, and after getting the results, the fertility specialist can say which type of fertility treatment will be suitable and safe for recipients because sometimes couples will need not only one treatment but combinations of treatments for a having a baby. The best choice is to visit a fertility specialist for finding out the causes of infertility or impossibility to conceive and then rely on the reason your doctor, and you will choose treatment.

The most popular and effective fertility treatment is IVF. In Vitro Fertilisation is a technique where eggs are fertilized by sperm in the laboratory to develop new embryos, and then these embryos are then put into a woman's uterus. But during IVF treatment, assisted reproductive technologies can offer additional treatments such as cryopreservation of sperm, eggs, embryo, ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) or Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). Embryo preimplantation testing is a screening of embryo cells that are usually performed on embryos for checking on genetic diseases or abnormalities with the IVF technique. A regular and healthy embryo contains 46 pairs of chromosomes. The 23 chromosomes come from sperm, and the other 23 chromosomes come from the egg. In the case of an embryo with less than 46 chromosomes, it is considered chromosomal abnormalities. There are a few types of preimplantation genetic testing: PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy), PGT-M (preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic or single-gene defects) and PGT-SR (Preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements of the chromosome). Usually, PGT can be recommended for women of advanced maternal age, couples who had multiple IVF cycles, couples who want to increase the success rate of IVF, couples who already had a recurrent pregnancy loss. But besides providing information about chromosomal abnormalities, PGD can give information about the gender of the future child.

Gender selection is an option that prospective parents may choose if they wish to select the sex of the future child. Gender selection can be performed by separating sperm and implanting only the embryos with the desired sex or through genetic testing.

With advances in IVF and Preimplantation Genetic Testing, it has become possible to select the sex of your child with virtually perfect accuracy. During this method, a small number of cells from an embryo made via IVF are removed from an embryo several days after fertilization and sent to a genetics lab for chromosomal analysis. After a biopsy, embryos are immediately frozen to await the results from genetic testing. After the results are in, the intended parents decide which embryo to thaw and transfer a frozen embryo. This option can allow recipients to choose the sex of child with 99% accuracy.

Gender selection involves In Vitro Fertilization that consists of 5 steps:

Ovarian Stimulation

During the first step, a woman takes medication to produce healthy eggs. Most months, women make only one egg, but with IVF, they stimulate 10-15 eggs to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.

Egg Retrieval

The next step of IVF treatment involves the harvesting of eggs. Egg retrieval is done while a woman sleeps under a general anaesthetic. Once completed, an embryologist examines the eggs under a microscope to count them.

Fertilization

The next thing that happens is the fertilization of eggs and sperm. The timing is crucial here. The eggs are retrieved, and then, after a few hours, they're fertilized with sperm. There are two ways to fertilize an egg: Conventional insemination or ICSI. In conventional insemination, the sperm is placed in a dish containing an egg to allow them to fertilize on their own. In ICSI, one sperm is injected into the cytoplasm of a fertilized egg using a needle.

Blastocyst Culture

Once the sperm fertilizes the egg, it becomes an embryo. The embryo is then placed in a unique incubator by an embryologist, where the embryo is provided with the proper condition to develop and grow. Adequate monitoring of the embryo is done for 5-6 days.

Embryo Transfer

The final step is Embryo Transfer. Once the embryo develops to the blastocyst stage, it is implanted into the uterus using a small tube called a Catheter. It usually takes place within 3-5 days after fertilization. Once the embryo is transferred to the uterus, it is allowed to the implant, and a blood test is carried on after two weeks to measure the hormone HCG.

During the procedure of gender selection, it will be required to do additional testing for an embryo that can take a few days for getting results. Moreover, sex election will require two cycles of treatments. The first cycle consists of the making and testing embryos, and the other process consists of transferring the embryo to the woman's uterus.

Important Nutrients During Pregnancy

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:44:20 GMT

Home I Blog I Important Nutrients During Pregnancy

Important Nutrients During Pregnancy

Pregnancy time is a fantastic journey for every woman. It is about giving a new life to this world, but we need to accept that sometimes it is not an easy job for a woman because it requires her to increase her immune system during pregnancy and before and after pregnancy. The woman's health is directly related to the heath of the baby. During pregnancy, the woman's body and health can be affected by carrying a child. The future mother needs to take care of her health because the risks of being sick and having illnesses are higher than usual. It can be explained shortly: The future mother s immune system is suppressed to avoid rejection of the sperm, embryo, or fetus implanting in her. As a result, white blood cells—which are the cells of the immune system—lose the ability to fight against infectious diseases and foreign invaders.

As a woman's immune system is suppressed during pregnancy, she can be more susceptible to certain illnesses and infections. This could affect you and your developing baby, so maintaining a healthy immune system before and during your pregnancy is essential.

A healthy lifestyle will be determining key in carrying healthy pregnancy that's why t is essential to take care of:

Healthy and balanced diet
Quality of sleep
Taking prenatal vitamins (of course if your organism require)
Regular exercises
Having appropriate weight
Staying hydrated
Preventing stress
Eliminating toxins
Limiting caffeine

Right now, you got some tips that can increase your immune system, and in this way, your pregnancy will be healthy and safe for you and your baby. But let's get acquainted with a healthy diet that is directly connected with the immune system of you and your future baby.

A healthy diet is an integral part of the mother's health and unborn baby. That's why it is essential to pay attention to the right and healthy nutrition. Poor diet and nutrition can lead to weight gain, lack of energy, anxiety, or even depression. But knowing that maintaining nutrients will help have a healthy pregnancy, achieve optimum health, and get all essential nutrients for the baby's health.

First of all, let's begin with the definition of nutrition. According to the World Health Organization, nutrition is a part of our living and development. Rich and healthy nutrition will help keep a person more productive and healthy and not create hunger moments. Moreover, nutrition plays an enormous role in maternal, child health and provide healthy, safe pregnancy. We need to get protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals, fibres and water from nutrition. Let's find out more about these nutrients.

Protein. It is an essential nutrient for your diet that keeps your body developing and growing. It is necessary to get enough protein for your body every day for helping your body to work in the right way. There is a list of functions of protein:

Building function for your muscles, bones, skin, nails and hair
Digesting function with another nutrient
Repairing function
Regulating function of the hormone system
Protective function for your immune system

The lack of protein in our diet can lead to health problems, insomnia, weakness, pale skin, headaches or tremors in the limbs. Also, the excess protein will lead to problems with health such as dehydration, constipation, calcium loss. According to the RDA (The Recommended Dietary Allowance), the recommended protein intake per day is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. But for pregnancy, the current RDA is 1.1 g per kg of body weight during the first trimester.

Carbohydrates. Also known as carbs, it is also an essential part of your diet that provide energy for your body. There is a list of functions of carbs:

Energy function for body, muscles, heart and brain
The digestive process with another nutrient
Energy storage function
Protein storage

According to the research, pregnant women need to consume from 9 to 11 servings of carbohydrates per day.

Fat. Together with other nutrients, fat is a good source of energy. If a woman is pregnant, her body needs more fat. Roughly 25 per cent to 35 per cent of your daily calories should come from fat. Eating monounsaturated fats will provide the best nutrition for a woman's health and her child.

For having a healthy pregnancy and her fetus, it is crucial to provide the right amount of nutrients with a slight increase in calories. It is recommended that the additional calories be provided through fruits, vegetables and dairy products.

Why Can't I Get Pregnant? There are some possible reasons

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 12:31:42 GMT

Home I Blog I Why Can't I Get Pregnant? There are some possible reasons

Why Can't I Get Pregnant? There Are Some Possible Reasons

Are you worried about the possible reasons why you are not getting pregnant? Are you wondering why you have not been pregnant even when everything is normal and think you are healthy? What is the problem of not being able to conceive?

A variety of factors could play a colossal role, including structural issues of the reproductive system or problems with ovulation. In the case of not being able for conceiving more than 12 month, you need to contact a fertility specialist for finding out the problems with conceiving.

There is a list of possible of infertility:

Problems with Ovulation

If your ovary cannot release the egg during the monthly cycle, it may be impossible to conceive. Your fertility doctor can do some tests to understand why ovulation isn't occurring.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Blocked Fallopian Tubes is any blockage in the tubes that prevent an egg from travelling down the uterus and prevent sperm from reaching the egg has a high infertility rate. There is a list of common symptoms of blocked fallopian tubes:

abnormal vaginal discharge
painful menstruation
pain in the pelvis
abdominal pain
pain during urinating
painful intercourse

Irregular Periods

If you have irregular periods and are trying to get pregnant, you may have more difficulties with conception. Your a doctor can help you find the underlying cause of your irregularity and treat it accordingly.

The symptoms for irregular periods include:

irregular menstrual cycle
the length of menses is less than 21 days or more than 35 days
abnormal bleeding
late or early menstrual period
severe pain
nausea and vomiting during the
periods
breast tenderness
painful cramping

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a long-term condition that causes the uterine lining to grow outside the womb. It can prevent fertilization, block fallopian tubes, and make the environment

unhealthy for an egg to develop. Endometriosis can cause many symptoms, and other signs can include:

painful menstrual cycle
chronic pelvic pain (pain in lower tummy or back)
fatigue
painful urination
cramps around menstruation
pain during or after sexual intercourse
heavy menstrual bleeding, or spotting or bleeding in between periods
discomfort during bowel movement
abdominal bloating and nausea
diarrhoea or constipation
infertility issues

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. It prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs, which means there is no menstruation. Irregular periods: some women suffer from irregular periods, and some suffer from heavy periods. Both of these issues are related to PCOS. Women with PCOS typically have irregular or missed periods. There is a list of possible causes of PCOS:

hair loss
unwanted hair growth or hirsutism
acne or oily skin
weight gain
infertility problems
sleep problems
darkening of the skin

Unexplained Infertility

Unexplained infertility is the most common type of infertility women could face. It's responsible for around 30% of infertility cases. Even after primary infertility medical tests are carried out, the causes of unexplained infertility remains a secret. There are

a few possible treatments for unexplained infertility:

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): IVF is a method of artificial insemination for treating unexplained infertility. The sperm, washed and concentrated, are carefully placed inside the uterus when the ovary releases one or more eggs for fertilization.
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) : IUI is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. It is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child.

Combined Infertility

In case of combined infertility, both partners are diagnosed with infertility. Fertility doctor will identify the underlying condition and improve opportunities for getting pregnant.

Anaemia or Low Haemoglobin Levels

Studies have shown that iron deficiency leads to ovulation problems and a 60% reduction in getting pregnant.

Cervical Mucus

Cervical mucus is a fluid produced by the cervix. It makes it easy for sperm to swim to an egg at ovulation. Some people find it helpful to chart their cervical mucus to

identify when they are most likely to get pregnant.

Low Hormonal Levels

Progesterone helps the fertilized egg implant properly in the uterus in early pregnancy. A low level of this hormone is one of the reasons for infertility and can lead to miscarriage. Your doctor may be able to help you by giving you a progesterone injection, supplement or suppository.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years and aren't associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer.

The symptoms of uterine fibroids can include:

menstrual periods lasting more than seven days
heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle constipation
pelvic pain
pelvic pressure
frequent urination
the urge to urinate frequently

Taking Birth Control Pills

Erectile Dysfunction is also known as impotence. A man cannot achieve and keep an erection firm enough for sexual performance during sexual intercourse. There is a list of common symptoms of ED:

softer erections
reduced sexual desire
problems with the maintenance of erection
delayed ejaculation
premature ejaculation
depression

Being Over or Underweight

Being too thin or too heavy can make it harder to get pregnant. If you are overweight, you are more likely to have fertility problems. And if you are underweight, you may not ovulate well. So try to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly —your body will be greatuful for you.

Maternal Age

It's harder to have children as we get older. This is true for men and women. The chance of conceiving reduces to 1 in 10 after 40 compared to 1 in 4 in the early 20s. The possibility of conceiving drastically reduces after 45.

Problems With Sleep

Sleep deprivation can make you exhausted and harm your immune system. Lack of sleep can cause you to get sick and increase your risk of infections. This can affect your menstrual cycle and fertility in men and interfere with a woman's ability to recover from

childbirth fully. If you have insomnia or other sleep problems, it is best to

consult a doctor and get it treated.

Does a Woman's Biological Age Affect Fertility?

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 16:02:08 GMT

Home I Blog I Does a Woman's Biological Age Affect Fertility?

Does a Woman's Biological Age Affect Fertility?

According to the research, about 70 per cent of couples conceive naturally within 18 months of trying to create, and 90 per cent conceive within two years. Contrary to popular belief, the percentage of couples experiencing fertility problems has remained relatively constant since the first surveys in the 1980s. However, there's no denying the fact that fertility does decline with age. For younger women, the chances of becoming pregnant are 20-25% each month. But after 35 or older women, the chances fall to about 10%. So many women haven't heard about the connection between a woman's biological age and fertility. That's why it is essential for women who want to be mothers to pay attention to their fertility window throughout life because, in advanced biological reproductive age, a woman has an increased risk of conceiving.

What Is a Biological Clock?

Fertility decreases with men and women age. The biological clock's definition means that when a woman gets older, it starts to be challenging to get pregnant, especially after advanced maternal age. But on the other side, the purpose of the biological clock can put pressure on some women who are not ready to have a child at a certain age.

A few years ago, there was much interest in 'Biological Clock Tests' that claim to predict future fertility by measuring AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone) to assess ovarian reserve. The test for anti-Mullerian hormone allows doctors to understand how fertility drugs during IVF treatment will be helpful for a woman. However, these tests don't tell us about a woman's future fertility prospects or how fertility can change with time. The risk with these tests is that a woman may think she can safely put off having children if her fertility is fine today. She may be devastated to find out only after a couple of years that she has become sub-fertile and has difficulties conceiving.

Why Does Fertility Decline With Age?

As a woman ages, there are changes to the rhythm of her biological clock. Menopause is used to refer to a specific point in time—twelve months after the last period. The definition of menopause can be used for describing the end of the menstrual cycle.

The signs of menopause can include:

Decreased fertility
Decreased libido
Insomnia
Night sweats
Hot flushes
Irregular periods
Depression

What Are The Signs of Infertility?

Female infertility is the inability of a woman to conceive pregnancy for at least a year with no results due to some factors like ovulation disorders, endometriosis or tubal blockage. There is a list of different types of female infertility: primary infertility, secondary infertility, sterility, unexplainable infertility.

The main symptom of male infertility is the inability to help his wife conceive. However, there are some other signs of male infertility, which can include:

Issues with reduced sex drive, difficulty ejaculating or erection;
Low sperm count;
Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia);
Reduces muscle mass;
Hormonal abnormality;
Pain in the testicle area.

What Are The Options For Delaying Pregnancy?

Nowadays, women are more independent, free-spirited and career-oriented than ever before. They want to fulfil their professional dreams before starting or expanding their family. But thanks to Assisted Reproductive Technology, there are many options for couples who are not ready for the pregnancy right now, but maybe in the future they will want:

Freezing of ovarian tissue: In this procedure, doctors remove a portion of the ovary containing immature eggs and freeze it. Then it is transplanted back into the body.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): It is a fertility treatment that involves the incubation of eggs and sperm from a couple in a laboratory to produce an embryo. Then a fertility doctor will place the embryo into the woman's uterus, where it may implant and result in a successful pregnancy.

Embryo cryopreservation: Embryo cryopreservation involves freezing and storing embryos. After they are thawed, they can be used in vitro fertilization. Cryopreservation is an integral and important part of most IVF programs. There are two methods of freezing in the In Vitro Fertilization laboratories:

Slow freezing
Vitrification

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): What is It, The Types of PGT and The Reasons for PGT?

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 13:19:56 GMT

Home I Blog I Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): What is It, The Types of PGT and The Reasons For PGT?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): What is It, The Types of PGT and The Reasons For PGT?

Nowadays, reproductive medicine provides many opportunities for couples struggling with infertility issues, offering such fertility treatments as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Third-party- assisted ART (Assisted Reproductive Technologies) that involve egg donation, sperm donation, embryo donation, surrogate carries. Infertility can result from various causes, including ovulation disorders, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), uterine fibroids, hormonal imbalances, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), obesity or being too thin. Male infertility can result from low sperm count or poor sperm quality. Every day these fertility techniques are developing, and during IVF procedure, recipients can choose the sex gender of their future child. Maybe it sounds like plot ideas for a science fiction movie, but in reality, it is one of the services that offer in vitro fertilization procedures. In this article, you will find out information about types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing, who need to undergo PGT and reasons for PGT.

What Is PGT (Embryo Preimplantation Genetic Testing?)

Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is a screening examination of embryo cells that are always performed on embryos to check genetic disease and abnormality with the In Vitro Fertilization technique. As we know, A euploid embryo contains 46 pairs of chromosomes. This number of chromosomes is considered normal. These number chromosome consists of 23 chromosomes that come from the sperm and 23 chromosomes from the egg. But if the embryo has more or less than 46 chromosomes, it is considered an abnormality. Monosomy is a condition with a missing chromosome. Trisomy, also known as Edwards syndrome, is a condition caused by several chromosomes.

If an embryo has more or less 46 pairs of chromosomes can cause pregnancy loss or health problems for the child.

What Are the Types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing?

There are a few types of Preimplantation Genetic Testing:

PGT- A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy) is a type of PGT that checks embryos for chromosomal status by screening 23 pairs of human chromosomes. Aneuploidy is the most common known cause of embryo implantation failure, miscarriage, congenital disabilities or genetic disorders as Down Syndrome or Turner syndrome. Thank this genetic testing, we will get information about:

Euploid
Aneuploid
Mosaic

PGT-M (preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic or single-gene defects) is another type of preimplantation genetic testing performed on embryos through IVF cycle to check the possibilities of having the congenital disease. Compared to the preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy, this genetic testing will provide information about options for specific genetic conditions. The couples can consider OGT-M if they have an increased risk of having a child with birth defects.

PGT-SR (preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements of chromosomes) is a genetic test that checks chromosomal structure rearrangements provided through IVF to establish a healthy pregnancy.

Who Can be Advised for Genetic Testing?

We need to remember that genetic disorders can cause pregnancy loss, infertility, or problems with the future child's health. That's why there is a list of recipients who can be advised for genetic testing:

Women of advanced maternal age. Women under the age of 35 usually have embryos with regular pairs of chromosomes, but women over the age of 40-41 have an increased level of aneuploidy. Moreover, we also know about the biological clock in women that's mean that with age, egg quality and egg quantity are decreasing
Couples that already had a recurrent pregnancy loss
Couples that are struggling with unexplained infertility
Teams that had multiple failed IVF cycles
Couples that have frozen embryos and there are ready for embryo transfer.
Couples where one partner can carry a genetic disorder
Couples that want to increase IVF success
Couples that already had a pregnancy with chromosome abnormalities

What Are the Reasons for PGT?

The reasons for doing preimplantation genetic testing can vary, but there is a list of possible reasons for PGT:

Decreasing level of multiple pregnancies
Knowing the sex of the embryo
Family balancing for sex selection
Increase level of IVF success

Become an Egg Donor

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 15:59:56 GMT

Home I Blog I Become an Egg Donor

Become an Egg Donor

Egg donation often gives infertile couples the opportunity to become parents. Usually, donor eggs are used in cases where a woman's eggs are of poor quality or when the egg cells do not produce their cells because of egg development abnormalities, absence, premature depletion of the function of the egg, menopause or other medical conditions. There are many reasons and advantages for being an egg donor ;

Receiving a Free Health Screening
Giving a Gift of Life by Donating Eggs
Psychological Satisfaction
Receiving a Monetary Compensation

Our egg donors must meet the following criteria :

young fertile women at the age of 18-32;
perfectly physically and mentally healthy;
thoroughly screened and rescreened;
without detrimental habits or addictions;
with proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child);
without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs.

Learn more about egg donor screening , requirements for egg donors , egg donors ordering&reservation , and the difference between anonymous and open ID egg donors .

Can Obesity Cause Infertility Problems?

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 11:41:14 GMT

Home I Blog I Can Obesity Cause Infertility?

Can Obesity Cause

Infertility?

According to an article published by NDTV in 2014, India ranks third behind the U.S. and China, with 41 million people considered obese. The health problems associated with being overweight are many, and fertility problems are no exception.

Doctors, fertility consultants included, point out that obesity can lead to such medical conditions as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. It can also cause fertility problems.

According to yourfertility.org.au, “if you are trying to get pregnant, or intend to start trying, know that being overweight can affect your chances of conceiving and having a healthy baby.” The site notes that losing a few pounds before getting pregnant can help. It also takes longer for obese women to become pregnant, and when they do get pregnant, they face a higher risk of complications such as miscarriage, diabetes and premature birth.

How to understand if you are a good weight for pregnancy? First of all, the most important thing is to calculate your body mass index (BMI). A body mass index between 19 and 24 is considered to be expected. If your body mass index is less than 19, it can signify being underweight. If your BMI is between 25 and 29, it is considered overweight.

There are some additional facts about obesity and infertility:

Overweight or obese women have more difficulty becoming pregnant than their normal-weight counterparts. They are more likely to take more than a year to conceive than women of healthy weight.
The risk for pre-eclampsia—a condition in pregnancy characterised by a sharp spike in blood pressure and swelling in the face, hands and feet—is doubled for overweight women and tripled for obese women.
Overweight women are twice as likely to experience gestational diabetes; for obese women, the risk is eight times higher than for those who are not overweight or obese.
Babies born to obese women are more likely than babies of normal-weight women to be significant for their age, need neonatal intensive care or have a congenital abnormality.

The Vitrification Process of Embryos and Oocytes in Assisted Reproductive Technology

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 12:10:55 GMT

Home I Blog I The Vitification Process of Embryos and Oocytes in Assisted Reproductive Technology

The Vitrification Process of Embryos and Oocytes in Assisted Reproductive Technology

Vitrification of embryos or oocytes is the best procedure for women who want to focus on their careers and plan future families in their 40s. Also, this procedure will be effective for women undergoing cancer treatment or who are experiencing certain disorders or undergoing fertility treatments.

What Is the Vitrification Method?

A process called vitrification is a fantastic breakthrough for preserving oocytes (egg) and embryos, and this process has transformed today's ART industry. It is an advanced technique that leads to a glass-like formation. The freezing method happens so rapidly that the water molecules don't get the time to form ice crystals but instead immediately solidify into a glass-like structure, thus avoiding freezing injuries to the human oocytes and embryos.

The Process of Vitrification Method

The process of vitrification consists of the following steps:

The eggs or embryos are exposed to a high concentration of cryoprotectants, which allows rapid
dehydration of the reproductive cells
Eggs or embryos are put into tiny storage devices that will facilitate ultra-rapid cooling.
The storage devices containing the eggs/embryos are cooled at 1000 degrees per minute.
The high cooling rate and the use of the high concentrations of the cryoprotectants allow the contents of the storage device that is oocyte/embryo and fluid to turn into a glass-like substance instead of ice.
Then, they are stored in a nitrogen-filled tank that is kept at -196 Celsius.
When needed, the oocyte or embryos are warmly incubated. The preservative is washed away
After 3-4 hours, the eggs can be injected with a single sperm, and the embryos can be transferred to the uterus within 24 hours.

Vitrification of Embryos

It is done to preserve the excess embryos. In IVF, the practice is to transfer a smaller number of fresh embryos into the uterus. If the first cycle fails, then a frozen embryo transfer can be done without undergoing the hassles of ovarian stimulation again, followed by egg retrieval.

Vitrification plays a significant role in the medium to severe cases of ovarian hyperstimulation. In approximately 5-10% of cases, the body overreacts to hormonal stimulation during extracorporeal fertilization (occurring outside the body).

Due to medical reasons, it is not advisable to transfer fresh embryos. Therefore, all embryos are frozen and moved after hyperstimulation has entirely subsided. In cases of polyps and hydrosalpinx, a doctor recommends frozen embryo transfer.

Vitrification of Human Oocytes

The vitrification procedure is more complicated than slow freezing, but this technique preserves and keeps the eggs completely fresh even after a few years. It has also been seen that the pregnancy success rate from this technique can be compared to new IVF cycles.

The problem with freezing eggs, relative to sperm or embryos, is that eggs are mostly made of water. Ice crystals would form when freezing was attempted, and these crystals would damage the cell's structure, making them unusable. The key to the whole process is a smooth transfer of fluids from the egg to another medium, while it is made

sure that anti-freeze is slowly flowing in at the same time. Once this step is carefully done, the eggs quickly freeze or vitrify. The quick cooling allows the eggs to survive without any ice crystals forming - these could have damaged the delicate cellular parts, which could have been devastating. Nowadays, vitrification of oocytes has become a standard part of infertility treatment.

What Are the Advantages of The Vitrification Process?

The main advantages of vitrification over slow freezing are discussed below:

Ice crystals do not damage vitrified oocytes or embryos.
The live birth rate of vitrified embryos is higher than the of slow-frozen embryos. Because in slow freezing, approximately 20-30% of embryos do not survive after the thawing process.
It also eliminates the need for the freezing unit in the process of slow freezing.

Embryo Cryopreservation: What is Embryo Cryopreservation?

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:16:08 GMT

Home I Blog I Embryo Cryopreservation: What is Embryo Cryopreservation?

Embryo Cryopreservation: What is Embryo Cryopreservation?

Thanks to the rapid development in assisted reproductive technologies, there are many fertility treatments for struggling with infertility issues:

In Vitro fertilization (IVF): In-vitro fertilization involves the incubation of eggs and sperm from a couple in a laboratory to produce an embryo. Then a fertility doctor will place the embryo into the woman's uterus, where it may implant and result in a successful pregnancy
Intrauterine insemination: IUI is a type of artificial insemination that involves placing sperm into a uterus using a thin tube.
Third Party-Assisted ART: This type of assisted reproductive technology include egg donation, sperm donation, embryo donation, surrogated carries

Also, assisted productive technology offers such procedures as embryo cryopreservation, which has a list of benefits for couples who want to have a family in their 40s because building a meaningful and successful career or for teams where partners will have treatment can reduce fertility success chances.

What is Embryo Cryopreservation?

Embryo cryopreservation involves freezing and storing embryos. After they are thawed, they can be used in vitro fertilization. Cryopreservation is an integral and important part of most IVF programs. There are two methods of freezing in the In Vitro Fertilization laboratories:

Slow freezing
Vitrification

Cryopreservation allows a woman to have a stable number of embryos available for transfer in a fresh cycle and have quality embryos stored for a future pregnancy attempt.

Who Needs to Consider Embryo Cryopreservation?

There are many reasons why women and men can or need to consider cryopreservation:

The woman or man can have chemotherapy or radiation that may reduce chances of getting pregnant
In case of undergoing hormone therapy
In case if the couple already have one child, but in future, they will plan to have a second child
In case of undergoing IVF treatment and experiencing IVF failure, freezing eggs can increase chances of getting pregnant in subsequent IVF attempts
Unused frozen eggs can increase chances of getting pregnant
In case of delaying pregnancy

What is The Process of Cryopreservation?

To freeze eggs, women will need daily injections of gonadotropins for stimulating the growth of ovarian follicles (oocytes). Once eggs are detected by our fertility doctor using ultrasound imaging, they are retrieved transvaginally. Usually, embryos are frozen when fertilized by a partner's sperm or frozen when they become blastocysts about six days later.

Cryopreservation is accomplished by freezing eggs at a very rapid rate. Vitrification is the process that is almost guaranteed to prevent damage to eggs when other freezing functions may not. The vitrification method can improve the success rate of pregnancy for women who use frozen eggs.

Eggs can be frozen to a shallow temperature of -320 degrees Fahrenheit. Protective agents help further prevent damage to eggs during and after vitrification. Although it's unknown how long eggs can be frozen before they become unusable, fertility doctors recommend freezing eggs for ten years.

Erectile Dysfunction: Symptoms and Causes I Ovoria

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 16:55:42 GMT

Home I Blog I Erectile Dysfunction: Symptoms and Causes

Erectile Dysfunction: Symptoms and Causes

According to the statistics nearly 30 milion men are experiencing erectcle dysfunction in the United States. This condition are common among men who have diabetes, injury with pelvis, penis or spinal cord, have stress or anxiety.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile Dysfunction is also known as impotence. A man cannot achieve and keep an erection firm enough for sexual performance during sexual intercourse.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

There is a list of common symptoms of ED:

Softer erections
Reduced sexual desire
Problems with the maintenance of erection
Delayed ejaculation
Premature ejaculation
Depression

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Psychological and physical dysfunctions can cause erectile Erectile dysfunction. There is a list of common physical causes:

Diabetes
Heart disease
Cardiovascular disease
Obesity
High level of cholesterol
High blood pressure
Hormonal imbalance
Kidney disease
Clogged blood vessels
Parkinson's disease
Multiple sclerosis
Tobacco use
Metabolic syndrome
Sleep disorders

During sexual desire and sexual intercourse, the brain has a massive impact on physical actions that lead to the erection of the penis. But there is a list of possible causes that also affect sexual emotions and erectile malfunction:

Depression
Anxiety
Post-traumatic stress
Low self-esteem

ED can have multiple causes. That's why it's essential to work with your doctor so that they can rule out or treat any underlying medical conditions.

Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction

Many risk factors may increase the chances of developing ED. These risk factors include injuries and blood flow issues. Growing age is one of the risk factors that affect erectile dysfunction. As a manager, his penis starts to begin to take more time to develop a firm erection.

There is a list of possible risks that can increase the risk of developing erectile malfunction:

Being overweight
Taking drugs
Having a medical condition as diabetes or high blood pressure
Taking medications
Having injury or surgery
Using tobacco
Having depression or anxiety

If a man has some chronic disease or is experiencing some of the associated symptoms of ED, the health care provider can recommend a medical examination and session for getting more details of medical history.

Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction

Tests for diagnosis of ED can include different methods, which involve physical examination, health and sexual history. Besides these tests, a health care provider can recommend doing some special tests to define the condition's cause.

Tests for diagnosing erectile dysfunction can include:

Physical analysis of penis
Checking a blood test for the symptoms of heart disease, diabetes and level of testosterone
Conversation with a psychologist for monitoring depression or psychological reasons for erectile dysfunction
Ultrasound for examining blood vessels of penis

Ectopic Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:28:03 GMT

Home I Blog I Ectopic Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Ectopic Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Few kinds of research indicate that more than 1% of pregnancies are ectopic. Inflammation, infection, taking birth control pills, smoking can increase a woman's chances of having an ectopic pregnancy. In this article, you will find out information about symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatments of ectopic pregnancy

What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

For becoming pregnant, the female ovary releases an egg. The egg stays in the fallopian tube for up to 24 hours. This fertilized egg which grows into the baby rests in the fallopian tube for almost three to four days. Then it will be transferred into the uterus and attached to the lining, where it will develop until it is ready to be born. However, sometimes fertilized eggs fail to reach the uterus and implant themselves in the fallopian tube, cervix, ovary, abdomen area. In cases of ectopic pregnancies, a pregnancy test would show positive results. However, the fertilized egg cannot grow appropriately without being implanted into the uterus. The American Academy of Family Physicians conducted a study that revealed that every 50th woman suffers from an ectopic pregnancy.

There are a few types of ectopic pregnancy:

Heterotopic Pregnancy

In some cases of ectopic pregnancy, medical experts have found two fertilized eggs, one being inside the uterus and the other outside the uterus. This type of pregnancy is known as heterotopic pregnancy. Often these types of pregnancies are noticed. Ectopic pregnancies are identified and treated at an early stage of pregnancy, making the ultrasound incapable of discovering the additional pregnancy within the uterus. However, the HCG levels do not stop rising after the removal of ectopic pregnancy. These days, the rate of heterotopic pregnancies is rising due to the use of IVF treatment.

Nontubal Ectopic Pregnancy

Only 2% of women can have pregnancy developing in an ovary, cervix, or within the abdomen. Although there are very few cases of nontubal ectopic pregnancy, its existence cannot be neglected. There have been such cases where a live baby has been delivered from a nontubal ectopic pregnancy. In such cases, the placenta finds a place on the intraabdominal organs and receive sufficient blood supply to stay alive.

Ectopic Tubal Pregnancy

In ectopic tubal pregnancy, the embryo nests in the fallopian tubes and produces inflammation and tubal obstruction. In this type of pregnancy, the egg can grow in the ampullary section, the fimbrial end. In ectopic tubal pregnancies, which occur in the Fallopian tubes rather than the uterus, the mortality rate is higher at the isthmus than elsewhere in the tube because of its increased vascularity, leading to heavy bleeding that can be dangerous for a woman.

Persistent Ectopic Pregnancy

Persistent ectopic pregnancy is the continuous growth of trophoblastic tissue after an ectopic pregnancy has been surgically removed. Sometimes, tissues involved in this process escape the treatment. When there is a pregnancy, the embryo will embed itself in the fallopian tube. As time goes by, the tissues of the embryo keep growing and generate higher HCG levels. This often leads to heavy internal bleeding and other such clinical symptoms.

Pregnancy of Unknown Location (PUL)

When a woman is observed to be pregnant, but there is no sign of pregnancy with transvaginal ultrasonography, it is referred to as a PUL or pregnancy of an unknown location. Approximately 10% of women who opt for ultrasound

What Are the Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy?

At early pregnancy, it can be pretty challenging to identify the risk of ectopic pregnancy. The symptoms of ectopic pregnancy at a very early stage and even after IVF are pretty similar to uterine pregnancy. If a woman has missed a menstrual period, experienced drowsiness, breast tenderness and some discomfort in the belly, you may be suffering from an ectopic pregnancy. However, more than 50% of women suffering from an ectopic pregnancy will not experience these symptoms. There is a list of possible symptoms of IVF ectopic pregnancy:

Weakness
Vaginal bleeding
Shoulder pain
Nausea
Severe pain of lower abdomen
Dizziness

Another difficulty with ectopic pregnancy is that the signs vary widely from person to person. It is noticeable as early as four weeks in some cases, but it may not appear until 12 weeks for others. For example, not every woman needs to experience the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy.

Some women also misunderstand an ectopic pregnancy as gastroenteritis or miscarriage due to mixed signs and symptoms. More signs indicate the risks of ectopic pregnancy symptoms at four weeks: increased HCG levels, pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, or diarrhoea. Because most of the symptoms are almost the same as during pregnancy, it's essential not to ignore guts and immediately consult a healthcare provider if a woman is afraid of her pregnancy.

What Are the Causes of an Ectopic Pregnancy?

There are a few possible factors that can affect a woman’s fertility and increase her chances of having ectopic pregnancy:

Inflammatory Pelvic Disease or Infection : Sexually transmitted infections cause inflammation in the tubes, increasing the chances of ectopic pregnancy.

Taking birth control: Using an IUD device is rare, but the chances of having ectopic pregnancy are higher.

Smoking: A woman who smokes has a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy as they carry increased protein PROKR1 in fallopian tubes. The presence of specific proteins in the fallopian tube can inhibit the mobility of a fertilized egg, thereby disrupting its implantation.

Having ectopic pregnancy previously: If a woman had an ectopic pregnancy in the past, her chances of having ectopic pregnancy are higher in the present. After getting a positive pregnancy test, a woman needs to contact her doctor immediately.

Fertility treatment: In case if a woman has an IVF cycle, her chances of having ectopic pregnancy are higher during embryo transfer. During implantation, embryos fail to reach the uterus and then settle into the fallopian tube.

Endometriosis: Unfortunately, there is no specific cause why endometriosis increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy

How Is Ectopic Pregnancy Clinically Dignosed?

The early diagnosis can be diagnosed in a few ways:

Test pregnancy
Hormonal analysis
Vaginal ultrasound
Laparoscopy

This test informs women of a possible gestation depending on the weeks of pregnancy. It is performed above all on patients undergoing a technique of assisted reproduction. A diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is not achieved with a single hormonal analysis since false positives are possible. Repeat the test 2 weeks later to be able to see the presence of the embryo sac.

When there is no sac in the uterus, the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy should be assessed, and this possibility should be confirmed by a new analysis of the β-hCG values and other biochemical markers such as Placental protein 14, Ca-125 and creatine phosphokinase values.

What Are the Treatments of Ectopic Pregnancy?

There are a few treatments for ectopic pregnancy:

Surgery
Medications
Management

The medical choice of one treatment or another is evaluated according to the diagnostic tests performed and the patient's symptoms. If the tube ruptures seriously, it will be necessary to do other interventions, such as blood transfusion and even a salpingectomy if the tube is badly damaged.

What You Need to Know About Artificial Insemination?

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:45:20 GMT

Home I Blog I What You Need to Know About Artificial Insemination?

What You Need to Know About Artificial Insemination?

The most common causes of infertility in women can include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids, infections, problems with the reproductive system, primary ovary insufficiency, problems with the menstrual cycle or ovulation. Male infertility can be caused by medical conditions that affect sperm formation (diabetes, chromosome defects, thyroid problems, injury to the testicle, varicocele) and conditions that affect sperm transportation.

According to the statistics, infertility affects a significant proportion of the population. Infertility means that couples can not conceive after one year of unprotected course, but thanks to the development in reproductive technologies, now teams have more opportunities for becoming parents.

What is Artificial Insemination?

Artificial insemination is a fertility treatment technique used to deliver sperm directly to the cervix or uterus. Sometimes, these sperm are washed or "prepared" to increase the likelihood of getting pregnant.

There are at least two methods to undergo artificial insemination: intrauterine insemination (IUI) and intracervical insemination (ICI).

What is Intauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that allows the direct transfer of sperm into the uterus. In natural conception, sperm is deposited in the vagina and swims up to your fallopian tubes. However, in IUI, sperm is washed and transferred directly into your uterus, which increases the likelihood of pregnancy by placing them closer to the eggs. IUI procedure can be performed with your normal cycle or with certain fertility medications, depending on the medical history and cause of infertility.

Why IUI is Done?

A couple's ability to become pregnant depends on many different factors. Some of the health concerns used to justify the IUI treatment are as follows:

Unexplained infertility
Low sperm count
Endometriosis
Problems with erection and ejaculation
Issues with the cervix or cervical mucus
Problems with ovulation

The Possible Risks Associated with IUI

Intrauterine insemination is one of the simplest and safest fertility procedures. Moreover, risks associated with IUI are low because IUI is relatively simple. Some of the complications that may occur while going through IUI include:

Spotting: In some cases, placing a catheter in the uterus may cause a small amount of vaginal bleeding. Usually, it doesn't affect the chances of pregnancy.

Infection: There's a slight chance of developing a disease as a result of the procedure.

Multiple pregnancies: IUI itself isn't associated with an increased risk of multiple pregnancies — twins, triplets or more. But, when coordinated with ovulation-inducing medications, the risk of multiple pregnancies is higher.

Contact fertility specialist if you are taking fertility medications during IUI treatment and you are experiencing the following symptoms:

nausea and vomiting
lightheadedness
shortness of breath
fast weight gaining
pelvic pain

What is ICSI Treatment?

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection is a part of a procedure called in-vitro fertilization. In-vitro fertilization involves fertilizing the egg with sperm after injecting sperm into an egg that has matured. It is a procedure needed for couples to help them have a baby.

How Does ICSI Work?

Intacytaoplasmic sperm injection include 6 steps:

Step 1: Fertility Consultation

The consultation includes a discussion with the fertility specialist, followed by a thorough medical examination. An embryologist will explain the options available to address issues related to sperm.

Step 2: Stimulation

During this stage, a woman needs to visit on day two or three of her menstrual cycle, when hormonal investigations are done along with an ultrasound. The ovaries are stimulated with medication to promote the growth of follicles containing the eggs; this process can last for eight to 12 days. The response of the ovaries will be screened through ultrasounds and blood investigations at regular intervals.

Step 3:Egg Collection

An injection is given to help with its final maturation after eight to 12 days, and it is then removed. The patient will visit the clinic for the egg retrieval process, performed 34-36 hours after administering the trigger.

Step 4:Sperm Collection

An embryologist processes a sperm sample that the male partner provided. If the male partner has no sperm in his epididymis or testicles, the embryologist can extract sperm from those organs.

Step 5:Embryo Transfer

After the embryos are developed, they will be injected into the uterus to implant and impregnate the woman. A thin, flexible needle is used to inject them into the uterus.

Step 6:After Transfer

After the embryo transfer, a woman is given medicine to help the embryo implant in the uterus. After a few weeks, pregnancy is confirmed by taking pregnancy tests.

When is ICSI Recommended?

The doctor can recommend the procedure of ICSI couples in the following cases:

In cases of sperms with poor morphology or motility;
In cases of low sperm count;
In cases of men who underwent vasectomy, or those with blocked epididymis;
When having an embryo testing for a genetic condition, and the sperm sticks to the outside of the eggs;
Where the couple had already undergone IVF Treatment, with very few or no eggs fertilized.

Should You Rest After Embryo Implantation?

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:21:06 GMT

Home I Blog I Should You Rest After Embryo Implantation?

Should You Rest After Embryo Implantation?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves the fertilization of the egg outside the woman's body. Once fertilized by sperm, the resulting embryo is then placed inside the female's uterus. The woman is considered to be pregnant after embryo implantation.

Many women who undergo IVF treatment take bed rest for a couple of weeks following the transfer of the embryo. Women take this recommendation as meaning that they must remain still or risk failure of the implantation process.

But a study found that bed rest following embryo transfer is not required for successful embryo implantation.

Although the US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health (the USA's leading medical body), carried out a study to investigate the effects of ambulation (movement) after embryo transfer, it concluded that rapid movement has no adverse influence on the becoming pregnant.

This discovery was confirmed by another research, "Bed rest after embryo transfer," that was published a few years after. "Many interventions have been used to increase the implantation rate, but bed rest is probably the most commonly prescribed. Since the aetiology (cause) of implantation failure in most cases is not related to an excess of activity; however, it is unlikely that bed rest could be an effective strategy to improve pregnancy outcomes. There was insufficient evidence to support the routine bed rest use to improve pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing ET (embryo transfer) in IVF cycles."

However, some doctors warn that there are some disadvantages to bed rest. "Inactivity combined with high levels of estrogen can promote blood clot formation as well as a rise in insulin resistance.Dr Robert Greene, MD and Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, CNY Fertility Center, New York, USA, says: "Exercise reduces inflammation, lowers stress hormone levels and promotes healthy blood flow."

However, it's also essential to keep stress levels low. That way, one can continue with their daily routine, which might contribute to the IVF treatment's success.

What's certain is that IVF patients need to keep their nervous energy busy by staying busy with their daily routines. Patients should not waste time worrying about whether IVF treatment will be successful.

Can I Get Pregnant with Ovarian Cyst?

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 11:04:40 GMT

Home I Blog I Can I Get Pregnant with Ovarian Cyst?

Can I Get Pregnant with Ovarian Cyst?

Ovarian cysts affect mostly women of childbearing years because the menstrual cycle and the hormonal changes it causes in the body trigger them. A woman has two ovaries about the size and shape of an almond, one on each side of her uterus. The ovaries produce eggs (ovulation) and the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, and it also can affect pregnancy and menstrual cycles.

What are Ovarian Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled or solid sac-like structures that develop in or on ovaries. They usually form during ovulation and are often asymptomatic. The cysts are usually harmless and go away without any treatment, but some can be harmful when they do not dissolve on their own or get bigger and cause pain. There are chances of ovarian cancer, though rare, in a woman who has ovarian cysts.

There are two types of ovarian cysts:

Ovarian cysts that affect fertility and pregnancy
Ovarian cysts that don't interfere with fertility

Understanding the Types of Ovarian Cysts Which Affect Fertility

The cysts most harmful to fertility are ovarian cysts resulting from polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriomas – caused by endometriosis.

Endometrioma

In medical terms, an endometrial cyst is a type of cyst that forms when endometrial tissue abnormally grows in the ovaries. The endometrium is the mucous membrane that lines the inner layer of the uterine wall.

Endometrial cysts may be packed with dark, reddish-brown blood and may vary in size. They are also called chocolate cysts, and they can cause infertility.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects about 10% of all women, but not all of them have fertility problems. Some women with endometrioma may not experience any symptoms or pain. It's only detected during gynaecological examination through a vaginal ultrasound.

An endometrioma or chocolate cysts begin as a small lesion on the ovaries. It may remain tiny (just a few millimetres in size) and is not a cause for concern. However, some cysts grow large, and women can experience pain during the menstrual cycle. The larger the endometrioma, the more problematic it is for fertility. If an endometrioma ruptures, its contents can enter the pelvic cavity. This can cause ovaries to adhere to the fallopian tubes creating fertility blockages. Endometriomas are essentially benign masses of the same tissue that lines the uterus. They can affect the normal functioning of ovaries, and in severe cases, can lead to the removal of an affected ovary, which makes a female infertile.

Cysts from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS may be the most common cyst that creates problems for women trying to conceive. It can cause enlarged ovaries and the development of small ovarian cysts due to hormonal imbalance. Many women with polycystic ovary syndrome find it hard to get pregnant and have irregular periods, excess hair growth and acne. Their insulin resistance and obesity can also complicate their fertility and cause a hormonal imbalance.

Polycystic Ovary

If a woman is experiencing PCOS, she may have a problem becoming pregnant and are at higher risk of developing complications during pregnancy. However, it is possible to manage the symptoms, allowing many women with PCOS to become pregnant and have a healthy baby.

PCOS women struggle to get pregnant because of high levels of the male hormone androgen, which prevents the release of an egg (ovulation). The best way to reduce the risk of complications is to see your doctor if you have any symptoms.

Women with polycystic ovaries have to follow a healthy regimen to conceive, such as maintaining a healthy weight, healthy eating, exercising regularly, monitoring ovulation and planning sexual intercourse accordingly.

A doctor might prescribe fertility medicine if medications don't work. If that doesn't work either, a doctor might suggest getting surgery to remove a tiny amount of tissue that produces the excess male hormone in the ovaries. If a woman is not healthy enough to carry a child, complications during pregnancy might increase, such as miscarriages, high blood pressure induced by the pregnancy, gestational diabetes and even premature birth.

Understanding the Types of Ovarian Cysts Which Do Not Interfere With Fertility

These cysts may bleed and cause pain, but they will not affect one's fertility unless their size increases significantly.

Cystadenomas

They are benign growths in the ovary that develop from the tissues at the ovary. Although they require treatment, cystadenomas do not affect fertility.

Dermoid cysts

A type of tumour typically contains different tissues, including neural tissue, hair, teeth, bone, instead of fluid. Dermoid cysts do not cause infertility.

Functional ovarian cysts

A functional cyst is a kind of cyst that develops on the surface of the ovary during the menstrual cycle. In a typical case, the sac becomes small and dissolves once the egg is released. Most cysts don't need to be treated by a doctor; they disappear on their own within two menstrual cycles. Functional cysts do not cause infertility, and pregnancy can easily be achieved with a functional cyst.

However, if the cyst becomes too large, it may rupture and bleed, and in some cases, can cause ovarian torsion that will lead to excruciating pain. Ovarian torsion happens in the case of enlarged ovaries.

If not diagnosed in time, ovarian torsion can cause foetal death and even potential loss of the woman's fertility. So, a large cyst should be monitored to avoid any fatal consequences. Ruptured cysts can cause pelvic infection

Hemorrhagic cysts

A hemorrhagic cyst is a functional cyst that develops when the bleeding occurs in the cyst. Its symptoms include an abdominal cyst on one side of the body. The bleeding does not cause infertility.

Para Ovarian Cysts

Para ovarian cysts are fluid-filled cysts that are located close to the fallopian tube and ovary. If grown over a specific size, they might require some surgeries to treat these cysts.

How to Get Pregnant With Ovarian Cysts?

If a woman wants to become pregnant with ovarian cysts, she needs to have good health and a healthy lifestyle and eat a balanced diet. Several health conditions may upset her plans in becoming a mother by affecting fertility.

One type of health condition is the presence of ovarian cysts. Some ovarian cysts decrease fertility, but it depends on the type of cyst. There is also an increased chance of successful pregnancy after cyst removal.

Ovarian cysts are common in females who have irregular periods, and they usually form during ovulation. Hence, females must keep a regular check on their fertile window, and for this purpose, they can use an ovulation calculator.

Ovarian Stimulation During IVF Process

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 09:32:39 GMT

Home I Blog I Ovarian Stimulation During IVF Process

Ovarian Stimulation During IVF Process

Due to lifestyle habits, working patterns, stressful and pressured jobs, unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of sports activities all put together has over the years culminated in several ailments. This has also hurt male and female fertility. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) suggest so many medical treatments for infertility issues in the age of technology development. Assisted reproductive medicine involves such fertility treatment options as:

In Vitro Fertilization
Cryopreservation of embryos and gametes
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

In Vitro Fertilisation is a successful fertility treatment that caters to people who are unable to get pregnant. The problem could be with either partner, and a wide range of issues affect conception. The problem could be due to some medical conditions as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, premature ovarian syndrome, blocked fallopian tubes, thyroid disorders, problems with sexual intercourse, chromosome defects, hormone imbalances, infections, ejaculation issues, varicocele.

The IVF treatment is a technique in which the female eggs are extracted from the ovaries, and the male sperm is sourced from the semen sample in order to create embryos in the laboratory. In the body, one egg matures during each ovulation cycle. A single woman has two eggs, and each one of these eggs has many cells. One cell will develop and be released during each ovulation cycle. The oocyte's development is induced by follicle-stimulating hormone. For IVF treatment, mature eggs are needed. The ovaries are stimulated externally by administering the required hormones.

What is Ovarian Stimulation?

There are various stages during the IVF cycle. IVF treatments include 5 steps:

Ovarian Stimulation
Egg Retrieval
Fertilisation
Blastocyst Culture
Embryo Transfer

One of the main stages is ovarian stimulation. The pituitary gland releases a hormone that stimulates enough follicles to start maturing for ovulation soon before ovulation occurs. Only one dominant follicle matures entirely and is ready for fertilization. The other eggs usually do not develop fully and are lost.

During the IVF procedure, women will use ovarian stimulation medications that also known as fertility drugs for producing multiple eggs. One developing mature egg is not enough for IVF success ray\te that's why women will get extra embryos which they can freeze for another pregnancy.

The ovarian stimulation phase helps mature the follicles for retrieval and prepares the uterus as if there is a normal ovulation cycle. The inner wall of the uterus grows an endometrial lining. When the embryo enters the uterus, it will implant itself. Without the receptivity of the uterus, the implantation won't take place. Implantation is an essential part of a successful pregnancy. An embryo cannot grow if it does not attach itself to the endometrial lining. Hence the preparation of the uterus to get the embryo is an integral part of having successful IVF treatment.

The Whole Process of Ovarian Stimulation

The ovarian stimulation process has to be carefully timed to match the menstrual cycle of the patient's body, and each stage has to be cautiously monitored by health providers for understanding how a woman's body reacts to fertility medications. Knowing the progress of the follicle maturation is also important because the medications for the next stage can be given.

There are three stages to ovarian stimulation which induces the maturation of the egg follicles in the ovaries:

Stimulation of follicle production: Anti-estrogen medication is given to encourage the ovaries for egg growth. The goal of this stage is to allow as many follicles to mature eggs as possible.
Prevention of oocyte release: Once the follicles reach their final stage of maturity, the oocyte is released into the fallopian tubes. The release of the oocyte is triggered by the Luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. When a woman goes through IVF ovarian stimulation, a medication prevents the rise of the LH, which ensures that the oocytes are kept in their follicles. If a woman releases the oocytes into fallopian tubes, they will not be retrieved during the IVF process.
Final maturation: The final maturation stage of ovarian stimulation is closely monitored, and the eggs are retrieved as soon as they are fully matured. This final maturation process takes about 36 hours after the HCG injection medication has been administered.

The medication used in ovarian stimulation varies depending on what stage of ovarian stimulation a woman is in. Ovarian stimulation is an integral part of IVF treatment. The amount of eggs harvested from a woman's ovaries depends mainly on how accurately each stage of the IVF process is.

What Are The Potential Complications of Ovarian Stimulation?

Many women who take medication for ovarian stimulation suffer from Ovarian HyperStimulation Syndrome (OHSS). This happens a few days after the eggs have been retrieved. The cause of OHSS is not fully clear. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy, and a high level of this hormone will impact ovarian hyperstimulation. That's mean HCG can affect blood vessels in the ovaries.

OHSS symptoms may include feeling faint, feeling bloated or experiencing nausea. These symptoms need to go away in a week or two if you don't become pregnant. There is a list of possible symptoms of OHSS:

Bloating
Diarrhoea
Nausea
mild weight gain

Other severe symptoms of OHSS can include:

Heartbeat
Severe bloating
Abdominal pain
Dizziness
Reduced urination

If a woman is experiencing some of these symptoms, she needs to urgently contact a health provider to get medical advice and help. Also, Some women never suffer from severe OHSS, but it can even be fatal in some cases. Even in the case of being pregnant, it is essential to check the health and observe if a woman has such symptoms or not.

Can Excessive Masturbation Lead to Infertility?

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:30:42 GMT

Home I Blog I Can Excessive Masturbation Lead To Infertility?

Can Excessive Masturbation Lead To Infertility?

If a female partner is not getting pregnant after a couple of months, some men will start worrying if their sperm count is low. The guilt conscience begins to take root.

What is Male Infertility?

A man's infertility is the inability to help his woman to conceive. However, there are some other signs of male infertility, which can include:

Issues with reduced sex drive, difficulty ejaculating or erection
Low sperm count
Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia)
Reduces muscle mass
Hormonal abnormality
Pain in the testicle area

What are The Causes of Male Infertility?

A single abnormality can make it difficult for couples to get pregnant. Some primary medical conditions can cause male infertility:

Genetic abnormalities : Male infertility may be due to genetic changes on the Y chromosome. In some instances, these changes can cause abnormal sperm production or blockage of sperm flow, which in turn can cause male infertility. The most common congenital abnormalities are chromosomal conditions that affect sperm production and other conditions such as Down Syndrome.

Immunological factors: The sperm swims into the fallopian tube, where it penetrates and fertilizes the egg. Sometimes, however, infection or injury can lead to a condition in which the body attacks healthy sperm. This hinders the sperm's ability to reach the uterus and penetrate an egg.

Male accessory gland infections (MAGI): Inflammation or infection in the male genital tract can impact a person's ability to procreate.

Endocrine disturbances: An endocrine system is a group of glands that control the production of certain hormones. When these hormones are out of balance, infertility can result.

Sperm motility: Sperm motility indicates whether sperm are usually moving to reach the egg. The percentage of motile sperm is commonly used to predict how likely you are to become pregnant.

Varicocele: It is a disorder of the veins in the scrotum, which causes insufficient blood flow and affects sperm production. It's one of the leading causes of male infertility and is found in almost 40% of infertile men.

Increased scrotal temperature: The temperature of the testes should be 2-4 degrees below body temperature. Increased temperatures negatively affect sperm function and sperm concentration, leading to infertility.

Does Frequent Masturbation Affect Male Fertility?

There are quite a few myths associated with masturbation. Among them, there are such myths as:

Masturbation can lead to the blindness
Masturbation can lead to the mental illnesses
Masturbation can cause low sperm count
Masturbation can cause physical weakness
Masturbation can lead to hairy palms
Masturbation can cause erectile dysfunction

There are many misconceptions about masturbation, and many men are not sure what the absolute truth is any longer. Moreover, in many cases, masturbation can have such benefits as boosting the immune system, regulating anxiety and providing relaxation. That's mean masturbation does not cause infertility problem. What is more important is that men should keep in mind that the opportunity for getting pregnant is higher when you ejaculate inside a woman's body.

Sperm Morphology is a standard lab test done to assess the quality of sperm. A good quality sperm must have good motility and morphology. Healthy sperm will keep away from being infertile or having a low sperm count and issues with impotence, infertility, and erectile dysfunction. First, a sperm will have to travel from the male's body to the fallopian tubes and then reach the egg. A normal sperm will have a head shaped in a manner that allows it to penetrate the egg easily. An abnormally shaped sperm may not penetrate the egg even if it reaches it due to the deformed shape of the head. A sperm that is a good swimmer can reach the egg soon, which is essential for conception.

Quality of Sperm

Sperm needs more time to increase its chances of survival. It is known that for having optimal quality sperm male doesn't need to ejaculate for 2 or 3 days. In planning a child and trying to conceive, it is better to break yourself from masturbation before having unprotected sexual intercourse. In this way, the chances of getting pregnant will be higher than usual.

But in the case of using the fertility option treatment, for example, while undergoing IVF treatment, the man will need to give a semen sample, and before providing a sample, it's better to avoid masturbation for ensuring the optimum quality of sperm

Low Sperm Count

Low sperm count can be one of the causes of infertility. For having an average sperm count, a man needs to confirm the level of sperm count by doing a sperm count test. If you feel that you have a low sperm count and it affects your fertility, you need to give a sperm sample, and then after a few days of the test, you will get results. In case of having a positive difficulty with a low sperm count, you need to contact health care provider for getting medical advise

What is Implantation Bleeding?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:37:08 GMT

Home I Blog I What is Implantation Bleeding?

What is Implantation Bleeding?

When a couple is trying to conceive, whether naturally or using an assisted reproductive technology (ART), the female tends to be hyper-aware of what's going on in her body. Minor changes are noticed, and excitement is felt over what could be a sign of pregnancy or a sign of something wrong.

What is Implantation Bleeding?

Implantation bleeding is light vaginal bleeding that occurs about 10 to 14 days after conception. We can explain this process like a body's way of preparing for pregnancy. Implantation bleeding happens when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Implementation bleeding usually occurs around the time when a woman is expecting her periods. Most women are experiencing implantation bleeding, think they have a normal period, but they might not generally realize that they are pregnant. The most frequently asked question is how long does implantation bleeding? It lasts only one or 2 days.

What is The Difference Between Implantation Bleeding and Period?

What do we need to know about the differences between pregnancy bleeding and period bleeding? Very often, it is hard to differentiate pregnancy bleeding from the period. On which signs do we need to pay attention to understanding the difference?

Colour: The colour of pregnancy bleeding is usually light pink to dark brown.
Blood clots: Unfortunately, some women experience much clotting during their menstrual cycle, while some do not see much at all. However, implantation bleeding should not present any clots.
Consistency: Sometimes, spotting during implantation bleeding resembles a menstrual period: However, at the same time, the period starts to light and gets progressively heavier.
Length of bleeding: Implantation bleeding is often confused with the menstrual period, but implantation bleeding can last 1 to 3 days, while the period can last 4 to 7 days.

In case if woman start to see changes in her menstrual periods, she needs to contact a healthcare provider who will provide medical advice.

What are The Symptoms of Implantation?

One of the early pregnancy symptoms is implantation bleeding which lasts for a few days. Because the bleeding occurs near the time of a woman's period, many women are confused about whether it's a possible pregnancy or a period.

There is a list of common signs of implantation bleeding:

Headache
Mood swings
Fatigue
Light cramping
Abdominal pain
Breast tenderness
Morning sickness
Food cravings
Nausea

What Causes Implantation Bleeding?

There are many reasons which can cause implantation bleeding:

Ectopic pregnancy. You may have bleeding with pain and cramps when the embryo implants outside your uterus. It’s dangerous and needs medical care right away.
Sex. Changes in hormones and other physical factors may be responsible for this. If bleeding is not going to stop on its own, the woman needs to contact her doctor.
Fibroids and polyps. The doctor needs to direct the woman for doing some tests for checking the growth in her uterus.
Subchorionic haemorrhage. A subchorionic haematoma occurs when blood collects between the uterine wall and the chorionic membrane in pregnancy.
Miscarriage. It is also called spontaneous abortion. Miscarriage is when a baby dies in the womb (uterus) before 20 weeks. For women who know they're pregnant, about 10 to 15 in 100 pregnancies (10 to 15 per cent) end in miscarriage.

When to See a Doctor?

It is crucial always to keep monitoring all changes in your body. Moreover, it's necessary to use the ovulation calendar to track menstrual cycles when a woman is ready for ovulation to determine the better days for conceiving or avoiding the pregnancy and for having a regular period. The ovulation calendar will show if something wrong happens with your body. If a woman is experiencing bleeding for a few days that are not typical for her or doesn't look like a menstrual period, and the woman starts to worry about her condition, it is better to contact her health provider to receive medical attention.

What Questions Should I Ask At My First Fertility Appointment?

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:35:09 GMT

Home I Blog I What Questions Should I Ask At My First Fertility Appointment?

What Questions Should I Ask At My First Fertility Appointment?

If you and your partner are trying to conceive without any luck, then it can be suggested for seeking the help of a fertility clinic. We prepare short guidelines of questions for the first fertility clinic appointment that your fertility doctor need to ask you and a list of questions you should ask your doctor.

When Do You Need to Visit an Infertility Specialist?

Every month you get a negative pregnancy test; it feels like ages since you last tried to conceive. In reality, you need to wait a year before coming to any conclusion. In general, it is seen that 30% of couples get pregnant within the first cycle (about one month), 60% of couples will conceive within three cycles (about three months), and 80% will conceive within six cycles (about six months). While trying to conceive and making the first appointment with a gynaecologist for infertility, tracking your ovulation will help improve your odds of getting pregnant. While trying to conceive and making the first appointment with a gynaecologist during the fertility journey, the conception calculator will help improve your odds of getting pregnant. There is a list of main reasons why you should visit an infertility specialist:

Irregular menstrual cycles: For some women, their periods are unpredictable. For example, the length of a menstrual cycle can range from 21 days to 35 days, and the average size is 28 days. Menstruation lasts for several days, usually 4 to 7.

Recurrent miscarriage: A woman who has had three or more miscarriages should visit a fertility specialist.

Maternal age: If you have crossed the age of 40 and are trying to get pregnant after one year of regular and unprotected intercourse, consult with a fertility specialist.

Pelvic inflammatory disease: this infection of female reproductive. The most common symptoms include pain during intercourse, fever, abdominal pain, difficult urination, or difficulties conceiving.

Ovulation problem: Ovulation problems can be caused by some reasons such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), diabetes, obesity, weight loss, stress or excessive exercise.

Male factor infertility: The main symptoms of male infertility can include such signs as problems with sex drive, low sperm count, difficulty ejaculating, abnormal breast growth, reduces muscle mass and hormonal abnormality

Questions Your Fertility Specialist Must Ask You

When was your last period?
In which way do you track your ovulation or basal body temperature?
At what age did you first start having periods?
What is the length of your period?
Have you ever had painful periods?
How long are you trying to conceive?
Have you ever before conceived?
Have you ever done fertility tests?
Have you ever had any kind of pelvic or abdominal surgery?

Also, your fertility specialist needs to ask your male partner about his sexual and reproductive health. After these basic questions, your healthcare professional will have a clear understanding of which tests you and your partner need to do to determine the root cause of the fertility issues and choose the correct fertility treatment options. Also, your doctor can ask you to introduce your medical history, because in some cases these questions are not enough.

Questions You Should Ask Your Fertility Specialist

What type of treatment will be recommended for me with my diagnosis?
What types of fertility treatment does the clinic offer?
What type of specific tests do I or my partner need to do?
What is the success rate of fertility treatment that is recommended for me?
What is the cost of the recommended treatment of reproductive medicine?
Why will IVF treatment be more effective in my case than IUI?/Why will IUI treatment be more effective than IVF?
If I get a diagnosis of unexplained infertility, which treatment plan will be recommended for my partner or me?
How long do I need to wait for undergoing treatment?
What is your clinic live birth success rates of the recommended treatment?
How you will do my fertility treatment?
How many IVF or IUI cycles I will have?
What are the risks of fertility treatment that will be recommended for me?

Can I Be Pregnant If I Have Irregular Periods?

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 10:04:26 GMT

Home I Blog I Can I Be Pregnant If I Have Irregular Periods?

Can I Be Pregnant If I Have Irregular Periods?

The menstrual cycle and well-being are nearly linked. When the body is affected by hormonal abnormalities, illness, medications, and environmental change, changes in menstruation patterns are often the first outward symptom a woman notices. Having irregular periods isn't rare. Irregular cycles can be caused by such reasons as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), endometriosis, Premature ovarian failure, Blocked fallopian tubes, Pelvic inflammatory disease, taking birth control pills, having Intrauterine Device (IUD), weight changes, anxiety or stress

What Are Irregular Periods?

For some women, their periods are like clockwork. For others, their periods come early or late. For example, the length of a menstrual cycle can range from 21 days to 35 days; the average size of the process is 28 days.

How to Get Pregnant With Irregular Periods?

The answer sounds yes, but if you have irregular periods, getting pregnant may be more challenging than for someone with regular periods. Their health care providers can diagnose people with irregular cycles after conducting the pelvic exam. The doctor can also do blood tests, pelvic ultrasounds, pelvic ultrasound or endometrial biopsy, who may suggest treatment based on the results of medical examinations.

A person with an irregular cycle can also help her chances of getting pregnant by following the following tips:

Tracking your ovulation

Knowing when you're most fertile allows you to plan your pregnancy more organized and efficient. However, if your periods are irregular, then you may want to use BBT to determine ovulation. By examining cervical mucus, you can also track ovulation.

Using a calendar of ovulation may help you to increase chances of getting pregnant; you will know your fertile days, so you can have sex on specific days to get pregnant

Changing your lifestyle habits

Being healthy is the most critical factor for getting pregnant. To improve your chances, you need to try:

Avoid alcohol
Get enough sleep
Maintain a healthy weight
Consume caffeine in healthy weight
Quit smoking

Having more sex

As you know, Sperm can live in the body for up to five days, that's mean your chances of getting pregnant with irregular periods with frequent sex are greater

Following a healthy diet

Many types of research have shown that eating healthy foods may improve fertility. There are some tips for those who experience irregular periods:

Limiting consumption of caffeine
Limiting simple carbs
Limiting trans fats
Limiting soda
Limiting refined sugar
Limiting fried foods

What Are the Symptoms of a Bulky Uterus?

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 13:47:57 GMT

Home I Blog I What Are the Symptoms of a Bulky Uterus?

What Are the Symptoms of a Bulky Uterus?

A bulky uterus is the generalised swelling of the uterine wall. This means the uterine length is above the normal length of a uterus. A woman’s uterus is liable for maintaining the foetus and offer nourishment till the child is born. It is formed like an upside-down pear and is more or less the scale of a fist. The uterus can increase in a few conditions, along with pregnancy. If the uterus is starting to increase due to resons aside from pregnancy, it's far an extreme situation and wishes clinical attention. A woman can experience a few heavinesses in her decreased abdomen, and the situation also can result in intense ache and bleeding.

What are the symptoms of a bulky uterus?

There is a list of common symptoms of a bulky uterus:

Heavy periods;
Bloating:
Pain abdomen during menses;
Heaviness in the lower abdomen;
Difficulty in conceiving;
Miscarriage or premature delivery;
Swelling and cramping in the legs;
Pain during sexual intercourse;
Frequent urination
Acne;
Excessive or unwanted hair growth;
Constipation;
Vaginal discharge;
Unexplained weight gain;
Hormonal changes;
Infertility problems.

Commonly the diagnosis of enlarged uterus is often first detected during a routine pelvic examination or while visiting a doctor due to irregular menstruation cycles. When it's been picked up by a gynecologist, the doctor ensures that it hasn't grown because of any malignant condition or pregnancy. A pregnancy test is done to rule out pregnancy, and imaging tests are done to look for any complications in the uterus.

Breast Cancer - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 08:35:15 GMT

Home I Blog I Breast Cancer Awarness Month: How to Check Your Breast?

Breast Cancer - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Research shows that breast cancer is the second highest cause of cancer-related deaths for women globally. Thus, learning some facts about this disease is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer. Additionally, it will be addressed whether you can protect yourself from breast cancer.

What Is Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a disease that manifests in abnormal and uncontrolled growth of breast cells into lumps. Cancer cells develop in the milk-producing lobules and milk ducts before multiplying and spreading to adjacent breast tissue and lymph nodes. If untreated, the cancer cells can spread beyond the breasts to the rest of the body and become life-threatening. However, if it is detected early, breast cancer is treatable.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can present many different symptoms. The most common breast cancer signs include the following:

Swelling or Lump

The presence of growths or swelling in the armpits or breasts is the most common indication of breast cancer. The affected tissue often feels different from adjacent tissue.

Changes in Breast Shape or Size

Breast cancer can lead to observable variations in the breast shape or size. You may notice shrinkage, asymmetry, or swelling in either or both breasts.

Breast Tenderness or Pain

Although this may not be an obvious indication of cancer, you should schedule a medical evaluation if you experience persistent, localised pain or tenderness in your breast.

Skin Changes

Another primary cancer symptom is changes in breast skin appearance. The changes may be skin puckering or dimpling, redness or thickening.

Nipple Abnormalities

You should notice any unexplained nipple changes with great concern. Such changes include unusual discharge that isn't breast milk, nipple inversion, texture, or shape changes.

It is crucial to note that having these symptoms is not necessarily an indication that you have cancer. The signs can be a result of other non-cancerous conditions. Therefore, you should consult your healthcare provider for further screening and diagnosis if you observe any unusual changes.

Causes of Breast Cancer

There is no known sole cause of breast cancer, but several common factors are associated with the disease. Although these factors do not warrant cancer development, they are essential for prevention and early detection. Some potential causes of breast cancer include:

Genetic Mutations and Family History

Research has revealed some cases where breast cancer runs in families. Thus, you are more likely to develop breast cancer if you have a close relative, such as a sister or mother, with the disease. Also, some inherited genetic mutations substantially increase the probability of breast cancer development.

Personal Breast Abnormality History

Having certain non-cancerous diseases of the breast, like lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or atypical hyperplasia, can increase your likelihood of getting breast cancer. Also, previous chest area radiotherapy treatment for complications such as Hodgkin's lymphoma can lead to the development of breast cancer.

Hormonal Factors

Studies reveal that prolonged lifetime exposure to progesterone and oestrogen hormones contributes to an increased breast cancer risk. Therefore, early menstruation onset (under 12 years of age) and late menopause (beyond 55) can potentially cause breast cancer. Also, women above 30 who have never gotten pregnant are at a higher risk.

Age

Statistics show that breast cancer risk rises with age. Although you can get breast cancer at any age, most diagnosed cases are above 50 years.

Breast Tissue Density

Having dense breast tissue makes mammography imaging challenging, increasing the chances of developing breast cancer. The breast tissue will appear thicker and less fatty, and abnormalities or small lumps may be hard to detect.

Lifestyle Factors

Some lifestyle choices, such as alcohol abuse, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity can potentially contribute to breast cancer development. You can reduce this risk by making healthy lifestyle choices like exercising regularly and avoiding alcohol.

Types of Breast Cancer

There are various breast cancer types, each with different behaviours and characteristics. Some common types of breast cancer include:

Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)

DCIS is a non-invasive early-stage breast cancer. This type of cancer is characterised by the presence of malignant cells only in the milk ducts and has a high survival rate.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

This type of cancer grows in the milk ducts before invading adjacent tissue. IDC has the highest prevalence and can spread throughout the body if left untreated.

Lobular Carcinoma in Situ (LCIS)

LCIS develops in the milk glands and is often considered non-cancerous. However, its presence indicates an increased risk of invasive breast cancer. LCIS is not detectable by mammography.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

ILC is an invasive type of cancer that develops in the milk lobules, spreading to surrounding tissue and other body parts if untreated. Although ILC is less common than IDC, they have common characteristics.

Paget's Disease of the Nipple

This kind of cancer is less common; it develops in the milk ducts and then spreads to the areola and nipples, causing itching, crusting, and redness in the nipple area.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

This aggressive and rare breast cancer type progresses rapidly and is characterised by breast inflammation, swoleness, and redness.

Phyllodes Tumours

These are rare benign tumours that grow in the breast connective tissue with the potential of becoming cancerous if untreated.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

The process of diagnosing breast cancer involves various stages that help identify the presence and magnitude of the disease. Let's look at the process step by step.

Clinical breast examination is the foremost step in breast cancer diagnosis. The process involves examining the breasts and adjacent areas by a physician to identify any abnormalities.
Mammogram : a mammogram is a specialised imaging of the breast (X-ray) that helps detect even minute abnormalities that may be cancerous.
Breast ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to analyse any doubtful/ inconclusive observations from a mammogram further. A breast ultrasound is also helpful in detecting breast irregularities in women with dense breast tissue, especially younger women.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) involves detailed breast imaging using radio waves and magnetic fields. An MRI scan helps reveal more information on the characteristics, location, and size of suspicious tissue, aiding in determining the scope of the disease.
Biopsy : a biopsy involves collecting suspicious tissue samples for a laboratory analysis and definitive diagnosis of cancer.
Biological tests : lastly, the physician may recommend genetic testing to investigate the presence of cancer-related genetic mutations or markers.

Staging : cancer staging involves establishing the spread and extent of cancer in the body. Staging aids in disease prognosis, planning, and identifying the most suitable treatment approach. The process entails evaluating several factors, including tumor size, distant metastasis presence, and lymph node involvement, to assign or identify the stage of cancer (from stages 1 to 4).

Treating Breast Cancer

There are various breast cancer treatment options, and each option is suitable for specific tumour characteristics. They include:

Surgery is the primary cancer treatment option, and it can focus on removing the tumour (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy)
Radiation therapy is often applied after surgery to get rid of any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy involves intravenous or oral medication to kill the cancer cells when they are widespread.
Hormone therapy helps in treating hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
Targeted therapy focuses on treating specific cancer cell characteristics.
Immunotherapy boosts the patient's immunity to help fight cancer.
Clinical trials involve novel approaches and experimental therapies to help improve breast cancer treatment.

Breast cancer treatment is highly personalised, and the doctor may apply a combination of these treatment options for optimal results, depending on your situation.

Can You Prevent Breast Cancer?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, there are some measures you can take to minimise your risk of developing the disease. However, it is essential to note that, unfortunately, some people get it regardless of their best preventive actions.

Here are some of the tips that can potentially help reduce your risk of breast cancer:

Conducting regular breast self-exams can help you become breast-aware so you can detect and report any unusual changes to your doctor.
Scheduling routine clinical breast examinations with your healthcare provider can be helpful in the early detection of potential abnormalities.
Regular mammograms are crucial in detecting changes in the breasts, especially for women above 40.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle : studies suggest that a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can help lower your breast cancer risk.
Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption can reduce your risk of health complications, including breast cancer.
Avoid post-menopausal long-term use of hormone therapy.
Know your family breast cancer history ; consult your doctor on additional preventive measures if your family has a breast cancer history.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is among the most significant global health concerns and the second leading cancer death cause for women. Being breast aware is crucial in early detection and recognition of symptoms of breast cancer, which include unusual changes in the look and feel of the breast.

There is no proven breast cancer cause, but some factors such as age, family history, hormonal factors, and unhealthy lifestyle choices can increase your chances of developing the disease. Breast cancer is treatable if diagnosed early. Your doctor will determine the appropriate treatment strategy depending on the diagnosis findings.

Although breast cancer is not preventable, taking steps like regular breast self-exams, routine clinical exams, and screening alongside healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk of developing the disease.

References

Ahlgren, M., Melbye, M., Wohlfahrt, J., & Sørensen, T. I. (2004). Growth patterns and the risk of breast cancer in women. New England Journal of Medicine, 351(16), 1619-1626. Retrieved from https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa040576 .

Nelson, H. D., Zakher, B., Cantor, A., Fu, R., Griffin, J., O'Meara, E. S., ... & Miglioretti, D. L. (2012). Risk factors for breast cancer for women aged 40 to 49 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of internal medicine, 156(9), 635-648. Retrieved from https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/full/10.7326/0003-4819-156-9-201205010-00006 .

Dupont, W. D., & Page, D. L. (1985). Risk factors for breast cancer in women with proliferative breast disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 312(3), 146-151. Retrieved from https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM198501173120303 .

Frequently Asked Questions

Celebrities With PCOS

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 08:18:19 GMT

Home I Blog I Celebrities With PCOS

Celebrities With PCOS

Do you think celebrities with PCOS are open about the disorder? Many of them aren't, but some of them are. It's necessary to remember that PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder that affects 10 million women in the world.

Here are some celebrities who suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome:

Victoria Beckham

Victoria Beckham has been reported suffering from a significant source of female infertility called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) while attempting to become pregnant again.

The magazine claims that the English pop singer and her soccer superstar husband have been trying for a fourth child for the last three months. The magazine reports that they are now consulting specialists in both Los Angeles and London.

During a routine checkup at London's exclusive Portman Hospital two weeks ago, the 34-year-old Spice Girl was warned that her fertility rate was lower than at the time of her first baby.

A Now magazine source said, "Victoria is suffering from PCOS and irregular periods, both of which can affect her chances of having a baby. She's trying not to get too nervous as she knows this won't help, but it's becoming more and more of a concern."

In February, Victoria admitted: "I feel that pressure. Every time I go out, someone says to me: 'Are you pregnant?"

According to the magazine Now, the problematic situation of the Beckhams (with Ava, their daughter that they welcomed recently) is made even more complicated by the possible retirement next year when he turns 60 of Dr Malcolm Gillard, who delivered all Victoria's babies.

Emma Thompson

The legendary actress Emma Thompson has proven that you can achieve great things while living with PCOS and clinical depression. After struggling with infertility, Emma underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) to help her conceive her daughter Gaia. Several additional rounds of IVF later, Emma and her husband ended up adopting a few years later. "For years, I counted people's children in the street and thought I'd never recover," she said in a magazine interview. "But you do, of course."

Lea Michele

The Glee star recently opened up about being diagnosed with PCOS, a hormone disorder that causes acne and weight gain. "The side effects can be brutal — like weight gain and bad skin," Lea shared with Health. "I went to a great doctor, and the minute she looked at me, she was like, 'Oh, you have PCOS.' It explained everything."

She went on to say, "Through diet, I have been able to manage [my symptoms]. But I am very fortunate. There are way more extreme versions of PCOS that women have a lot of difficulty with — mine is not as intense. Which is why I haven't talked about it, because there are women who have it so much more intense."

Jillian Michaels

The fitness queen has never been shy about talking about her Health. She keeps her PCOS in check by exercising and dieting. When asked about her fertility struggles, Jillian opened up to Redbook about the realities of living with PCOS.

"Turns out I had PCOS. But at a young age, I didn't know if I wanted kids, so I didn't care. Then I got older, and I watched friends go through IVF, with years of hormones and devastation and disappointment, and I remember thinking, God wants something different for me," recalled Jillian. "If I choose to pursue this path, I'll adopt. And when I was finally ready to go for it, I thought, this will be so easy. I am such an a-hole. I had no idea."

Daisy Ridley

Star Wars actress: The Last Jedi is a warrior offscreen. In the world of highly filtered social media posts, Daisy Ridley took to Instagram to get honest about her severe acne due to polycystic ovary syndrome.

"My skin was the worst. I've tried everything: products, antibiotics, more products, more antibiotics and all that did was left my body in a bit of a mess. Finally found out I have polycystic ovaries, and that's why it's bad. I can safely say that feeling so self-conscious has left my confidence in tatters. I hate wearing makeup, but I currently don't want to leave the house without it on," shared Daisy. "HOWEVER, PROGRESS IS BEING MADE!"

Simone Ormesher

Ormesher, a contestant on The Bachelor, just revealed that she has Polycystic ovary syndrome. On her Instagram, she wrote:

To cope with my symptoms, I make sure I maintain a well-balanced life, exercise regularly, eat lots of good wholesome foods, and surround myself with supportive people.

Harnaam Kaur

Model, activist, and Guinness Book Record holder Harnaam Kaur rocks a full beard due to polycystic ovarian syndrome. She has promised to let her hair grow out following religious beliefs and is praised as a body-positive heroine. "I had no idea what PCOS was. My doctor said, 'This is what you have,' and that was all I knew," said Harnaam. "At first, I thought I was dying of a sporadic disease because nobody in the media spoke about it! Growing up, I found out that Victoria Beckham has the same condition as me, but there I was feeling like I was suffering from something super rare."

She went on, "My message to other women suffering from the same condition would be doing not suffer in silence. Always speak up about it and talk to a doctor about how to treat your symptoms. The thing with PCOS is that it also affects women emotionally, and again, it's important to talk about your feelings. If you are body-shamed, then do not take it. It would help if you found self-love. You need to change your thought process, and you will flourish both internally and externally."

Jaime King

Jaime King is an actress and entrepreneur who has also been candid about her ongoing struggles with infertility. "The way that it started was I was diagnosed with endometriosis and PCOS when I was 20. And I went undiagnosed for a long time," revealed Jamie. "I lost my first baby at that age. And I continued to miscarry and miscarry, and it took many years for me to have my first child, and when I was going through this, I cannot explain what it felt like — that this one thing that we're told as women is that our gift is that we can carry life, and all of a sudden someone says, 'Oh, maybe that might be in question.'"

Sasha Pieterse

The Pretty Little Liars Show star is getting honest about her struggles with PCOS diagnosis and the fears that come along with it. With infertility being a primary symptom of PCOS, she and her husband, Hudson Scheaffer, worried it would be difficult to conceive. Much to their surprise, however, they soon discovered what they were expecting.

Sasha told People Magazine, "Just the fact that we were able to get pregnant was such a blessing because with PCOS, that made me nervous." She continued, "Many women have infertility issues, and so we were expecting more difficulty, so it's been an absolute blessing that we were able to just get pregnant by ourselves."

Egg Donor Profile in Ovoria Egg Bank

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 10:00:34 GMT

Home I Blog I Egg Donor Profile in Ovoria Egg Bank

Egg Donor Profile in Ovoria Egg Bank

For some couples, finding an egg donor feels like a natural and uncomplicated process. For other couples, it is an emotionally complicated and challenging process.

Egg Donor Database in Ovoria Egg Bank

Right now our database contains nearly 220 egg donors. All our egg donors have been selected and screened in accordance with Ovoria quality requirements and operational procedures. We examine donors according to the international ART associations guidelines: EU-Tissue Directive 2004/23/CE, 2006/17/EC.

Egg Donor Profiles

Egg donor profiles include 3 sections: donor personality, medical history and family overview.

In the section of donor personality, patients can get acquainted with such information as:

Information about donor
Appearance (eye colour, hair colour, hair type, height, weight, body build, BMI)
Education (favourite subject in school, educational level, current occupation)
Clinical (blood group, genetics, vitrification protocol)
Talents and interests
Favourites (favourite colour, food, the season of the year, holiday)
Live credo

In the section of medical history, patients can find out information about infectious diseases and personal health record.

Infectious disease will show information if egg donor has such infections as gonorrhea, chlamydia, condyloma (venereal warts), syphilis or herpes.

Personal health record consists of such questions as:

Do you currently have any allergies?
Are you currently breastfeeding?
Has anyone in your family including you experienced recurring and chronic physical symptoms that have not been evaluated by a physician yet?
How is your vision (without glasses)?
Do you wear glasses or contact lenses?
Do you have an abnormal hearing?
What is the condition of your teeth?
If you ever wore braces or a retainer?
Are you a vegetarian?
Have you ever had surgery?
If you ever had hospitalization not previously mentioned?
If you ever had any complications resulting from surgery?
If you have or any member of your family had malignant hyperthermia or high fevers after surgery, injury or exercise?
If you have had any major radiation or xray exposure?
Have you ever lived in Chernobyl or the surrounding areas since 1986?
Have you ever visited the exclusion zone?
If you ever had a blood transfusion when?
Have you got any tatoos?
Have you ever smoked cigarettes?
If you take any medications at the present time what are they?
If you have ever been advised to have any diagnostic testing, hospitalization or surgery that was not completed please explain
If you ever had any serious trauma please explain
If you have gained or lost more than 10 pounds in the last year?
If you have ever participated in mental health counselling?
What kind of alcoholic beverages do you drink?
Have you ever used intravenous drugs?
Have you ever been with a partner who may have used intravenous drugs?
Have you had or been treated for a substance, alcohol abuse, addiction problem?
If you have any legal cases pending against you?

Anonymous and Open ID egg donors

An anonymous donor

personal information is hidden and should not be disclosed.
photo is not available in the profile

The donor does not get any information about the recipient or the cycle where her biological material is used.

Open ID Egg Donors

In the catalogue of Ovoria egg bank , you can find donors with open personal information and photos. It means that the donor gave her consent to the processing and sharing her identity data, i.e., full name, country, city and address, contact phone number and email address.

Identification information of the donor with a "non-anonymous" status is sent to the clinic or corresponding authority that regulates the importation of biological material for infertility treatment in the particular country.

If you have any questions about the egg donor database or egg donor profiles , please contact us via phone or contact form:

United Kingdom: +44 203 807 90 07
Canada: +1 613 416 90 70
France: +33 17 997 89 88
Spain: +34 91 008 29 88
Brazil: +55 613 181 04 88

Endometriosis Diet: What To Eat For Managing Symptoms of Endometriosis

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:15:18 GMT

Home I Blog I Endometriosis Diet: What To Eat For Managing Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis Diet: What To Eat For Managing Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder that usually causes infertility, pelvic pain, and ovarian masses. There are few types of endometriosis:

Superficial Peritoneal Lesions : this type of endometriosis is the most common. The lesions involve the peritoneum, which is the connective tissue, which bound the pelvic cavity and abdominal wall. This means that superficial peritoneal lesions can answer for severe pain.
Ovarian Endometriomas : these fluid-filled cysts are also known as chocolate cysts. These cysts are located in the ovaries and can damage healthy tissue.
Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis: these lesions are usually located under the peritoneum, which means they can cause severe pain. This type of endometriosis is also considered as the latest stage of endometriosis.

Endometriosis Symptoms

Many women experience different symptoms, because endometriosis can cause many symptoms, and some of the most common ones include:

Painful menstrual cycle
Chronic pelvic pain (pain in lower tummy or back)
Fatigue
Painful urination
Cramps around menstruation
Pain during or after sexual intercourse
Heavy menstrual bleeding, or spotting or bleeding in between periods
Discomfort during bowel movement
Abdominal bloating and nausea
Diarrhoea or constipation
Infertility issues

Treatments For Endometriosis

Before choosing a treatment option for endometriosis, the doctor will consider such factors as age, symptoms, severity of endometriosis. Treatment options for endometriosis can include:

Pain medications
Hormone therapy
Surgery
Exercise
Nutrition therapy

What Is The Link Between Endometriosis and Diet?

It's true that there's not much research that studies the relationship between endometriosis and eating habits. However, some people have said that eating certain foods helps relieve their symptoms and that eating other foods triggers a flare-up.

Research from 2013 showing that women who consumed more omega-3 fatty acids and vegetables were protected from the many symptoms of endometriosis, whereas the women who had a high intake of trans fat, red meat, and coffee were experiencing the exact opposite effect. Defining the link between endometriosis are diet is still requiring more studies and researches.

Endometriosis Diet: Foods that Positively Affect Endometriosis

If a woman wants to keep her inflammation and pain caused by endometriosis in check, it’s best to consume a nutrient-dense, healthy diet that’s primarily plant-based and full of vitamins and minerals. The diet for managing symptoms of endometriosis need consists of:

High fibre foods. The main reason why women need to include fibre in their diet is to decrease circulating estrogen in their system. Besides this reason there are other benefits for consuming fibre:

Reducing constipation
Absorption of minerals and vitamins
Controlling blood sugar levels
Reducing the risk of cancer
Reducing inflammation
Reducing risk for developing
Reducing cholesterol level
Maintaining a healthy weight

There is a list of foods high in fibre that will help you to decrease circulating estrogen in organisms:

Apples
Strawberries
Raspberries
Bananas
Broccoli
Orange
Lentils
Avocados
Split Peas
Flax seeds
Oats
Quinoa

Iron-rich foods. A woman who has endometriosis can experience heavy bleeding, that's why it is important to add more foods with iron into the diet. Moreover, a woman with endometriosis has a higher risk for developing iron-deficient anaemia because of heavy bleeding menstruation. Consuming iron-rich foods has also other benefits:

Improving cognitive function
Enhancing muscle contraction
Boosting immune system
Improving sleeping

There is a list of iron-rich foods:

Dark leafy greens
Broccoli
String beans
Lentils
Tofu
Peas
Pumpkin seeds
Whole wheat bread

Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Many types of fats, including plant oils that are rich in omega-6 fats, can increase inflammation in the body and also promote pain. However, omega-3 fatty acids have the opposite effect, helping reduce inflammation and pain. Consuming food high in omega-3 fatty acids have other benefits:

Managing insulin levels
Improving mental and physical health
Preventing heart disease
Reducing stress
Reducing bowel disease

There is a list of foods high in omega- 3 fatty acids:

Salmon
Flax seeds
Chia seeds
Shellfish
Walnuts
Canola oil

The goal is to consume and use fats that have lower saturated fat and a higher Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio to reduce rates of inflammation associated with endometriosis.

Foods high in antioxidants

There is a list of foods high in antioxidants:

wild blueberries
blackberries
pinto beans
sweet cherries
goji berries
strawberries
cranberries
dark chocolate
spinach

A woman who experiences endometriosis for managing symptoms of endometriosis need to eat more organic foods, vegetable proteins, complex carbohydrates, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats, foods high in fibre, foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids, foods high in antioxidants, spices that contain anti-inflammatory compounds and herbs with anti-inflammatory properties.

Endometriosis Diet: Foods that Negatively Affect Endometriosis

There is a list of foods that women with endometriosis should stay away from or just eat less:

Animal and dairy proteins. Milk, cheese, yoghurt, ice cream, and kefir are foods that contain dairy. Dairy foods may sometimes have added hormones, which are related to hormone imbalances in people with endometriosis. For some people with endometriosis, dairy products may contribute to symptoms. However, dairy and meat are excellent sources of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and iron.

Simple carbohydrates. There is a list of simple carbohydrates to avoid:

Soda
Breakfast cereal
White rice
Packaged cookies
Baked treats

Saturated and trans fats. Trans and saturated fats may worsen cramps and contribute to the spread of endometriosis. There is a list of foods high in trans fat that it is better to avoid:

Pancakes and Waffles
Ice Cream
Biscuits and Cinnamon Rolls
Ground Beef
Cookies and Cakes
Meat Sticks
Canned Chili

Beverages. In general, women with endometriosis should drink more water than any other sort of drink. To avoid inflammation and maintain healthy liver function, it is better to avoid alcohol. Some researchers report that caffeine and alcohol intake increases the risk of endometriosis, which might be why some women choose to avoid them.

The nonprofit information hub Healthy Women supports the idea that diet and endometriosis symptoms are linked. The site cautions women with endometriosis to stay away from high-fat foods, since they may increase the level of circulating estrogen in the body. The more fat in a woman's diet, the more estrogen her body produces. Some foods can contribute to inflammation and symptoms:

Artificial trans fats
Sugar and high-fructose corn syrup
Vegetable and seed oils
Caffeine and alhockol
Processed meat
Refined carbohydrates

Low Sperm Motility: Symptoms, Causes and Fertility Treatments

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 08:30:04 GMT

Home I Blog I Low Sperm Motility: Symptoms, Causes and Fertility Treatments

Low Sperm Motility: Symptoms, Causes and Fertility Treatments

If intended parents have trouble conceiving naturally, they may want to consider fertility testing. As part of that testing, the male partner needs to undergo a semen analysis - the main male fertility testing for men. This comprehensive test helps doctors determine whether or not the man's sperm is compatible with conception. The analysis measures the sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape).

What is Sperm Motility?

Sperm motility is the speed at which swimmers are moving. It's measured by the percentage of sperm production and sperm quality that are motile (AKA moving) and the progressive forward speed.

Signs of Healthy Sperm

Signs of healthy sperm include:

Colour from white-grey to slightly yellow
No smell
Without any visible particles
Without any blood
Normal sperm counts
The volume of sperm should be between two and six ml

What is Low Sperm Motility?

Male infertility is a common problem, affecting up to one in six men. About 90% of infertility issues are related to sperm count. However, poor sperm motility also contributes to infertility. When a man has low levels of sperm in his semen, it means that fewer sperm are travelling along the long trail from the cervix to the fallopian tubes, so the chances of one sperm reaching the egg are reduced. With low motility, the possibility of that one sperm fertilizing the egg becomes even more difficult. Low sperm motility means it's harder for the sperm to swim forward. This is known as asthenospermia or asthenozoospermia and is diagnosed when more than 32% of the sperm can swim forward. Many men with a low sperm count may also have low sperm motility, and that condition is called Oligoasthenospermia. Some men with otherwise normal sperm have sperm that move slowly and poorly. The DNA inside such sperm is more likely to be damaged.

Symptoms of Low Sperm Motility

Symptoms of low sperm count can include:

Trouble conceiving
Problems with sexual function
Decreased facial or body hair
Hormonal imbalance
Pain during ejaculation
Decreased sex interest

Causes of Low Sperm Motility

Very often it can be hard to define the cause of low sperm count. The low sperm count can be affected by some medical issues:

Ejaculation problems
Varicocele
Infection
Hormone imbalances
Chromosome defects

The low sperm count can be affected by daily habits:

Alcohol consumption
Drug consumption
Depression
Smoking
Occupation
Weight
Poor diet
Excessive heat

Risk Factors

There is a list of risk factors that can affect fertility, sperm health, sperm count and cause low sperm count:

Taking bodybuilding supplements ( anabolic steroids)
Smoking
Drinking alcohol
Taking certain medications
Being overweight
Diabetes
Depression or stress
Testicular trauma
Radiation therapy
Having infections
Undergoing medical treatments

Fertility Treatment Options for Low Sperm Count

In case of a couple are facing issues of low semen motility while trying to conceive and have tried all home remedies, taken vitamin supplements and even managed lifestyle changes without any luck, then the best course of action would be visiting an infertility specialist. If low motility is found due to some hormonal disorders, then treatment might be possible. If a genetic cause is responsible for low or no motility, then assisted reproductive techniques (ART) might be recommended.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a procedure where healthy, mobile sperm are injected directly into the uterus. The sperm is therefore not required to swim any long distance, making it easier for them to reach the egg. But this procedure will improve sperm motility in males with less than 30-40% motility.

IVF is recommended when IUI fails and when the sperm motility rate is lower than 30%. This process uses in vitro fertilization (IVF). The embryo is fertilised outside the body, usually in a petri dish. Then the embryo is transferred to the uterus in order to establish a successful pregnancy.

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is recommended for men with severe motility issues. If a man has motile sperm, then the chances of being able to conceive a child through a single sperm injection procedure are about 70-90%.

FAQ's For An Egg Donor

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 11:06:33 GMT

Home I Blog I FAQ's For Egg Donor

FAQ's For Egg Donor

A donor's eggs are often the only opportunity for intended parents struggling with infertility issues and wanting to have a child. Usually, donor eggs are used in cases where a woman's eggs are of poor quality or when the egg cells do not produce their cells because of egg development abnormalities, absence, premature depletion of the function of the egg, menopause or other medical conditions.

What is an egg donor?

An egg donor is a woman who donates an egg, or oocyte, to another woman to help her conceive. Egg donation is a good option for women who can't use their eggs for various reasons, including ovarian failure, endometriosis, mature age, uterine fibroids, bulky uterus, PCOS or poor quality eggs

Who is anonymous egg donor?

An anonymous donor is a donor whose personal information is hidden and should not be disclosed. The donor's photo is not available in their profile. The donor does not get any information about the recipient of the cycle where her biological material is used.

When choosing the anonymous donor, the recipient (patient or IVF clinic) undertakes not to perform any actions to disclose the donor's personality and avoid contacting her.

Who is an open ID egg donor?

An open ID egg donor gave her consent to the processing and sharing her identity data, i.e., full name, country, city and address, contact phone number and email address. Identification information of the donor with a "non-anonymous" status is sent to the clinic or corresponding authority that regulates the importation of biological material for infertility treatment in the particular country.

What are the requirements to become an egg donor?

Our egg donors meet the following criteria :

Young fertile women at the age of 18-32
Perfectly physically and mentally healthy
Thoroughly screened and rescreened
Without detrimental habits or addictions
With proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child)
Without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs

What is the age limit of egg donors?

32 years

How many times is a woman allowed to donate?

Ukrainian law sets the limit of 8 stimulation cycles

What are the risks of being an egg donor?

IVF treatment has many benefits, a good record for safety and success, but it can also have serious risks. Before starting the IVF cycle, it is essential to get familiar with all risks and complications. There are a few complications connected with being an egg donor:

Ovarian HyperStimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
Ectopic Pregnancy
Multiple Pregnancy
Miscarriage
Fertility Medications Side Effects

How are potential egg donors screened?

Lab and diagnostics tests include:

Blood type, Rh factor
HIV-1 Ag р24 and summary antibodies, including group О and HIV-2 (ECLIA)
Treponema pallidum, summary antibodies
PCR HBV (Real-time)
PCR HCV (Real-time)
PCR, Chlamydia trachomatis (genital swab)
PCR. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (genital swab)
Сomplete blood count
Coagulogram
CMV, IgМ
CMV, IgG
AMH, MIS
LH
Estradiol (E2)
FSH
Vaginal smear
PAP-test
Psychological counselling

Genetic tests include:

Karyotype
Cystic Fibrosis
Fragile X
SMA

How does Ovoria Egg Bank select donors?

At the very beginning, the potential egg donor visits the medical centre for the initial consultation . She also undergoes an ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve, signs of current ovarian stimulation or pathology that contraindicates hormonal treatment. Moreover, the candidate is referred to a blood draw for AMH and a small talk with a psychologist, donor coordinator and doctor about the whole process of donation.
After medical approval, the donor receives further details that include the possibility for her to choose between open and anonymous egg donor status. If all agree, the medical centre and donor sign a contract.
Afterwards, our donor coordinators check the medical history of the donor's family, going back to three generations. The purpose of this analysis is to ensure that there have been no severe hereditary diseases in the past.
Our doctors carry out a thorough examination to confirm a suitable health condition of the donor, absence of any abnormalities and hereditary diseases.
Blood and urine samples are collected and tested for infectious and genetically recessive diseases. Besides, chromosome analysis is performed. The results go through the assessment and approval of our geneticist.
Also, the donor does a personality test.

What is the process of egg donation?

First visit. The first visit consists of:

Ultrasound check to assess ovarian reserve, signs of recent ovarian stimulation or pathology that contraindicates hormonal treatment
Blood draw for AMH
Small talk with the psychologist and doctor about the whole process of donation

The donor will take a complete blood count as well as a test for blood type and Rh. Moreover, her blood sample will be used for extensive genetic screening. It is required to exclude the possibility of the donor being a carrier of genetic illnesses inherited by a future child.

Second visit. Interview with a donor. Psychological assessment

If the level of AMH is enough for egg donation, donor candidates will complete a comprehensive questionnaire, including details about family medical history. The donor will also undergo a psychological assessment to ensure her emotional stability. One of the mandatory requirements is signing a contract with the medical centre about participating in the egg donation program. In this way, the donor gets informed about the flow of the whole procedure, her rights and obligations. Moreover, by signing the contract, she gives consent to donate the oocytes and undertakes to follow the doctor's prescriptions and take the necessary medical tests.

Gynaecological evaluation:

General physical exploration
PAP-test
Vaginal smear
PCR, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea (genital swab)

Blood screening

Monitoring & Stimulation

The donor will have several appointments with the doctor for an ultrasound check to make sure she is ready to begin two weeks of hormonal medications. If her ovaries are prepared, she will start taking stimulation medications injected under the skin through tiny needles. They are required to facilitate the maturation of more than one egg. There will also be about 3-5 additional clinical visits to monitor the donor's ovarian response to the medications.

Egg Retrieval procedure

After about 10-13 days of controlled ovarian stimulation, the donor will be scheduled for egg retrieval. The day and time of egg retrieval process are based on her ovarian response to the medications. The procedure takes place under general anaesthesia. The oocytes are retrieved vaginally under ultrasound control. Because of the anaesthesia, the whole egg donor cycle will not be painless for the donor. On the day of egg retrieval, she is recommended to be off work and have a rest.

Post-retrieval period

After egg retrieval, the donor may feel some cramping or fatigue similar to the period symptoms. In this way, she can take painkillers without a doctor's prescription. Most donors get back to work and normal activities within a day or two after egg retrieval.

Reimbursement and embryo transfer

The donor will receive her reimbursement for the donation cycle on egg retrieval or the next day once we get an embryological report.

Can I use birth control during the egg donation cycle?

Birth control will not affect your status as a donor. You can continue to use all forms of non-hormonal birth control during the egg donation process. In addition, birth control pills, patches, and rings are allowed.

Can I donate eggs if I'm using an IUD device?

Yes, you can become an egg donor and donate your eggs if you have IUD devices.

Which gene disorders does Ovoria Egg Bank screen donors for?

We examine our donors for Karyotype, Cystic Fibrosis, Fragile X, SMA.

Does Ovoria Egg Bank perform Covid-19 screening for all egg donors or particular ones?

All donors take the covid-19 test in the donation program.

In which laboratories does Ovoria Egg Bank perform egg donor screening?

All standard tests are carried out at the Synevo laboratory, genetic tests – at the Nadiya laboratory. Both labs are certified according to international standards.

Does Ovoria Egg Bank provide original documents with the results of egg donor tests?

We have a donor profile that includes all information about the donor's examination. In exceptional cases, we can provide the original documents with the results of egg donor tests.

How can the recipient's child get the information about the non-anonymous egg donor after reaching 18 years?

A child of the recipient can contact a medical centre for information. The child should provide a birth certificate or other documents confirming the relationship with the recipients as well as copies of the parent's passports. After passing the identification, he will be able to receive the donor's data (full name, last known address, donor's message to the child).

What Are The Risks of IVF Treatment? - Risk of IVF

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 13:14:04 GMT

Home I Blog I What Are The Risk of IVF Treatment? - Risk of IVF

What Are The Risks of IVF Treatment? - Risk of IVF

In Vitro Fertilization is an advanced fertility treatment of reproductive medicine that involves fertilizing eggs and sperm, embryo development, embryo transfer, and embryo implants. The proces of IVF consists of 5 steps:

Ovarian Stimulation
Egg Retrieval
Fertilisation
Blastocyst Culture
Embryo Transfer

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome is one of the complications associated with infertility treatment, especially in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). That's why recipients who undergo IVF need to be aware of potential risks.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is an exaggerated response to excess hormones that happens to women undergoing fertility drugs. When it occurs, the most common cause is taking injectable fertility medications for ovarian stimulation. OHSS causes the ovaries to swell and become painful. The signs and symptoms of OHSS vary from mild to severe cases.

The symptoms of mild OHSS include:

Mild abdominal pain
Nausea
Bloating
Severe pain
Mild weight gain

The symptoms of moderate OHSS are almost similar to mild OHSS, but in this case, women can experience worse swelling, which can cause abdominal pain and vomiting.

The symptoms of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can include:

Severe abdominal pain
Difficulty breathing
Blood clots
Rapid weight gain
Severe bloating
Trouble with urinating
Rapid heartbeat

Some women are at higher risk and have more chances of developing OHSS if:

They suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
They are under 30 years old
The suffered OHSS before
The have 20 or more eggs collected

If you experience any of these symptoms during IVF cycles, contact your fertility doctor immediately and get the necessary medical advice because maybe you need to stop treatment and start again with a lower dose of medications.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is another risk of fertility treatments as In Vitro Fertilization and Intrauterine Insemination. An ectopic pregnancy is a condition in which an embryo's development occurs outside the womb. The majority of ectopic pregnancies occur in the fallopian tubes. But the fallopian tubes are incapable of holding a developing embryo, so it cannot develop properly. According to the American Pregnancy Association, an ectopic pregnancy occurs once in every 50 pregnancies.

Several factors increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, such as:

Previous ectopic pregnancy
Endometriosis
Endometriosis
Maternal age of 35-44 years
Several induced abortions
Smoking
Tubal surgery
Inflammation or infection

Multiple Pregnancy

As the name suggests, a multiple pregnancy is a pregnancy in which the mother carries more than one baby in her womb. The most common type of multifetal pregnancy is twins, where two babies develop simultaneously in the womb. One in every twin pregnancy results in at least one baby dying or having a significant disability, and twin pregnancy increases the mother's risk of most pregnancy-related health problems.

There are few problems associated with multiple pregnancies:

Anaemia
Miscarriage
Postpartum haemorrhage
Pre-eclampsia
Gestational diabetes

Miscarriage

Unfortunately, there is some evidence that pregnancies conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF) carry a slightly increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects than natural pregnancies. According to a study by the American Pregnancy Association, there is a 15% to 20% chance of miscarriage in healthy women who conceive naturally. Due to factors like maternal age, egg quality, and uterine abnormalities, women with IVF pregnancies are at higher risk of miscarriage.

Fertility Medication Side Effects

"What are the side effects of fertility medications?" is a common question for women undergoing IVF cycles; that's why it's best to know what to expect, so women can go into the process confident that the IVF process is safe.

The medication side effects can include:

Hot flashes
Nausea
Bloating
Feeling irritable
Headaches
Blurred vision
Changes in cervical mucus
Rarely multiple births
Swelling at the injection site

Miscarriage: Types, Symptoms and Causes

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 13:50:42 GMT

Home I Blog I Miscarriage: Types, Symptoms and Causes

Miscarriage: Types, Symptoms and Causes

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that miscarriage is the most common type of pregnancy loss, and studies show that 10–25% of all clinically recognized pregnancies will end in miscarriage. A miscarriage is a term used for a pregnancy that ends on its own by the 20th week.

What Is a Miscarriage?

Early pregnancy loss (also called miscarriage) is when a baby dies in the womb (uterus) before 20 weeks. For women who know they're pregnant, about 10 to 15 in 100 pregnancies (10 to 15 per cent) end in miscarriage. Most miscarriages happen in the first trimester, but if you miscarry in the second trimester, it doesn't mean your pregnancy isn't viable. Miscarriage rates are about 1 to 5 per cent.

The APA (American Pregnancy Association) says that miscarriages happen in 10%-25% of all pregnancies.

Types of Miscarriages

There are several types of miscarriages, which means that Not all miscarriages are the same. Some will occur before 12 weeks of pregnancy, while others may occur later during pregnancy.

Chemical Pregnancy: A chemical pregnancy is a miscarriage that occurs shortly (usually it happens before or after the fifth week)after a positive pregnancy test. Nearly 50-70% of miscarriages are due to chemical pregnancies. A chemical pregnancy can be identified by bleeding around the time of a regular period. In the first trimester, the fetus is too small for an ultrasound to detect any chromosomal abnormalities. The most common sign of chemical pregnancy is Low levels of HCG hormone on a blood test.

Threatened Miscarriage: This type of miscarriage can be defined as any vaginal bleeding that happens during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy while the cervix remains closed. Despite the anxiety that it causes, this occurrence is widespread in early pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.

Blighted Ovum Miscarriage: Blighted ovum, also known as anembryonic pregnancy, is when a fertilized egg implants and does not develop into a viable embryo and may stop developing. Once fertilizes the egg, it gets resorbed, leaving an empty gestational sac (large fluid cavity) and the intact placenta. It is often more common for women who have blighted ovum to miscarry during the first trimester.

Missed Miscarriage: A missed miscarriage is also a silent miscarriage because women typically won't experience symptoms like cramping or heavy bleeding.

Inevitable Miscarriage: An inevitable miscarriage is the presence of an open internal os in the fact of bleeding in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Incomplete Miscarriage: A miscarriage is called "incomplete" because bleeding has begun and the cervix is dilated, but tissues from the pregnancy remain in the uterus. In most cases, a miscarriage that's not complete at the time of diagnosis will run its course without further intervention.

Complete Miscarriage: A complete miscarriage (also known as complete abortion) is defined as the loss of an embryo or fetus before it can be felt or seen by a doctor.

Recurrent miscarriage: A recurrent miscarriage is defined as two or more miscarriage losses in a row. It’s estimated that around 1 per cent of American women experience pregnancy loss, although some may be successful with subsequent pregnancies.

Ectopic pregnancy: Women who are at the age of childbearing, if sexually active, are at risk of ectopic pregnancy and mostly the causes are never determined. However, there are certain causes of ectopic pregnancy which trigger ectopic pregnancy more often. The causes of ectopic pregnancy can include fertility treatment, maternal age, endometriosis or uterine abnormalities

Miscarriage Symptoms

Many miscarriages occur before the 12th week of pregnancy. The most common symptoms of miscarriage are spotting and cramping. Spotting turns into heavier bleeding. Cramping starts and becomes stronger. Most women can also experience other symptoms during early miscarriage:

Vaginal spotting or bleeding
Back pain
Light cramping
Nausea
Abdominal or back pain
Feeling sick

If you experience any of these symptoms during the early stage of pregnancy, you need to call your doctor and provide medical advice for having a healthy and successful pregnancy.

What Causes Miscarriage?

It is widespread that women blame themselves when they have a miscarriage; it's so important not to do so. The most common cause of miscarriage is a genetic or chromosomal abnormality in the embryo. Other risk factors causing miscarriage are listed below:

Chromosome problems

When a miscarriage happens in the first 12 weeks, more than half the time, it's because of problems with the baby's chromosomes. Chromosomes are blocks of DNA that contain detailed instructions for cells and characteristics such as eye colour. Sometimes, something goes wrong at the time of conception, and the foetus receives too many or not enough chromosomes. The reason for this process is unclear, but it will lead to miscarriage. Chromosomal abnormalities can also cause Intrauterine fetal demise, Blighted ovum or moral pregnancy.

Medical conditions

A pregnancy loss sometimes results from a problem with the mother's health. There is a list of medical conditions that can impact fertility and a woman can have a higher risk of miscarriage. For example:

heart disease
diabetes
high blood pressure
thyroid disease
lupus or immune system disorders
infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea or syphilis

Diagnosis of Miscarriage

If a woman thinks she may be having a miscarriage, she needs to tell the doctor about her symptoms and signs, including when the bleeding started, how heavy it's been, and whether she has had pain or cramping. The doctor can direct the patient to do genetic tests, physical exams and ultrasound for checking the baby's heartbeat. Moreover, a woman can also get blood tests to check the hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) hormone level.

Chemical Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:58:32 GMT

Home I Blog I Chemical Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Chemical Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

There are many factors that have an impact on successful pregnancy. However, sometimes a woman becomes pregnant and pregnancy loss occurs shortly after implantation of the embryo. This early pregnancy loss is called a chemical pregnancy or sometimes a biochemical pregnancy.

What Is a Chemical Pregnancy?

A chemical pregnancy means a miscarriage that occurs shortly (usually it happens before or after the fifth week) after a positive pregnancy test. Nearly 50-70% of miscarriages are due to chemical pregnancies. A chemical pregnancy can be identified by bleeding around the time of a regular period. In the first trimester, the fetus is too small for an ultrasound to detect any chromosomal abnormalities.

A chemical pregnancy occurs when a woman has a positive pregnancy test, but it turns out not to be a viable pregnancy. If a woman has a positive pregnancy test and her fertility specialist finds levels of hCG in the blood, she probably had a chemical pregnancy. Many women often don't even know about the term "chemical pregnancy" and as a result, don't understand that they were pregnant. Despite what the term may sound like, it isn't a false positive pregnancy test, but rather an early pregnancy loss.

Signs of Chemical Pregnancy

If a woman has had an early miscarriage, it may go unnoticed unless she got a positive pregnancy result. Other signs of a chemical pregnancy are:

A positive result of pregnancy test
Low levels of HCG hormone (pregnancy hormone) on a blood test
Delay in their periods, particularly in the case when they have regular periods.
Menstrual bleeding after testing positive for pregnancy
Passing more clots
Delay in the menstrual cycle
Mild abdominal cramping

If a woman experiences any of the following symptoms, she must contact her doctor to get professional medical advice

What Causes Chemical Pregnancy?

In most cases, chemical pregnancy can happen because the fertilized egg had a type of chromosomal anomaly that made it non-feasible from an early stage pregnancy. If pregnancy isn't established, there's a chance that an egg will be fertilised and implant itself into the lining of the uterus. This usually occurs about seven days after your period is expected. A few days after ovulation, this fertilised egg implants itself in the wall of the uterus. When you become pregnant, the HCG hormone starts flowing, which is produced by the pregnancy cells and developing placental tissues. However, in the case of a chemical pregnancy (which means your hCG hormones go down instead of up), a woman will have a very early miscarriage.

The causes of a chemical pregnancy can include:

Abnormal hormone levels
Infections such as Syphilis, Toxoplasmosis, Chlamydia
Uterine Fibroids
Genetic abnormalities in the embryo
Implantation outside the uterus
Uterine anomalies
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Low weight
Diabetes
Age

What Are the Risk Factors?

The following risk factors result in a higher chance of experiencing pregnancy loss:

Such medical conditions as diabetes, PCOS, uterine fibroids
Advanced maternal age
Untreated thyroid conditions

Treatment For a Chemical Pregnancy

If a woman has a chemical pregnancy, it doesn't mean that she can't get pregnant and give birth naturally. There isn't a treatment for this sort of pregnancy failure, but there are alternatives that will help to get pregnant. A doctor might recommend a couple to do tests and screening to get done to evaluate medical condition which is conducive to miscarriage. If your doctor can identify and treat the exact cause, it can decrease the probability of another chemical pregnancy. The doctor would also look for a treatable condition like an abnormality in the uterus or some infection. The medications and treatment methods that usually work include:

Baby aspirin medicine
Antibiotics to help beat infections
Progesterone in case of the luteal phase defect

A chemical pregnancy isn’t the only reason that makes the body produce pregnancy hormones. Significant amounts of HCG can be detected with an ectopic pregnancy too.

Chemical Pregnancy and IVF

Even if the pregnancy was very short or non-existent, it can be emotionally painful for the woman. But a chemical pregnancy doesn't mean she can't have a healthy pregnancy in the future. It is very important to recognize the reason for the chemical pregnancy to get the required treatment. If a woman has had multiple chemical pregnancies and hasn't treated the problem, she may not be able to have a baby because of her growing age. Then getting fertility treatment is recommended.

In Vitro Fertilization can be recommended in cases of:

Uterine fibroids
Endometriosis
Blocked fallopian tubes
Premature ovarian failure

During the procedure of IVF, pregnancy tests are done 9-14 days after in vitro fertilization to check for pregnancy. An HCG blood test will come positive if embryo implants have occurred, that is if the embryo has attached itself to the uterine lining. However, there are abnormalities in the embryos that may cause very early pregnancy losses shortly after implantation. It's true that miscarriage after a chemical pregnancy can be heartbreaking. However, it also indicates that a woman is ready to get pregnant again. And another IVF attempt may bring a healthy pregnancy.

Irregular Periods: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 10:41:12 GMT

Home I Blog I Irregular Periods: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Irregular Periods: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Around 30% of women of reproductive age experience irregular periods, meaning that millions worldwide are affected by the condition. As a consequence, it is important to gain a profound understanding of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for women that experience irregular periods.

Every month, the female body prepares for potential pregnancy, the process known as the menstrual cycle. It starts with the thickening of the uterine lining due to increased oestrogen levels, followed by the release of an egg from the ovaries once it has reached maturity. The released egg is transferred to the fallopian tube where it eventually will get fertilised if encountered by a sperm. If fertilisation does not occur, the egg continues through the fallopian tube, and eventually perishes. At the same time, the uterine lining begins to shed its thickened layers. This process is often accompanied by blood and tissues, and marks the beginning of menstruation. Menstruation typically lasts for 3-7 days.

What Is Irregular Menstruation?

For the majority of women periods are like clockwork and are consistent in terms of length and time of month. For others, periods come early or late. The length of a menstrual cycle can range from 21 days to 35 days, while the average length of the cycle is 28 days.

If your cycle is consistently shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, or if there is a noticeable difference in the length of your cycles, you may be experiencing irregular periods.

What Are the Symptoms of Irregular Periods?

It's hard to define the symptoms of irregular periods, all women experience the disorder differently. But in general, any menstrual experience outside of their monthly norms could be considered irregular. Irregular menstruation is also known as oligomenorrhea.

A set of clear and concise definitions of symptoms related to irregular periods is challenging to provide due to the differences in experiences for each individual. Generally, any menstrual experience outside a woman's monthly norms can be considered irregular. There is however a set of common symptoms which may help you determine whether you are affected by irregular periods or not;

Irregular Menstrual Periods : inconsistency in the timing of menstrual cycles, meaning the length between periods may vary.
The Length of Menses is Less Than 21 Days or More Than 35 days: menstrual cycles outside this length of time are considered irregular, and thus indicate a disruption in the hormonal patterns regulating the menstrual cycle.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: unusually heavy flow, spotting between periods, or erratic bleeding patterns indicate hormonal imbalances or other underlying issues.
Late or Early Menstrual Period : if the menstrual period occurs outside the 28-day cycle, either arriving later or earlier than expected, it is a sign of irregular periods.
Severe Pain: intense menstrual pain can be a symptom of irregular periods, as it often is associated with hormonal imbalances.
Breast Tenderness : especially in the days leading up to menstruation, breast tenderness can be a symptom of hormonal fluctuations, and is commonly associated with irregular periods.
Painful Cramping: often caused by imbalances in hormone levels leading to stronger contractions in the uterine.

Causes of Irregular Periods

There are many factors that can lead to irregular periods, with the most common cause being hormonal imbalances. Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone regulate the menstrual cycle, and fluctuations in their levels can disrupt the cycle. Possible causes of irregular menstrual cycles include;

Stress or anxiety

According to research, women who experience high levels of stress for a longer duration are more likely to experience amenorrhea - the absence of menstrual cycles.

Hormonal Birth Control Pills or Having An Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Hormonal birth control pills or Intrauterine devices can affect the menstrual cycle as they might cause hormonal imbalances. An IUD device also has potential side effects, and can lead to menstrual irregularities, pelvic pain or irregular bleeding between periods.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful disease where tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of a woman's uterus grows outside the uterus. The condition can impact the menstrual cycle through hormonal disruption and imbalances. Moreover, the disease can cause ovulatory dysfunction, ultimately causing irregular menstrual cycles.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. Due to the hormonal balance, the disease is often characterised by a lack of ovulation. Consequently, it has an impact on the female reproductive system, as ovulation is a necessary step of conceiving. Women with PCOS often experience missed periods, hair loss, weight gain, or fertility problems.

Premature Ovarian Failure (POF)

Primary ovarian insufficiency, sometimes called premature ovarian failure (POF) or premature menopause, is a reproductive disorder where the ovaries stop producing eggs before the age of 40. As a consequence, women affected by the condition don't ovulate and produce below average amounts of oestrogen.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of reproductive organs and can be caused by chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Symptoms of PID can include irregular or missed periods, fever, or pain in the lower abdomen.

High Prolactin Hormone Levels

High levels of the hormone prolactin can contribute to irregular periods, as it impacts the normal hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. The hormone's main function is to stimulate milk production in the breast, and elevated levels can affect the balance of other reproductive hormones.

Cushing Syndrome

Cushing syndrome is a disorder where the body has elevated levels of the hormone cortisol. The symptoms of Cushing syndrome can vary depending on the level of cortisol, but most women with this condition can experience acne, weight gaining, excess body hair growth or menstrual problems.

Weight Changes (rapid weight loss, rapid weight gain)

Having an unhealthy body fat percentage, whether the woman is underweight or obese, can result in hormonal disorders and irregular periods.

Chronic Illness - Underlying Health Conditions

Chronic conditions, such as diabetes or certain autoimmune illnesses, can influence the hormonal balance and thus menstrual regularity.

Excessive exercising

Women who engage in intense physical activity or excessive exercise may experience a condition known as exercise-induced amenorrhea. This disease impacts hormone production and can thus potentially cause irregular periods.

Thyroid Disorders

These disorders, both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can impact the functioning of the reproductive system and lead to menstrual irregularities. The thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) play an important role in regulating the menstrual cycle, and irregularities in their levels might result in irregular periods.

Eating Disorders

Disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia can affect the reproductive system, ultimately leading to irregular periods. As eating disorders impact the body's nutritional status and hormonal balance, they might cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle.

Diagnosis of Irregular Periods

If menstrual periods are irregular, the doctor needs to begin with a pelvic exam. Additionally, the full medical history of the patient as well as a list of all medications and supplements taken should be provided to the healthcare specialist. The doctor may recommend certain tests depending on symptoms experienced. The potential tests include;

Blood test : a diagnostic test that will detect diseases and irregularities such as anaemia, thyroid dysfunction, or blood clotting problems.
Endometrial biopsy : a medical procedure in which a small piece of tissue from the lining of the uterus is removed and examined under a microscope. The tissues are examined for cancer or any other tumour abnormality.
PAP test (Papanicolaou test) : is a type of cervical screening used for detecting potentially precancerous or cancerous processes in the cervix.
Pelvic ultrasound: this diagnostic screening is used for checking the female pelvis.
Sonohysterogram: An HSG (sonohysterogram) involves injecting fluid into the uterus to help with the creation of images. This will allow the doctor to check polyps and fibroids.

What Are the Treatments for Irregular Periods?

Option of treatment for menstrual irregularities will depend on a few factors:

Woman's overall health
The reasons for menstrual abnormalities
Woman's medical history
Lifestyle factors
History of medical history

The approaches for treating irregular periods include:

Medications and surgery; medical interventions, such as hormonal medications or surgical procedures, address specific underlying causes of irregular periods. This includes hormonal imbalances, PCOS, or structural issues within the woman's reproductive system.
Alternative Medicine: herbal supplements, acupuncture, or dietary changes can be viewed as alternative medicine options to promote hormonal balance and menstrual regularity.
Hormone therapy: birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy can regulate menstrual cycles.
Lifestyle changes: conducting a healthy lifestyle, effectively managing stress, regular exercising, and a balanced diet not only promote overall well-being, but can also contribute to regulating menstrual cycles.

When Should You Contact the Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is advisable that you contact your gynaecologist or healthcare provider;

Missed three or more periods during one year
Short menstrual cycle
Long menstrual cycle
Heavy period bleeding
Menorrhagia (bleeding for over 7 days)
Painful menstrual periods

Irregular Periods and Pregnancy

One of the main indications of a pregnancy is a missed menstrual period. Getting pregnant prevents the shedding of the uterine lining that occurs during a menstrual period. Moreover, after a fertilised egg implants in the uterus, the sustained progesterone production prevents menstruation.

Importantly, some women experience light spotting or bleeding around the time of implantation. This can be mistaken for a light period, but is generally shorter and less intense than typical menstrual flows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Donating Eggs With IUD

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 09:59:26 GMT

Home I Blog I Donating Eggs With IUD

Egg Donation and Birth Control: Can You Donate Eggs With an IUD?

In today's society, infertility is an increasingly common struggle among the world's population. It often takes years before intended parents that are unable to conceive start taking advantage of medical advancements within Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) in order to treat infertility. One of the most effective fertility treatments is In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) with donor eggs. The act of donating eggs is considered to be generous, selfless, and compassionate, as donors essentially are giving the gift of life to those who are unable to have children on their own.

However, there are many considerations and questions that may arise for the potential egg donors. One of the most frequently asked questions about the egg donation cycle is: Can I become an egg donor if I have an IUD device?

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are an excellent birth control option. To get an IUD, women have to seek out a fertility specialist who will insert the device into the woman’s womb (uterus) in order to prevent pregnancies. There are two types of intrauterine devices:

Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla): The Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla IUDs use a hormone called progestin. Progestin is a hormone similar to a hormone our bodies naturally produce called progesterone. Skyla works for up to 3 years, Kyleena works for up to 5 years, while Mirena works for up to 7 years, and Kyleena and Liletta work for up to 7 years. Hormonal IUDs often have the same side effects as birth control pills, including:

acne
weight gain
breast tenderness
changes of mood

In addition to preventing pregnancies, hormonal IUDs will lighten your periods and reduce cramps. Mirena and Liletta may get rid of your menstrual cycles entirely.

In addition to hormonal IUDs, there are also copper IUDs, such as Paragard. ParaGard, like the other types of IUDs, is implanted in the uterus and is designed to prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. Additionally, it can be used as a form of emergency contraception within five days of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

Now, can you donate your eggs if you have an IUD? Having an IUD does not disqualify you from becoming an egg donor. However, it is often the case that the egg donation process requires the removal of hormonal IUDs. On the contrary, non-hormonal copper IUDs will not affect the egg retrieval process, and therefore not need to be removed.

What about other birth control and egg donation?

In general, the use of birth control will not affect your status as a donor. However, you can only continue to use all forms of non-hormonal birth control during the egg donation process. In addition, birth control pills, patches, and rings are allowed. The hormonal IUD can be left until the screening process if you have regular periods. But in case of having low numbers in results of Ovarian Assessment Report (OAR) after medical screening, you will need to remove them before donating your eggs.

Become an Egg Donor - Donate Eggs at Ovoria

Join our mission to make dreams come true. Your selfless act can bring joy to those longing for a family. Together, we can create a brighter future. To take the first step, contact us today and become an egg donor at Ovoria. Your generosity can change lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Increase Fertility - Maximise Your Chances to Get Pregnant

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 13:10:18 GMT

Home I Blog I How to Boost Your Fertility in Natural Ways?

How to Boost Your Fertility in Natural Ways?

Fertility problems have become a major issue in the modern world, with more than 10% of couples having to deal with fertility issues. Sometimes it can be difficult to identify the cause of infertility, and it's frustrating and hard for individuals on the receiving end of the diagnosis. Luckily, due to considerable medical advancements in the past, infertility can be overcome with the help of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). However, besides going to the doctor’s for medical treatments, there are also natural ways to improve fertility, which in turn can increase the likelihood of a positive pregnancy test.

How To Increase Fertility Through Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle plays a crucial role in how to increase fertility for both women and men. You should consider the following aspects if you are trying to get pregnant and naturally improve your fertility;

Getting Active
Stop Taking Birth Control
Using an Ovulation Calendar
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Quitting smoking and drinking alcohol
Staying Hydrated
Eating a Big Breakfast
Eating Foods Rich in Antioxidants
Avoiding Trans Fats
Eating Fewer Refined Carbs
Including Fibre Into The Diet
Eating Healthy Protein
Trying Low Carbohydrate Diet in Case of PCOS
Limiting Caffeine Consumption
Reducing Stress Levels

Getting Active

Being active and regularly exercising is one of the simple ways to increase fertility. Research shows that if a woman is exercising before and during early pregnancy, the potential risks of developing conditions such as gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia is lower than if she was not staying active.

Stop Taking Birth Control

As we know birth control will help to prevent pregnancy for both men and women, and it is thus very intuitive that you should stop taking it if you're trying to get pregnant. There are many different kinds of birth control, including contraceptives, diaphragms, condoms, etc. The birth control pill is a convenient and straightforward way to prevent pregnancy. The pill prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation. If women do not ovulate or release an egg, pregnancy becomes impossible even if one has sex without using an additional barrier method. If you are concerned about the specific time you should stop taking birth control pills you might want to contact a fertility specialist.

Using an Ovulation Calendar

Fertility calendars serve as a tool for women to determine the length of their cycle as well as the most fertile days in it. By charting your fertility on a calendar, you'll notice emerging patterns that enable you to pinpoint the optimal time for conception. Many women aren't sure what their normal menstrual cycle is. Some have short cycles (25 days) and others longer ones (35 days). Each cycle begins on the first day of the period, however ovulation doesn't always start mid-cycle.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Research shows that a healthy weight is important not only for female fertility but also for male fertility. If a woman or man is underweight, it is better for her or him to gain some extra pounds. Similarly, excess weight can have a detrimental impact on one's reproductive health, making exercising and staying active wise steps to consider. Contact a health provider or a professional weight management clinic to help increase the chances of getting pregnant.

Quitting Smoking and Drinking Alcohol

Smoking can affect both men’s and women’s fertility. For men, smoking can cause their sperm count to reduce. For women on the other hand, smoking can cause damage to their eggs. Tobacco smoke (such as cadmium and cotinine) can harm sperm and eggs, as well as damage the DNA in eggs and sperm. Stopping smoking will give immediate health benefits and it will increase your chances while trying to conceive.

A new report from the World Health Organization says that alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to a variety of potential problems, from birth defects and developmental disorders in the baby to premature birth, stillbirth or even miscarriage.

Staying Hydrated

Hydration can increase fertility naturally as it supports egg health, helps produce cervical mucus, and balances hormone levels. This in turn boosts fertility in women. Staying hydrated is also relevant for men, as it supports sperm mobility and reproductive health.

Eating a Big Breakfast

If you are suffering from infertility problems, you should consider eating something healthy and heavy for breakfast. One study found that consuming larger breakfasts can improve the hormonal effects of PCOS; a leading cause of female infertility. However, it's crucial to bear in mind that consuming a larger breakfast without reducing the size of the evening meal can pose a risk of weight gain.

Eating Foods Rich in Antioxidants

Females who regularly consume foods rich in folic acid and other antioxidants like lutein, beta-carotene, and vitamin C tend to have higher implantation-, pregnancy-, and birth rates. Other antioxidants like vitamin A are also boosting fertility. According to the USDA, there is a list of 20 antioxidant-rich foods:

small red beans
wild blueberries
red kidney beans
pinto beans
cultivated blueberries
cranberries
artichokes
blackberries
prunes
raspberries
strawberries
red delicious apples
granny smith apples
pecans
sweet cherries
black plums
russet potatoes
black beans
plums
gala apples

Avoiding Trans Fats

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has reported findings that indicate a higher consumption of monounsaturated fats, like olive oil, is associated with an increased risk of ovulatory infertility in females. Healthy fats can increase fertility and overall health, but trans fat can reduce fertility by increasing insulin resistance. The list of foods high in trans fat:

ice cream
french fries
fried chicken
biscuits
salty snacks
pies
donuts

Eating Fewer Refined Carbs

When you consume refined carbohydrates, your body quickly absorbs them, causing a rapid increase in both blood glucose and insulin levels. This sharp rise in blood sugar is associated with diabetes. Notably, insulin's chemical structure is similar to ovarian hormone levels, and these hormones are vital for egg maturation. Elevated insulin levels can hinder the production of reproductive hormones, thus heightening the risk of infertility in women. Some examples of refined carbs include:

soda
sweets
juice
white sugar
milk powder
pasta
white bread
white rice
breakfast cereals
pastries/cakes
doughnuts
batter-fried foods
biscuits

Including Fibre Into The Diet

A recent study looked at two groups, one in the US and one in Denmark. In the US group, fibre intake was associated with a faster time to conception. If the female partner in a couple had a fibre intake of 25 grams or more per day, this raised their chance of becoming pregnant by 13%. However, when they looked at both groups together, total fibre intake showed no association with fertility. Fibre, in addition to helping you get rid of hormones, regulates blood sugar. It also controls the exaggerated swings in estrogen levels which are closely associated with female disorders. Meanwhile, a diet rich in fibre helps promote weight loss and better sperm quality. Fibre is not a magic solution that boosts female fertility, but a sufficient intake of fibre is part of a healthy diet.

Eating Healthy Protein

Although women get protein from eating animal source foods, it's important to include other protein sources in a healthy diet. Research shows that alternative protein sources such as vegetables reduce infertility rates among women. A recent study suggests that vegetable protein can reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility by 50%. Another study concludes that protein from fish increases the chances of live birth. Furthermore, during pregnancy, it's advised to consume a protein intake ranging from 75 to 100 grams. Protein is crucial for the development of the brain. It also helps your breast and uterine tissue growth during pregnancy, and improves your increasing blood supply. Here's a list of protein-rich foods to include in your diet:

cottage cheese
cheddar and parmesan cheese
ricotta cheese
Swiss cheese
tofu
lentils
black beans
kidney beans
smooth peanut butter
pinto beans
garbanzos
soymilk
dry-roasted peanuts

Trying Low Carbohydrate Diet in Case of PCOS

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome or hormone imbalance should cut back on carbs. A low carb diet helps to reduce the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome. In general, a low-carb diet has less than 45% of calories from carbohydrates. Many studies have found that women who manage their carb intake have a much higher likelihood of getting pregnant. In fact, a low carb diet provides benefits such as lower insulin levels, fat burning, better menstrual cycles, and overall weight maintenance. The list of low carb food:

chicken
crabs
pork
shrimp
veal
brown rice
sunflower
almonds
cashews
spinach
sweet pepper
cheese

Limiting Caffeine Consumption

Recent studies have not found a definitive connection between caffeine and lowered fertility in either men or women. However, excessive caffeine might increase the risk of an early miscarriage. This does not imply that you need to give up drinking a cup of coffee in the morning, as the standard recommendation at most fertility clinics and from many OBGYNs is to stick to one small cup of coffee a day.

Reducing Stress Levels

It's impossible that stress will cause infertility, but few types of research have shown that women with a history of depression and anxiety are twice as likely to experience infertility problems. Anxiety can also negatively affect fertility. Moreover, a high level of stress can cause irregular menstrual cycles.

Increase Your Chances of Getting Pregnant

Lifestyle choices are important when it comes to boosting fertility for both women and men. The advice in this article isn't just about facts; it's about taking action. You should consider various factors such as adequate exercising, a balanced diet, and staying hydrated. Additionally, it is recommended to stop destructive behaviours such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. By taking action and implementing necessary lifestyle changes, you will improve your chances of conceiving.

Reference

Delbaere, I., Verbiest, S., & Tydén, T. (2020). Knowledge about the impact of age on fertility: a brief review. Upsala journal of medical sciences, 125(2), 167-174. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03009734.2019.1707913

Daniluk, J. C., & Koert, E. (2015). Fertility awareness online: the efficacy of a fertility education website in increasing knowledge and changing fertility beliefs. Human Reproduction, 30(2), 353-363. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/30/2/353/728578

Menken, J. (1985). Age and fertility: How late can you wait?. Demography, 469-483. Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/2061583

Frequently Asked Questions

Celebrities Who Used Donor Eggs or Surrogacy

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 15:38:10 GMT

Home I Blog I Celebrities Who Used Egg Donation or Surrogate Mother

Celebrities Who Used Donor Eggs or Surrogacy

The last few decades have been affected by an increased infertility rate. Although the fertility rates remained relatively stable between 1990-2010, research by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates a significant increase in infertility rates among the world population. As a matter of fact, 1 in 6 people are affected by issues related to their reproductive health. This does not only affect the average male and female, but also pop- and movie stars, billionaires, and other celebrities.

In addition to the general statistics, the nature of modern showbusiness also affects the extent to which celebrities are in need of fertility treatment to start their families. As scenic life keeps women occupied during their most fertile years, many of them rely on medical assistance to conceive.

Celebrities who used an egg donor

Many celebrities have embarked on a unique fertility journey by turning to egg donation to build their families. Some of these celebrities have shared their stories of trying to get pregnant, and in their pursuit of motherhood, they've turned to egg donation. This special approach has allowed them to build their families and become mothers in a way that works for them. These stories show that there are different paths to parenthood, even when facing fertility challenges. Celebrities who've used donor eggs have been open about their experiences, and it's been a great way to break down the stigma and show that there are many ways to embrace the joys of motherhood.

Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon

Mariah Carey, an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and actress is among the known celebrities who opted for egg donation to realise their dream of parenthood. In 2011 Mariah Carey and her former husband Nick Cannon joyfully welcomed their twins named Monroe and Moroccan. Throughout her discussions Not only did Mariah Carey become a mother, but also bravely shared her challenges with fertility issues and how she overcame them through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with the support of an egg donor. By sharing her journey she has played a role in raising awareness and reducing the societal stigma associated with assisted reproductive technologies.

Celine Dion and René Angélil

Another highly famous celebrity who used egg donation to become a parent is Celine Dion. Alongside her husband, René Angélil, Celine Dion faced fertility challenges, for a period before deciding to pursue in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and eventually opting for egg donation. The media extensively covered their experience as they welcomed their sons, Eddy and Nelson in 2010. Celine Dion's openness about her fertility struggles and the use of egg donation has been an inspiration to many and has helped reduce the stigma surrounding these methods of family-building.

Others

There are many other celebrities who have also opted for egg donation to fulfill their dreams of parenthood. Some of them include supermodel and fashion designer Cheryl Tiegs, American actress Geena Davis, and television personality Maria Menounos. While some openly share their experiences, not all celebrities disclose such personal and intimate details of their family-building journeys.

Celebrities who became parents via surrogacy

In a landscape where the spectrum of parenthood options is broad and diverse, several prominent celebrities have opted for surrogacy as their chosen route to embrace the joys of parenthood. Among these notable figures, the iconic Elton John and the beloved Neil Patrick Harris stand as exemplars of this approach.

Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka

Together with his husband, David Burtka, Neil Patrick Harris became a dad with the help of a surrogate. Both partners used their sperm to create embryos, meaning that Harris is the biological father of one child, while Burtka is the biological father of the other. Their openness about the process not only played an important role in reducing the stigma around assisted reproduction technologies but also made the possibility for gay couples to start families more visible.

Elton John and David Furnish

Elton John's journey to parenthood through surrogacy is a testament to love, determination, and modern family dynamics. Alongside his husband, David Furnish, he embarked on this path, showcasing that parenthood transcends traditional norms. Both their first and second child, Zachary and Elijah were brought into their lives through surrogacy. Their story has been both a personal and public inspiration, reminding us that the definition of family is evolving and that love knows no bounds. Elton John's story resonates with many who seek alternative routes to parenthood, emphasising that every family's journey is unique and beautiful in its own way.

Sara Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick

Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick's journey to parenthood through surrogacy is a touching testament to their unwavering love and determination. These beloved stars faced fertility struggles on their path to expanding their family. Eventually, they turned to surrogacy, where a gestational carrier helped them bring Marion and Tabitha into their lives. Sarah Jessica Parker's openness about their challenges and surrogacy choice has provided solace and encouragement to others navigating similar roads.

Others

Other celebrities who have chosen to embark on the journey toward parenthood include billionaire and entrepreneur Elon Musk, media personality Kim Kardashian, and TV host Jimmy Fallon.

Conclusion

In the world of celebrities, the stories of those who've chosen the paths of donor eggs and surrogacy to become parents are both heartwarming and relatable. These tales resonate with us because they're a testament to the courage, love, and determination that fuels the human spirit. Whether it's Elton John's music touching our souls or Sarah Jessica Parker's on-screen charm, these stars' personal stories remind us that fame doesn't shield anyone from life's challenges, including the journey to parenthood. Their openness has not only inspired many but has also helped remove the veil of secrecy around fertility struggles. Ultimately, these stories teach us that families come in many forms, and it's the love that binds them that truly matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fertility Options For Single Women

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 14:39:37 GMT

Home I Blog I Fertility Options For Single Women

Fertility Options For Single Women

Are you a single woman who is thinking and dreaming about having a child and a family? If your answer sounds "yes", probably you have many questions connected with fertility treatments and options for single women. Thanks to the advances in assisted reproductive technologies, there are few fertility options that can help single women without a partner make their dreams come true.

In this article, you will find out more information about fertility options you can choose.

In Vitro Fertilization With Donor Sperm or/and Egg Donor

This kind of fertility treatment can be the first line of options for single woman. It is similar to usual in vitro fertilization procedure, but in this case, it will be used donor sperm. In the first step in the lab,eggs will be collected and fertilized with a sperm donor. When the egg will be fertilized it turns into a proembryo and will be transferred to the woman's uterus to continue its development. There are few types of sperm donor:

An anonymous donor is a man who donates his sperm through a sperm bank and his identity remains disclosed, but the sperm bank's database will provide such information as race, religion, complexion, education, and family medical history. Even when the child turns 18, the sperm donation act will be completely disclosed, which means that parents of the child can not tell the child how they were conceived.
A known donor has not disclosed the identity of the man who donates sperm, which means that at the age of 18 the child has the right to know who their donor was.

Who needs to use IVF treatment with donor sperm?

A single woman, who want to achieve pregnancy;
A woman with a female partner;
Couples, who tried few IVF cycles and did not achieve positive results;
Couples with immunological diseases;
Couples in which man has a sperm disorder.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) With Using Donor Sperm

Artificial insemination using donor sperm or heterologous insemination is a standard fertility treatment. IIt'seasier to perform than surgeries, and complex instruments are not required. If the woman meets all the tubal patency and ovarian function requirements, intrauterine insemination with donor sperm is expected to guarantee a minimum success rate. This is regularly the first line of therapy for younger women with no acknowledged fertility issues. IUI is an enormously noninvasive and affordable option. In IUI, a carefully prepared sperm pattern is positioned at once in the woman's uterus using a very thin catheter to aid conception. IUI may be carried out with or barring the assist of fertility medications. Natural cycle IUI is when no fertility medicines are used, and the sperm's placement is timed to shape a woman's own ovulation. If this is no longer profitable after two or extra attempts, or if there are elements that propose that the patient may want help to ovulate, fertility medicines are used to stimulate her ovaries to ovulate, and then IUI is performed.

Egg Freezing

Frozen eggs is another option and treatment for a single woman who doesn't plan to start getting pregnant soon but is worried that she might be approaching fertility problems in the future. The process of egg freezing involves collecting and storing a woman's eggs to be used in future fertility treatment.

The opportunity to conceive naturally and have healthy pregnancy will decrease with age due to the quantity and quality of eggs. Egg freezing can help women preserve their fertility by freezing their eggs when they are young, and the quality of eggs is high.

The woman can consider egg freezing in few cases:

If she will have surgery that may damage her ovaries;
If she has a medical condition or needs treatment for a condition that will affect her fertility;
If she has a risk of premature ovarian failure or premature menopause caused by chromosomal abnormalities. The most common of these are Turner syndrome and fragile X syndrome;
If she has an ovarian disease, that can cause the ovaries to be damaged;
If she has genetic mutations that require removing the ovaries;
If she is not ready to have a child and has not found the right partner, it makes sense to think about freezing own eggs.

Gestational Surrogate

In gestational surrogacy, the baby is now not biologically related to the surrogate mother, who is regularly referred to as a gestational carrier. Instead, the embryo is created with the aid of in vitro fertilization (IVF), using the eggs and sperm of the intended dad and mom or donors, and is then transferred to the surrogate.

This form of surrogacy is, on occasion, additionally referred to as "host surrogacy" "or "full surrogacy." In most cases, at least one meant mum or dad is genetically associated with the child, and the surrogate is not. This makes gestational surrogacy much less legally complex than different forms of surrogacy because stepparent or second-parent adoption is no longer required.

This kind of fertility treatment can use not only single parents but also same-sex couples, people struggling with infertility, couples who don't desire a genetic link between the surrogate and their baby.

First of all, woman's medical history will play a crucial and huge role, but also her preferences and personal situation will determine which fertility treatment will be suitable for her and her health.

Being an Egg Donor: What do you need to know about egg donation before donating your eggs?

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 09:40:40 GMT

Home I Blog I What Do You Need to Know About Egg Donation Begore Donating Before Donating Your Eggs?

What Do You Need to Know About Egg Donation Before Donating Your Eggs?

Nowadays, so many couples are struggling with infertility, and after years of attempts, they started to use reproductive medicine (assisted reproductive technologies) to treat infertility. The most popular and effective fertility treatment option is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) with an egg donation. Being an egg donor is an exciting decision to make to help intended parents to become parents.

If you are wondering about donating your eggs, you have any questions about the process of egg donation.

In this article, you will read answers to the most frequently asked questions

connected with egg donation.

Why is it a good idea to become an egg donor?

Donor eggs are often the only opportunity for some women struggling with infertility issues and want to have a child. The eggs of a female donor are used in cases where a woman's eggs are of poor quality or when the egg cells do not produce their cells because of egg development abnormalities, absence, premature depletion of the function of the egg, menopause, endometriosis.

Who can become an egg donor?

Egg donors have to meet the following criteria:

young fertile women at the age of 18-32;
perfectly physically and mentally healthy;
thoroughly screened and rescreened ;
without detrimental habits or addictions;
with proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child);
without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs.

You can read more about egg donors requirements, screening and testing .

Is it an anonymous egg donation?

Participation in the donation program is completely anonymous. Information about the donor is stored in complete secrecy and is used only inside the fertility clinic. The intended parents, who chose the woman as a donor, sign an agreement under which it undertakes not to indent the anonymity of the donating process and not to establish her identity. Moreover, they won't see what a donor looks like. They will see only her children's photos; data such as height, weight, colour are posted in the catalogue hair and eyes, medical history and family history.

How long does the egg donation process will take to be done?

The initial reception in a fertility clinic, during

which examinations are carried out, will last no more than three hours. Subsequent

visits will take half an hour. The process of taking oocytes - a puncture, lasts

about twenty minutes; after the process, the woman needs to rest for a couple of hours

under the supervision of a doctor and on the same day can return home. In

general, there is up to a month between the first visit and the puncture

directly.

Will I be able to have children after donating eggs?

The egg donation process is safe for health and does not harm a woman's reproductive function. A month after the donation cycle, the next ovulation, you will have the opportunity to get pregnant. The health of your future child egg donation process will not affect.

Can a woman without children become an egg donor?

No, she can not. According to the Ukrainian egg donation law, participation in the donation process is

prohibited for women who have not given birth to at least one healthy child

Can a woman who feeds a child donate her eggs?

A woman who feeds a child can not be an egg donor since, during lactation, her body produces prolactin - a hormone that, among other things, inhibits the maturation of eggs. After the cessation of lactation, the woman can again become an egg donor when the menstrual cycle is normalised.

Is it possible to be an egg donor after a cesarean?

The caesarean section itself is not a contraindication to the egg donation process. If surgery has passed without complexity, it does not affect a woman's reproductive health to become an egg donor.

Taking Birth Control Pills Before IVF Treatment

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 14:00:39 GMT

Home I Blog I Taking Birth Control pills Before IVF Treatment

Taking Birth Control Pills Before IVF Treatment

Birth control will help to prevent pregnancy for both men and women. There are many different kinds of birth control, including contraceptives, diaphragms, condoms, etc. The birth control pill is a convenient and straightforward way to prevent pregnancy. Besides avoiding a pregnancy, taking birth control pills also has other benefits like reducing acne, making periods more regular and easing menstrual cramps. So many people who want to prevent pregnancy take the medication by mouth, and when taken correctly, it is up to 99.9% effective.

But taking birth control pills before IVF treatment can sound counterintuitive; during fertility treatments, women are always surprised by hearing this recommendation from a fertility specialist. Taking birth control pills will prepare a woman for the IVF cycle at the begging of the IVF process.

Reasons Why Birth Control Pills Can be Recommended to Use Before IVF Cycle

There are few reasons why birth control pills can be recommended by fertility doctor to use before infertility treatment:

BCPs (Birth control pills) can be used to ensure that a woman's ovaries release eggs simultaneously: both ovaries contain small, round and immature egg cells. Once they mature, one will grow faster than the other ones, and the other will stop growing. The one that has grown bigger will release a single egg. BCPs are used to make follicles grow at the same rate so that multiple egg retrieval procedure is possible for the treatment cycle.
Taking BCPs (birth control pills) can help reduce the possibility of cyst formation: BCPs help prevent ovarian cysts and improve insulin resistance in women with PCOS. They also decrease the risk of endometrial cancer in women.
BCPs ensure that ovaries respond better to stimulation: the fertility specialist can recommend taking birth control pills for ovarian stimulation. Before the ovarian stimulation, woman will take BCPs to stop the growth of the follicles. This process will help ovaries respond for stimulation medications and producing eggs.
BCPs will help to increase estrogen production: estrogen is essential in IVF treatment. It helps to grow and maintain your endometrial lining and sustain a pregnancy. It also helps your placenta function, boosts blood flow to your uterus and primes your body for breastfeeding.
BCPs help schedule the IVF treatment: birth control medication will help the doctor control the timing of many women fertility treatment. Also, in this way, the patient can plan treatment to avoid interfering with work schedules or vacations.

How Does Taking Birth Control Pills Work During the IVF Cycle?

If a woman got a recommendation from fertility specialist to take birth control pills before the IVF cycle, she needs to call the first day of her menstrual cycle. The IVF specialist will ask the woman to come to the clinic for an ultrasound and baseline during the next stage. If ultrasound results are expected, a woman can take the birth control pills each evening no later than day 5 of her cycle. Most birth control pills are arranged in four rows. The first three rows are active pills, but the fourth row does not contain any hormones. Therefore, if a woman finishes the third row of medications, she would not take the fourth row but instead start a new pack of pills the next day.

References:

Fertility Options for LGBTQ Couples

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 09:04:30 GMT

Home I Blog I Fertility Options for LGBTQ Couples

Fertility Options for LGBTQ Couples

The LGBTQ couples or transgender people can face challenges, especially with biological issues, during thinking of Starting and building a family. But there is good news because of third-party reproduction, which offers few options for same-sex couples. Thanks to this option, LGBTQ couples can turn their dream of having a family into reality. This article will find information about third-party reproduction, LGBTQ fertility treatments for same-sex couples, lesbian couples and gay couples.

LGBTQ couples or transgender people can face challenges during family building, especially with physical issues. But there is good news because of third-party reproduction, which offers few treatment options for same-sex couples. Thanks to this option, LGBTQ couples can turn their dream of having a family into reality.

In this article, you will find information about third-party reproduction, fertility options for lesbian couples, gay couples, and transgender individuals.

What is Third-Party Reproduction?

Third-party reproduction (TPR) is a human reproduction when a couple or person cannot conceive with their gametes, eggs, sperm or is unable to carry a pregnancy and give birth to a baby due to infertility issues. There are a few types of third-party reproduction for patients who are unable to conceive with their gametes:

Egg donation : the process of assisted reproductive treatment where one woman donates eggs to enable another woman to conceive. Usually, this type of treatment involves In Vitro Fertilization technology with fresh or frozen eggs.
Sperm donation: the process in which semen is collected from a man (known as a sperm donor or sperm offer) and used for artificial insemination by a woman who wishes to become pregnant. This may also be known as "semen donation."
Embryo donation: the part of third party reproduction which allows a couple to become parents utilizing genetic material by fertilized embryos which another person provided.
Surrogacy: the legal arrangement where a surrogate woman carries a child for another person or couple, who will become the child's parent(s) after birth.

Fertility Options For The Same-Sex Couples

Because of advancements in assisted reproductive technology, same-sex couples have more options to use during the process of a building family than earlier. Before the genetic screening,diagnostic testing and monitoring the health of future parents, it is essential to discuss with their doctor family planning goals; after testing, your fertility team will work with you to develop the most appropriate treatment regimen for you and your goals. Potential treatment for same-sex couples can include:

Sperm donation;
Intrauterine insemination (IUI);
In vitro fertilization (IVF);
Egg donation;
Surrogacy.

Fertility Options For Lesbian Women and Couples

For lesbian couples, the fertility options can include:

In vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor sperm: this is a treatment based on the combination of gametes from the future mother and sperm from a donor. Depending on the country's applicable law and private agreements, there are two types of sperm donor:

An anonymous donor is a man who donates his sperm through a sperm bank and his identity remains disclosed, but the sperm bank's database will provide such information as race, religion, complexion, education, and family medical history. Even when the child turns 18, the sperm donation act will be completely disclosed, which means that parents of the child can not tell the child how they were conceived.
A known donor has not disclosed the identity of the man who donates sperm, which means that at the age of 18 the child has the right to know who their donor was.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) with donor sperm: artificial insemination with donor sperm or heterologous insemination is a standard fertility treatment. It's easier to perform than surgeries, and complex instruments are not required. If the woman meets all the tubal patency and ovarian function requirements, intrauterine insemination is expected to guarantee a minimum success rate.
Reciprocal In vitro fertilization (IVF): the type of in vitro fertilization - and assisted reproductive procedure - where the embryos are made using partner's eggs but are put inside another partner's uterus to carry the pregnancy. That means the biological mother is genetically related to the child, and the carrier mother is biologically bonded to the child through pregnancy.

Fertility Options For Gay Men and Couples

Thanks to reproductive technology, few fertility options will help gay couples build a family and become parents. Fertility options for male couples can include:

IVF with egg donor: this type of treatment is an excellent option for male couples dreaming of becoming parents. A partner who undergoes this fertility process will receive hormone therapy to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. A fertility specialist retrieves these eggs once they are mature. Then these eggs can be frozen for future use. Once thawed, the embryologist will use the father’s sperm to fertilize the eggs. The embryologist will monitor the fertilization of the eggs, then transfer any resulting embryos into the surrogate’s uterus.
Gestational surrogacy: it is an agreement when a woman carries and delivers a baby for another person or couple. The woman who carries the baby is the gestational surrogate or gestational carrier. The parents are known as the intended parents, and they are involved in the pregnancy, and after the baby’s birth, they become the child’s parents.

Egg Donation in Ukraine

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:17:56 GMT

Home I Blog I Egg Donation in Ukraine

Egg Donation in Ukraine

Ukraine is among the most popular destinations that come to mind when intended parents travel abroad for fertility treatment, especially when it comes to egg donation. The country can offer more benefits than just deep history, impressive natural landmarks, and gorgeous architecture. Ukraine offers excellent and affordable treatment in high-quality clinics that are found in cities such as Kyiv and Lviv.

Why Choose IVF Treatment in Ukraine?

There are important reasons why it’s better to choose IVF treatment with donated eggs in Ukraine:

Reputable and modern fertility clinics;
Affordable IVF cost;
The egg donation program is legally allowed;
Perfect European-type egg donor;
Experienced medical personnel who are fluent in English;
Anonymity and variety of IVF treatment options;
Future parents can determine healthy embryos with PGD and the gender of a future baby;
Ukraine has no visa requirements for international patients from many European countries.

Egg Donation Law and Clinics Accreditation in Ukraine

Ukrainian law says that egg donation is the term for assisted reproductive treatment (ART) where a woman donates her eggs to another person with a fertility problem. Although this process must be an anonymous, voluntary, and altruistic act, the donor should have fair compensation for any inconveniences caused.

Women who wish to become egg donors in Ukraine are kept anonymous throughout the procedure, and therefore, spouses who resort to such fertility treatment to become parents will not be allowed to meet the donor in reality or contact her. However, patients and future parents have access to general information such as nationality, height, weight, eye coluor, hair colour, blood type or Rh factor.

According to the Order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine № 787:
Egg and sperm donation is anonymous;
The surrogacy process is legal;
The age of patients who wish to receive IVF treatment needs to be no older than 51 years;
Same-sex relationships are not allowed to be treated;
Single women can be treated;
Embryos and eggs can be stored indefinitely.

Donor Screening by Ukrainian law

According to Ukrainian legal aspects, all potential donors must undergo medical testing to ensure the highest quality of donor eggs, which includes:

Blood group and Rh factor;
Full blood analysis;
Coagulogram;
Antibodies to HIV;
Antibodies to syphilis;
Hepatitis B (HBsAg);
Hepatitis C (HCV);
Blood analysis for IgM and IgG;
Cytological examination of cervical smears;
Bacterioscopic analysis of vaginal, urethral, and cervical canal discharges;
General gynaecological analysis;
Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs;
AMH, LH, E2;
The conclusion from a General Physician that Egg Donor is healthy and doesn’t have any contraindications for pregnancy;
Report from a paediatrician that egg donor’s children are healthy;
Reports from a neurologist and psychologist.

The Ministry of Health regulates and sets up guidelines for using reproductive methods. According to Clause 5.5. of Order No. 787, there are primary requirements for egg donors:

Women aged 18-35;
Having at least one healthy child;
Absence of hereditary diseases;
Having no unhealthy habits;
Having a good physical and mental health;
Having no negative phenotypic manifestations.

How is egg donation in Ukraine done?

The process of egg donation involves the following steps:

Screening : The egg donor undergoes a series of medical and psychological tests to ensure that she is physically and mentally healthy
Stimulation : The egg donor is given medication to stimulate the production of multiple eggs
Egg retrieval : The eggs are retrieved from the donor's ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound
Fertilization : The retrieved eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory to create embryos

Embryo transfer: The embryos are transferred to the uterus of the intended mother or a surrogate

IVF clinics in Ukraine - fertility treatment of the highest standard

The general level of IVF clinics in Ukraine is considered to be of high quality. The country is a popular destination for IVF treatment due to its high success rates and affordable costs. The clinics offer a range of fertility treatments, including IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy, and have state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly qualified doctors. Some clinics have been providing IVF and surrogacy treatments for over 15 years, and they have justified the trust of their patients from many countries. The clinics have a quality control system, and some of them have implemented ISO 9001 standards. The success rates of the clinics are high, with some clinics having a clinical pregnancy rate of up to 56% in IVF cycles and 64% in egg donation programs.

References

Vlasenko, P. (2021). Global circuits of fertility: The political economy of the Ukrainian ova market. Indiana University. Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/openview/a2c5b83804a6086bc1a43a9196d1294e/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y

Pennings, G., De Mouzon, J., Shenfield, F., Ferraretti, A. P., Mardesic, T., Ruiz, A., & Goossens, V. (2014). Socio-demographic and fertility-related characteristics and motivations of oocyte donors in eleven European countries. Human Reproduction, 29(5), 1076-1089. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/29/5/1076/675905

Walsh, A. P. H., Omar, A. B., Collins, G. S., Murray, G. U., Walsh, D. J., Salma, U., & Sills, E. S. (2010). Application of EU tissue and cell directive screening protocols to anonymous oocyte donors in western Ukraine: data from an Irish IVF programme. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 30(6), 613-616. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/01443615.2010.497875

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresh vs Frozen Donor Eggs: Which Option Is Better For You?

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 12:04:53 GMT

Home I Blog I Fresh vs Frozen Donor Eggs: Which Option is Better For You?

Fresh vs Frozen Donor Eggs: Which Option is Better For You?

IVF treatment with egg donors is a form of reproductive medicine for those who can’t use their eggs because of lack of viable sperm or poor quality eggs, or more complex health issues. Success rates for IVF cycle using egg donors are showing that intended parents have more chances than the average IVF success rates for couples not using a donor.

Reasons to Use Donor Egg

When an intended parent struggles with conceiving because of the poor quality of eggs or no eggs, she thinks it is impossible to become pregnant. But there is such an option as assisted reproductive technology with using an egg donor. Egg donors are usually women who give up their eggs to help a struggling individual or couple to achieve their dream of having children. Using donor eggs can also be recommended not only in case of poor eggs but also in other cases:

premature ovarian failure (POF);
after the failure of more than five in vitro fertilization cycles;
the possibility to transmit a genetic disease to the child;
a history of pregnancy failure.

In Ovoria Egg Bank, we follow specific criteria for choosing egg donors:

young fertile women at the age of 18-32;
perfectly physically and mentally healthy;
thoroughly screened and rescreened ;
without detrimental habits or addictions;
with proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child);
without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs.

The Difference of Fresh and Frozen Eggs

There are two different types of egg donation programs: fresh and frozen donor egg cycles.

In the case of a frozen egg donation cycle, the donor provides several eggs, which will be frozen using vitrification. Couples then come into the bank and choose which egg to use. In a fresh egg cycle, the donor is selected by a couple before her eggs are retrieved; this process can take several months. It would help if you remember by choosing a fresh egg cycle that the menstrual cycles of both women need to be synchronized.

Pros and Cons of Using Fresh Eggs

The advantages of using fresh donor eggs:

there is an availability of multiple embryos, which means that recipients can have embryos for freezing and using that later for a full genetic sibling;
the success rate of using donor eggs is higher than using frozen eggs;
there is a small risk that the donor will not respond well to stimulation;
there is no risk associated with egg survival from the freezing and stimulation process.

The disadvantages of using fresh donor eggs:

the speed of delivery is slow, because fresh egg donor cycles are medical procedures, unforeseen events can happen before or during the process. For example, the donor can not react rightly to the medical drugs during the course; this means the cancellation or restarting of the procedure;
the cost of fresh donor eggs is higher than the cost of frozen donor eggs;
the medical and legal preparation can take up to 4 months;
the donor's menstrual cycle must synchronize with a recipient's cycle;
fresh eggs need to remain in that place where they were harvested.

Pros and Cons of Using Frozen Eggs

The advantages of using frozen donor eggs:

there is an immediate speed of delivery ;
typically lower cost of IVF cycle with frozen donor eggs. If recipients are going to use IVF cycle with frozen donor eggs, it is essential to choose IVF clinic correctly and carefully;
there is no need for cycle synchronization with recipient cycle;
frozen egg collection is available for recipients, and after choosing and matching egg donors, their eggs and they will undergo screening and monitoring;
there are fewer problems and issues compared to finding a fresh donor egg;
there is no risk of medical problems or non-compliance by the donor, resulting in the cancellation of the cycle.

The disadvantage of using frozen donor eggs:

there are fewer available embryos;
there are limited options like personalized matching.

Trust the Leader

Having 20 years of experience on the market and delivering oocytes to more than 50 clinics in over 30 countries worldwide, Ovoria has a deep understanding of customers’ needs: both individual patients and clinics. Ovoria is not only about success rates and guarantees systems, it is about excellent egg donor quality, desire to help have a successful pregnancy. By choosing Ovoria Egg Bank, you will get a complex solution. Ovoria has its own clinical facilities based on Medicover fertility clinic in Ukraine where the complex egg donor process is managed: egg donor recruitment, screening, oocytes retrieval, vitrification, storage and distribution. We offer a comprehensive solution: from oocytes vitrification to the delivery of biomaterial to the customer clinic.

At Ovoria egg donor bank we are pleased to answer your questions. Fill in the form and we will get back to you within 24 working hours.

You can also contact us via phone:

United Kingdom: +44 203 807 90 07
Canada: +1 613 416 90 70
France: +33 17 997 89 88
Spain: +34 91 008 29 88
Brazil: +55 613 181 04 88

The Egg Donation Process

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 08:51:27 GMT

Home I Blog I The Egg Donation Process

The Egg Donation Process

Egg donation is when women go through part of the IVF process to collect some of their eggs. These will then be donated for someone else's fertility treatment, research or training.

The process of egg donation consists of 5 steps:

Step 1. Matching

You can book the oocytes at Ovoria egg bank by filling in the registration form on our website. By creating an account on our website, you will get access to the egg donor profiles. After choosing an egg donor, our specialist will confirm that the donor is available, and the process starts. Then the woman will get a list of all the examinations she needs to have.

Step 2. SCREENING AND MONITORING FOR THE DONOR AND RECIPIENTS

During this step, the doctor will begin ovarian stimulation with the donor, but meanwhile, it's time to prepare uterine lining with a hormone called Estradiol Valerate. Our doctors will control this process remotely, and at the end of this, women have to do ultrasound scans.

Step 3. EGG RETRIEVAL

During this stage, the egg will be retrieved and then be fertilized by the partner’s sperm. After fertilization, embryos are cultivated for up to 5 days and then ready for transfer to the recipient uterus.

Step 4. EMBRYO TRANSFER

At this stage, the doctor will retrieve the egg and fertilize it with the partner’s sperm. This stage can be done in two ways: visiting our clinic to get fresh sperm or sending the frozen sample. It will take five days to cultivate fertilized embryos.

Step 5. PREGNANCY TEST

In two weeks after the previous stage, a woman will have to do a blood test for HCG. If it’s positive – a woman is pregnant. The doctor will prescribe her medicines for the next two weeks until your ultrasound scan.

At Ovoria egg donor bank we are pleased to answer your questions. Fill in the form and we will get back to you within 24 working hours.

You can also contact us via phone:

United Kingdom: +44 203 807 90 07
Canada: +1 613 416 90 70
France: +33 17 997 89 88
Spain: +34 91 008 29 88
Brazil: +55 613 181 04 88

Reasons To Choose IVF Treatment in Ukraine

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 14:45:07 GMT

Home I Blog I Reasons to Choose IVF Treatment in Ukraine

Reasons to Choose IVF Treatment in Ukraine

Such infertility issues as PCOS, endometriosis, blocked fallopian tube, problems with ovulation can be solved with the advanced procedure of Assisted Reproductive Technologies. ART techniques involve such procedures as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), tubal embryo transfer (TET), intrafallopian gamete transfer (GIFT), intrauterine insemination (IUI), preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), donor conception, surrogacy programs .

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is one the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. It is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. Compared to other countries in Eastern Europe, Ukraine is the most popular destination for people who are struggling with infertility. Find out more about reasons why it is better to choose Ukraine for IVF treatment.

There are Some Reasons Why It is Better To Choose Ukraine For IVF Treatment:

Egg donation is legally allowed

According to the Ministry of Health in Ukraine, an egg donation is considered a reproductive treatment in which a woman transfers her eggs to a person or couple who needs fertility treatment. Moreover, In Ukraine, egg donation is anonymous. This is, however, not defined in the general law of assisted reproductive technology. In practice, most clinics keep donors’ data private and only give them access to it in an emergency. However, future patients have access to general information such as nationality, height, weight, eye colour, hair colour, blood type, or Rh factor.

There are some law aspects, why most couples choose Ukraine for IVF treatment:

Egg donation, embryo donation ad sperm donation are anonymous
There is no legal age limit for a male partner
Single women can use IVF treatment
The age of women for IVF treatment is not limited (in practice means access to treatment up to the age of 52)
The maximum number of eggs for fertilization is not limited
The embryos and eggs can be frozen

According to the Ukrainian law there are some requirements for screening and testing for potential donors:

TORCH infections Ig G/M (Toxoplasmosis, Cytomegalovirus, Chlamydia, Rubella, Herpes 1 and 2)
Hepatitis B and C
HIV
T. Pallidum
Cystic fibrosis
Karyotyping

Unfortunately, Ukrainian law doesn’t allow IVF treatment for same-sex male couples.

Reputable and modern IVF clinics with high-quality medical services

Ukrainian fertility clinics Ovoria Egg Bank is a science-driven egg donor bank. That’s why we implement the best donor traceability system, vitrification and thawing solutions by following the latest Kitazato recommendations. Our embryologists and fertility doctors study regularly ESHRE, ASRM egg donation scientific publications and guidelines.

By choosing Ovoria Egg Bank, you will get:

International fertility expertise
Large egg donor selection
Guarantees for each set of oocytes
Easy egg donor selection
Anonymous and open ID egg donors
Family limit control
Transparent ART industry standards
Quality in the first place
Worldwide delivery

Our highly experienced team of professionals includes fertility specialists, embryologists, geneticists who have academic degrees in medicine and are members of ESHRE, ASRM and UARM. They have constantly improved their knowledge and skills, implementing cutting-edge techniques to turn your dream of a happy family into reality.

Cheap in vitro fertilisation cost

One of the main reasons people decide to travel to Ukraine is the low cost of treatment. Generally, The cost of some infertility procedures is higher in Western Europe or the UK. For example, a single IVF cycle costs around 4800 USD, including the charge of medication and hormonal injections.

How to Choose the Right IVF Specialist?

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:17:04 GMT

Home I Blog I How to Choose the Right IVF Specialist?

How to Choose the Right IVF Specialist?

For most people, IVF is just the most effective fertility treatment and their gateway to attain parenthood. But for specialists and doctors, it's so much more than just effective treatment. If the IVF specialist is supremely competent, compassionate, honest and highly experienced, then the chances of success will increase enormously.

IVF specialists will help patients understand more about infertility and will help them know what's wrong with their bodies, so they can better decide how to treat the infertility problem and make themselves better parents.

There is a list of some leading characteristics of professional IVF specialists:

Experience, knowledge and skill: The doctor with more experience in the field is likely to give couples correct and proper advice and help to understand everything easily so that future parents are entirely comfortable and feel easy while undergoing the treatment. Moreover, a doctor with inspiring skills and experience is more likely to conduct successful IVF treatment .

Compassion : An IVF specialist must have excellent emotional intelligence and recognize how the patients are feeling. This helps them in guiding these patients during the treatment. An infertile couple is usually emotionally distressed during the treatment, so for IVF specialists, it’s essential to help and make them feel comfortable.

Honesty and Integrity : An IVF specialist should be honest and transparent so that patients can make informed decisions. An IVF specialist should be simple, articulate, and explain all aspects of the treatments.

Pros and Cons of Being Egg Donor

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 12:39:05 GMT

Home I Blog I Pros and Cons of Being Egg Donor

Pros and Cons of Being Egg Donor

Infertility is defined as a “disease of the reproductive system” by the World Health Organization, and it results in disability. Nowadays, reproductive medicine and endocrinology are rapidly growing with success stories that have resolved infertility by using advanced innovations. That’s why many couples who are going to use IVF treatment with donor eggs are looking for the perfect and suitable egg donor with a similar appearance, good medical history and high IQ.

Being an egg donor is the best way to share kindness, happiness and realize someone’s dream by helping infertile couples have a child, but in addition to this, there are many reasons for considering being egg donor. In this article, you will find out about the pros and cons of being an egg donor.

Who Needs An Egg Donor?

Same-sex couples
Single women
Women or men going through cancer treatment
Women with early menopause or premature ovarian failure (POF)
Women over the age of 40
Women with extremely poor egg quality
Women with a genetic disease
Women with hormonal imbalance

Who Can Become An Egg Donor?

In Ovoria Egg Donor Bank egg donors meet the following criteria:

Young fertile women at the age of 18-32
Perfectly physically and mentally healthy
Thoroughly screened and rescreened
Without detrimental habits or addictions
With proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child)
Without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs

Pros of Being Egg Donor

Giving a Gift of Life by Donating Eggs

Some couples want to have children. Unfortunately, some families struggle to conceive a child of their own. Couples dealing with infertility issues can turn to the egg donation process for help. Using IVF treatment with the donor eggs brings them the opportunity to realize their dream. The most common type of egg donor is a woman with a child. Just like most women, she wants to help another woman to experience the joy of parenthood. Donors do not have infertility; they are interested to be useful for intended parents who have fertility troubles by donating their own eggs.

Receiving a Free Health Screening

The egg donation program will provide free health testing. It means that potential donor doesn't need to worry about the expense of screening process. Moreover, egg donation is a good opportunity to get a reproductive health check. It includes testing for common diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and sexually transmitted diseases, including Herpes, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and various genetic disorders. Ovoria Egg Donor Bank examine potential donors according to the international ART associations guidelines: EU-Tissue Directive 2004/23/CE, 2006/17/EC. Our lab and diagnostics testing are involved:

Blood type, Rh factor
HIV-1 Ag р24 and summary antibodies, including group О and HIV-2 (ECLIA)
Treponema pallidum, summary antibodies
PCR HBV (Real-time)
PCR HCV (Real-time)
PCR, Chlamydia trachomatis (genital swab)
PCR. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (genital swab)
Сomplete blood count
Coagulogram
CMV, IgМ
CMV, IgG
AMH, MIS
LH
Estradiol (E2)
FSH
Vaginal smear
PAP-test
Psychological counselling

Genetic testing includes:

Karyotype
Cystic Fibrosis
Fragile X
SMA

Moreover, Ovoria Egg Donor Bank offers the possibility of potential egg donors testing, which is an extensive analysis with a 400+ panel carrier screen identifying specific autosomal recessive and X-linked diseases. This information will help intended parents learn more about their risk of having a child with specific genetic defects and certain disorders.

NGS sequencing of 418 genes (not hos-spon mutations) of most common recessive genetic disorders, including CNV for 33 genes:

Cx26
CFTR
PAH
SMN1
DMD
CYP21A2
FANCA
FANCC
GBA
HBA1,2
HEXA

In addition to this, Egg Donor Profile in Ovoria Egg Bank includes 3 sections: donor personality, medical history and family overview.

Receiving a Monetary Compensation

Financial compensation is what makes becoming an egg donor seem worth the egg donor’s time and effort. The program rewards can help cover the education fee, pay for living, or save for the future.

Having an Opportunity to Know The Child

However, there are cases where this is not true so that it can be both a pro and a con. But in certain “directed” egg donation cases, donors can contact the child throughout their post-birth life. A woman will have the opportunity to get with a child only in one case when intended parents will choose an open ID egg donor, which in turn means the donating eggs will be absolutely anonymous process.

Psychological Satisfaction

On the good side of psychological benefits is feeling happy by donating eggs for intended couples. The potential egg donors will get personal satisfaction by giving hopeless and child's life for many women who dream to be a mother.

Cons of Being Egg Donor

Limited Involvement For Egg Donation

As we mentioned before, the main goal of donation is to help infertility couples to have a child. That’s why donating eggs can not be considered as a job. Ukrainian law sets the limit of 8 stimulation cycles. Ovoria Egg Bank work only according to the rules.

Experiencing Some Side Effects

Side effects from fertility drugs may be different for each donor. Some egg donors experience no complications and stress, while others experience some. If women after the donation cycle experience any side effects, they can include bloating, moodiness, cramping, aching, PMS- like symptoms or hot flashes.

There are some possible disadvantages of donating eggs. However, the inevitable connection of a woman to her egg that later transcends into maternity might be overwhelming sometimes. Several donors approach their donated eggs with detachment.

The Egg Donation Process can Causes Stress

The whole egg donation procedure can take patience. That's why many women can feel stress or anxiety during medical procedures. Ovoria Egg Donor Bank in the end of egg donor process after all medical appointments and approvals provide personality tests.

Egg Donor Requirements in Ovoria Egg Bank

Ovoria egg donor bank cares a lot about the egg donor selection process and always help intended parents to find the perfect egg donor. We totally understand that oocytes quality depends on how strict we adhere to the rules of interviewing donors, their screening, ovarian stimulation or ovarian hyperstimulation (in case if a woman is sensitive to fertility medication) and the egg retrieval process.

Our potential egg donors meet the following criteria:

young fertile women at the age of 18-32;
perfectly physically and mentally healthy;
thoroughly screened and rescreened ;
without detrimental habits or addictions;
with proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child);
without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs.

Find out more information about egg donor requirements at Ovoria Egg Bank .

How To Prepare Yourself For IVF Treatment?

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 15:49:11 GMT

Home I Blog I How to Prepare Yourself for IVF Treatment?

How to Prepare Yourself for IVF Treatment?

The first step toward obtaining a child for infertile couples is to approach an IVF doctor . But is just stepping into the world of IVF enough? Or are there specific steps that patients or infertile couples need to take?

IVF specialists from the TOP IVF clinic recommend women to make some modifications in their lifestyle and, in this way, prepare their bodies to go through tests, hormone injections, medicines, drugs and for pregnancy.

Here are some essential tips to prepare for IVF cycle:

Diet
Supplements
Exersice
Improving Sleeping
Reducing Alcohol and Smoking

Diet

First of all, the doctor will recommend looking into diet to make it more balaned with enough amount of nutrients to maintain body weight and healthy blood sugar level.

When preparing for IVF treatment , the diet should include foods which will help to conceive:

protein from vegetables, peas, beans, soy and nuts will improve fertility;
whole fat milk or yoghurt or ice cream daily;
iron-rich plants such as beans, spinach, tomatoes, pumpkin, beats and whole grains;
products rich in fiber, such as vegetables, whole grains, fruits and beans are rich in carbohydrates;
eggs (great source of protein, essential fats and choline).

Also, controlling diet will help maintain a normal BMI or Body Mass Index, which is very important for the future mother. A normal BMI range is 18.5 Kg/m2 to 24.9 Kg/m2. Women can be underweight or overweight, and both conditions make pregnancy more dangerous. Not only is inadequate weight harmful, but too much weight can also cause problems with conception.

Supplements

If woman want to be sure her and her partner are getting all the necessary nutrients and vitamins, she can also consider taking supplements, but we recommend to visit doctor and get list of necessary supplements.

Exercise

The ovaries will become more extensive during the IVF cycle, and there is a risk of ovarian torsion. Exercise is safe during the first steps of the IVF cycle but should be gentle. Aerobic activity should be practised at a slow pace. Before egg collection, at the end of the IVF cycle, it is better to reduce high-intensity exercise and cardiovascular activity.

Improving Sleeping

If woman doesdn't get enough sleep, her body would produce less of certain hormones. The part of the brain responsible for regulating sleep-wake hormones like melatonin and cortisol also regulates reproductive hormones.

Sleep deprivation signals the body to produce more stress hormones. This is bad for overall health and can throw off levels of estrogen, testosterone, and other reproductive hormones.

Reducing Alkochol and Smoking

It has been scientifically proven that alcohol can be pretty helpful for the body. But too much of anything is abnormal and causes persistent effects on the body. Excessive alcohol consumption causes depletion in egg production in women and sperm production as well as quality.

Also smoking is deadly to the entire body. It cannot only cause to gain weight, but it can also cause breathing or lung problems. In addition, smoking negatively affects fertility in women and men.

The Risk of Miscarriage After IVF Treatment

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 13:33:14 GMT

Home I Blog I The Risk of Miscarriage After IVF Treatment

The Risk of Miscarriage After IVF Treatment

In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment represents a significant advancement for couples who struggle with infertility problems. But it won't work for everyone and won't guarantee a 100% success rate. That's meant some couples need to try to attempt this treatment for few times.

What is IVF Treatment?

In-vitro fertilization is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology . It is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. The process of having an IVF cycle consists of getting mature eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, transferring the embryo to a uterus, and finally waiting for a time period.

All medical treatment has a certain amount of risk associated with it. Every area of our life has some risk associated with it. There are also risks associated with fertility treatments that patients should be aware of before beginning them. Ectopic pregnancy, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), medication side effects, multiple births are the common risk associated with IVF treatment.

Also, after IVF treatment can happen miscarriage, but in fact, miscarriages are common in natural pregnancies.

What is A Misscarriage?

Miscarriages are the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week. About 10 to 20 per cent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. But this number can be higher because many miscarriages occur before a woman knows she's pregnant. Miscarriage occurs in about 10 per cent of known pregnancies and is most often caused by genetic or chromosomal problems in the embryo or fetus. It doesn't mean that something was wrong with the way the woman was carrying the pregnancy. Most miscarriages occur before the 12th week of pregnancy.

Having vaginal bleeding is a common sign of miscarriage, but also light vaginal bleeding can be expected during the first trimester of pregnancy, and it does not mean that woman has a miscarriage. Other symptoms of a miscarriage include:

a discharge of tissue from vagina;
a pain in abdomen;
a pain or cramping in lowe back;
a discharge of fluid from vagina.

IVF and Misscariage

Advanced age is the most significant factor in a woman's fertility. As a woman get older, their fertility naturally declines, and the odds of miscarriage increase. Also, a woman who will undergo IVF treatment tends to be older than a woman who conceives naturally. For example, a 35- to 45-year older woman has a 20% to 35% chance of miscarriage. A 45+-year-old woman has an even higher chance at 50%.

But since it involves choosing the best embryos to implant, the process of IVF automatically lowers the chance of a miscarriage. Non-viable embryos can cause many natural miscarriages, so naturally, this is mitigated by IVF. The discovery of the advancement of specific techniques like metabolomics, a process by which the best and most viable embryos are selected for IVF, means that the chances for a miscarriage are even lower than initially thought.

What Is the Difference Between ICSI and IVF?

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 09:50:54 GMT

Home I Blog I What Is the Difference Between ICSI and IVF?

What Is the Difference Between ICSI and IVF?

There are two types of In Vitro Fertilization treatment, which depends on the method used for egg insemination: traditional IVF and IVF with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).

The main difference between IVF and ICSI is that In Vitro Fertilization will help solve infertility problems such as endometriosis, fallopian tube blockage, or other cases when ICSI treatment will treat male infertility cases as oligozoospermia or asthenozoospermia.

If you have been trying to conceive for more than one year, contact our specialists to get the necessary information about fertility treatments.

What is IVF Treatment?

In-vitro fertilization is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. It is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. The process of having an IVF cycle consists of getting mature eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, transferring the embryo to a uterus, and finally waiting for a time period.

What is ICSI Treatment?

The ICSI treatment process was introduced in the year 1992 to improve fertilization in couples. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, a step ahead in the IVF treatment technique, has revolutionized male infertility in recent years.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (a complete form of ICSI) is a part of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF). It is a procedure for people with severe male factor infertility.

The Process of IVF Treatment

The process of IVF consists of 5 steps :

Ovarian Stimulation : During the first step, a woman takes medication so that healthy eggs are produced. Most months, women make only one egg, but with IVF, they stimulate 10-15 eggs to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.
Egg Retrieval : The next step of IVF treatment involves the harvesting of eggs. Egg retrieval is done while a woman sleeps under a general anesthetic. Once completed, an embryologist examines the eggs under a microscope to count them.
Fertilisation : The next thing that happens is the fertilization of eggs and sperm. The timing is crucial here. The eggs are retrieved, and then, after a few hours, they're fertilized with sperm. There are two ways to fertilize an egg: Conventional insemination or ICSI. In conventional insemination, the sperm is placed in a dish containing an egg to allow them to fertilize on their own. In ICSI, one sperm is injected into the cytoplasm of a fertilized egg using a needle.
Blastocyst Culture : Once the sperm fertilizes the egg, it becomes an embryo. The embryo is then placed in a unique incubator by embryologist, where the embryo is provided with the proper condition to develop and grow. Adequate monitoring of the embryo is done for 5-6 days.
Embryo Transfer : The final step is Embryo Transfer. Once the embryo develops to the blastocyst stage, it is implanted into the uterus using a small tube called Catheter. It usually takes place within 3-5 days after fertilisation. Once the embryo is transferred to the uterus, it is allowed to the implant, and a blood test is carried on after two weeks to measure the hormone HCG.

The Process of ICSI Treatment

The process of ICSI consists of 6 steps :

Fertility Consultation: The consultation includes a discussion with the fertility specialist, followed by a thorough medical examination. An embryologist will explain the options available to address issues related to sperm.
Stimulation: During this stage, a woman needs to visit on day two or three of her menstrual cycle, when hormonal investigations are done along with an ultrasound. The ovaries are stimulated with medication to promote the growth of follicles containing the eggs; this process can last for eight to 12 days. The response of the ovaries will be screened through ultrasounds and blood investigations at regular intervals.
Egg Collection: An injection is given to help with its final maturation after eight to 12 days, and it is then removed. The patient will visit the clinic for the egg retrieval process, performed 34-36 hours after administering the trigger.
Sperm Collection: An embryologist processes a sperm sample that the male partner provided. If the male partner has no sperm in his epididymis or testicles, the embryologist can extract sperm from those organs.
Embryo Transfer: After the embryos are developed, it will be injected into the uterus to implant and impregnate the woman. A thin, flexible needle is used to inject them into the uterus.
After Transfer: After the embryo transfer, a woman is given medicine to help the embryo implant in the uterus. After a few weeks, pregnancy is confirmed by taking pregnancy tests.

When is IVF Recommended?

IVF treatment is recommended for women who suffer from infertility issues. There are a variety of problems that women could have that prevent them from conceiving, ranging from ovulation disorders to hormonal problems to cysts in the ovaries to endometriosis and blocked fallopian tubes.

In vitro fertilization has proven to be the most successful fertility treatment, and its popularity is more significant than all other fertility treatments. This is because IVF can help patients with any fertility problem to have a baby.

When is ICSI Recommended?

In general, ICSI treatmet is recommended in case of male factor fertility. The doctor can recommend the procedure of ICSI couples in the following cases:

In a case of a low count sperm;
In a case of failed vasectomy reversal;
In a case of difficulties with erection and ejaculation;
In a case of poor morphology or poor motility.

References:

What is ICSI?

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 15:54:56 GMT

Home I Blog I What Is ICSI?

What Is ICSI?

According to the data, the inability of a couple to conceive can be a complex condition to accept and live with. It is estimated that 15% of couples are struggling with infertility problems globally. About 20-30% of infertility cases are found to be male-related and contribute to 50% of patients overall. ICSI Treatment is the most common and successful male infertility treatment.

What is ICSI Procedure?

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (a complete form of ICSI) is a part of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF). It is a procedure for people with severe male factor infertility.

The Process of ICSI Treatment

Step 1: Fertility Consultation

Step 2: Stimulation

Step 3 :Egg Collection

Step 4 :Sperm Collection

An embryologist processes a sperm sample that the male partner provided. If the male partner has no sperm in his epididymis or testicles, the embryologist can extract sperm from those organs.

Step 5 :Embryo Transfer

After the embryos are developed, it will be injected into the uterus to implant and impregnate the woman. A thin, flexible needle is used to inject them into the uterus.

Step 6 :After Transfer

After the embryo transfer, a woman is given medicine to help the embryo implant in the uterus. After a few weeks, pregnancy is confirmed by taking pregnancy tests.

When is ICSI Recommended?

The doctor can recommend the procedure of ICSI couples in the following cases:

In cases of sperms with poor morphology or motility;
In cases of low sperm count;
In cases of men who underwent vasectomy, or those with blocked epididymis;
When having an embryo testing for a genetic condition, and the sperm sticks to the outside of the eggs;
Where the couple had already undergone IVF Treatment, with very few or no eggs fertilised.

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314662

How Ovoria Egg Bank Screen Potencial Egg Donors?

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 14:48:09 GMT

Home I Blog I How Does Ovoria Screen Potential Egg Donors?

How Does Ovoria Screen Potential Egg Donors?

Finding the right and perfect egg donor sometimes can be difficult. Ovoria Egg Bank makes this process as straightforward as possible by providing potential parents access to the largest database of donor eggs. Moreover, we guarantee an 80% survival rate for the set of 6 oocytes. 2 embryos are guaranteed to collect eight oocytes and three embryos for 12 oocytes.

Ovoria Egg Bank select and check all potential donors in accordance with quality requirements and operational procedures. We examine donors according to the international ART associations guidelines : EU-Tissue Directive 2004/23/CE, 2006/17/EC.

How We Screen Our Potential Donors?

All our egg donors are screened for the following lab and diagnostics tests:

Blood type, Rh factor
HIV-1 Ag р24 and summary antibodies, including group О and HIV-2 (ECLIA)
Treponema pallidum, summary antibodies
PCR HBV (Real-time)
PCR HCV (Real-time)
PCR, Chlamydia trachomatis (genital swab)
PCR. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (genital swab)
Сomplete blood count
Coagulogram
CMV, IgМ
CMV, IgG
AMH, MIS
LH
Estradiol (E2)
FSH
Vaginal smear
PAP-test
Psychological counselling

Also we screen donor for genetic tests:

Karyotype
Cystic Fibrosis
Fragile X
SMAAll egg donors are screened for the following:

Genetic Testing For Potential Donors

We offer the possibility of Extended egg donor testing, which is an extensive analysis with a 400+ panel carrier screen identifying specific autosomal recessive and X-linked diseases. This information can help patients learn about their risk of having a child with specific genetic conditions.

NGS sequencing of 418 genes (not hos-spon mutations) of most common recessive genetic disorders, including CNV for 33 genes:

Cx26
CFTR
PAH
SMN1
DMD
CYP21A2
FANCA
FANCC
GBA
HBA1,2
HEXA

Ovoria Egg Bank is About Safety and Quality

Our mission is to be a science-driven worldwide egg bank that helps couples to become parents. First of all, we are caring about safety to make new life possible by offering the highest quality donor oocytes for intended parents and fertility clinics.

Find out more about egg donor screening

Managing Severe Ovulation Bloating: Effective Strategies for Coping in the Menstrual Cycle

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 13:53:31 GMT

Managing Severe Ovulation Bloating: Effective Strategies for Coping in the Menstrual Cycle

Ovulation, a pivotal stage in the menstrual cycle, is accompanied by various physical and hormonal changes. Among these changes, bloating emerges as a subtle yet notable signal that may leave women wondering about its origins and significance. This article aims to shed light on the details of ovulation-related bloating, thus providing valuable insights for those seeking to navigate their reproductive health with confidence and understanding.

What is Ovulation?

Ovulation refers to the process by which a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries, thus making it available for fertilisation by sperm. It typically occurs midway through the menstrual cycle. As a consequence, the time of ovulation may vary based on the lengths of an individual's menstrual cycle. Ovulation is initiated and regulated by hormonal changes, mainly through the substantial increase in luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers the release of the egg from the ovary. Once the egg is released it travels down the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilised by sperm. If fertilised, the egg will travel to the uterus and implant to develop into a pregnancy. On the contrary, if fertilisation does not occur, the unfertilized egg is absorbed by the body. For some women, ovulation may cause one-sided abdominal pain. This is called Mittelschmerz pain and it usually lasts for a few minutes to one or two days. It may be dull or sharp pain and associated with mild vaginal discharge or bleeding.

When does Ovulation cause Bloating?

One of the leading causes of ovulation bloating is the hormonal changes that occur during and after ovulation. Hormonal changes may play havoc with your digestive tract. The surge in LH and rising oestrogen levels, the body may retain more water. This can cause changes in the abdominal area, resulting in bloating or a sense of fullness.

Ovulation Bloating and Weight Gain

During the monthly cycle, many women may gain some weight due to fuller breasts and ovulation bloating. This weight gain during ovulation is due to water retention that happens in response to the change in hormone levels. Women may crave salty and fatty foods during the ovulation period, which leads to water retention, ultimately resulting in bloating and weight gain during ovulation.

How Long Does Ovulation Bloating Last?

The fluid retention caused by hormonal changes during ovulation normally only lasts a few days. In cases where the bloating does not get better within a couple days, women should visit a healthcare provider, as it could be a consequence of other medical conditions (endometriosis, PCOS, ovarian cysts).

Other Signs of Ovulation

Although bloating is a common sign of ovulation, there are a number of other common symptoms which women may experience, such as;

Changes in basal body temperature (BBT) : the BBT may rise slightly after ovulation. Women can check their BBT by a thermometer and compare the temperatures to previous measurements taken at the same time of day. The temperature should be taken before getting up in the morning;
Changes in vaginal discharge: women may notice an elevation in vaginal discharge characterised by clarity, stretchiness, and a moist texture The discharge may be present in the underwear, or may be noticed while wiping after using the washroom;
Changes in the position of the cervix : Throughout ovulation, the cervix tends to be soft, elevated, open, and moist. However, distinguishing between the cervical positions during ovulation and other phases of the menstrual cycle might be challenging without sufficient practice.

In addition to the above symptoms, there is a list of other symptoms of ovulation:

Breast tenderness: the increased levels of oestrogen can cause breast tissue to become more sensitive and tender.
Slight cramping or pain on one side of abdomen or pelvis: as the egg is released and moved down the fallopian tube, women might experience discomfort or pain on one side of the abdomen (mittelschmerz).
Light spotting: small amount of bleeding during ovulation related to the hormonal shifts and changes in the uterine lining.
Abdominal bloating: increased water retention leading to bloating in the abdominal area.
Increased sense of taste and smell: changes in hormones can affect the senses, possibly leading to higher sensitivity towards taste and smell
Increased sexual desire: hormonal changes can increase sexual desire, thought of as a biological part of the body's reproductive mechanism to encourage mating.

It is important to mention that bloating during ovulation can be caused by medical conditions such as ovarian cyst, endometriosis, or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). In these cases, women need to consult with a healthcare provider.

Ovulation Bloating vs. Premenstrual Bloating

The most convenient way for a woman to check if she experiences bloating during ovulation is to track when the bloating occurs during her monthly menstrual cycles. According to the American Pregnancy Association, bloating during the ovulation period may happen during the middle of her menstrual cycle between day 11 and 14 of the process. Bloating can occur before a period, known as PMS (premenstrual syndrome), or after ovulation. It may start one week before the menstrual cycle begins and may last up to one week after it stops.

Apart from bloating, there is a list of other additional PMS symptoms:

Fatigue; hormonal changes can contribute to feelings of tiredness.
Headache ; some individuals experience headaches as a consequence of the changes in hormone levels.
Pelvic pain; the release of prostaglandins involved in the uterine contractions can lead to pelvic pain.
Mood swings; hormonal fluctuations can cause mood swings and irritability.
Tenderness in breasts or swollen breasts ; Elevated oestrogen levels can lead to heightened sensitivity and tenderness in breast tissue.
Diarrhoea; changing hormone levels can affect the digestive system and lead to diarrhoea.
Spotty skin; hormonal changes can influence the skin's oil production, which in turn may result in acne or spotty skin.
Cramping in the abdomen; the release of prostaglandins can cause the uterus to contract, leading to cramping in the abdomen.
Changes in sex drive or appetite; hormonal changes combined with the psychological impact of PMS can influence both sexual desire and appetite.

Tips For Managing Severe Bloating During Ovulation

There are some tips women can use to reduce bloating during ovulation:

Drinking lots of water during the day;
Practising relaxation techniques;
Limiting consumption of processed foods;
Limiting salt intake by reducing the amount of processed and junk foods that women consume;
Taking a magnesium supplement can help with the symptom of bloating. It is however recommended to consult with the doctor before taking this supplement;
Doing regular sport exercises monthly may also help in managing bloating during ovulation;
Trying to eat a low-FODMAP diet or fermentable carbohydrates. High FODMAP foods stand for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols, short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine.

References

Ferrero, S., Abbamonte, L. H., Valentino, R., & Ragni, N. (2005). Abdominal pain, bloating, and urgency. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 106(1), 195. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/citation/2005/07000/abdominal_pain,_bloating,_and_urgency.39.aspx

White, C. P., Hitchcock, C. L., Vigna, Y. M., & Prior, J. C. (2011). Fluid retention over the menstrual cycle: 1-year data from the prospective ovulation cohort. Obstetrics and gynecology international, 2011. Retrieved from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ogi/2011/138451/

Heitkemper, M. M., Cain, K. C., Jarrett, M. E., Burr, R. L., Crowell, M. D., & Woods, N. F. (2004). Relationship of bloating to other GI and menstrual symptoms in women with irritable bowel syndrome. Digestive diseases and sciences, 49, 88-95. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/B:DDAS.0000011608.82893.71

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose an Egg Donor: A Step-by-Step Guide for Intended Parents

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 13:06:57 GMT

Home I Blog I How to Choose Egg Donor in Ovoria Egg Bank?

How to Choose an Egg Donor: A Step-by-Step Guide for Intended Parents

The process of choosing an egg donor is one of the most exciting, but also challenging steps throughout the egg donation journey. You can find a detailed step-by-step guide below for how to choose an egg donor with Ovoria.

There are a number of important things to consider when choosing a donor for your IVF journey. In order to make your choice and find perfect egg donor, consider these four steps:

Create a New Account to View Complete Egg Donor Profiles
Create Your Search Criteria
Review the Medical History of the Donor Closely
Contact Us to Get More Information or Help

Step 1. Create an account to View Egg Donor Profiles

We know that choosing a donor is a highly emotional and demanding process. To ease the stress and feelings of uncertainty for the recipients of donor eggs, we provide both childhood and adult photos of our open-id egg donors so you can imagine what your future could look like. Additionally, you can read all relevant donor information, and thus ensure similarity of yourself and the donor according to particular parameters: phenotype, age, hobbies, education, interests, and personal beliefs.

After creating an account, you will have the opportunity to get acquainted with the donor's medical history and family overview. In our donor database, you can find data about the donor's allergies, hereditary diseases and the results of obligatory medical tests. In the family overview, you can find information about the family of a specific donor in the form of a genealogical tree.

Step 2. Establish Your Search Criteria

Most intended parents already have established some certain criteria which their egg donor should fulfil. The following sections will address some of the most common criteria which you might want to consider when selecting your egg donor. Information related to all the listed criteria is available in our egg donor database.

Physical Characteristics

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing an egg donor is their physical appearance. It is favourable to choose a donor with a similar set of physical characteristics compared to the recipient. Finding an egg donor with similar hair colour, eye colour, height, and skin tone will ensure that the intended mother and future child will share more resemblance.

Appearance : hair and eye colour, height, skin tone,
Type of dono r: anonymous or open id donor
Background : ethnic, religious.
Personal background : education, personality, career, skills, talents

Anonymous vs. Open-ID

Intended parents must also decide whether they should have an anonymous or open-id donor. An anonymous donor is an individual whose personal information remains confidential. In their profile, the donor's photo is not provided, and they are not privy to any details regarding the recipient or the specific cycle in which their biological material is utilised.

Open ID, or known donors are individuals who opt for transparency and do not wish to keep their identity confidential. Children born from these donor eggs can access the donor's information once they turn 18, including their full name, country, city, address, contact phone number, and email.You can read more about Anonymous vs. Open-ID donors here .

Background

Lastly, egg recipients should consider the individual's background when selecting an egg donor. This includes criteria related to the donor's education, personality, career, skills, talents, ethnicity and religious beliefs. Our database is constantly changing, so we recommend that you explore our catalogue often. This way, you'll know which donors you haven't checked out yet.

Step 3. Review the Medical History of the Donor Match

One of the most important things to know about your egg donor is her overall health. As we mentioned before, in medical history, you can find data about allergies, hereditary diseases and obligatory medical tests of each donor. However, at Ovoria, we conduct comprehensive donor screening and delve into the donors' family medical history, so there will be no genetic diseases that could be passed on to your child.

Step 4. Contact Us to Get More Information or Help

Our experienced team of professionals consists of fertility specialists, embryologists, and geneticists all have academic degrees in medicine and are members of ESHRE, ASRM, and UARM. We are at your disposal and will help you with your questions or disappointments. Our goal is to provide guidance and support through constantly improved employee knowledge and skills, and implement cutting-edge technology to turn your dream of a happy family into reality.

You can also contact us via phone or fill the form and we will get back to you within 24 working hours:

United Kingdom: +44 203 807 90 07
Canada: +1 613 416 90 70
France: +33 17 997 89 88
Spain: +34 91 008 29 88
Brazil: +55 613 181 04 88

What are the main criteria for egg donors in Ovoria Egg Bank?

Ovoria Egg Bank has strict requirements for women who want to donate eggs. Thus, we are able to guarantee oocytes of the highest quality. The requirements include;

young fertile women at the age of 18-32;
perfectly physically and mentally healthy;
thoroughly screened and rescreened;
without detrimental habits or addictions;
with proven fertility (have at least one own healthy child);
without hereditary diseases and negative phenotypic signs.

After Choosing the Right Egg Donor - The Egg Donation Process

After finding a donor, the intended parents will start their treatment process at their fertility clinic. This often entails an In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), a medical procedure known as one of the fertility treatments with the highest success rates. In general, the fertility treatment includes the following stages;

Matching
Screening and monitoring for the donor and recipients
Egg retrieval
Embryo transfer
Pregnancy test

To learn more about the egg donation process, you can visit our website .

References

Rubin, L. R., de Melo-Martin, I., Rosenwaks, Z., & Cholst, I. N. (2015). Once you're choosing, nobody's perfect: is more information necessarily better in oocyte donor selection?. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 30(3), 311-318. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1472648314006798 .

Gezinski, L. B., Karandikar, S., White, M., & Kaloga, M. (2016). " I may not know you but I know you'll make great parents." An analysis of egg donor profiles. International Journal of Child Health & Human Development, 9(2). Retrieved from https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A1%3A759057/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A118800307&crl=c .

Berkson, M. (2014). Choosing Egg Donors and Gestational Carriers: Avoiding the Pitfalls. Third-Party Reproduction: A Comprehensive Guide, 227-230. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4614-7169-1_20 .

Frequently Asked Questions

Egg Donation | Find your Egg Donor at Ovoria

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 10:34:36 GMT

Home I Blog I Egg Donation

Egg Donation: A Comprehensive Guide to Becoming Parents Using Donor Eggs

Nowadays, about 18% of couples cannot conceive, meaning one out of six people have problems with childlessness. 50% of the cases are due to male infertility, and 50% are female infertility. Couples who have been trying to conceive naturally for twelve months and not succeeded are likely to have one infertile individual in the partnership (WHO, 2023), and should thus consider seeking counsel from a fertility clinic.

The trend of increased infertility rates (Mascarenhas et. al. 2012) calls for high-quality fertility treatments, allowing people who are struggling to get pregnant to experience the joy of parenthood. This article delves into the topic of egg donation and provides you with everything you need to know about this form of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Since studies have shown that there is relatively low awareness about egg donation practices (Baykal et al., 2008; Stevens and Hayes, 2010; Straehl et al., 2017), this post will try to provide an understandable, yet comprehensive overview on the topic.

What is Egg Donation?

Egg donation is a medical process in which a woman, known as the donor, provides her eggs to another individual or couple who are unable to conceive using their own eggs. This advanced fertility treatment is often utilized by women with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), diminished ovarian reserve, or age-related infertility, as well as those with certain genetic conditions. Through the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF), the donated eggs are fertilized with sperm, and the resulting embryos are transferred to the recipient’s uterus. This allows the recipient to experience pregnancy and childbirth while maintaining a genetic connection to their partner. Since its first successful use in 1984 (Lutjen et al., 1984), egg donation has offered hope to countless families, becoming an increasingly common component of assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

When Woman Need Donor Eggs?

1) In case of premature menopause (defined as premature ovarian failure) : Women who experience menopause earlier than the average age, often before the age of 40, lose their natural ovarian function prematurely. This condition prevents the production of viable eggs, making egg donation a potential solution for achieving pregnancy.

2) If a woman was diagnosed with reduced ovarian reserve : Some women have a lower-than-normal number or quality of eggs in their ovaries, either due to age or other factors. This can make it difficult to conceive using their own eggs, and donor eggs may be recommended to improve the chances of success.

3) In situations when ovaries were removed or damaged : Surgical removal of the ovaries (e.g., due to cancer or other medical conditions) or ovarian damage caused by chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments can eliminate the ability to produce eggs. Egg donation offers these women a chance to build their families.

4) If a woman has a genetic or chromosomal abnormality : Women who carry genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities that could be passed on to their children may choose to use donor eggs to reduce the risk of transmitting these conditions and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

5) When there is an inadequate response or no response to previous stimulations : During fertility treatments, some women may not produce a sufficient number of eggs or any eggs at all in response to hormonal stimulation. In such cases, donor eggs can provide a viable alternative to continue the journey toward parenthood.

The Process of Egg Donation

Step 1: Egg Donor Matching

The egg donation process begins with finding the right donor. This involves reviewing profiles of egg donors, which typically include details about their medical history, physical characteristics, and other relevant information. Once a suitable donor is identified and confirmed to be available, the recipient is provided with a list of medical examinations required before moving forward.

Step 2: Ovarian Stimulation for the Donor and Uterine Preparation for the Recipient

The donor undergoes ovarian stimulation, a process where hormone medications are used to encourage the production of multiple eggs for retrieval. At the same time, the recipient prepares for embryo transfer by taking medications like Estradiol Valerate to thicken the uterine lining, creating an optimal environment for implantation. The progress of both parties is closely monitored, often involving regular ultrasound scans and consultations.

Step 3: Egg Retrieval

Once the donor's eggs are ready, they are retrieved in a minimally invasive procedure. These eggs are then fertilized with sperm from the recipient’s partner or a donor in the laboratory. The resulting embryos are cultivated for up to five days to assess their quality and readiness for transfer.

Step 4: Embryo Transfer

After the embryos are prepared, one or more are transferred to the recipient’s uterus. This step can involve fresh sperm samples provided on-site or previously frozen samples. The transfer is a straightforward procedure performed in a clinical setting.

Step 5: Pregnancy Test

About two weeks after the embryo transfer, the recipient undergoes a blood test to measure HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels, a hormone that indicates pregnancy. If the test is positive, follow-up care, including prescribed medications and an ultrasound scan, ensures the pregnancy progresses healthily.

This process is carefully designed to provide a safe and supportive path toward achieving parenthood.

Success Rates of Fertility Treatment with Egg Donation

The success rates of egg donation and IVF procedures vary at each stage and depend on individual patient factors, including age, health, and fertility history. Age, in particular, plays a significant role, with the probability of pregnancy generally decreasing as women get older.

One key stage is the fertilization of donor eggs, which has a high success rate, with approximately 80% of fertilized donor eggs developing into viable embryos. According to data from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), the success rates for IVF pregnancies using fresh embryo transfers are as follows across different age groups:

Ages 18–34: 41%
Ages 35–37: 33%
Ages 38–39: 25%
Ages 40–42: 16%
Ages 43–50: 6%

For IVF pregnancies using frozen embryos, the average success rate is slightly lower, around 36%. While these statistics highlight the influence of age and embryo type on outcomes, they also emphasize the importance of tailored treatment plans and expert care to maximize each patient’s chances of success.

Is Egg Donation Painful?

Egg donation is generally not considered a painful process, though some discomfort may occur during certain stages. Donors may experience mild side effects from hormonal medications, such as bloating or mood changes, during ovarian stimulation. The egg retrieval procedure itself is performed under sedation or anesthesia, ensuring it is painless, though some donors report minor cramping or bloating afterward. Recipients undergoing uterine preparation and embryo transfer typically describe these steps as minimally invasive and relatively comfortable. Both donors and recipients are closely monitored to ensure their safety and well-being throughout the process.

Egg Donation in the UK

Egg donation is a vital fertility option in the UK, especially for women unable to conceive with their own eggs due to age or primary ovarian insufficiency. Around 5% of IVF cycles use donor eggs, rising to 18% in women over 40 (HFEA, 2019). Commercial payments are prohibited; instead, donors receive a fixed £985 in expenses. Legislative changes in 2005 also require donor identity disclosure to offspring at age 18 (HFEA, 2005), further limiting donor numbers. Consequently, long waiting lists prompt many patients to seek cross-border reproductive care (Culley et al., 2011). Egg sharing—where a patient donates eggs in exchange for subsidized IVF—offers one solution, yet uptake remains limited despite widespread support.

Why Choose Ovoria Egg Bank?

At Ovoria Egg Bank, science underpins everything we do. We employ top-tier donor traceability systems and adhere to the latest Kitazato recommendations for vitrification and thawing, helping ensure maximum viability of every egg batch. Our extensive screening programs minimize the risk of inheritable diseases, and our fertility experts keep up-to-date with ESHRE and ASRM guidelines to stay aligned with the highest international standards. Patients benefit from a large selection of egg donors, flexible options for anonymous or open ID donation , and guaranteed oocytes for each cycle. We also enforce strict family limit controls—tracking live births per donor according to each country’s regulations (UK has a 10-family limit)—to maintain ethical standards. Above all, our commitment to transparent quality assurance and worldwide shipping offers reassurance to patients across the globe, making Ovoria a trusted partner for egg donation treatments.

Get in Touch and Start Your Journey!

Regardless of whether you are looking to become an egg donor, or start your journey toward parenthood - we are here for you! Contact us below, our team is excited to welcome you!

Frequently Asked Questions

References

Baykal, B., Korkmaz, C., Ceyhan, S. T., Goktolga, U., & Baser, I. (2008). Opinions of infertile Turkish women on gamete donation and gestational surrogacy. Fertility and Sterility, 89(4), 817–822.

Culley, L., Hudson, N., Rapport, F., Blyth, E., Norton, W., & Pacey, A. A. (2011). Crossing borders for fertility treatment: Motivations, destinations and outcomes of UK fertility travellers. Human Reproduction, 26(9), 2373–2381.

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. (2005). Sperm, egg and embryo donation (SEED): Policy review findings of the clinical survey. https://www.hfea.gov.uk

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. (2019). Trends in egg and sperm donation. https://www.hfea.gov.uk/media/2808/trends-in-egg-and-sperm-donation-final.pdf

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. (2020). Trends in egg, sperm and embryo donation: 2020 report. https://www.hfea.gov.uk/about-us/publications/research-and-data/trends-in-egg-sperm-and-embryo-donation-2020/

Lutjen, P., Trounson, A., Leeton, J., Findlay, J., Wood, C., & Renou, P. (1984). The establishment and maintenance of pregnancy using in vitro fertilization and embryo donation in a patient with primary ovarian failure. Nature, 307(5947), 174–175.

Mascarenhas, M. N., Flaxman, S. R., Boerma, T., Vanderpoel, S., & Stevens, G. A. (2012). National, regional, and global trends in infertility prevalence since 1990: A systematic analysis of 277 health surveys. PLoS Medicine, 9(12), Article e1001356. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1001356

Stevens, J. B., & Hayes, C. (2010). Perceptions regarding oocyte donation in a group of female college students. MCN: The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, 35(1), 40–46.

Straehl, J., Lara, L., Sá, M. F. S., Reis, R. M., & Rosa, E. S. A. (2017). What do infertile women think about oocyte reception, oocyte donation, and child adoption? Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia, 39(6), 282–287.

World Health Organization. (2023, April 4). 1 in 6 people globally affected by infertility. https://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2023-1-in-6-people-globally-affected-by-infertility

Repeated IVF Cycle

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 15:57:37 GMT

Home I Blog I Repeated IVF Cycle

Repeated IVF Cycle

The journey of being pregnant must be full of joy and pleasant experiences. This journey starts from the very first positive sign, two pink lines in a pregnancy test kit. Though it should be a joyful experience for every parent to have and bring up a child, one out of eight couples have problems conceiving or cannot create; they are termed infertile. Infertility brings disappointment and sadness to the whole family.

Thanks to Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), many opportunities increase the chances of becoming parents. In Vitro Fertilisation is one of the most effective, safe and well-established treatments for couples who already tried various infertility treatment options but didn’t achieve pregnancy.

What Are the Causes of IVF Failure?

There is a list of some of the reasons why the recipient may be having repeated IVF failures:

Embryo Implantation

Embryo implantation is the last stage of IVF treatment that means embryos will be located in the uterus, but such factors as uterine polyps, poor blood flow, thin endometrial lining, cyst, or infection of the uterus can hinder the embryo implantation.

Embryo & Sperm Quality

A healthy egg and sperm are responsible for a healthy embryo. That's why lifestyle plays a significant role in the quality of eggs and sperm. To get the best IVF treatment results, men should change their diet and lifestyle for at least three months before the procedure. This also applies to women who can improve their fertility by changing their diet and lifestyle.

Ovarian Response

According to the IVF process, at the beginning of IVF treatment for egg production is necessary to administer a daily injection of a follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH). There is also a chance that the medication will not successfully stimulate ovaries to produce eggs because of women's age.

Age of Female

For a woman wanting to get pregnant, it is imperative to be in peak health. The factors such as a healthy diet and proper sleep are the major factors in achieving a healthy body. It's been proven that having no bad habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol can make women's bodies stay younger and more nutritious that will help to create a thriving environment for pregnancy.

Lifestyle

Leading a healthy lifestyle is one of the essential parts of the IVF procedure. To achieve IVF success, future patients must improve their lifestyles. A well-balanced diet, proper sleeping, quitting smoking, and drinking alcohol will positively impact fertility.

Repeated IVF Failure Diagnosis

The doctor can suggest any or a few of the following tests to determine the cause of IVF failure:

Sperm DNA fragmentation test immunology test;
Uterine evaluation;
Endometrial Receptivity Assay (ERA);
Preimplantation genetic testing.

How to Improve The Success Rate of a Next IVF Attempt?

After the cause of a failed cycle is identified, it must be rectified. Recipients should find a skilled clinic in the procedure and be compliant enough to ensure that an instant corrective measure must be taken if there is an issue with the patient. A clinic will be dutiful in explaining the situation and will also try to eliminate all the possible causes of failure and increase the success rate of the next IVF cycle.

Patience is The Key

Unfortunately, repeated IVF failure can be undoubtedly painful and arduous, but remember that patience and hope are success the key during this process .

Consult with your doctor and decide whether you should try a few more times or stop. Here's the important message: you need three to six attempts to get pregnant.

Will My Baby Look Like Me if I Use a Donor Egg?

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 12:57:06 GMT

Home I Blog I Will My Baby Look Like Me If I Use a Donor Egg?

Will the Baby Look Like Me If I Use a Donor Egg?

According to the experts, infertility is a rising problem that is expected to increase. Luckily there are many treatment options for those who are struggling with infertility problems such as In-vitro Fertilisation, surrogacy, sperm donors, and donor eggs. However, due to the complex environment, navigating through and evaluating all treatment alternatives is a process that can be very emotionally demanding for individuals affected by decreased fertility levels.

Egg donation is usually the last opportunity for couples or singles who wish to become pregnant after months or years of failed attempts via fertility treatments such as IVF (In-vitro Fertilisation). If recipients are considering IVF with donor eggs, they can encounter some challenges and questions. Although the procedure itself has high success rates, some recipients are concerned whether the baby will look like the intended mother or not. This is because the baby will have half of the egg donor’s genetic information and half of the sperm provider’s genetic information.

The answer to the concern of recipients relating to the physical characteristics of their future child: the resemblance usually depends on the donor. Consequently, the search for the perfect egg donor becomes a critical stage of the journey towards parenthood.

Choosing the right Egg Donor

After recipients have decided to use donor eggs to fulfil their dream of parenthood, they need to create criteria for their egg donor. Some things that intended parents should consider while looking for an egg donor include:

Medical history

Completing a review of the medical history of both the donor themself and their family is one of the essential parts. This information gathered can minimise the risks of passing on illnesses to the embryo, and consequently, the foetus.

Ovoria Egg Bank checks and screens donors in accordance with strict quality requirements and international guidelines. According to the international Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) association's guidelines, we examine donors through the EU-Tissue Directive 2004/23/CE, 2006/17/EC.

Appearance of Egg Donor - Matching the Phenotype

For some recipients, appearance plays a massive role in choosing a suitable donor. If recipients want to select an egg donor with specific physical features traits, there is a list of qualities to choose from:

Eye colour;
Hair colour and structure;
Skin tone and complexion;
Height;
Weight.

By choosing traits that match the phenotype of the female recipient, chances are that the child will look like a combination of the intended mother and the sperm provider.

Personality, Intelligence and Educational Background

Every parent wants their child to be intelligent, charming, and successful. Although matching the desired personality, level of intelligence, and educational background of the donor with the qualities you wish for your child, we know that genes do not account for the entirety of these personal characteristics. The amount of nurture also plays an important role in terms of the child's personality and success. Moreover, the environment in which the child is brought up also plays a crucial role when shaping his or her personality, intelligence, and future educational endeavours.

Interests and Achievements

During the review of the egg donor profiles, some recipients pay attention to such information as achievements and interests. However, one should note that it is not guaranteed that the characteristics of the egg donor will pass to your child.

Overall, even if an egg donor looks nothing like the indented mother, the donor egg baby may still look like the recipient. Fertility experts discovered that even if the donated egg has a different genetic material than the recipient, the embryo is still affected by the fluid that surrounds the baby while it is growing in the womb. Consequently, it is likely that the child will resemble its mother, as well as the sperm provider.

What Will My Baby Look Like If I Use a Donor Egg From an Anonymous Donor?

In most of the countries that legally allow for egg donation, it is mandatory that the egg donor is kept anonymous throughout the entire treatment process. Nonetheless, people mistakenly believe that anonymous egg donation will remove the genetic similarities. Although donor eggs from an egg bank will not carry your genes, the baby can still have some of your characteristics or physical traits. This is because the selection of the donor is based on the phenotypic characteristics of the recipient and the patient's blood group. The final choice is made based on the anatomical, morphological, and physiological characteristics of the donor in relation to the patient's phenotype. This means that even though the child might not share the exact genetic code of its birth mother, chances are there will still be some resemblance between the two.

In the case that the child doesn't look like the intended mother physically, it will still adapt her behaviour, interests, humour, mannerisms, and facial expressions. Also, environment and exposure play a massive role during child development, which means this factor gives your child more similarities than genes or traits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Egg Freezing Process

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 10:48:00 GMT

Home I Blog I Egg Freezing Process

Egg Freezing Process

Embryos are the cornerstone of the pregnancy process. The difference between eggs and sperm is that fertilisation has already taken place in the case of eggs. Embryos are frozen so that they can be used at a later stage.

What is Egg Freezing?

Egg freezing is another option for women who do not plan to start trying to get pregnant soon but are worried that they might be approaching fertility problems in the future. The process of egg freezing involves collecting and storing a woman’s eggs so they can be used in future fertility treatment.

Opportunity to conceive naturally will decrease with age due to quantity and quality of eggs. Egg freezing can help women preserve their fertility by freezing their eggs when they are young and quality of eggs is high.

Who Needs Egg Freezing?

The woman can consider egg freezing in few cases:

If she will have surgery that may damage her ovaries;
If she has a medical condition or needs treatment for a condition that will affect her fertility;
If she has a risk of premature ovarian failure or premature menopause that is caused by chromosomal abnormalities. The most common of these are Turner syndrome and fragile X syndrome;
If she has an ovarian disease, that can cause the ovaries to be damaged;
If she has genetic mutations that require removing the ovaries;
If she is not ready to have a child and has not found the right partner, it makes sense to think about freezing eggs.

The Process of Egg Freezing

The process of egg freezing consists of 4 steps:

Step 1: Appointment with a specialist

The patients visit the clinic for a consultation with a fertility specialist and an embryologist. A set of medical tests are performed to determine the woman's fertility status and preference for such diseases as HIV and hepatitis to understand if a woman is eligible for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment.

Step 2: Preparation for hormonal stimulation

Patients are provided with medications that aim to enhance hormonal stimulation, which increases the number of matured eggs available for preservation.

Step 3: Egg Collection

The eggs are extracted through an egg-retrieval process - a daycare procedure requiring sedation.

Step 4: Egg Freezing

Once eggs are retrieved, they are usually frozen using a vitrification process. The eggs are generally frozen for one year, but the duration of storage can be extended with the couple's consent.

References:

Premature Ovarian Failure - Symptoms, Treatment & More | Ovoria

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:42:52 GMT

Home I Blog I Premature Ovarian Failure: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Premature Ovarian Failure: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), sometimes called premature ovarian failure (POF) or premature menopause, is a reproductive disease in which the ovaries stop producing eggs before age 40. When the ovaries stop working, they don’t ovulate and produce a reduced amount of oestrogen. Women with POI are at risk of severe conditions such as osteoporosis, heart disease or infertility.

Symptoms of Premature Ovarian Failure

Precise symptoms of premature ovarian failure might be hard to identify, especially during the early stages of the condition. Women with POF may have regular periods, and, in some cases, still have the ability to conceive. However, if challenges related to fertility arise, consulting a doctor might lead to a diagnosis of the condition. You should consider to contact your health care provider if you experience one or multiple of the following symptoms:

Irregular periods: the hormonal changes caused by premature ovarian failure can lead to disruptions in the menstrual cycle, which in turn might result in irregular or missed periods.
Problems with conceiving: POF often causes a decline in fertility, meaning that women with the condition often have problems with conceiving.
Depression and Anxiety: the hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact the mood, which in some cases can result in depression and anxiety.
Hot flashes and Night sweats : these are also symptoms associated with hormonal changes, and are similar to those experienced during natural menopause.
Low sex drive: hormonal imbalances can lead to decreased interest in sexual activity.
Vaginal dryness and Painful intercourse : reduced oestrogen levels can lead to changes in the vaginal tissues, which in turn might cause dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
Memory problem : the hormonal fluctuations might diminish cognitive function, resulting in memory issues or difficulties related to concentration.
Trouble sleeping: changes in the hormone levels can lead to sleep disturbances, such as problems falling asleep or staying asleep.

Causes of Premature Ovarian Failure

While the causes of premature ovarian failure can be diverse, there are certain factors that may contribute. Origins of POF include;

Hormonal imbalance: Reduced oestrogen levels and increased levels of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone indicate a disruption in the ovarian response. As a result, oestrogen production is reduced.
Family history: if there is a family history of POF, descendants are at increased risk of acquiring this condition.
Infections : Herpes, cytomegalovirus, and tuberculosis of the genital tract can cause primary ovarian insufficiency.
Genetic disorders : premature ovarian failure can be associated with genetic disorders such as turner syndrome or fragile X syndrome.
Chromosomal defect : some viral infections are known to cause POF, and some less common infections can cause Tuberculosis of the genital tract.
Autoimmune diseases: the body produces antibodies against ovarian tissue that can harm the follicles containing eggs, which in turn can cause premature ovarian failure.
Lifestyle factors : Cigarette smoking and exposure to pesticides or industrial toxins have been proven to decrease the chances of conception and an increased risk of POF.

Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosing premature ovarian failure usually involves a combination of various components, including;

Medical History: understanding the woman's medical history, including information regarding irregular periods or missed cycles. Assessing the family history for any instances of early menopause or fertility issues may also be relevant.
Physical Examination : a thorough physical examination to uncover any signs or symptoms related to hormonal imbalances.
Blood Tests : measuring hormone levels, in particular follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol, help to evaluate the ovarian function. Thyroid function tests are also done to rule out other potential causes of menstrual irregularities.
Genetic Testing : checking for genetic conditions such as Turner syndrome or Fragile X syndrome is a common procedure, as these conditions may be associated with POI.
Imaging Studies : doctors often use ultrasound imaging to examine the ovaries and detect any abnormalities.
Bone Density Testing: dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans are conducted in order to assess bone density, considering the increased risk of osteoporosis.

Premature Ovarian Failure Treatments

While premature ovarian failure can be a difficult diagnosis to receive, it is important to discuss treatment options with a doctor. The healthcare provider should also explain that while the prospect of seeking professional medical care and initiating hormone replacement therapy may seem overwhelming, it is the most common treatment to restore lost ovarian hormones. The combination of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone restore the affected woman's hormone levels to a state similar to those prior to early menopause. The therapy stops hot flashes and other symptoms of hormone deficiency, while also inducing menstrual periods. However, it does not restore ovarian function. In addition to hormonal treatment, there are other alternative options. These include:

Vitamin supplements: to counter undesired consequences of oestrogen deficiency, calcium and vitamin D supplements may be recommended.
Fertility treatments: for those wanting to conceive, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or egg donation can be alternative routes.
Psychological support: upon being diagnosed with POF, dealing with fertility issues and hormonal fluctuations can be emotionally demanding. Thus, counselling or support groups can provide valuable psychological assistance.
Lifestyle changes: adopting a healthier lifestyle, especially in regards to physical exercise and a balanced diet, can contribute to an overall well being.
Regular check-ups: after getting the diagnosis, women with POF benefit from regular check-ups to monitor bone health, cardiovascular risks, and overall hormonal balance.

Risks Associated with Premature Ovarian Failure

These are some of the health conditions that are common in women with POF:

Infertility : About nearly 90% of women with premature ovarian failure can’t get pregnant. About 10% who have tried to conceive without medical help have succeeded, and had pregnancies without the need for fertility drugs.
Heart disease : Not enough oestrogen can elevate the risk of a heart attack in women with POF
Osteoporosis : In case of low oestrogen level, a woman might have a higher risk of developing brittle bones due to bone loss, which in turn puts her at an increased risk for fractures.
Depression : There is a risk of lingering sadness after ovarian failure. Women with POF may want to talk to a therapist or may benefit from medication for depression.

References

Goswami, D., & Conway, G. S. (2005). Premature ovarian failure. Human reproduction update, 11(4), 391-410. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/humupd/article/11/4/391/874983.

Beck-Peccoz, P., & Persani, L. (2006). Premature ovarian failure. Orphanet journal of rare diseases, 1, 1-5. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1750-1172-1-9.

Kalantaridou, S. N., Davis, S. R., & Nelson, L. M. (1998). Premature ovarian failure. Endocrinology and metabolism clinics of North America, 27(4), 989-1006. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889852905700517.

Frequently Asked Questions

Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 07:58:54 GMT

Home I Blog I Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They often appear during childbearing years and aren't associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer. The growths consist of fibrous tissue and muscle, and vary considerably in terms of size. Some fibroids are so tiny that the average person can't even see them, while other fibroids can grow big enough to distort and enlarge the uterus so much that they reach the rib cage and add weight.

Types of Uterine Fibroids

There are four different types of uterine fibroids, namely;

Subserosal fibroids
Submucosal fibroids
Intramural fibroids
Pedunculated fibroids

Subserosal fibroids are a variation of uterine fibroids that grow outside the uterus. Some of these fibroids are pedunculated, which means that they are attached by a narrow stalk. Although subserosal fibroids rarely pose any danger, they might still cause uncomfortable symptoms and affect the surrounding organ functions.

Submucosal fibroids on the other hand grow inside the uterus (womb), just beneath the surface of its lining, also known as endometrium. Even though this type of fibroids is the least common one, they often cause the most considerable problems, such as excessive uterine bleeding which in turn can lead to a lower count of red blood cells.

Intramural fibroids develop within the uterine wall, specifically within the muscular tissue. They commonly occur in the same region, often presenting as multiple growths. Intramural fibroids stand as the most prevalent type among uterine fibroids.

Finally, pedunculated fibroids are growths attached to the uterine wall by a stalk-like structure called a peduncle. They can develop both inside and outside the uterus, with the intrauterine variation termed a pedunculated submucosal fibroid and the extraneous form referred to as a pedunculated subserosal fibroid.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Symptoms of uterine fibroids can vary across individuals and depend on the type of fibroid. However, some of the common symptoms that indicate the presence of uterine fibroids include;

menstrual periods lasting more than seven days;
heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle;
constipation;
pelvic pain;
pelvic pressure;
frequent urination;
the urge to urinate frequently.

While these symptoms are frequently associated with uterine fibroids, experiencing them does not necessarily confirm their presence. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if you experience;

heavy menstrual bleeding;
pelvic pain;
bleeding between periods;
painful periods;
anaemia.

Causes of Uterine Fibroids

The exact cause of fibroid development remains unknown. The processes controlling how and why fibroids grow and shrink over time are still unclear. However, both research and clinical experience point to potential factors contributing to uterine fibroids, including;

Hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone . These hormones are produced by the ovaries. They cause the uterine lining to renew during the menstrual cycle and stimulate the abnormal growths of fibroids.
Changes in genetic structure. Many fibroids may have DNA changes in genes that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells.
Pregnancy . During pregnancy the female body increases the production of hormones like oestrogen and progesterone, which can develop fibroids. However, indications show that after pregnancy, these fibroids can return to their regular size.
Family history of fibroids. Studies indicate that if there's a family history of fibroids, there is a chance of inheriting the condition.
Other growth factors. Certain substances that help the body maintain tissues could affect fibroid growth.

How are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed?

Ultrasound

To diagnose the presence of uterine fibroids, the most commonly used test is an ultrasound scan. This procedure utilises a probe to generate high-frequency sound waves, producing an image of the interior of your body without causing pain. In order to diagnose fibroids, there are two different types of ultrasound scans;

abdominal ultrasound - involves moving the ultrasound probe over the external area of your abdomen.
transvaginal ultrasound - where the scan entails inserting a small ultrasound probe into your vagina.

If the produced images show any signs of fibroids, you may be referred to a gynaecologist for further tests.

Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscopy is a medical procedure where a small telescope is inserted into your uterus through the vagina and cervix. By undergoing such a procedure, the doctor is able to examine the womb and identify fibroids. While anaesthesia may be used to reduce any pain associated with the examination, most women do not require it. A hysteroscopy is helpful for finding submucosal fibroids.

Laparoscopy

During a laparoscopy, a small telescope with a light source and camera is inserted through the abdomen (tummy). The laparoscope is passed through the abdomen, allowing for examination of the organs and tissues inside the abdomen. Since the procedure requires a small cut, general anaesthetic is used.

Biopsy

In some cases, a small tissue sample, also known as a biopsy, can identify signs of uterine fibroids. The tissue sample may be removed during a hysteroscopy, and thereafter be closely examined under a microscope.

Uterine Fibroids Treatment Options

In most cases, uterine fibroids reduce or disappear as a woman enters menopause. There are two general treatment options: surgery or medically-induced menopause. Menopause treatment carries more significant risks.

Uterine fibroids usually shrink or disappear when women enter their menopause. However, there are some cases where the condition needs treatment. In these cases, there are several different treatment option;

Myomectomy : a surgical procedure to remove the fibroids while preserving the uterus;
Hysterectomy : a procedure to remove all or parts of the uterus
Gn-RH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonists : temporarily shrink fibroids by suppressing hormone production
Uterine artery embolization : a non-surgical procedure blocking blood flow to the fibroids;
Surgery : repair or remove fibroids
Hormone therapy: to alleviate symptoms

Uterine Fibroids and Fertility

The majority of women who have fibroids can still have children. However, it is possible that fibroids can be the cause of infertility problems or pregnancy loss. Fibroids may lead to pregnancy complications, which include:

Placental abruption . Uterine fibroids can block the placenta and it will break away from the wall of the uterus
Preterm delivery . Uterine contractions can cause early delivery.
Foetal growth restriction. Large uterine fibroids can cause decreased space in the womb and it can prevent the foetus from growing.
Breech position. The foetus can be unable to align for delivery due to the abnormal shape of the uterine cavity
Miscarriage.

Frequently Asked Questions

IUI vs IVF

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 11:28:53 GMT

Home I Blog I IUI vs IVF

IUI vs IVF

There are many reasons why people may want to undergo fertility treatments. In-vitro fertilization(IVF) and intrauterine insemination(IUI) are fertility treatments used to help patients suffering from infertility. Usually, people get wrong about IUI and IVF treatment.

The main difference between these two procedures is that IUI is a process in which sperm is injected into the uterus to the implant, and IVF is a procedur e that takes place outside the body and results in the transferred embryo to implant.

W hat is IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a method of artificial insemination for treating infertility. The sperm, which have been washed and concentrated, are carefully placed inside the uterus when the ovary releases one or more eggs for fertilization.

The desired result of intrauterine insemination (IUI) is for sperm to reach the fallopian tubes and fertilize a waiting egg. According to your reasons for infertility, IUI can be coordinated with your normal cycle or with fertility medications.

What is IVF (In Vitro Ferilization)?

In-vitro fertilization is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. It is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. The process of having an IVF cycle consists of getting mature eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, transferring the embryo to a uterus, and finally waiting for a time period.

The IUI Process

The process of IUI consists of 6 steps:

Consultation : For IVF, both the male and female partners undergo a medical examination by an IVF specialist followed by diagnosis and a preconception check-up with the embryologist. During this check-up, the male partner's sperm is examined and analyzed to ensure it meets specific quality standards.
Monitoring of follicles : During this step, the woman takes fertility drugs. After that, the ovary specialist monitors the development of the follicle using an ultrasound device. The growth of the follicles is measured based on data from the ultrasound device.
Harvesting of sperm : On the day of insemination, the male partner is asked to provide a sperm sample. The healthiest sperm among them is then selected.
Insemination : The insemination procedure is a simple process. The sperm is placed closer to the egg by liquifying the semen and injecting it into the uterus. This makes it easier for the sperm to reach the egg. If this procedure is repeated multiple times, the chances of pregnancy improve.
Pregnancy test after the procedure : The specialist may prescribe medications to help women get pregnant. The doctor also gives the timeframe during which to take pregnancy tests to determine whether or not she is pregnant.

The IVF Process

The process of IVF consists of 5 steps :

Ovarian Stimulation : During the first step, a woman takes medication so that healthy eggs are produced. Most months, women make only one egg, but with IVF, they stimulate 10-15 eggs to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.
Egg Retrieval : The next step of IVF treatment involves the harvesting of eggs. Egg retrieval is done while a woman sleeps under a general anesthetic. Once completed, an embryologist examines the eggs under a microscope to count them.
Fertilisation : The next thing that happens is the fertilization of eggs and sperm. The timing is crucial here. The eggs are retrieved, and then, after a few hours, they're fertilized with sperm. There are two ways to fertilize an egg: Conventional insemination or ICSI. In conventional insemination, the sperm is placed in a dish containing an egg to allow them to fertilize on their own. In ICSI, one sperm is injected into the cytoplasm of a fertilized egg using a needle.
Blastocyst Culture : Once the sperm fertilizes the egg, it becomes an embryo. The embryo is then placed in a unique incubator by embryologist, where the embryo is provided with the proper condition to develop and grow. Adequate monitoring of the embryo is done for 5-6 days.
Embryo Transfer : The final step is Embryo Transfer. Once the embryo develops to the blastocyst stage, it is implanted into the uterus using a small tube called Catheter. It usually takes place within 3-5 days after fertilisation. Once the embryo is transferred to the uterus, it is allowed to the implant, and a blood test is carried on after two weeks to measure the hormone HCG.

When is IUI Recommended?

Nowadays, male infertility is becoming more and more common. 40% of the couples who face problems with not being able to conceive naturally have a male infertility problem, which can be easily treated. The most common male infertility problem is low sperm count. In the case of low sperm count, Intra-Uterine Insemination is a popular treatment. Collecting semen involves asking a male partner to provide a sample, processing it, and then injecting it into an egg. Once it's ready, the semen sample is washed and inserted into the uterus.

Once the washed sperm is released into the fallopian tube, it will travel to the fallopian tube to meet the female oocyte (egg). It is a type of treatment that is suitable for cases of low sperm count and unexplained infertility.

Moreover, IUI is recommended for women with PCOD and mild endometriosis. With this procedure, the doctor injects washed male sperm into the uterus when the egg is ready. IUI is also recommended in a woman who has hostile cervical mucus.

When is IVF Recommended?

References:

Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 07:07:28 GMT

Home I Blog I Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Symptoms and Causes

Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

Blocked fallopian tubes, or tubal factor infertility, is a major cause of female infertility, accounting for 25-30% of all cases worldwide. Thus, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms, causes, and treatment options of the disorder.

The fallopian tubes, also called uterine tubes, are part of the female reproductive organs located on both sides of the uterus. They are a pair of narrow, muscular tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. During ovulation, the fallopian tubes carry an egg from the ovary to the uterus and sperm from the uterus to the ovary.

What are Blocked Fallopian Tubes?

Blocked fallopian tubes describe the condition where there is an obstruction in one or both of the fallopian tubes. As a result of the blockage, sperm is prevented from reaching the egg for fertilisation or the fertilised egg from travelling to the uterus for implantation, thus impacting the fertility.

Symptoms of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Blocked fallopian tubes can cause mild, but consistent pain on one side of the abdomen. This usually happens in a type of blockage called a hydrosalpinx, where fluid fills and enlarges a blocked fallopian tube.

Conditions that lead to a blocked fallopian tube can cause their symptoms. For instance, endometriosis often causes excruciating and heavy periods and pelvic pain. These symptoms can increase the risk of fallopian tube blockage. Common symptoms of blocked fallopian tubes include;

Abnormal Vaginal Discharge ; obstruction of the fallopian tubes may lead to altered fluid dynamics in the reproductive system.
Painful Menstruation; as a result of pressure and fluid behind blocked fallopian tubes, women might experience discomfort during the menstrual cycle.
Pain in the Pelvis ; following the inflammation or obstruction in the fallopian tubes, pelvic pain is a common symptom of the disorder.
Abdominal Pain; the obstruction of fallopian tubes might affect the surrounding abdominal structures, ultimately leading to abdominal pain.
Problems with Getting Pregnant ; since the blockage of fallopian tubes impedes the of egg and sperm, women with the condition might struggle to get pregnant.
Pain During Urination ; the inflammation and pressing on surrounding structure can lead to pain during urination.
Painful Intercourse ; the obstruction and inflammation of the fallopian tubes can affect the dynamics of sexual activity, leading to pain during intercourse.

It is important to note that the condition is asymptomatic in many cases, as many women may not be aware of the blockage until they encounter difficulties in conceiving. However, if you do experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

The most common causes of blocked fallopian tubes are:

Endometriosis: Some women may not be aware that endometrial tissue can build up in the fallopian tubes and cause a blockage. The growth of endometrial tissues on the outer part of other organs can also create a tubal blockage.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs): Chlamydia and Gonorrhea can cause scarring, which can lead to blockage.
Pelvic inflammatory disease: This disease can lead to scarring of tissues and infections, which can cause hydrosalpinx.
Fibroids: The growth of fibroids that are attached near the uterus can block the fallopian tubes.
Past ectopic pregnancy: Ectopic pregnancy can cause blockage of the fallopian tube by scarring of tissues.
Past abdominal surgery: Previous surgeries of the fallopian tubes can cause adhesions, or scarring, that blocks the pipes.

Diagnosing Blocked Fallopian Tubes

While diagnosing the condition is challenging, there are various tests that can assist healthcare professionals in the process;

X-ray test: During specialised x-ray, the healthcare provider injects a harmless fluid into the womb. This fluid flows into the tube, which can be seen on an X-ray. If the fluid does not flow into the fallopian tubes, they may have a blockage.
Ultrasound: through this technique, the healthcare provider can see an image of fallopian tubes
Laparoscopy : Also known as keyhole surgery, where a minuscule incision in the body is made, and a camera is inserted to take pictures of the fallopian tubes from within.

Treatment Options for When Tubes are Blocked

There are surgical procedures which are conducted when fallopian tubes are blocked. The choice of treatment method depends on the extent and location of the scarring. There are three common treatment options for removing the blockage in the fallopian tubes:

Removing Scar Tissue; involves a surgical procedure (tubal lysis or adhesiolysis) that removes or releases scar tissue or adhesion that may be blocking the fallopian tubes.
Opening the Tube From the Inside (tubal cannulation) ; involves a minimally invasive procedure where a thin catheter is inserted through the cervix into the uterus, ultimately reaching the fallopian tubes. The catheter is used to clear obstructions or blockages from within the tubes. The procedure can be done through a hysteroscope, fluoroscopy, or laparoscopy.
Opening the Tube From the Outside ; involves making an incision in the fallopian tube to directly remove or bypass the blockage. It creates a new opening in the blocked portion of the tube, allowing the release of fluids.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes and Fertility

The female reproductive system consists of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. If any of these three areas have been affected by a medical problem, getting pregnant may be more difficult, and in some cases even causes infertility.

The sperm and the egg unite in the fallopian tube, and if the tubes are blocked, then the sperm and egg cannot merge and conceiving a child becomes problematic. If a fallopian tube is partially blocked, pregnancy is still possible. However, the risk of ectopic pregnancy increases. In these cases, the clogged fallopian tubes should be bypassed with IVF treatment.

The chance of getting pregnant following a surgery for tubes damaged by an infection or ectopic pregnancy is small. It depends on how much of the tube must be removed and what part is removed. In order to get to know a woman's chances for successful pregnancy, the fertility specialist needs to provide medical advice.

After undergoing surgery for tubes damaged by an infection ectopic the chances of pregnancy are small. It depends on the extent to which the tube had to be removed or which parts needed to be removed. For a profound understanding of one's conception ability, consulting a fertility specialist is recommended.

References

Mastroianni Jr, L. (1999). The fallopian tube and reproductive health. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology, 12(3), 121-126. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1038318899000030

Maguiness, S. D., Djahanbakhch, O., & Grudzinskas, J. G. (1992). Assessment of the fallopian tube. Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey, 47(9), 587-603. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/obgynsurvey/citation/1992/09000/assessment_of_the_fallopian_tube.1.aspx

Eddy, C. A., & Pauerstein, C. J. (1980). Anatomy and physiology of the fallopian tube. Clinical obstetrics and gynecology, 23(4), 1177-1194. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/clinicalobgyn/Citation/1980/12000/Anatomy_and_Physiology_of_the_Fallopian_Tube.23.aspx

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Reasons for IVF Treatment

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 14:00:02 GMT

Home I Blog I Common Reasons for IVF Treatment

Common Reasons for IVF Treatment

Sometimes, the desire to have children can be obscured because of infertility problems. It's not just serious diseases that cause infertility; a lot of the time, habits like smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and stress can cause infertility problems.

Female infertility rates are increasing. Many factors contribute to women not being able to conceive, but experts say that one of the main reasons is that women are waiting until they become older to have children. However, infertility can be a problem regardless of your age or situation.

Common Reasons For Having IVF Treatment :

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition when tissue from the inside of the uterus starts growing elsewhere in your body. The extra tissue can cause scarring and inflammation that affects nearby organs, including your ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes. This condition can lead to infertility in few ways:

Pelvic toxicity causes infertility; although the reason for infertility is unknown, the mere presence of these abnormal cells changes the pelvic environment, which hinders natural conception.
The fallopian tubes are blocked, preventing the egg from entering the uterus and ultimately, the fallopian tube
Ovarian cysts resulting from polycystic ovarian syndrome, in turn, prevent the standard passage of the egg.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. A lack of ovulation characterizes it because of the imbalance in male and female hormones.

A woman who has polycystic ovaries does not ovulate or does not ovulate regularly. They also have an excess production of androgen, which is the male hormone. This prevents them from becoming pregnant. The production of androgen can disrupt the average balance of hormones. The abnormal production of androgen in women is called PCOS.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

The fallopian tubes, also known as the oviducts, are the female reproductive organs that connect the ovaries to the uterus. They carry an egg from the ovaries to the uterus during ovulation every month.

If the fallopian tubes are blocked, sperm cannot reach the egg, or if an egg is fertilized, it cannot get to the uterus. A common cause of blocked fallopian tubes is scar tissue, infection, and adhesion. If there's any damage or blockage present in the fallopian tube, the sperm and egg may not meet correctly.

Premature Ovarian Failure

Ovarian failure, also known as primary ovarian insufficiency, is when the ovaries lose their normal function of releasing a mature egg every month. A woman diagnosed with ovarian failure may have menopause at an earlier age than the average.

The Oestrogen hormone plays an essential role in releasing an egg every month. But as a woman ages, the ovaries make less oestrogen, which prevents the release of eggs and can also lead to infertility.

Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours in the uterus. They occur in women during their childbearing years and are very common. Fibroids may grow on the wall of the uterus.

Fibroids may affect the implantation of the fertilized egg, making it hard to conceive.

Low Sperm Quality

A common cause of infertility is a low sperm count and motility. These issues, coupled with poor sperm quality, represent 90% of all cases of infertility in men and anywhere from 20% to 40% in couples.

Low Quality of Eggs

Often, infertility can be a result of egg quality problems caused by aging or illness. In these cases, donor eggs can be used to develop embryos, which are then transferred to the woman’s reproductive system.

Unexplained Infertility

Secondary Infertility is an incapability to conceive or carry a healthy pregnancy to live after previously giving birth. It usually refers to couples who were trying to conceive for six months to one year.

References:

Causes and Diagnosis of Male Infertility

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 10:27:50 GMT

Home I Blog I Causes and Diagnosis of Male Infertility

Causes and Diagnosis of Male Infertility

Male infertility is a condition characterized by the inability of a male reproductive system to produce normal sperm and cause a pregnancy. If any issues make male reproduction unlikely- it could be considered as a form of male fertility problems

Possible Causes of Male Infertility:

For a couple to become pregnant, all steps must be taken perfectly from the time of ovulation to fertilization and successful implantation of the embryo to the uterine walls. Any single abnormality or disorder might not allow the couples to conceive. There is a list of factors that can affect male fertility:

Genetic abnormalities: Some of the changes in genes can cause abnormal sperm production or blockage of flow and cause male infertility. The most common genetic abnormalities are chromosomal conditions that affect sperm production and other condition such as Down Syndrome.

Sperm morphology: It refers to the size, shape and volume of the sperm in given semen. At least 4% of the sperm in semen should be of normal shape and size because below that percentage, the sperm is said to be abnormal and lead to fertility problems.

Sperm motility: At least 32% of the sperm counts should be able to move efficiently. Poor sperm movement or low sperm motility can affect the sperm's ability to move towards the egg and can affect fertility. Such a condition will cause males to lose the ability to conceive.

Congenital abnormalities: The congenital absence of vas-deferens is an example of the abnormalities that are present in men from the time of their birth.

Varicocele: A varicocele is a swelling of the veins that drain the testicle. It's the most common reversible cause of male infertility. Although the exact reason that varicoceles cause infertility is unknown, it may be related to abnormal blood flow.

Male Accessory Gland Infections (MAGI): Male Accessory Gland Infections (MAGI) refers to a syndrome that recently has generated considerable debate about its possible role in causing certain conditions of male fertility. It is a condition with inflammation in the male genital tract which can not allow semen to ejaculate out.

Immunological factors: Sometimes a person’s immune system might attack the sperm. This leads to an impairment of the sperm’s ability to travel to the uterus and penetrate through the eggs. Such an immunological factor hinders the person’s fertility.

Endocrine disturbances: The endocrine system consists of several glands and produces major hormones, which are responsible for the overall growth and development of our body. When major hormones are not produced or are produced in low amounts, it might lead to infertility.

Hormone imbalances: Low levels of testosterone are often the result of other hormone imbalances, particularly by disorders of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands. Low levels of testosterone are often an underlying cause of infertility

Chromosome defects: Disorders such as Klinefelter's syndrome — in which a male is born with two X chromosomes and one Y chromosome (instead of one X and one Y) — cause abnormal development of the male reproductive organs.

Problems with sexual intercourse: Such types of problems can include erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or loss of sex drive.

Retrograde ejaculation : Retrograde ejaculation happens when semen enters the bladder instead of emerging through the penis during orgasm.

Antibodies that attack sperm movement: Anti-sperm antibodies are a type of immune cell that targets sperm as harmful invaders and attempts to eliminate them.

Increased Scrotal Temperature: The temperature of the testes affects both the quality and quantity of sperm production. The temperature of the testes should be 2-4 degrees Celsius below the body temperature.

Supplements and steroids: Steroid injections and other steroid preparations can severely harm sperm production. Excess coffee drinking can also have an influence, particularly if there is an underlying fertility problem.

Diagnosis of Male Infertility

Even if a couple has unprotected sex regularly and can not conceive within a year (or after six months, if the woman is over 35), they should undergo a detailed fertility screening to discover causes. Male infertility factors cause up to 50% of all cases of infertility.

To evaluate male infertility, a man must obtain a physical examination and the man's medical history. This includes a review of the reproductive organs — the penis, testicles, prostate and scrotum. However, the cornerstone of the male infertility workup is the semen analysis to evaluate the sperm quantity and quality.

Tests for male infertility diagnosis can include:

Blood tests to evaluate such hormone levels as testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and sex hormone-binding globulin.
Post-ejaculatory urine sample.
MAR test (Mixed Antiglobulin Reaction) to diagnose immunological infertility.
Genetic tests to identify chromosomal defects, genetic diseases or several possible genetic mutations
Scrotal ultrasound to identify most scrotal pathology such as varicocele, spermatocele, absent vasa, epididymal induration or testicular masses.
DNA fragmentation to identify the damage of the sperm DNA.

References:

Female Fertility – Age Charts, Tests, and More

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 09:08:49 GMT

Female Fertility – Age Charts, Tests, and More

A recent report by the UN indicates that the number of live births per woman is gradually declining globally, and female fertility is undoubtedly a crucial topic of discussion.

This article helps you understand how age affects female fertility and how to improve your fertility naturally. Also, you will learn about fertility tests and some common fertility treatments available.

What is Female Fertility?

Female fertility is a woman’s potential to get pregnant and give birth to her biological baby. Naturally, you should conceive within one year if you practise frequent unprotected sex. You should be concerned about your fertility if you don’t conceive within this time.

Conception and pregnancy involve complex processes that depend on several factors, including:

Female production of healthy eggs/ova
Your male partner’s production of healthy sperms
Unblocked fallopian tubes, allowing sperm to reach the egg freely
The ability of the fertilised egg to successfully implant on the endometrium (lining of the uterus)
Healthy embryo that progresses to full-term
Adequate hormonal environment
Normal menstrual cycle

When one or more of these factors are impaired, it may result in infertility. Regular pelvic examinations can help detect any issues and prevent fertility problems.

Female Fertility Age Chart

Age is a significant factor influencing fertility in women. A woman in her late teens through mid-twenties has a higher probability of conceiving each month. In the early thirties, your fertility starts declining and speeds up from the mid-thirties. By age 40, your chance of a natural pregnancy reduces significantly. However, some women aged 40 have successful pregnancies despite their age.

Higher ages increase the risk of diminishing quality and quantity of eggs.

Quantity - The number of female eggs starts declining from birth until menopause.
Quality - from age 35, the quality of female eggs begins reducing, with higher chances of genetic malformations. Also, as you age, there is an increased risk that you develop health conditions that can affect your fertility, including endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Female Fertility Tests

Female fertility tests are diagnostic tests that can help assess your reproductive health and ability to conceive a child. Here are some standard female fertility tests:

Pelvic Ultrasound

A pelvic ultrasound scans your reproductive organs like the fallopian tubes, uterus, and ovaries. This examination can identify conditions such as uterine abnormalities or polycystic ovary syndrome that can impact your fertility.

Genetic Testing

Certain genetic disorders can affect fertility. Tests like karyotyping, chromosomal microarray analysis, or carrier screening can identify congenital abnormalities affecting reproductive health.

Hormone Level Testing

This test involves analysing blood samples to evaluate the reproductive hormone levels, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), oestrogen, and progesterone. These hormones play a vital role in egg maturation and ovulation.

Ovulation Tracking

This method involves monitoring changes in basal body temperature and cervical mucus. It also includes using urine or blood tests to detect the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge that triggers ovulation. Ovulation tracking helps determine whether you are ovulating and the timing of your ovulation.

Ovarian Reserve Testing

This test evaluates the number and health of your remaining ovum supply. Typically, this includes measuring levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and conducting an antral follicle count (AFC) via ultrasound to estimate the number of follicles in the ovaries.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

HSG is an X-ray procedure that inspects the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity. This test helps detect structural issues, blockages, or abnormalities hindering fertility.

Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive technique involving inserting a thin, versatile tube holding a camera into the cervix, allowing the physician to see the interior of the uterus. Thus, they can spot and manage uterine adhesions, fibroids, or polyps that may affect fertility.

How Can I Increase My Fertility Naturally?

You can naturally improve your chances of natural pregnancy through simple lifestyle changes and diet modifications. These include:

Eating foods rich in folic acid and zinc
Eliminating alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine
Reducing carbohydrates and avoiding trans fats
Eating more fibre
Maintaining a healthy weight and managing stress
Staying hydrated
Taking more calories for breakfast

Overcoming Infertility – Fertility Treatment

Fertility treatments may vary depending on underlying conditions, age, and personal preferences. There are three primary fertility treatment methods;

Medications – Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH)

Your doctor may prescribe fertility pills depending on their findings after an examination. The drugs work like your body’s natural hormones to stimulate ovulation. They include:

Clomiphene (Clomid or Serophene)
Tamoxifen
Gonadotropins
Metformin is not a fertility medication but helps manage insulin resistance if you have PCOS.

Surgical Procedures

Your physician may recommend a surgical correction to enhance medication effectiveness or before exploring other fertility treatments such as IVF; they include:

Fallopian tube surgery to correct blocked or scarred tubes, making it easier for eggs from the ovary to pass through
Surgery for fibroids, endometriosis, or PCOS to restore fertility

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

ART treatments help increase the chances of fertilisation and successful pregnancy. Your fertility doctor may recommend this option if other treatments fail to work. ART treatment options include:

Invitro fertilisation (IVF) involves fertilising the egg with sperm in a lab and placing the embryo into the uterus.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or artificial insemination Involves inserting healthy sperm directly into the womb when you are ovulating.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is similar to IVF, but the sperm is injected directly into a mature egg rather than mixed. This treatment is best suitable for couples where the man has low-quality or quantity sperm.

Conclusion

Female fertility decreases with age, and starting your parenthood journey in your twenties is best. Taking fertility tests can help establish your fertility level if you want a baby. You can improve your chance of pregnancy by adopting healthy lifestyle choices. If you have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for 12 months, or at least six months if you are over 35, consult a reproductive endocrinologist. The specialist will help establish the cause of infertility and recommend a suitable fertility treatment based on your situation.

References

Fisch, B., & Abir, R. (2018). Female fertility preservation: past, present and future. Reproduction, 156(1), F11-F27. Retrieved from https://rep.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/rep/156/1/REP-17-0483.xml

Hart, R. J. (2016). Physiological aspects of female fertility: role of the environment, modern lifestyle, and genetics. Physiological reviews, 96(3), 873-909. Retrieved from https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/physrev.00023.2015

Fragen zu dem weiblichen Zyklus: Ovulation, Hormone, Befruchtung. (2023, June 7). https://www.invimed.de/artikeln/10-fragen-zu-dem-weiblichen-zyklus-ovulation-hormone-befruchtung

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Anonymous vs Open ID Egg Donor

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 07:40:15 GMT

Home I Blog I Understanding Anonymous vs Open ID Egg Donor

Understanding Anonymous vs Open ID Egg Donor

One of the challenges of using an egg donor is making some critical decisions early on. The decision of whether to use an anonymous or known egg donor is a difficult one. It's essential to understand the differences between anonymous and known egg donation so you can choose the one that's best for you.

Anonymous Egg Donors

An anonymous donor is a person whose personal information can not be disclosed.

The donor's photo is not available in profile. The donor does not get any information about the recipient or the cycle where her biological material is used.

Known Egg Donors

Open ID is a choice for egg donors who do not want to keep their identity confidential. In this process, children born from the donor egg can learn the donor's identity when they reach 18 years of age. Also, it means that receipts can find out such indenting data about the donor as full name, country, city and address, contact phone number and email address.

In countries where certain authorities regulate the importation of biological material for infertility treatment, non-anonymous donors will be required to send identifying information to those authorities as part of the donation process.

The personal information may be provided only upon the prior request of an offspring at the legally defined age and in the presence of a document that confirms a biological connection between a particular donor and child.

In our catalogue, recipients can find donors with open personal information with photos.

How Choose Between an Anonymous and Open ID Egg Donors?

Donors with open personal information offer more benefits.

Although the child can only contact the specific donor once he reaches adult age, understanding that this is possible can be a significant reason he may choose to go for a non-anonymous egg donor.

In turn, anonymous donors may be a suitable option for those couples who do not plan to tell the child how he was conceived.

After selecting a donor, you should remember that it will be your child who will decide whether to contact the donor or not. And only if you choose an anonymous donor, your child will have no choice at all!

Countries with Anonymous Egg Donation:

Spain;
Greece;
Southern Cyprus;
Bulgaria;
Czech Republic;
Poland;
Estonia;
Argentina;
Brazil;
Chile;
Mexico;
Panama;
Colombia;
Singapore;
Kenya;
Nigeria;
South Africa.

Countries with Non-Anonymous Egg Donation

Great Britain;
Sweden;
Austria;
Portugal.

What Are the Risks of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)?

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 14:48:54 GMT

Home I Blog I What Are the Risks of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

What Are the Risks of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

In vitro fertilization is a method of assisted reproduction in which a man’s sperm and a woman’s eggs are combined outside of the body in a laboratory dish. Then one or more fertilized eggs (embryos) may be transferred. An embryo may be injected into the uterus, implanting in the uterine lining and continuing to develop.

All medical treatment has a certain amount of risk associated with it. Every area of our life has some risk associated with it. There are risks associated with fertility treatments that patients should be aware of before beginning them.

There is a list of some risks of IVF treatment:

Ectopic Pregnancy

Among the causes of infertility treatment, the risk of ectopic pregnancy is between 2% to 5%. In ectopic pregnancies, the fertilised egg gets implanted outside of the uterus, usually in fallopian tubes. This pregnancy is not able to sustain itself and is often nonviable. The egg will not survive outside of the uterus.

If a woman has a positive pregnancy test after IVF, she will most likely have a scan at six weeks to verify that the embryo is growing correctly and her pregnancy is healthy.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)

Potent drugs are administered to patients to stimulate the ovaries. This leads to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, where the ovaries get swollen and painful. Patients may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea and a few other symptoms.

For most patients, the symptoms will stop within a week. However, in rare cases, the patient could develop a more severe case. In this case, immediate medical attention is required.

Medication Side Effect

Fertility injections are administered in IVF treatment and, like other medications, may cause side effects. It is essential that women thoroughly will discuss the results of the drugs with the doctor. Patients undergoing IVF treatment are required to take fertility injections every day. Some of these could cause side effects, including OHSS.

Multiple Birth

If a woman is planning to treat infertility with IVF, it's vital to be aware of the risk of multiple births. Many women who undergo IVF conceive twins or triplets and occasionally even more babies. Numerous births pose a significant risk of complications for the mother and the babies. Studies have found that the risk of death for various births is about a few times higher than for single deliveries.

References:

Second IVF Baby

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 11:38:27 GMT

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Second IVF Baby

It's hard to describe the feeling of holding a newborn baby in your arms. For parents who have gone through IVF, seeing your baby is an even more special occasion. Parents have been through several emotional ups and downs, but now their hard work has paid off. All the months of visiting the hospital and undergoing various medical treatments have finally culminated in a baby.

While some couples, after having one child, don't think of getting another, the same is not valid with other couples who have endured years of IVF treatment to get one child. However, sometimes, some couples return to the fertility clinic after seven years, saying that they would like to have another child. Usually, it occurs as a companion or a playmate for their other child.

1. The Determining Factor

2. Frozen Embryos for Second Baby

3. Second IVF Success Rate

The Determining Factor

Age factor plays an enormous role in female fertility. A woman's fertility gradually decreases with age. That's why it is essential to start preparing for the next child as soon as possible. The less time elapses between the first child and the preparation for the next child; the higher is your opportunity.

The fertility rate is a crucial factor in determining the age through IVF. Therefore, most IVF specialists suggest that couples are planning a second child to plan sooner.

Frozen Embryos for Second Baby

Women who have frozen eggs have a higher chance of IVF success than those who didn't. Freezing eggs can cost money, but it also helps improve a woman's chances of IVF success in the future and helps improve odds for a second IV.

It's natural for women to get pregnant with frozen embryos to be considerably higher than with fresh embryos. That's because the quality of egg and sperm declines with age, so the embryo that women get from them will also be of lower quality.

Second IVF Success Rate

Even if a woman has a history of IVF success, that doesn't mean successful IVF will be guaranteed. However, because of woman's success IVF history, there're more opportunities of getting pregnant again.

After having the first Ivf child, many families may feel the desire to try for a second. However, the first IVF experience can be emotionally draining, and couples feel glad that it is finally over. Having experienced success with one IVF baby makes the family hopeful for a second time. It is essential to plan another attempt as soon as possible to increase the chances of another successful pregnancy following successful IVF.

What is the IVF Process Step-by-Step?

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 09:08:25 GMT

Home I Blog I What Is the IVF Process Step-by-Step?

What Is the IVF Process Step-by-Step?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) works by removing eggs, extracting sperm cells, and then manually combining the eggs and sperm in a laboratory dish. The embryo is then transferred to the uterus.

Ovarian Stimulation

During the first step, a woman takes medication so that healthy eggs are produced. Most months, women make only one egg, but with IVF, they stimulate 10-15 eggs to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.

Egg Retrieval

The next step of IVF treatment involves the harvesting of eggs. Egg retrieval is done while a woman sleeps under a general anesthetic. Once completed, an embryologist examines the eggs under a microscope to count them.

Fertilisation

Blastocyst Culture

Once the sperm fertilizes the egg, it becomes an embryo. The embryo is then placed in a unique incubator by embryologist, where the embryo is provided with the proper condition to develop and grow. Adequate monitoring of the embryo is done for 5-6 days.

Embryo Transfer

The final step is Embryo Transfer. Once the embryo develops to the blastocyst stage, it is implanted into the uterus using a small tube called Catheter. It usually takes place within 3-5 days after fertilisation. Once the embryo is transferred to the uterus, it is allowed to the implant, and a blood test is carried on after two weeks to measure the hormone HCG.

References:

Enlarged Uterus - Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:50:31 GMT

Home I Blog I Enlarged Uterus - Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis

Enlarged Uterus - Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis

The uterus is a small, muscular female reproductive organ responsible for keeping and nourishing the foetus until it is ready for birth. An enlarged uterus is a condition in which the uterus grows in size than it is supposed to be. This condition can be severe, can affect fertility and can lead to abnormal uterine bleeding.

What is Enlarged Uterus?

An enlarged uterus is the generalised swelling of the uterine wall. This means the uterine size is above the average size of a uterus. A woman's uterus is responsible for holding the foetus and providing nourishment until the baby is born. The uterus is shaped like an upside-down pear and is roughly the size of a fist. The standard dimensions of the uterus are around 3 to 4 inches by 2.5 inches. During pregnancy, the uterus can swell to accommodate a growing fetus. However, enlarged uterus doesn't provide health complications, but can affect fertility.

Symptoms of Enlarged Uterus

There is a list of common symptoms of the enlarged uterus:

Heavy bleeding during periods;
Bloating;
Pain abdomen during menses;
Heaviness in the lower abdomen;
Difficulty in conceiving;
Miscarriage or premature delivery;
Swelling and cramping in the legs;
Pain during sexual intercourse;
Frequent urination
Acne;
Excessive or unwanted hair growth;
Constipation;
Vaginal discharge;
Weight gain;
Hormonal changes;
Infertility problems.

If a woman experiences any of these symptoms, she must contact her healthcare provider for getting a treatment plan and medical advise.

Causes of Enlarged Uterus

It can be found in the lower abdomen or the pelvic region in reproductive age group women, while a bulky mass may be present. Because of that, women are encouraged to receive routine check-ups by their gynaecologists.

Several factors can cause the uterus to enlarge. The most common and known causes are:

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS

A medical condition called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is an imbalance of hormones that can cause the uterus to grow. It's diagnosed when a woman has irregular periods and bleeds during her menstrual cycle.

Ovarian Cysts

Sometimes, ovarian cysts will never cause any symptoms. If they do, cysts can trigger abdominal pain, bloating and nausea; irregular menstruation; pelvic pain; an enlarged uterus; back pain; heavy menstrual bleeding; inflammation of the uterus.

Endometrial Cancer

Cancers of the uterus can lead to a bulky uterus in older women, as reported by the USA's National Cancer Institute (NCI). This is found to be one of the symptoms of endometrial cancer that generally manifests early on.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years and aren't associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer. Some fibroids are so tiny that the average person can't even see them. Other fibroids are big enough to distort and enlarge the uterus so much that they reach the rib cage and add weight.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a stage of fluctuating hormone levels before menopause. A woman's uterus might enlarge during this time, but this enlargement is temporary, and her uterus will return to the standard size as she goes into menopause. Thus, it is advisable to visit a gynaecologist if such a condition arises.

Diagnosis of Enlarged Uterus

A bulky uterus is often first detected during a routine pelvic examination or while visiting a doctor due to irregular menstruation cycles. When it's been picked up by a gynaecologist, the doctor ensures that it hasn't grown because of any malignant condition or pregnancy. A pregnancy test is done to rule out pregnancy, and imaging tests are done to look for any complications in the uterus.

Enlarged Uterus and Pregnancy Complications

It is most common in women with infertility problems because many women nowadays wait until they're older to have children. An enlarged uterus caused by Adenomyosis, or something else, can make it hard for a woman to get pregnant.

Adenomyosis impairs fertility by affecting the uro-tubal transport and altering the endometrial function and receptivity, hence reducing implantation and pregnancy rate in women undergoing IVF. Therefore, you should consult an Infertility Specialist. The treatment for endometriosis depends on the woman symptoms. Some women become pregnant after taking hormones, but surgery might also be recommended if a woman doesn't become pregnant.

References:

Diabetes and Infertility: How Does Diabetes Cause Infertility?

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 11:46:36 GMT

Home I Blog I Diabetes and Infertility: How Does Diabetes Cause Infertility?

Diabetes and Infertility: How Does Diabetes Cause Infertility?

Why are increasing numbers of young adults unable to conceive? What is preventing them from getting pregnant? Similarly, we can also question why so many youths are diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes is a condition in which the sugar or glucose level in the blood is higher than usual. The pancreas produces a hormone called insulin. When the pancreas is not releasing any insulin or is releasing insufficient quantities of this hormone, which does not meet the body's requirements, then diabetes occurs. Diabetes and infertility used to be conditions that only affected people after they had crossed 45 years. Today, many young people are falling prey to these conditions. Unfortunately, their state of diabetes is also affecting their fertility.

There are two types of diabetes. In the first, the body produces inadequate amounts of insulin, and in the second, body cells cannot use insulin properly. Both result in elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause damages of the body, including the heart, kidneys and eyes; and other systems and processes such as the nervous system, digestion, and metabolism. Both men and women can also suffer complications related to reproductive health.

How Does Diabetes Cause Infertility in Men?

In some cases, a man with diabetes can father healthy children without any problems at all. But on the other hand, diabetic males are susceptible to a range of conditions that may lead to infertility.

Most men with diabetes, even those who are insulin-dependent, live perfectly healthy lives as long as they keep a check on their diet and weight. But some men with unhealthy lifestyles may face issues when it comes to fertility and having children.

Research shows that diabetes can affect fertility, especially in males. Some of the problems it can cause are:

Low Testosterone
DNA Damage
Reduced Semen
Reduced Sperm Quality
Delayed Ejaculation
Erectile Dysfunction
Retrograde Ejaculation

How Does Diabetes Cause Infertility in Women?

Women with diabetes can get pregnant. So if you have diabetes and think that you won't be able to conceive, that is not the case. Many women with diabetes can conceive successfully.

People with diabetes often have severe infertility. The embryo will fertilize and implant in the uterus, but it doesn't get past that stage. This is because due to diabetes, the uterus becomes less receptive to the embryo, which is why some women can't get pregnant.

Besides problems with the implantation process, the high blood sugar level interferes with the balance and stories of other hormones such as progesterone, oestrogen, and testosterone.

Women who have diabetes and can get pregnant naturally face potential risks because of higher glucose levels in the blood. The excess levels of glucose damage the cells of the embryo and can become damaged.

Moreover, there is a list number of reasons which can affect fertility such as being underweight, having diabetic complications or having PCOS and having an autoimmune disease. The following medical conditions can lead to reduces fertility rates:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. A lack of ovulation characterizes it because of the imbalance in male and female hormones. A woman who has polycystic ovaries does not ovulate or does not ovulate regularly. They also have an excess production of androgen, which is the male hormone. This prevents them from becoming pregnant. The production of androgen can disrupt the average balance of hormones. The abnormal production of androgen in women is called PCOS. PCOS can cause problems with infertility, and it's primarily seen in women who are obese and those with diabetes type II. Women with diabetes type I who take high doses of insulin are likely to get PCOS.

Premature Ovarian Failure: Primary ovarian insufficiency, sometimes called premature ovarian failure (POF), is a reproductive disease affecting mostly women, in which the ovaries stop producing eggs before the age of 40. When ovaries stop working, they don’t ovulate and produce average amounts of the hormone estrogen, putting them at risk of severe conditions such as osteoporosis, heart disease or infertility. Some studies have also indicated that diabetes type II may cause premature ovarian failure.

Irregular periods: For some women, their periods are like clockwork. For others, their periods come early or late. For example, the length of a menstrual cycle can range from 21 days to 35 days, the average length of the cycle is 28 days. Menstruation lasts for several days, usually 4 to 7. Both type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are associated with the risks of having late and absent periods (oligomenorrhea and secondary amenorrhea).

Pregnancy Risks

There are many concerns when a woman has diabetes and wants to get pregnant. The pregnancy risks include:

Miscarriage : It's important to know that the risk of miscarrying is high during the first 20 weeks when the mother has high blood sugar levels. There is list of possible pregnancy risks:

Congenital disabilities : If a pregnant woman allows her blood sugar to go too high or too low, it can cause congenital disabilities in the baby. This can affect the normal development of the baby's heart, spine, brain, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract etc.

Hypoglycaemia : Diabetes can happen during pregnancy because of the high insulin levels and a decreased glucose level, leading to hypoglycemia.

Macrosomia : This is a condition in which the baby grows more significant than average. The enormous size of the baby makes the mother's uterus grow, which may lead to the child getting stuck during delivery and may require a C-section.

Preeclampsia : Women with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk due to their condition of high blood pressure. Preeclampsia occurs around the 20th week of pregnancy. It can damage the liver and kidneys of the baby besides causing other problems such as blood clotting.

Planning Pregnancy with Diabetes

For women who want to get pregnant, controlling insulin and blood sugar levels in the body is essential. If you have Type I Diabetes, you do not produce any insulin and hence need to take insulin injections. This type of diabetes is often difficult to control and can cause both the mother and baby harm.

Some women with Type II Diabetes still produce some insulin in their pancreas, and the condition is also known as lifestyle diabetes because it is caused due to an unhealthy lifestyle. But maintaining healthy body weight and proper dietary habits can help to have a safer pregnancy.

If a woman has diabetes and wants to get pregnant, the doctor will advise her:

Limit sugar : For people who are planning to get pregnant, it's recommended to limit your sugar consumption for a period of three to six months before the pregnancy.
Control HbA1C levels : It's advisible if you want to get pregnant to get your HbA1C levels to at least 6.5.
Regulate weight : If you're not overweight, managing your blood sugar levels is more manageable and allows you to avoid infertility.

Remember that good health is vital for your pregnancy. Keeping your blood sugar levels in check and improving your health will improve your quality of life.

References:

Twins with IVF Treatment

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:05:57 GMT

Home I Blog I Twins with IVF Treatment

Twins with IVF Treatment

A high proportion of IVF patients end up with twins and sometimes multiple pregnancies. If the couple is undergoing IVF, their chances of having multiples are 25%, and triplets or higher multiple births are 3%.

One of the biggest reasons for multiple pregnancies is that the embryos are transferred into the uterus at once. Embryos are implanted within a period of 6-12 days, and then implantation should occur. But sometimes, the embryo does not invest in the uterus. This is called a failed pregnancy. Then the couple needs to try again.

Due to the high cost of IVF treatment, most couples cannot afford more than one cycle. Usually, 2 or 3 embryos are transferred to the uterus at a time during the IVF procedure. One reason for this is that it's hoped that at least one embryo will successfully attach itself to the uterine lining and grow into a foetus.

If there's not much problem with the uterus, the chance of pregnancy is relatively high. Hence, if many embryos have been placed in the uterus, their survival chances are relatively high. Therefore, many women who have undergone IVF become pregnant with twins.

Benefits of having twins

There are many benefits to having twins. People who have had a difficult pregnancy or delivery are happy to get it over with all at once. Twins also keep each other company, never feel alone and demand your attention.

There are numerous advantages to having twins. For example, they can be playmates for each other. Additionally, you don't have to pay for another IVF treatment unless you want more children.

Secondary Infertility

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 11:40:26 GMT

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Secondary Infertility

There is a common misconception that if women get pregnant once, they can not experience any difficulty getting pregnant again and have a successful pregnancy. That is not true. The concept of primary and secondary infertility is thus significantly less known. It is not unusual for fertility problems to be encountered when trying to have a baby for the second or third time, or about couples are experiencing secondary infertility when trying to decide whether to stop trying?

What is Secondary Infertility?

According to National Infertility Association, secondary Infertility is an incapability to conceive or carry a healthy pregnancy to live after previously giving birth. It usually refers to couples who were trying to conceive for six months to one year.

The Most Common Causes of Secondary Infertility

Some factors can lead to secondary fertility. This condition can be also common in male infertility and female infertility. Although many things can lead to this condition, the most common are:

Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where tissue that usually grows inside the uterus grows elsewhere. While endometriosis is expected, not all endometriosis causes female infertility.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: PCOS is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. A lack of ovulation characterizes it because of the imbalance in male and female hormones. A woman who has polycystic ovaries does not ovulate or does not ovulate regularly. They also have an excess production of androgen, which is the male hormone.

Problems with the uterus: It's also common to find uterine fibroids and endometrial polyps in older women. Not only can these affect a woman's fertility, but previous miscarriage is an essential factor that might prevent her from getting pregnant again.

Problems with the fallopian tubes: The fallopian lines, which carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, can become blocked due to pelvic infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

Egg Reserve: The number of eggs in the ovaries is called egg reserve. The quality of the eggs goes down with age, leading to a lower chance of getting pregnant.

Unexplained infertility: it s the most common type of infertility women could face. It's responsible for around 30% of infertility cases. Even after primary infertility medical tests are carried out, the source of infertility remains a secret.

Lifestyle changes: According to a study, a certain percentage of women have had their ovary function affected by weight gain. A study found that specific diets may affect fertility. Medications may also affect fertility.

Woman Ages: You and your partner are both older. Since you last got pregnant, your ovarian reserve could be drained, and the more aged you are, the more difference a year can make. Age is a common factor in female infertility.

Treatments for Secondary Infertility

Secondary infertility treatments work in the same way as with primary infertility. The fertility doctor can put you on prescriptive drugs to enhance your ovulation. Artificial insemination or IUI may be recommended as a treatment options for overcoming fertility issues or IVF.

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF): For many couples, IVF treatment could open up many different options. Through IVF treatment, eggs are fertilised with sperm outside the body which develops into an embryo transferred directly into the uterus.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): The sperm is extracted from the male partner or donor. The sperm is put into the female's uterine cavity during ovulation. This makes the sperm available close to the fallopian tubes, where it could quickly meet the egg for fertilisation.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): ICSI can be considered when a man has poor sperm count, poor morphology, and even in cases of poor motility. ICSI often has a high fertilisation rate.

Infertility Drugs: Common oral medicines like Clomiphene Citrate and Letrozole, which stimulate the ovarian follicles to release more eggs, are also utilised to provoke the growth of matured eggs in one egg retrieval cycle.

How can Secondary Infertility be Diagnosed?

Secondary infertility is the failure to produce a child after a past successful birth, even after several attempts. As mentioned by the World Health Organization (WHO), infertility means the inability of a person to produce a child following at least a year of unprotected intercourse.

Secondary infertility happens when a person has at least one child or has had at least one successful or failed conception but has difficulty getting another, as opposed to primary infertility, which happens when someone is having issues in having the first child. Since fertility decreases as we age, many couples wait until their 30s to have kids.

However, if a family has had their first child in their 30s and remains another few years to have another kid, it might not be problematic.

References:

IVF Pregnancy Symptoms

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 09:03:24 GMT

Home I Blog I IVF Pregnancy Symptoms

IVF Pregnancy Symptoms

The symptoms of pregnancy after IVF treatment are similar to symptoms when a woman gets pregnant naturally. A woman's body can change, and signs of pregnancy can be visible, but some of them can be detected with a pregnancy test. This test checks the presence of the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin hormone (HCG) produced by the placenta of a pregnant woman. Also, we need to remember that every woman is different from another. That's why IVF pregnancy symptoms can differ from another woman's symptoms.

The most common IVF pregnancy symptoms include:

Bleeding from implantation

Implantation bleeding is one of the most common signs of pregnancy after IVF treatment. During implantation, the fertilized egg attaches itself to the wall of the uterus, and this process can cause bleeding or spotting, which means it's a good signal of IVF success.

Also, in some cases, during implantation, women can experience slight cramps that look like the beginning of the menstrual cycle. But the difference is that bleeding from implantation can't last more than one day.

Changes in breasts

Tender breasts are one of the common IVF pregnancy symptoms. During IVF treatment, women will have progesterone hormone therapy which can cause tender, sore and heavy breasts. Also, breast changes are caused by natural pregnancy, which results in hormonal levels increasing.

Mood changes or irritability

Moodiness is also one of the most common signs of IVF pregnancy. Women moods could change from being happy to being sad or angry. It is more common for women to get moody during the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Fatigue

In the initial stages of pregnancy, many women can experience fatigue. However, most people associate their tiredness with a possible pregnancy. In our lives which are so filled with activity, feeling fatigued is not uncommon in general.

Even if a woman has many signs and symptoms that indicate pregnancy, she shouldn't make a final decision until her doctor has done the tests that confirm the pregnancy.

References:

https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/explore-all-treatments/in-vitro-fertilisation-ivf/

Is IVF Treatment Painful?

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 14:28:25 GMT

Home I Blog I Is IVF Treatment Painful?

Is IVF Treatment Painful?

In vitro fertilization(IVF) is a type of fertility treatment and part of assisted reproductive technology where fertilization occurs outside the body. It's suitable for people with a wide range of fertility issues, and for many people, it's one of the most commonly used and successful treatments.

IVF is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology (ART), using either your eggs and your partner's sperm or donated eggs, sperm or embryos.

Is IVF Painful?

The answer to the general question is, is IVF treatment, IVF injections painful or fertility medication, or does it hurt? While undergoing the IVF procedure, experiencing slight pain or discomfort is completely normal. While considering the possibility of having a baby, the result is worth the pain or risks. But we need to mention that there is a list of possible risks associated with IVF:

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
Ectopic Pregnancy
Multiple Pregnancy
Miscarriage

Ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome is one of the possible complications associated with infertility treatment, especially in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). That's why recipients who undergo IVF or considering have IVF as a fertility treatment options need to be aware of potential risks.

Pain During Administering Hormone

The first thing that scares most women is the IVF injections of hormonal medication, which will help them grow eggs in their ovaries for another chance at pregnancy. Many women report that they felt anxiety before receiving the first injection, but they can have minimal pain and discomfort.

When Does The Egg Start To Develop Inside The Follicles?

As eggs in the ovaries develop in puberty, women often experience bloating and abdominal pain. Since each woman has a different number of eggs and experiences ovulation at an additional time, fertility specialist carefully tailors their treatment strategies on an individual basis.

Most women often don't experience any pain during the egg retrieval with a well-controlled stimulation, but only a little discomfort. That discomfort can extend, in some cases, into a week after the egg retrieval.

Egg Retrieval Procedure

The first step of the IVF cycle is during the operation. As patients are made aware during counselling that eggs are removed from them by piercing their ovaries through their vagina, many anticipate great pain. But, there is no pain as the procedure is performed under anaesthesia.

Embryo Transfer

The next step is the transfer of the embryos (or eggs) into your uterus. A transfer is usually painless, but the woman may feel discomfort only during insertion of a vaginal speculum as she may have felt while taking a pap smear.

After the embryos have been transferred back into the uterus, a woman would begin on progesterone. Progesterone comes in both suppositories and injections. The injections are oil-based, so the woman may experience pain if she opts for the injection method. But people who can't take progesterone can use vaginal tablets or gels without any effect on the outcome.

The IVF specialist will explain every step of the treatment and care, which makes it a comfortable procedure. So choose an experienced specialist and insist on using a good embryologist.

References:

Are IVF Babies Different From Other Babies?

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:53:50 GMT

Home I Blog I Are IVF Babies Different From Other Babies?

Are IVF Babies Different From Other Babies?

IVF babies are no different from naturally conceived babies. Misconceptions about IVF are rampant, as the process is relatively new and still poorly understood. Many people have the misconception that children born from IVF treatments aren't healthy and normal. There is opposition to the IVF model of creating life, as it involves technical expertise and surgical procedures. Opponents believe that children created this way are not as regular as those born naturally.

This misconception has been perpetuated by ignorance and holds no truth. Babies conceived from IVF treatment are just like other children as far as their physical attributes and mental capacity are concerned. And they come into the world in the same way – carried in the womb of their mother (or a surrogate mother) for nine months until delivered by a doctor.

The process of getting pregnant after IVF is as normal as it happens in the case of sexual intercourse between partners. One must understand that the ART technology that is used during the IVF treatment stands for Assisted Reproductive Technology, and not for Artificial Reproductive Technology. There are only a few differences between IVF and the natural process: in IVF, the sperm and egg are fertilized in a lab under the supervision of experienced doctors, and then they're placed in a uterus.

Infertility is a common problem for couples when the male is unable to produce sperm or the female is unable to produce eggs of high quality . Sometimes, one or both partners have blocked fallopian tubes. In vitro fertilization, the fertilization of an egg outside the body is an alternative to sexual intercourse.

IVF Treatment for Women Over 40

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 13:47:37 GMT

Home I Blog I IVF Treatment for Women Over 40

IVF Treatment for Women Over 40

Many women are starting to back away from the idea of having kids after 35. They feel that it’s unlikely they can get pregnant. One of the reasons for this is a widely-held belief that fertility declines rapidly after 35, and this misconception makes it unlikely to be able to become a mother.

How Age Impacts a Woman’s Fertility?

The quality and number of a woman’s eggs decrease as she ages. The only way to fight this is through good health. However, age is the most important factor affecting fertility. According to research, the average female’s fertility starts to decline after age 35, and it declines more sharply after age 40; by age 45, the average woman has a less than 1% chance of getting pregnant per cycle.

Is Pregnancy Over 40 High Risk?

Advances in technology surrounding fertility, pregnancy, and delivery have made it possible to have a baby at age 40 safely. However, any pregnancy after age 40 is considered high-risk. Your doctor will monitor you and the baby closely for the following:

Miscarriage;
Preeclampsia;
High blood pressure (hypertension);
Gestational diabetes;
Cesarean delivery (C-section);
Premature labour and birth.

Fertility Treatments For Women Over 40

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) is less effective after women reach 40, and their chances of success continue to fall as they get older. For example, intrauterine insemination (IUI) has a success rate of about 5 per cent for women over 40. But if we talk about In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), the rates are slightly better—about 15% per cycle. That’s why IVF treatment is one of the most effective treatment options for women over 40. What is more, this treatment is not painful at all .

During IVF, doctors inject ovaries with fertility medications to make them produce multiple eggs. Then the eggs are surgically removed from ovaries and fertilized in a lab with partner’s sperm or donated sperm. The egg is fertilized outside the body and transferred to the uterus five days later. It implants itself in the uterine lining to continue developing.

References:

Top Reasons for IVF Failure

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 11:20:57 GMT

Home I Blog I Top Reasons for IVF Fail

Top Reasons for IVF Fail

In Vitro fertilization, sometimes known as IVF, is the most effective fertility treatment that helps people who want to achieve a successful pregnancy. Nowadays, infertility has grown to be a different disease. About 27-30 million couples are facing this issue each year, with 30% being attributed to female fertility issues or infertility that can be resolved by IVF treatment with donor eggs proven effective so far. IVF failure is not uncommon. Most couples who are struggling with infertility problems undergo IVF treatment. However, many of them can face failed IVF cycle. At times fertility specialists can identify reasons for IVF failure, but sometimes it can not be medically explained.

Top Reasons for IVF Failiure

Some of the more common causes of IVF failure include:

Embryo Implantation Failure

IVF process is complicated and consists of 5 steps:

Ovarian Stimulation: during the first step, a woman takes medication so that healthy eggs are produced. Most months, women make only one egg, but with IVF, they stimulate 10-15 eggs to increase their chances of becoming pregnant.
Egg Retrieval: the next step of IVF treatment involves the harvesting of eggs. Egg retrieval is done while a woman sleeps under a general anaesthetic. Once completed, an embryologist examines the eggs under a microscope to count them.
Fertilisation: the next thing that happens is the fertilization of eggs and sperm. The timing is crucial here. The eggs are retrieved, and then, after a few hours, they're fertilized with sperm. There are two ways to fertilize an egg: Conventional insemination or ICSI. In conventional insemination, the sperm is placed in a dish containing an egg to allow them to fertilize on their own. In ICSI, one sperm is injected into the cytoplasm of a fertilized egg using a needle.
Blastocyst Culture: once the sperm fertilizes the egg, it becomes an embryo. The embryo is then placed in a unique incubator by an embryologist, where the embryo is provided with the proper condition to develop and grow. Adequate monitoring of the embryo is done for 5-6 days.
Embryo Transfer: once the embryo develops to the blastocyst stage, it is implanted into the uterus using a small tube called a Catheter. It usually takes place within 3-5 days after fertilisation. Once the embryo is transferred to the uterus, it is allowed to the implant, and a blood test is carried on after two weeks to measure the hormone HCG.

The embryo transfer is the last stage of the IVF cycle that means embryos will be located in the uterus, but different can hinder the embryo implantation. There are some causes that can define implantation failure:

uterine causes: uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, hydrosalpinx, infections, endometrial polyps, endometriosis adhesions.
embryonic causes: changes in the embryo, in the gametes of the progenitors or in the zona pellucida of the embryo can call implantation failure during IVF cycles.
systemic causes: autoimmune diseases, endocrine alterations and thrombophilias.

Poor Embryo Quality

A healthy egg and sperm are responsible for embryo quality. That's why lifestyle factors play a significant role in the quality of eggs and sperm. To get the best IVF treatment results, men should change their diet and lifestyle for at least three months before the procedure. This also applies to women who can improve their fertility by changing their diet and lifestyle.

Ovarian Response

The first step in the IVF cycle is ovarian stimulation. According to the IVF process, at the beginning of IVF treatment for egg production is necessary to administer a daily injection of a follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH). There is also a chance that the medication will not successfully stimulate ovaries to produce eggs because of women's age.

Age of Female

For a woman wanting to achieve pregnancy, it is imperative to be in peak health. The factors such as a healthy diet and proper sleep are the major factors in achieving a healthy body with a healthy weight. It's been proven that having no bad habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol can make women's bodies stay younger and more nutritious that will help to create a thriving environment for pregnancy. Moreover, a woman's chronological age is the best indicator of egg quality. Success rates for the IVF cycle with women own eggs are also affected by a woman’s age.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

At least 50% of miscarriages are connected with chromosomal abnormalities. Failed IVF can be affected by chromosomal abnormalities and the poor quality of the fetus. Genetic and chromosomal problems can weaken the fetus which can not have cells to grow and can causes difficulties with implantation. That's why it is important for couples to perform preimplantation genetic testing (PGD) to increase the probability of fertility treatments. PGD is a technology used during IVF cycle to increase the potential for a successful pregnancy. This genetic screening on cells removed from embryos and help choose the best quality of embryo to achieve pregnancy.

Lifestyle Factors

IVF treatment is not a magic pill in struggling with infertility. There are so many factors that affect IVF pregnancy rates. For example, stress, smoking, drinking alcohol, overweight or low weight will obstruct the road to a successful IVF cycle. Studies show that reducing stress and modification of lifestyle significantly will increase the opportunity to achieve pregnancy. Therefore, IVF specialists recommend future patients at least 3 months before IVF treatment to improve their lifestyle. A well-balanced diet, proper sleeping, quitting smoking, and drinking alcohol will positively impact fertility and increase the IVF success rate.

References:

Possible Causes of Unexplained Infertility

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 10:45:51 GMT

Home I Blog I Possible Causes of Unexplained Infertilirty

Possible Causes of Unexplained Infertility

Sometimes it's not possible to identify the cause of an infertility problem. This can happen in all areas of medicine, and it's frustrating and hard for future patients on the getting end of this fertility diagnosis.

What is Unexplained Infertility?

Possible Causes for Unexplained Infertility

There is a list of possible reasons that can lead to unexplained infertility:

Poor egg quality: There are few tests to determine if a woman is ovulating, and testing to get a general idea of whether there is a relatively good quantity of eggs in the ovaries. But because there is no test to determine whether the eggs are of good quality.
Poor sperm quality: Some kinds of poor sperm quality are recognizable. For example, poor sperm shape (also known as morphology) may cause fertility problems. Poor motility may also cause infertility. These are diagnosable. They can be seen during a semen analysis.
Blocked fallopian tubes: It is a common cause of female infertility. A woman’s fallopian tubes may become blocked from endometriosis, prior pelvic surgery or infection, or unexplained reasons. A hysterosalpingogram, or HSG, is commonly used to screen for tubal abnormalities. If abnormalities are detected on the HSG or if the findings are inconclusive, surgery may be used to definitively diagnose and sometimes treat tubal disease. If blocked tubes are the only abnormality discovered during an infertility investigation, then the couple has a very good prognosis for pregnancy with IVF.
Endometriosis: it is a painful disease when tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of a woman's uterus — the endometrium, which grows outside the uterus. Generally, endometriosis involves ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining pelvis.
Ovarian issues: Infertility can be caused by conditions that involve and impact the ovaries, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Uterine factors: Throughout a woman’s life, there are a number of things that may happen that can permanently change/damage her female organs/hormones, or may require removal of the uterus, thereby leading to infertility.
LUF syndrome: Also known as 'Luteinized Unruptured Follicle' syndrome;
Luteal phase abnormalities;
Psychological aspects;
Immunological causes;
Infections.

Can I Get Pregnant With Unexplained Infertility?

Yes! There is good news unexplained infertility doesn’t mean that future patients don’t have chances of conceiving, but of course, their chances are lower without medical assistance. According to statistics, there is a 2-4% chance of conceiving per cycle if a couple were diagnosed with infertility, but to increase chances of getting pregnant, the fertility specialist will recommend few infertility treatment options.

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) recommend few fertility treatments for infertile couples who got diagnosed with unexplained infertility:

In vitro fertilization (IVF): ) is a method of artificial insemination for treating unexplained infertility. The sperm, which have been washed and concentrated, are carefully placed inside the uterus when the ovary releases one or more eggs for fertilization. The desired result of intrauterine insemination (IUI) is for sperm to reach the fallopian tubes and fertilize a waiting egg. According to reasons for infertility, IUI can be coordinated with a normal cycle or with fertility medications.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. It is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. The process of having an IVF cycle consists of getting mature eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, transferring the embryo to a uterus, and finally waiting for a time period. Intrauterine insemination alone or with fertility drugs will definitely, but slightly increase the odds of pregnancy.

Of course, there are other treatment options for couple's infertility:

Laparoscopic surgery (keyhole surgery): Some doctors are thinking that unexplained infertility may be caused by mild endometriosis. In the case of mild endometriosis, the endometrial deposits may not be causing pain or directly interfering with ovulation or the fallopian tubes, but their presence may increase “irritation” of the reproductive system.
Gamete Donation: If your fertility is affected by egg, sperm, or embryo quality problems, you may choose to use a gamete or embryo donor. Egg donation is the most expensive option followed by embryo donation.
Reproductive Immunological Treatments: Reproductive immunology is a field of medicine concerned with the interactions between the immune system and the reproductive system, focusing on recurrent pregnancy loss or repeated IVF failures.
Surrogacy: It is an agreement when a woman carries and delivers a baby for another person or couple. The woman who carries the baby is the gestational surrogate or gestational carrier. The parents are known as the intended parents, and they are involved in the pregnancy, and after the baby’s birth, they become the child’s parents.

References:

Factors Affecting Fertility

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 10:51:58 GMT

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Factors Affecting Fertility

Nowadays, the modern medical and pharmaceutical industries are enormous. This is due to the growing number of health problems that people are being afflicted with. Many health problems are affecting people. Nerve degeneration diseases like Parkinson's, dementia, Alzheimer's, and many others affect a large number of the elderly population. Diabetes, which was once a hereditary disorder, is now hitting the younger generations in epidemic proportions.

Many fertility complications are a direct effect of the lifestyle factors people insist on making. It would not be out of place to say that many of these problems are caused by the way we live our lives on a day-to-day basis. We're living in a time of tremendous technological progress. As a result, we're able to automate lots of routine tasks, leaving us with more time to do the things we enjoy most. However, this progress also comes with stress.

Modern society has made it so that many people sleep less than they need to, which negatively impacts their health. A lack of proper sleep, including going to bed very late and not getting enough hours of sleep, is a significant cause of health-related problems. When it comes to fertility, the most unfortunate thing is that several different ailments can deter a couple from being able to conceive. It is alarming how many diseases and medical conditions exist that cause male and female fertility. Some of these diseases cause permanent infertility, and some of them can be reversed.

Medical Conditions That Have a Direct Effect on Fertility

Both men and women are susceptible to infertility through illnesses. Here are some of the more common medical conditions that affect fertility:

Diabetes : The two types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2. Both these types of diabetes are characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood and a lack of insulin production by the body. People with diabetes often have issues with ovulation, which causes excess weight gain and cysts on the ovaries. The body needs to release eggs for conception, but diabetes can not ovulate properly.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) : This is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. The hormone imbalance can affect the lack of ovulation. A woman who has polycystic ovaries does not ovulate or does not ovulate regularly. They also have an excess production of androgen, which is the male hormone. PCOS can have a huge impact on female fertility and women's health.
Endometriosis : This is a painful disease when tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of a woman's uterus — the endometrium, which grows outside the uterus. Generally, endometriosis involves ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining pelvis.
Uterine Fibroids : Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years and aren't associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer. Some fibroids are so tiny that the average person can't even see them. Other fibroids are big enough to distort and enlarge the uterus so much that they reach the rib cage and add weight.
Pituitary gland disease : This is one of the many endocrine glands that are responsible for releasing hormones. The pituitary gland gets its instructions from the hypothalamus and signals other glands when particular fertility hormones need to be released in the body. In males, a problem with the pituitary gland can impair the release of the luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn will affect the production of sperm. When the pituitary gland is affected by a disease or tumor, it hinders the release of hormones. This condition can directly affect male infertility and female infertility.
Hypothalamic disorder : The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that plays a vital role in both men and women. The hypothalamus controls the production of hormones by the pituitary gland, which can cause numerous complications when functioning incorrectly. A male with a hormonal issue will have problems with sperm production, and a female with a hormonal issue will have problems with ovulation. In both cases, injecting hormones can help regulate the hormones and fix these problems.
Multiple sclerosis : Multiple sclerosis affects the nerve cells that send signals to the rest of the body. These cells are found in the brain and spine. Women with multiple sclerosis can conceive naturally. They may face some challenges during their pregnancy and delivery. If a person with multiple sclerosis experiences erectile dysfunction, they might require fertility treatment to have children. The sperm is retrieved directly from the testes and inseminated into the female partner.
Chlamydia : Chlamydia is an STD that is quite common among many young people and can affect fertility in many ways. In women, Chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), damaging the fallopian tubes and hampers fertility. A damaged fallopian tube will be associated with greater chances of an ectopic pregnancy. In men, Chlamydia infections will affect the quality and motility of sperm. When a man has Chlamydia, his sperm go to waste, and he is considered infertile.
Prostatitis : Prostatitis is inflammation caused by infection of the prostate. Prostatitis is usually curable with antibiotics. The treatment causes infertility in men in about 35% of cases.
Cushing's syndrome : A hormone produced by the adrenalin glands called cortisol and performs a variety of functions such as assisting in blood pressure regulation, monitoring sugar levels, and keeping the immune system active. Cortisol is the primary stress hormone. Excess of cortisol leads to several health problems like fatigue, depression, and reduced sex drive.
Hypogonadism : A low testosterone level hinders the production of sperm, which could result in inadequate sperm production and poor quality sperm.
Mumps : In a few cases, mumps can lead to orchitis; some males may find a slight shrinkage in the size of testicles. Some males with low sperm count will have to undergo fertility treatment to start a family.
Cancer : Cancer treatment, namely chemotherapy, and radiation have severe effects on the quality of the ovarian reserve in women. And for men, cancer treatment affects the quality of their sperm. Cancer of the uterus or ovaries means that these organs need to be removed to stop cancer from spreading. This results in early menopause and infertility. In males, cancer of the testes means that these organs need to be removed.
Thyroid disease : An underactive thyroid gland can lead to infertility. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid doesn't produce enough of the hormones that the body needs. If they are not available, the egg doesn't mature and isn't released from the ovary. Women with hypothyroidism can have problems with menstruation, regulation of proper body temperature, and their metabolism, leading to decreased libido.
Blocked Fallopian Tubes : This is any blockage in the tubes that prevent an egg from travelling down the uterus and prevent sperm from reaching the egg has a high infertility rate. The fallopian tubes blockage can also affect female infertility.
Unexplained infertility : this is the most common type of infertility women could face. It's responsible for around 30% of infertility cases. Even after primary infertility medical tests are carried out, the source of female infertility remains a secret.

Many different conditions can affect how likely it is that a woman will get pregnant. Several other sexually transmitted infections can affect reproductive health and cause fertility problems.

Assisted Reproductive Technology

There are many fertility treatments available. It's essential to identify the reason why a woman can't get pregnant before deciding on a cure. Some of these treatments include intrauterine insemination (IUI) and IVF treatment with donor eggs.

After IVF treatment, a woman can take a pregnancy test in a few weeks. Most women become pregnant after one or two attempts, but a small number of people need to undergo more than one attempt to conceive.

https://fertilitynetworkuk.org/fertility-faqs/factors-affecting-fertility/

Male Infertility and IVF

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 09:37:16 GMT

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Male Infertility and IVF

In Vitro Fertilization is an effective treatment for male infertility. This type of assisted reproductive techniques was developed from a discovery that relatively few sperm are needed to achieve fertilization when the eggs are removed and used outside of the body, which led doctors to create better ways for IVF treatment to be applied as a form of therapy for male fertility problems. Nowadays, ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) has become incredibly popular because this type of assisted reproductive technology helps alleviate many kinds of female factor infertility-related issues, including endometriosis and uterine fibroids - conditions where pregnancy would not naturally occur without medical assistance. However, IVF treatment only treats cases involving low levels of motile sperms or no viable ones at all.

What Are the Symptoms of Male Infertility?

The main symptom of male infertility is the inability to help his wife to conceive. However, there are some other signs of male infertility, which can include:

Issues with reduced sex drive, difficulty ejaculating or erection;
Low sperm count;
Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia);
Reduces muscle mass;
hormonal abnormality;
Pain in the testicle area.

How Is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

Male infertility is a complex diagnosis and treatment process. It should be carefully examined by medical professionals to accurately diagnose the problem while also identifying appropriate treatments that have been proven effective for male fertility issues. Some standard methods of investigation include:

Hormonal analyses: it involves assessing hormone levels to determine which are contributing factors or not;
Microbiological assessment: this helps identify bacterial infections as well as other possible sources such as STDs (sexually transmitted diseases);
Ultrasonography: used for both males and female patients with reproductive health problems, it's an imaging technique using high-frequency sound waves reflected off internal organs to create images on screens so doctors can observe them more closely;
Testicular biopsy: it's a surgical procedure where tissue samples will be taken;
Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS): With the help of the transrectal ultrasound, it will enable high-resolution imaging of the prostate, seminal vesicles, and vas deferens. It diagnoses any acquired and congenital abnormalities that cause obstructive azoospermia.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Imaging plays a role in identifying potentially correctible causes of infertility in men. It helps identify the congenital anomalies as well as the disorders that obstruct sperm transport.

What Are Causes of Male Infertility?

All the steps must be undergone to get pregnant, ideally from ovulation to fertilization and successfully implanting a baby into uterine walls. Any single abnormality or disorder can make it difficult for couples trying to get pregnant. Some major medical causes are:

Male accessory gland infections (MAGI): Inflammation or infection in the male genital tract can impact a person's ability to procreate.
Endocrine disturbances: an endocrine system is a group of glands that control the production of certain hormones. When these hormones are out of balance, infertility can result.
Genetic abnormalities: Some genetic changes can cause abnormal sperm production or blockage of sperm flow, which in turn can cause male infertility. The most common congenital abnormalities are chromosomal conditions that affect sperm production and other conditions such as Down Syndrome.
Immunological factors: Diagnosing the problem is not always easy. An infection or injury can sometimes cause a condition in which the body attacks healthy sperm. This hinders the sperm's ability to reach the uterus and penetrate an egg.
Sperm morphology: The shape of sperm is an essential factor in determining the likelihood of a pregnancy. At least 4% of the sperm should be shaped typically to have a chance of fertility.
Sperm motility: If you're trying to conceive, knowing about sperm motility can give you an indication of whether or not you're likely to become pregnant.
Primary testicular disease: Oligozoospermia and azoospermia are associated with Primary Testicular Disease, which is the major cause of infertility in men.
Varicocele: It is a disorder of the veins in the scrotum, which causes insufficient blood flow and affects sperm production. It's one of the leading causes of male infertility and is found in almost 40% of infertile men.
Increased scrotal temperature: The temperature of the testes should be 2-4 degrees below body temperature. Increased temperatures negatively affect sperm function and sperm concentration, leading to infertility.
Sperm disorders;
Hormonal imbalances.

Fertility Treatments for Males

Several infertility treatment options are depending upon the diagnosed reasons behind male infertility. Some practical options include:

IUI also known as Intrauterine Insemination . It is a process in which sperm is injected inside the woman's uterus using a catheter. It reduces the travel time of sperm, making it easier for sperm to fertilize.
IVF treatment is a process in which fertilization takes place outside the body. Both sperm and ovum are separately collected and fused in a test tube, and once the embryo formation takes place, it is transferred from the woman's uterus to the implant.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the process of choosing the best sperm and injecting it into the cytoplasm of the ovum. This increases the success rate in case of male infertility.
In Vitro Fertilization with donor sperm is a treatment for couples with uncurable male infertility factors or hereditary diseases. Sperm is taken from a male donor after consultation with the team.
Surgical Sperm Retrieval: In vasectomy cases, non-obstructive azoospermia, congenital absence of vas deferens, or obstructions of sperm release, surgical sperm retrieval helps retrieve quality sperm for successful infertility treatment.

Common Reasons for Infertility in Men

A man's inability to impregnate his wife can result from irregular lifestyle and environmental factors such as an absence of sexual intercourse, smoking and drug abuse, childhood surgery, or prolonged stress. Other causes may include the use of condoms, which interfere with sperm motility, and lubricants that change pH levels in vaginal fluids preventing conception from taking place. A lack of knowledge about ovulation time prevents pregnancy from occurring if not matched correctly by timing sex during days when possible fertilization is most likely. Working long hours in hot weather or a chemical factory exposes one to a higher risk for exposure to various chemicals, which could cause fertility issues.

Conclusions

Infertility is today significantly higher than decades ago because of health issues like obesity, the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, and people putting off having kids. Out of all the causes of infertility, male infertility accounts for about 40%-50%. In-vitro fertilization treatment is considered to be the most appropriate technique for certain types of male infertility. The success rate of fertility treatment with male factor infertility depends upon several factors.

References:

PCOS - Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 11:59:05 GMT

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PCOS - Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disturbances on a global basis and affects women worldwide. According to statistics from WHO, the condition affects approximately 8-13% of women of reproductive age, with a 70% share of undiagnosed cases.

The ovaries play an essential role in conception and are necessary components of the female reproductive system. In addition to being responsible for the production of oocytes and oestrogen, they also regulate the development of key female secondary characteristics. Suffering from PCOS thus has a significant impact on a woman's reproductive health, and early recognition and treatment of the condition is vital.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition caused by an excess of male hormones and a deficiency of female hormones. The disturbance of the hormonal balance leads to irregular or absent ovulation, which in turn impacts a woman's ability to conceive.

What Are Ovarian Cysts?

The ovaries are one of the female reproductive system's major components. They're located in the lower abdomen on both sides of the uterus, and they produce eggs and sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

Symptoms of PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can result in a wide variety of symptoms. The severity of these symptoms can vary among individuals. However, it should be noted that not everyone with PCOS will experience all of these symptoms. Common signs and symptoms of PCOS may include:

Irregular periods : some women can experience irregular periods, while others suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding. Both of these issues are related to PCOS.
Hair loss: Women of reproductive age with polycystic ovarian syndrome could experience thinning hair, which could worsen with increasing age.
Excessive hair growth or hirsutism: Certain areas of the body such as the face, arms, back, chest, thumbs, and toes may grow excess hair. This excess hair is related to hormonal imbalance due to increased androgen production that occurs for women with PCOS.
Acne or oily skin: The male hormone testosterone can make the skin oilier than usual and cause breakouts on the face, chest, and upper back.
Weight gain: many women with PCOS, gain weight and struggle with obesity that is difficult to manage.
Infertility : Although PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility, not every woman who has PCOS will experience the same fertility problems. Some women with PCOS can get pregnant without assistance.
Sleep problems : If a woman has PCOS, she can notice that she has trouble sleeping. She may experience a sleep disorder called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is when a person stops breathing for short periods during sleep.
Darkening of skin: women's skin may become very dark in certain areas, such as their armpits and neck. This is called acanthosis nigricans.

If you suspect you have PCOS or are experiencing symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and management plan.

What Causes PCOS?

While the exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research indicates that the manifestation of the condition may be caused by;

Genetics : a family history of PCOS may increase the chances of you developing the condition. Although specific genes associated with PCOS have not yet been identified, there is a general correlation with genetics. It thus appears to be a genetic component to the disorder.
Insulin resistance: women diagnosed with PCOS often have insulin resistance, meaning that the body's cells don't respond as intended to insulin. As a result, an overproduction of insulin and general higher levels of insulin in the blood can potentially contribute to symptoms associated with PCOS. It is important to note that the insulin resistance, if persistent over time, can lead to type 2 diabetes.
Hormonal imbalance: as previously mentioned, the hormonal imbalance caused by an excess production of androgens (male hormones) is likely associated with PCOS.
Inflammation : women suffering from low-grade inflammation might be more prone to develop PCOS. Inflammation is the immune system's response to harmful stimulants, and is considered a part of the body's defence mechanism.
Lifestyle factors: obesity is often associated with PCOS, meaning that weight management and generally maintaining a healthy lifestyle help manage the disorder.
Foetal development : researchers suggest that being exposed to certain factors (e.g. insulin resistance in the mother, androgen exposure) during foetal development may enhance the likelihood for developing PCOS.

Be aware that PCOS is a complex condition, and the interrelation of the mentioned factors can vary from person to person. Moreover, while extant research suggests that these factors are associated with PCOS, their prevalence can not guarantee that an individual will develop the condition. It is however important that you consult with your healthcare provider if you suspect that you have PCOS or are experiencing symptoms.

Can PCOS Affect Your Fertility?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is typically associated with hormone imbalances. The hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle are out of balance, making conception impossible for a woman with PCOS. If women with PCOS have immature eggs in their ovaries, they are referred to as PCOS patients. IVF treatment is the most successful fertility treatment for PCOS patients because it helps stimulate egg maturation.

Diagnosis - How is PCOS Diagnosed?

Doctors run a physical examination to check for acne and excess hair growth, as well as to examine the thickness of your hair. Your healthcare provider should be made aware if you've experienced hair loss or thinning. Moreover, a pelvic ultrasound may be performed to check for an increased number of small follicles (cysts). The doctor may also ask you to provide a number of different blood tests that check various factors related to your PCOS. Some of the tests include:

Thyroid function test: used to examine the functioning of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in regulating metabolism. The test is relevant since thyroid dysfunctions and PCOS often coexist.
Lipid level test : used to measure cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Women with PCOS can be at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular issues.
Fasting glucose test: used to measure blood glucose levels, and assesses the body's ability to regulate glucose. As PCOS is associated with high levels of glucose, fasting glucose tests can assist in the evaluation of the body's insulin sensitivity.

Through the conduction of several different tests, doctors can come to some conclusions regarding problems with the patient's fertility and cysts in the ovaries.

PCOS Treatment Options

As with other treatments, the effectiveness of PCOS treatment depends on managing various factors, including the individual's diet and exercise level. Some women may need to take medicine or make subtle changes to the way she eats. Some of the recommendations for PCOS treatment are:

PCOS diet : to properly manage PCOS symptoms, a healthy diet is essential, especially if you consider the association between the disorder and insulin resistance. Therefore, focusing on the maintenance of a balanced diet including carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Exercise for PCOS: as women with PCOS often struggle with regulating their weight, regular physical activity is crucial. Other benefits include the improvement of insulin sensitivity, and the overall well-being.
Birth control pills for PCOS: birth control pills are often prescribed to women with PCOS as they help regulate menstrual cycles, manage androgen-related symptoms, while also providing endometrial protection.
PCOS Medicine : there are various medications that are prescribed to individuals suffering from PCOS to manage specific symptoms related to the disease (e.g. metformin, anti-androgens, ovulation-inducing medications).
PCOS Surgery: in some special cases, surgical interventions may be recommended. The available surgeries include ovarian drilling (to improve ovulation) or laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy (removal of cysts).

Note that the disorder is considered a chronic condition, and that there is no available cure for PCOS. However, the treatment options discussed are proven to effectively manage symptoms, meaning that living with PCOS is possible.

Living with PCOS - How to Manage Health Problems

Living with PCOS involves adopting a balanced diet and prioritising regular physical activity to regulate blood sugar and losing weight. Medications can assist in addressing specific symptoms. While PCOS is chronic and not curable, the treatment options above ensure effective symptom management, allowing individuals affected by the condition to live fulfilling lives. Close collaboration with healthcare professionals is essential, as they can offer tailored approaches to address personal health needs and goals.

References

Kahsar-Miller, M. D., Nixon, C., Boots, L. R., Go, R. C., & Azziz, R. (2001). Prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in first-degree relatives of patients with PCOS. Fertility and sterility, 75(1), 53-58. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028200016629

Dewailly, D., Hieronimus, S., Mirakian, P., & Hugues, J. N. (2010, February). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In Annales D'endocrinologie (Vol. 71, No. 1, pp. 8-13). Elsevier Masson. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003426609003126

De Leo, V., Musacchio, M. C., Cappelli, V., Massaro, M. G., Morgante, G., & Petraglia, F. J. R. B. (2016). Genetic, hormonal and metabolic aspects of PCOS: an update. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 14(1), 1-17. Retrieved from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12958-016-0173-x?fbclid=IwAR3u7n94mGc2pK_e5lUwzobgtqEM7XEZvDbVFTS7wDQzqjdoOWDiyFhQsi8

Frequently Asked Questions

Female Infertility and IVF

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 11:34:11 GMT

Home I Blog I Female Infertility and IVF

Female Infertility and IVF

In Vitro fertilization, sometimes known as IVF, is a treatment that helps people who want to have a child. Nowadays, female infertility has grown to be a severe disease, affecting young generations significantly. About 27-30 million couples are facing this issue each year, with 30% being attributed to female fertility issues or infertility that can be resolved by IVF treatment proven effective so far.

What is Female Infertility?

Female infertility is the inability of a woman to conceive pregnancy for at least a year with no results due to some factors like ovulation disorders, endometriosis or tubal blockage. Unfortunately, today this problem affects a large number of people. But thanks to the development in assisted reproductive technology, there are few treatments for women who are struggling with infertility problems.

There are various types of female infertility:

Primary infertility: it is the inability to conceive after unprotected sex for 12 months or more
Secondary infertility: it is an incapability to conceive or carry a healthy pregnancy to live after previously giving birth. It usually refers to couples who were trying to conceive for six months to one year. It can be caused by different conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, problems with the uterus, problems with fallopian tubes, age.
Sterility: it is the inability of conceiving as a result of such procedures as hysterectomy, tubal ligation or vasectomy.
Asexuality: because of consistent miscarriages woman can not conceive and accept fact that she cannot be a mother.
Unexplainable infertility: it is the most common type of infertility women could face. It's responsible for around 30% of infertility cases. Even after primary infertility medical tests are carried out, the source of infertility remains a secret.

Female Infertility Symptoms

Female infertility refers to the inability to achieve pregnancy, which can also be an indication of an irregular menstrual cycle that is either too long (>35 days) or too short (< 21 days), or no menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of infertility in women:

Inability to achieve pregnancy after having regular sex for more than a year
Absence of periods
Painful periods
Consistent miscarriages
Imbalance of hormones

What are the Most Common Causes of Female Infertility?

There are various causes of a woman being infertile. Some common reasons are:

Ovulation Disorders : one of the top female infertility causes is an ovulation disorder. Approximately 15% of Infertile women suffer from ovulation disorders, which prevent the release f eggs, making it impossible for couples to conceive.
Endocrine Disorders : the female body produces estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones that make a woman's reproductive system develop and create an egg every month. A disorder in the endocrine system (which includes the ovaries and the thyroid gland) causes infertility.
Endometriosis : one-third of the women with endometriosis experience infertility - it's a condition in which the endometrial lining grows outside the uterus, damaging pelvic organs and affecting a woman's ability to conceive.
Tubal Blockage : Some of the causes of female infertility are blocked fallopian tubes, where the ova is prevented from reaching and fertilized by spermatozoa and abnormalities in it.
Age : according to Columbia University's FertilityDoctor.com, women are most fertile in their 20's, and after 35, their fertility starts declining, both in terms of egg quality and quantity.
Hormonal Imbalances : irregularities in thyroid hormone or PCOS due to hormonal imbalances are amongst the leading cause of infertility in women. These imbalances decrease the regularity of ovulation and prevent a woman conceive.
Stress : according to researchers, women with high stress levels have a more challenging time conceiving, which causes imbalances in the hormone necessary for regular ovulation.
Style of living : certain lifestyle factors can affect a woman's menstrual cycle. This causes weight fluctuations and impacts her fertility.
Other disorders : some women have diseases that reduce their fertility. Such conditions include uterine fibroids, polyps, autoimmune disorders, pelvic inflammatory diseases, and tubal infections.
Cervical Factor : causes such as uterine or cervical cancer can interfere with the implantation or increase the likelihood of a miscarriage. Sometimes the cervix cannot produce mucus required by sperm to enter the uterus, preventing the conception of pregnancy.

How is Female Infertility Diagnosed?

Doctors can help to diagnose infertility by taking a detailed history, performing a physical exam, and ordering laboratory tests. A thorough evaluation of the patient is paramount for determining an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Some fertility diagnostic procedures include ovulation testing, ultrasound examination, or hysterosalpingography (HSG).

Female Infertility Treatments

If a woman has infertility, she can be treated using any of the following methods:

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) : this treatment involves the fertilization of eggs and sperm, embryo development, embryo transfer, and assists its implantation. It's an advanced treatment that has a good record for safety and success.
IVF with Donor Eggs : a process where an embryo is implanted inside a female's uterus. The embryos are developed from eggs that a donor nicks.
Laparoscopy : a procedure that diagnoses and treats infertility in women. It can also treat endometriosis because of its ability to remove scar tissue in the pelvis.
IUI with Controlled Ovarian Stimulation : certain women may have difficulties with IUI because too few eggs are released during stimulation or because the sperm may not get to the uterus and fertilize the egg.

Any female infertility treatment's success rate depends on the reasons behind infertility, age, and the type of technology used while treating.

References :

Endometriosis - Symptoms, Causes, Possible Treatments

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 11:08:40 GMT

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Endometriosis - Symptoms, Causes, Possible Treatments

Infertility is a problem that has risen in numbers over the past decades. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age are affected by endometriosis. Additionally, about 90% of these women report that the condition has a negative impact on their life, work, relationships, and mental health, further illustrating the severity of endometriosis. Thus, this article provides an extensive overview over the condition's symptoms, causes, possible treatments, and more.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This results in the development of inflammation and the formation of scar tissue on or around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining pelvis. In rare instances, endometriosis can also occur in other body regions.

We distinguish between several types of endometriosis;

Superficial Peritoneal Lesions: this type of endometriosis is the most common. The lesions are found in the peritoneum, the connective tissue that binds the pelvic cavity and abdominal wall.
Ovarian Endometriomas: fluid-filled cysts are also known as chocolate cysts. These cysts are located in the ovaries and can damage healthy tissue.
Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis : lesions that are usually located under the peritoneum, resulting in severe pain.

Endometriosis stages

In addition to the various types of endometriosis, the disease can be classified into four different stages. These are;

Minimal (Stage 1): minimal manifestation with few superficial implants.
Mild (Stage 2): mild manifestation with more and deeper implants
Moderate (Stage 3): moderate manifestation with many deep implants, small cysts on one or both ovaries, and filmy adhesions are present.
Severe (Stage 4): Severe manifestation with many deep implants, large cysts on one or both ovaries and many adhesions.

The stages are determined by the locations of endometrial tissue within the body, the extent of its spread, and the volume of tissue present in those specific areas.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

The symptoms of endometriosis can vary and depend on the type and stage of the disease. While some women only experience mild symptoms, others are heavily affected. Some of the most common symptoms of endometriosis are recurring pain and cramping in the pelvic area, lower back, and legs. However, there are also a number of other symptoms that may indicate endometriosis, including;

Painful menstrual cycle: when the endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus it can cause inflammation and discomfort during menstruation.
Pain in the lower abdomen or back: the presence of endometrial implants in the pelvic area can result in persistent discomfort that affects both the lower abdomen and back.
Feeling fatigued: l ong term pain and inflammation can contribute to fatigue leading to decreased energy levels and impacting daily activities.
Pain or discomfort during urination : in rare cases when endometriosis involves the bladder it can lead to pain or discomfort while urinating.
Intensified menstrual cramps: abnormal tissue growth in and around the region can worsen menstrual cramps causing increased discomfort.
Pain during or after intercourse : the presence of implants may cause pain during or following sexual activity.
Heavy bleeding, spotting between periods or irregular bleeding patterns: endometriosis has the potential to disrupt normal menstrual flow resulting in heavier bleeding episodes or unexpected spotting.
Discomfort during bowel movements : if endometrial tissue affects the bowel it can lead to pain and discomfort when passing stools.
Bloating and nausea: involvement of the gastrointestinal tract due to endometriosis may cause feelings of bloating accompanied by nausea.
Experiencing changes in bowel habits such as diarrhoea or constipation: when endometrial implants affect the bowel it can lead to alterations in bowel movements.
Facing challenges with fertility : as endometriosis impacts organs like ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus it may have an adverse effect on fertility.

Experiencing some of these symptoms does not confirm the presence of endometriosis. However, in the case that you do experience one or more of these symptoms, you should seek medical advice to uncover the underlying causes.

Causes of Endometriosis

The exact cause of endometriosis is thought to be multifactorial, meaning that many different factors contribute to its development. Some possible explanations for endometriosis include;

Retrograde menstruation: menstrual blood containing endometrial cells may flow into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body, attach to pelvic organs, and thus lead to endometriosis.
Embryonic cell growth: embryonic cells outside the uterus might transform into endometrial-like tissue, and thus contributing to the development of endometriosis.
Genetic predisposition: the likelihood of developing endometriosis is increased if a close family member has the condition.
Foetal development: exposure to certain factors during foetal development might result in the development of endometriosis in adulthood.
Scarring during surgery: surgical procedures such as a caesarean section or hysterectomy might lead to transplantation of endometrial tissue to other pelvic areas.
Immune dysfunction: a compromised immune system might fail to identify misplaced endometrial cells, allowing the condition to develop.
Hormonal imbalance: a high fluctuation of hormones (especially oestrogen) can influence the growth and shedding of endometrial tissue.

Endometriosis and Infertility

Unfortunately, infertility can be one of the complications of endometriosis. About 40% of women affected by the disease experience difficulties in conception. The challenge arises from the potential blockage of fallopian tubes or malfunction of the ovaries. Some experts theorise that the postponement of pregnancy might contribute to the development of endometriosis, contradicting the belief that endometriosis is the sole cause of infertility.

However, women who struggle with endometriosis and experience infertility issues luckily still have the opportunity to get pregnant. Thanks to medical advancements within, affected individuals can undergo surgery to remove endometriosis tissue or utilise assisted reproductive technology (ART) and fertility treatments.

Endometriosis Risk Factors

It is important for women to understand the various risk factors associated with susceptibility of endometriosis. These risk factors include;

Family history: a familial history of endometriosis may suggest an increased probability of developing the condition
Age: the symptoms of endometriosis usually appear between the ages of 25-40.
Menstruation history: factors such as shorter menstrual cycles, more severe or lighter periods, or an earlier onset of menstruation may increase the risk of developing endometriosis.
Pregnancy history: it is suggested that pregnancy may offer protection against the development of endometriosis, however, it does not guarantee complete prevention. Hormones play an important role in influencing the development and progression of the medical condition.

Endometriosis Treatment

Thanks to research and medical advancements, there are various treatment options available for women who are affected by endometriosis. The aim of the treatments is to reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the quality of life for women living with the condition. Options available for treating endometriosis include:

Painkillers: often prescribed to alleviate the pain associated with endometriosis.
Hormone therapy: common approach to manage symptoms associated with endometriosis, as it regulates hormonal fluctuations.
Medical therapy: the use of medications is utilised in the treatment process to address and control endometriosis symptoms
Minor surgical procedure: surgery for endometriosis treatment involves removing or destroying the abnormal tissue by means of surgery might also be a recommended approach.

While these treatment options significantly reduce the long-term burden of symptoms associated with endometriosis, there is no current cure for the disease. Women affected by endometriosis need to discuss the treatment options with the doctor. The doctor will ultimately tailor the treatment process to the individual and base his decision on multiple factors, such as current symptoms, medical history, age, pregnancy history, menstruation history, tolerances to medications, and family planning.

Endometriosis diagnosis

Women who suspect endometriosis based on their medical history, experienced symptoms, or risk factors should seek out a doctor to get a potential diagnosis. To diagnose endometriosis the doctor may conduct one or multiple tests, including;

Diagnosis through surgery

Laparoscopy : this surgical procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a light and camera through a cut in the abdomen. The doctor will thus be able to examine tissues in and around the uterus, and identify any signs of endometrial tissue development.
Biopsy : if suspicious tissue is detected, a biopsy can be performed to confirm the manifestation of endometriosis. This involves scraping off a few cells and sending them to the laboratory for examination. The biopsy is a necessary procedure for a definite diagnosis of endometriosis.

Diagnosis without surgery

Ultrasound: involved sound waves to create pictures of internal organs. The device used for the examination is pressed against the stomach area or inserted into the vagina (transvaginal ultrasound). Both types of ultrasound may be performed to get the best view of the uterus, pelvic area, and reproductive organs.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) : involved the use of a magnetic field and radio waves to create images of the reproductive organs and tissues within the body. MRI is often used in association with surgical planning, as it gives the doctor precise information about the location and size of endometrial tissues.

Preventing Endometriosis

At the present time, there is no known way to prevent endometriosis. However, greater awareness around the disease, an early diagnosis, and careful management may decelerate or interrupt the natural advancement of the condition and alleviate the enduring impact of its symptoms, potentially mitigating the risk of central nervous system pain sensitization.

References

Eskenazi, B., & Warner, M. L. (1997). Epidemiology of endometriosis. Obstetrics and gynecology clinics of North America, 24(2), 235-258. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889854505703028

Leyland, N., Casper, R., Laberge, P., Singh, S. S., Allen, L., Arendas, K., ... & Senikas, V. (2010). Endometriosis: diagnosis and management. Journal of Endometriosis, 2(3), 107-134. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/228402651000200303

Endometriose und Kinderwunsch. (2023, June 7). https://www.invimed.de/artikeln/endometriose-und-kinderwunsch