Tag Archive for: Fertility Clinic Srinagar

How To Get Pregnant Fast: Tips to Increase Fertility

Tips to Increase Fertility – Nowadays, pregnancy demands excellent effort. It has become a problematic dream for around 17.5 million people globally. So, this highlights the need to do the opposite of what you do regularly regarding lifestyle and food habits. 

Tips to increase fertility can be summed up in four words –nutritious food and a healthy lifestyle. It all starts with your body. Start giving it the care it needs and reap the benefits. 

In this article, we will look at the tips you can follow to get pregnant. At the same time, we will figure out the effect of particular food and habits on fertility. 

1. Tips to Increase Fertility- Track Your Menstrual Cycle 

A woman needs to track how far apart her menstrual cycles are so that the couple can plan intercourse. But how does this help you to increase your odds of getting pregnant? 

You should understand the baby-making process. It all starts with ovulation. The process of releasing a mature egg by the ovaries is called ovulation. This egg stays fertile for around 18 to 24 hours in the fallopian tube, where it waits for the sperm for fertilisation. The sperm, on the other hand, can stay in the woman’s body for up to 3-4 days after intercourse. Knowing when your ovaries will release an egg and having intercourse around that time can boost your chances to conceive. 

Two or Three Days before and one day after Ovulation is the Best Time for Intercourse.

Couples trying to conceive can have sexual intercourse every alternate day or even every day to increase their odds. 

So when do you ovulate, and how to keep track of it? It depends on whether you have a regular or irregular cycle. For women with a regular cycle, the ovulation process occurs around two weeks before the period. At the same time, ovulation occurs around 12 to 16 days before periods in women with an irregular menstrual cycle

If You have a Regular Cycle, do this. 

Say two women are trying to track their menstrual cycle. Both women got their periods on 1 August. The first woman has a menstrual cycle length of 28 days. At the same time, the second woman has a menstrual cycle length of 35 days. It means the first woman will get her next period on 28 August, and the second will get her period on 4 September. Ovulation in both women will occur 14 days before their next cycle. So around this time, they can plan their sexual intercourse and increase their chances of getting pregnant. 

If You Have an Irregular Cycle, These are Your Options.

For women with irregular periods, gynecologists suggest ultrasound follicular monitoring to track the next ovulation. Another option is a digital monitoring kit that helps track ovulation at home. 

2. Tips to Increase Fertility- Consume Certain Foods to Increase Fertility 

Is there any special IVF diet chart that can be followed to boost fertility? Then yes! Medical evidence collected by fertility experts shows that women who incorporated fresh fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts, and whole grains into their diet were found to conceive more quickly than women who regularly consumed processed and packaged food.  

The following Foods can help you take the next big step in Your Pregnancy Journey: 

1. Add an Adequate Amount of Antioxidants-:

Antioxidants are a boon for people trying to conceive. Folate and zinc-containing antioxidants help deactivate the free radicals present in the body. These free radicals decline the health of both the eggs and the sperm. So make sure you eat a good amount of antioxidants. 

Foods loaded with the goodness of antioxidants include fresh green leafy vegetables. Green veggies are packed with antioxidants, iron, and folic acid. 

2. Fabulous Benefits of Eating Fibres-:

Fibrous food prevents PCOS, balances blood sugar levels, and helps remove excess estrogen from your body. Twenty-five grams of fibre should be taken by women daily. 

Fruits like pears, apples, and bananas are loaded with fibres and should be consumed regularly. Other high-fibre foods include whole grains and beans

3. Other Foods for Fertility and Their Magical Benefits-: 

Cabbage is a rich source of various vitamins and minerals. 

Citrus fruits and broccoli are excellent sources of Vitamin C which helps significantly in the maturation of eggs in the ovaries.

Bananas are a rich source of Vitamin B6, which assists in regulating the menstrual cycle. 

Men should consume pumpkin seeds regularly as it helps increase low sperm count as well as sperm motility.

4. Avoid These Food Items.

Knowing what to avoid on the menu is equally important to increase your chances of getting pregnant. 

  • Cut down excessive carbohydrates from your diet, especially if you have PCOS.
  • Stop yourself from falling in love with caffeine. Two hundred milligrams of coffee per day is advisable. If your intake surpasses this limit, it can hinder your fertility. 
  • Smoking and drinking alcohol are directly associated with fertility issues in both men and women. 
  • Saturated or trans-fat foods like burgers and pastries should be kept at bay as it hinders the production of reproductive hormones. 

Consult with your nutritionist and fertility expert to craft a plan that suits you the best!

3. Tips to Increase Fertility – Take Care of Your Overall Health

Make the following a part of your daily routine to improve your reproductive health and see promising results. 

Take Time to Move Your Body-: Regular exercise helps keep your weight in check and helps with conditions like insulin resistance. Apart from this, yoga asanas and moderate exercise help in the average production and regulation of hormones in your body. 

1. Practice the following Asanas for Fertility: 

  • Anulom Vilom Pranayama 
  • Bhadrasana
  • Malasana
  • Warrior Pose
  • Setu Bandhasana

Avoid engaging in extreme exercise as it may disrupt ovulation

2. Relaxation is Also Necessary-:

A tight schedule where you don’t have the time to take a breath might become a hurdle in your pregnancy. Make sure you take some time out for relaxation now and then. 

3. Deep Sleep-:

Sedentary lifestyle choices have made it difficult to get a good night’s deep sleep. A majority of people have either a poor or disturbed sleep cycle. For the healthy functioning of your body and the reproductive system, the body must get proper rest. 

4. Tips to Increase Fertility

1. The Role of Prenatal Vitamins-:

Doctors say that any woman planning to conceive should start consuming prenatal vitamins as the doctor prescribes. 

Prenatal vitamins that women should take include: 

2. Folic Acid

The most important prenatal vitamin is folic acid. Regular intake of folic acid at least three months before planning pregnancy helps increase fertility.

In the case of folic acid deficiency, neural tube defects are found in the baby. 

3. Vitamin D 

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in a range of bodily functions, including reproduction. Taking 400 to 800 units of Vitamin D per day is recommended by gynaecologists. 

5. Tips to Increase Fertility – Healthy BMI 

Body Mass Index is also a deciding factor in pregnancy. Being overweight can result in health conditions like PCOS, insulin resistance, thyroid, and other hormonal disorders, which can cause irregular monthly cycles and hamper fertility. The same is true for underweight women who are trying to conceive. So, work towards achieving a healthy body weight to boost fertility. 

6. Tips to Increase Fertility – Stress-free Living 

Stress is the number one enemy of fertility. Our IVF experts have stated that one of the main reasons behind infertility in people is too much stress. Stress disturbs the hormonal balance and disrupts the reproductive health of both men and women. Hence, managing your stress levels is non-negotiable.

Below mentioned are some activities that you can engage in to get rid of stress: 

  • Meditation can help immensely. 
  • Spend quality time with your loved ones.
  • Try practising breathing techniques.
  • Practice yoga asanas.
  • Go on a morning or evening walk.
  • Try journaling by simply pouring down your thoughts on paper.

The Most Important Tips to Increase Fertility- Consult a Fertility Expert.

Sometimes you cannot figure out where things are going wrong in your fertility journey. Sometimes even if you and your partner don’t have any health problems, you might still cross paths with infertility. The feeling of helplessness takes over you. It happens, and it’s completely okay to feel this way. Often there is an underlying condition that can be ruled out with the help of an experienced fertility expert. So don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a gynaecologist or visit a IVF Treatment centre like Imprimis IVF

Final Word 

Earlier reproduction used to be a smooth journey but with a complicated lifestyle and eating habits, this significant process is full of hurdles. Affected couples want to know what they should eat to boost fertility. The simple and natural plant-based diet acts as a game changer. The sooner you switch to this, the better it will be for your reproductive health. It will help you conceive and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy and standard delivery by nourishing it. Eat right, sleep well, stress not, and stay faithful! 

How to improve egg quality for pregnancy & IVF

I. Understanding Egg Quality Importance

The commencement of the 9-month-long pregnancy journey depends not only on the release of an egg by the ovaries but also on its quality. Egg quality is the ability of an egg to transform into an embryo after fertilization. A good quality or regular egg has the proper number of chromosomes and adequate energy source to develop into a full-grown baby in the womb. 

If the egg does not meet any of these conditions, then phenomena like frequent miscarriages, failed IVF cycles, and several other problems in conceiving are likely to occur. Poor quality or abnormal eggs are one of the major causes of female infertility.

A. Impact on Pregnancy and IVF 

A successful pregnancy is directly related to egg quality.

Think of it this way, say you want to plant an apple tree. You have a garden with fertile soil, a good water supply, and favourable weather conditions. You have two groups of seeds that are of different quality. The first group contains good-quality seeds, and the other contains poor-quality seeds. But there is a condition that you can’t change the seeds. 

Over a while, good-quality seed will grow into a healthy plant and finally become a large tree. At the same time, the other plant may die out in the initial stages due to the poor quality of the seeds. 

Likewise, good-quality eggs will result in good-quality embryos. Further, these healthy embryos will get implanted in the uterus and carry your pregnancy to term. 

Can you change or reverse the quality of the eggs in your ovaries? The answer is a plain No. Is there something you can do about the quality of your eggs? Look out for ways to enhance the health of your existing eggs. 

II. Factors Influencing Egg Quality

Fertility experts have argued that egg quality is majorly dependent on a woman’s age, genetics, and environmental factors. Nobody can control factors like age and genetics. That is why it is impossible to change the egg quality or replace the damaged eggs, but one can work to keep the existing ones. 

A. Age and Lifestyle

As a woman ages, the number, as well as the egg quality, witnesses a decline. There is no method or treatment to stop this natural phenomenon. 

The decline in egg quality becomes even more pronounced around age 35. Another significant decline in ovarian reserve is witnessed around age 45. 

It is a scientifically cemented fact that lifestyle does hamper your fertility. However, lifestyle should be addressed by couples in their fertility journey. Following is a list of lifestyle choices that might be causing hurdles in your not-so-smooth conception journey. 

  • No or less physical activity
  • Smoking
  • Consumption of alcohol
  • Too much stress
  • Disturbed sleep cycle
  • Wrong diet
  • Excessive caffeine intake

B. Environmental Considerations-: 

It might shock some people, but pollution can hinder the quality of a woman’s eggs. Some experts say that medicines used to cure illness also have the potential to decline egg quality. Apart from these, exposure to chemicals like lead can also hamper egg quality. 

III. Enhancing Egg Quality Strategies

You can stick to specific strategies to enhance egg quality and embark on your parental journey as soon as possible. 

A. Healthy Lifestyle Choices-: 

A healthy lifestyle paves the way for a healthy pregnancy. It goes a long way in keeping your reproductive system healthy. 

Healthy lifestyle choices, according to fertility specialists, can be summed up in the following checklist-:

  • Quit smoking
  • Say no to alcohol
  • Stay active
  • Keep stress at bay
  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Maintain a healthy BMI
  • Say bye to drugs
  • Consume a balanced and nutritious diet
  • Have a robust support system

B. Nutritional Supplements-: 

Depending on the couple’s specific needs, various nutritional supplements can be taken to prepare the body for conception. 

  • Folic acid 

This B vitamin has a significant positive impact on conception. Moreover, folic acid helps prevent congenital disabilities of the brain and spine. 

Natural Sources of Folic Acid-:

  1. Whole grains
  2. Green Leafy
  3. Vegetables and legumes.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids 

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that help strike a balance between reproductive hormones. Besides this, these fats help regulate menstruation and implantation.

Natural Sources of Omega-3

  1. Salmon
  2. Tuna or sardines
  3. Fish Oil and Algal Oil. 

CoQ10

CoQ10 is a powerful natural antioxidant that improves ovarian response. It also prevents the eggs from oxidative damage. 

Natural Sources of CoQ10-: 

  1. Fish and Meat. 

Avoid self-prescription, as it may do more harm than good. 

It is a sincere request that you always consult a fertility expert before taking nutritional supplements to boost fertility

C. Mind-Body Practices-:

Understanding the connection between mind and body leads to a more profound sense of self-awareness and mindfulness. It helps deal with the changes you undergo before and during pregnancy. The best mind-body practices include massage therapy, meditation, deep breathing techniques, yoga, and general relaxation body movements. 

D. Fertility Treatments-: 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has helped millions of infertile couples around the globe to welcome home their little bundle of happiness. Many options are available for people struggling with infertility based on their issues and medical conditions. 

  • In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF)– In this medical procedure, the eggs are taken out on a petri dish, and the quality can be tested. The good-quality eggs are then fertilized and implanted in the uterus.
  • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)– In this procedure, the sperm is directly injected into the egg. With the help of ICSI, the number of fertilized eggs can be increased. It can only be performed when the male partner has no fertility issues.

IV. Nutritional Support for Egg Quality

The role of nutrition in fertility can’t be emphasized enough. The food you put inside your body can make or break your pregnancy dream. 

A. Superfoods and Antioxidants-: Taking plenty of fertility superfoods and dietary antioxidants can help boost egg quality. 

The Best Superfoods to Take Care of Egg Quality are: 

  • Asparagus
  • Beans and lentils
  • Spinach
  • Egg yolks
  • Walnuts
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Berries

Are you looking for the best antioxidants for fertility? Well, eat that fruit! 

Apples, oranges, pomegranates, grapes, kiwi, and grapefruit are loaded with the goodness of antioxidant properties. 

B. Anti-Inflammatory Diet-:

It might look like a fancy word for an expensive diet, but it’s not! All vegetables and fruits have pro-anti-inflammatory properties. 

You can design your anti-inflammatory diet with a colourful bowl of grains, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Here’s what you can include: 

  • Vegetables like garlic (rich in selenium), spinach, carrot, onions, mushrooms, radish, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage.
  • Be friends with berries like blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries.
  • Treat yourself to a tropical fruit like banana, pineapple, and mango.
  • Citrus fruits like orange and grapefruit work wonders.
  • Dates, nuts, and seeds, including almonds, walnuts, chestnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds.
  • Whole grains range from barley, wheat, oats, whole rye, brown rice, and millet.
  • Avocados, coconut oil, and cold-pressed olive oil are rich sources of healthy fats.
  • Don’t forget to drink adequate glasses of water

Foods containing excessive sugars, saturated fats, junk food, and highly processed food trigger inflammation in the body. The body releases a hormone called cortisol which hampers fertility. So, make sure you avoid such foods to maintain the health of your eggs and improve your chances of getting pregnant. 

V. Wellness for Improved Egg Quality

A healthy mind supports a healthy body. Reread this line! The nutritious diet you are consuming, all the supplements you are taking, and the treatment you are undergoing will work more efficiently if your mind is at peace. 

A. Stress Management-: Stress is one of the biggest enemies of ovulation. Too much stress can trigger the production of cortisol and prolactin. These stress hormones delay egg production by the ovaries, disrupting ovulation and fertilization. So, it becomes vital to manage mental strain. 

Some of the best ways to keep your stress levels in check include meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, journaling, and listening to music. 

Some of the yoga asanas that assist with managing stress and conception include -: 

  • Surya Namaskar 
  • Nadi Shodhan Pranayama
  • Janu Shirasana
  • Baddha Konasana
  • Bhramari Pranayama
  • Balasana
  • Paschimottanasana

Regular practice of these asanas helps tackle mental and emotional strain but also helps stimulate the ovaries. There is an increase in the blood flow to the pelvic region. Also, these fertility asanas prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.

B. Sleep and Exercise Benefits-:

It is proven that sleep is the best medicine. Trillions of body cells repair when you are sleeping. When this medicine is armed with the right exercises, it can bring promising transformation in your journey. Exercises like fertility yoga asanas, walking, swimming, pilates, or strength training can be incorporated into your daily routine. 

These will help with stress and a good night’s sleep and help maintain a healthy BMI. If you are obese, then chances are it is going to hinder your fertility in some or the other way. 

VII. Conclusion: Your Path to Enhanced Egg Quality

Take it with a pinch of salt, but you can not stop the decline of your egg count and the quality of your eggs. However, you can implement particular lifestyle and dietary changes that can be a game changer for your journey to achieve a healthy pregnancy. Remember to stay positive while trying to get those two pink lines on the pregnancy test kit.

We at Imprimis IVF never recommend taking supplements to boost fertility without consulting an IVF doctor. Seek medical expertise before making any changes in your diet or lifestyle to enhance egg quality.

Why Imprimis IVF for infertility treatment? 

Our clients and we know what we at Imprimis can offer, from state-of-the-art facilities to affordable treatment with promising outcomes. Our results speak for us! Please pay a visit to our clinic and see for yourself. 

How Many Injections Are Needed for IVF Treatment

Understanding the Number of IVF Injections for IVF Treatment

IVF Injections – The drugs used in the IVF process are often hormones that increase the number of eggs produced by the ovaries, making them mature faster to fertilize and make implantation possible. These hormones are also used to stimulate the egg cells into developing into embryos so that they can implant in the uterus.

Another drug commonly used during IVF treatment is gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This medication is administered by injection every day for three days following ovulation and before another egg comes out via one of the female’s ovaries.

In some cases, it may not be possible for women to produce eggs on their own due to various medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which causes an imbalance in levels of male hormones in women’s bodies, which can affect fertility.

IVF Treatment Overview

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure that involves removing an egg from a woman’s ovary, fertilizing it in a controlled environment, and then transferring it back into her body. The resulting embryo is placed in the womb for development, where it will grow into a baby. IVF is used for women with problems with their eggs or getting pregnant due to blocked fallopian tubes or other reasons.

A. Explanation of the IVF Process

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an infertility procedure that uses eggs from a woman’s ovaries and sperm from a man’s testicles to create embryos and implant them into the uterus. The embryos are then implanted into the uterus by a physician or other healthcare professional. The IVF process typically takes place over several months, although some women can have their babies sooner than this.

B. Significance of Injections in the Treatment

Using injections during IVF helps doctors and scientists understand how human egg cells grow and mature. These injections also help doctors understand how certain hormones affect the development and health of a woman’s eggs. For example, some women produce more estrogen than others, making their eggs less likely to develop normally or survive until fertilization; this information can help doctors create medications that will help treat infertility related to low estrogen levels in women’s bodies.

Injections in IVF Treatment

A. Types of Medications and Injections used

Injections are used to increase your chances of getting pregnant. They help you to ovulate and allow for fertilization to take place. Oocytes are collected from the follicles of the ovaries and then fertilized with sperm in the lab.

IVF Injections Typically Consist of the following:

  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) – increases eggs production
  • Estradiol – stimulates egg development
  • Progesterone is a hormone that prepares the uterine lining for implantation.
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that causes ovulation.

B. Purpose and Role of Each Injection

The injections used in IVF treatment are designed to treat specific conditions that could interfere with the normal development of embryos. These injections help your body respond to the medications and improve the chances of successful implantation. The Purpose of each injection is to:

  • Increase fertility by making fertilising, developing, and implantation easier for eggs.
  • Improve egg quality by removing immature eggs from an ovary.
  • Prevent pregnancy loss by preventing an embryo from implanting in the uterus.

Factors Influencing the Number of Injections

A. Individualized Treatment Plans 

A treatment plan is created after the initial IVF egg retrieval and embryo transfer, which includes a detailed analysis of the patient’s age, sex, and other personal factors. The IVF specialist will determine the number of eggs to retrieve from each patient and the best timing for egg collection for other simultaneous procedures. In addition to these individualized factors, some medications may be prescribed for specific patients, affecting injection costs.

B. Patient-specific Factors Impacting Injection Requirements

In addition to the above, other factors determine the number of injections needed for IVF procedures. These include:

The type of medication used during treatment. For example, some medications require more frequent dosing than others. Most drugs used on women must be administered intravenously (through a vein), but some may be injected into muscle tissue or the abdomen.

The length of time between drug injections. Some drugs can affect fertility by causing chemical changes in sperm or ova (eggs). If you’re trying to become pregnant with donor sperm or donor egg and wait too long between injections, it could affect your ability to conceive. Some drugs also require daily administration, while others can be given once a week or less frequently if necessary. 

Managing Injections at Imprimis IVF

A. Support and guidance from the experienced medical team

Managing injections at Imprimis IVF is a process that can be intimidating for patients. However, with the guidance of our experienced medical team and Support staff, you will have everything you need to feel confident in your ability to manage your injection price.

We offer several types of injections, including Follistim/Gonal-F (for ovulation induction), Lupron Depot (for gonadotropin therapy), and HCG (for fertility monitoring). Our practice has used these products since they were first introduced, so we have experience with the medications and how best to administer them.

We also have several resources available to help you prepare for your injections, or medical team members will sit down with each patient and review their injection schedule before they leave the office. 

B. Tips for Self-administration of IVF Injections

  • Ensure the clinician is giving you the correct dose from the syringe and not just drawing up a large volume of fluid.
  • Please get in the habit of doing your injection at least 30 minutes before starting fertility treatment (e.g., ovulation) or immediately after completing it so that your body is less likely to experience any pain from being injected.
  • Do not self-inject if you have an allergy to any of the medications contained within Imprimis IVF’s Injectable Protocols (IVF) kits; consult with your physician before use if you have questions about this.
  • If possible, choose a time when you are less likely to be bothered by others around you (e.g., in the bathroom).
  • If possible, avoid injecting directly into skin folds such as those found on elbows or wrists; these areas are more responsive than others.

Side Effects and Risks

A. Common Side Effects and How they are Managed

Several common side effects of In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment exist. These include:

  1. Weight gain
  2. Mood changes
  3. Nausea and vomiting
  4. Bloating or water retention
  5. Hair loss

B. Risks Associated with IVF Injections and Their Monitoring

Occasionally, a patient may experience pain, swelling, or bruising following the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) injection or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). These symptoms should resolve within a few days without treatment. A pregnancy test should be performed if the woman is not pregnant within two weeks of the injection to ensure no other cause for the symptoms has occurred.

Alternative Treatment Approaches

A. Exploring Alternative Protocols

There are many ways to achieve pregnancy, and many people use more than one method. For example, some couples will try for a baby using natural cycle IVF (ICSI), which involves using donor eggs from a friend or family member rather than your eggs. A second option is to try for a baby using minimal stimulation IVF (MIVF). It requires removing the ovaries, making it impossible for them to make eggs. It’s also possible to use two types of contraception at once during an IVF cycle: one method can be used for egg collection, and the other must be taken after fertilization.

B. Options for Minimal Stimulation or Natural Cycle IVF

In addition to these options, it’s possible to use minimal stimulation or natural cycle IVF. If you’re trying to get pregnant with donor sperm or have unexplained infertility or unexplained subfertility issues. You have not responded to other treatments such as hormone therapy and fertility drugs (for example, Clomid).

Conclusion

A. Importance of Personalized Treatment and Injection Plans

The use of personalized IVF treatments centre and injection plans is gaining popularity, but it is pertinent to note that the success rates are low for IVF and differ for every couple. As a result, before embarking on a treatment plan, you should consult with a fertility specialist. It is critical to try to conceive if you intend to have children naturally. This way, you can determine your fertility needs and better understand how long it may take for you to become pregnant.

B. Confidence in the Expertise and Support of Imprimis IVF

Many options are available for people considering or undergoing IVF treatment. Our team at Imprimis IVF is the best fertility hospital which helps you choose the best option for your circumstances and help make sure that you understand what it involves so that you can decide how to move forward with knowledge.

C. Encouragement for Individuals Considering or Undergoing IVF Treatment

IVF is a treatment that can be used to treat infertility. It uses sperm and eggs from the same person combined in the lab.

To have a baby, the woman must carry the fertilized egg for nine months and give birth to a baby. Natural conception is understood to be this.

If a woman wants to get pregnant through IVF but has had trouble getting pregnant naturally.

At the fertility centre, IVF involves injecting hormones into your body to stimulate ovulation (release of an egg) and menstruation (periods). So you can get pregnant using donor eggs or your eggs (your eggs are called non-surgical).

You will also take prenatal medications to safely carry your child without complications such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.

Things to Consider before IVF Treatment

IVF Treatment: Infertility is a condition that prevents a couple from conceiving children. It could be due to either male or female factors, but the most common cause is female. The main reason for infertility in women is ovulation disorders such as PCOS and endometriosis, which prevent the egg from entering the uterus. Ovulation disorders can be treated with laparoscopy or hysteroscopy.

Imprimis IVF is a leading IVF clinic in Srinagar. We offer state-of-the-art multi-disciplinary care to patients with diverse conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, menopause, fibroids, cervical dysplasia, etc.

The first step in the IVF journey is to get your health good and checked. Many things can go wrong during IVF treatment, so you mustn’t neglect your health.

Things to Consider Before IVF Treatment.

Before beginning your IVF Journey, Check Your Health.

You need to have a healthy body and mind before you start your IVF journey. It’s not just the physical aspects of your body but also the mental aspect. It would help if you were mentally strong before you make important decisions in your life.

There is No Assurance that You will become pregnant following IVF Treatment.

IVF treatment is not 100% guaranteed to result in pregnancy after undergoing the process for one time only, so don’t expect too much from this process. The success rate of IVF treatment depends on many factors like age, fertility levels before starting this procedure or any other factor that may affect the results during treatment like infection etc. Still, if you want a baby, you can try again after some time or schedule another attempt at another clinic/centre nearby if they fail to give results within the given time frame or schedule another attempt.

IVF Is A Pricey Procedure

Infertility treatment in Srinagar can cost anywhere between 80,000 and 250,000 per cycle. The cost depends on how many embryos are transferred and how many are frozen for storage. Various factors affect the price of IVF treatment in Srinagar.

You Must Have Perseverance

It takes time for an embryo to develop into an early-stage pregnancy and then into a full-term pregnancy. During this period, there are many ups and downs — emotional and physical- which can cause stress and anxiety levels, especially for the couple who wants their dream child so badly! However, there is no need to worry because with patience comes success!

Select the Best IVF Center/Clinic

We know that the IVF process can be confusing and overwhelming, so we have developed a list of questions you should ask your doctor before choosing an IVF clinic or centre.

  1. What is my IVF treatment plan?
  2. How many embryos will be transferred to me?
  3. How many embryos will be frozen for future use?
  4. What type of embryos will be used in my cycle?
  5. What are the chances of multiple births (multiple pregnancies)?
  6. Can I choose not to freeze any embryos after my cycle is complete? If so, what are the risks involved with this decision?

Best IVF Treatment Centre In Srinagar – Imprimis IVF

Imprimis IVF is highly qualified and experienced in fertility treatment. Contact us today to learn more about our IVF services if you are looking for an IVF centre in Kashmir.

Imprimis has offered advanced infertility treatments like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). ICSI involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg without fertilizing it with another sperm first. We use ICSI for male and female patients to increase the chances of getting pregnant by using a single sperm that fertilizes an egg. It allows doctors to remove one of the two eggs that were not successfully fertilized during ovulation and then use it for ICSI treatment. It reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies or premature birth complications by up to 90%.

Affordable IVF Treatment in Srinagar

Imprimis IVF is the top IVF facility in Kashmir, with cutting-edge facilities and procedures that allow us to help more women. Imprimis IVF is a pioneer in providing patients worldwide with affordable assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures such as In Vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg donation.

Imprimis IVF has been assisting patients with infertility problems for a decade and a half, and we have a relatively high success rate. Our track record for excellence and commitment to excellence has helped us attract prospective clients from all walks of life, including couples that have previously tried and failed to find success elsewhere.

We offer our patients complete care during pregnancy and postpartum by providing specialized care for mothers with fertility treatments, like IVF or egg donation, and those who have experienced miscarriage or stillbirth. Our expert physicians use advanced diagnostic techniques, medical imaging, and medical equipment to ensure your health and fertility are fully optimized.

Our team of fertility specialists in Kashmir has the knowledge and experience to treat all types of infertility issues, including:
  • Male Infertility
  • Female Infertility
  • In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and Preconception Care
  • Ovulation Induction, Intrauterine Insemination, In Vitro, and Fertilisation (IVF) are all procedures used to induce ovulation.
  • Preconception Care for Women with PCOS, Endometriosis, or Unexplained Infertility

Experience the Joy of Motherhood

IVF is an infertility treatment. It is a medical procedure that uses fertility drugs to help women produce eggs and sperm in their ovaries or testes. The excess fertilized eggs are frozen and stored for future use. This process is called egg freezing, and it is often done after two unsuccessful IVF cycles when more eggs have been used than the woman can safely carry. Eggs are retrieved from the ovary at the time of egg retrieval, or they may be harvested surgically if egg retrieval is not possible.

To increase pregnancy chances, your doctor or clinic may offer ideas after learning more about your sexual habits. The best IVF centre in Srinagar will work with you on infertility issues. When you meet with us at Imprimis IVF, we will conduct a complete evaluation of your situation, including an examination of your health history and family history to determine if any underlying genetic issues might contribute to infertility. To ensure safety during pregnancy, we may perform blood tests for genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease before beginning treatment using our advanced screening process.

Low Sperm Count Treatment

Low sperm count in men is one of the most common causes of infertility. Sperm counts are usually measured in a million per millilitre (ml). If your sperm count is below 20 ml per ml, you may benefit from fertility treatment.

Several options are available if you have had a hysterectomy and want to get pregnant. In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves removing eggs from your ovaries using hormone stimulation and placing them into an egg extraction machine that fertilizes them outside the body. This process enables doctors to place multiple embryos into your uterus to increase the chance of conception.

Our IVF centre in Srinagar offers advanced technology and exceptional care for all patients seeking treatment for infertility issues such as male, female, and unexplained infertility.

Male Infertility Treatment in Srinagar

Infertility is when a couple fails to conceive after one year of trying. It can be either male or female infertility.

Male infertility occurs when the male partner is unable to produce sperm capable of successfully impregnating the female partner. Male infertility can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as inherited conditions, infections, or ageing. Generally, male infertility treatment in Srinagar involves medical and surgical approaches. The most common form of male infertility treatment involves medication, sperm retrieval procedures, and IVF (in vitro fertilization).

Highly Experienced IVF Doctors and Team

We are proud to be one of the best IVF centres in Kashmir. We have been providing high-quality fertility services to patients from all over India. Our doctors and staff are highly experienced, which makes us one of the best IVF clinics in Kashmir.

We realize how important a healthy baby is to you and your partner, so we take every precaution to ensure a successful pregnancy. It includes:
  • Consider all possible fertility treatments that may be appropriate for you and your partner based on your situation, including IVF with donor eggs, ICSI (intrauterine insemination), or IVF with your partner’s sperm or eggs.
  • Using our latest technologies and methods to increase your chances of having a healthy baby through our state-of-the-art facilities, including:
  • IVF with donor eggs (egg donation) – A procedure where an egg from another woman is used to fertilize the egg(s) from you.

Cost of IVF Treatment in Srinagar

IVF centres are divided into two types: private and public. Private clinics enjoy more autonomy, meaning they can choose the most suitable donor and treatment protocols for each patient. In addition, they have more financial resources than public clinics.

The cost of IVF treatment varies depending on the country where you live and your insurance coverage. Private clinics offer lower prices because they only accept patients who have enough money for treatments and medications. Public IVF centres accept people regardless of their financial situation but have fewer resources than private clinics do.

IVF Treatment Cycle Ranges

In Srinagar, the standard cost of a single IVF treatment cycle ranges from Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 2,50,000. For couples who want to have a baby but cannot afford the cost of IVF treatment in Srinagar, other options are available. One option is adoption, which involves placing a child for adoption with another family. The cost of this service depends on the country where the child is being placed and the requirements of the adoptive parents.

Another option available to couples who cannot afford IVF treatment in Srinagar is surrogacy. Surrogacy involves hiring a surrogate mother to carry and deliver your baby. The cost of this service varies depending on factors such as whether you choose a domestic or international surrogate mother, what type of surrogacy arrangement you choose, and whether you require medical assistance during pregnancy or after delivery.

Several factors determine the expense of treatment for IVF in Srinagar. Including:
  • The clinic where you plan to undergo IVF
  • The type of procedure being done.
  • Your age and health condition
  • Any fertility medications that you may be taking

IVF vs IUI Which is Better

IVF vs IUI

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) offers several treatment options for infertile couples to achieve pregnancy. However, it might be overwhelming for a couple to choose the best one for them. In most cases, couples are stuck between In-vitro fertilization and Intrauterine insemination. The answer to this tussle between IVF vs IUI is based on several medical and financial parameters. In this article, Imprimis IVF, the best IVF centre in Srinagar, will help you find your answer. 

Whether a couple should opt for IVF vs IUI depends on a range of essential factors like age, genetic condition, medical condition of the couple, previous ART treatment failures, etc. The fertility expert can only decide which is better after running various tests and examining your situation thoroughly.  

Female fertility revolves around the well-being of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. If these reproductive parts’ natural functioning is compromised for any reason, it may lead to infertility. 

Sperm Morphology-

Sperm Morphology considers the shape and size of the sperm ejaculated by the male partner. Semen analysis is conducted. Sperm ejaculated by the man is examined based on three parameters: 

Sperm Motility-: 

The sperm should be able to swim through the female reproductive system to fertilize the egg in the fallopian tube. Typically, the motility of the sperm should be 40% to reach the egg for fertilization. 

Sperm Count-: 

Ideally, the male partner should ejaculate more than 15 million sperm per ml of the semen sample. 

Nature and Cost of IUI and IVF Treatment

Intrauterine insemination is the most basic ART procedure. It is because IUI is a more natural process, as the egg fertilizes inside the female uterus, just like in natural conception. At the same time, In-vitro fertilization is a complicated procedure that involves five steps. In IVF, the egg fertilizes on a petri dish in a state-of-the-art laboratory, i.e., outside the uterus of the woman. The embryo so formed is implanted in the uterus, where it grows into a baby. 

In addition, IUI is an easy, cost-effective, and less time-consuming fertility treatment. In IUI, a couple has fewer appointments with the reproductive specialist than in IVF.

IUI treatment costs in India vary with geographical location and medical history. But on average, the cost lies somewhere between 8,000 to 25,000 INR. The cost of IUI treatment in Srinagar is between 15,000 to 35,000 INR. 

The cost of IVF treatment in India greatly varies with the location of the fertility clinic, the medical condition of the couple, medical expertise, and infrastructure. Considering all these factors, the cost is estimated to be around 1,00,000 to 3,50,000 INR. The average IVF treatment cost in Srinagar is between 1,00,000 to 2,75,000 INR. If you are looking for the best IVF centre in Srinagar that is also affordable, there’s no better option than Imprimis IVF. 

Conditions that Point Toward IUI Treatment 

IUI is generally performed when the female partner is fertile and has no other medical conditions that may cause any issue in achieving pregnancy. But the sperm ejaculated by the male partner cannot fertilize the egg. IUI is also recommended for a male with retrograde ejaculation and unexplained infertility. 

The sperm sample of the male partner is prepared. This process is termed sperm preparation. The semen sample is washed or processed to remove all the impurities. Good quality and motile sperm are separated. Then with the help of a catheter, the selected sperm is injected directly into the uterus of the female partner. The entire IUI process of injecting sperm takes 5-10 minutes and is generally performed without anaesthesia. 

Conditions that Point Toward IVF Treatment

IVF starts with stimulating the ovaries, followed by egg retrieval. Side by side, sperm are also retrieved from the male partner. The 4th step is fertilizing the egg, which gets implanted in the uterus. The entire IVF process ideally takes 6-8 weeks to complete. 

IVF treatment is majorly recommended for women with the following medical conditions.

  • If the IUI procedure fails three consecutive times, it is advised to go for IVF treatment.
  • Genetic disorders.
  • The woman’s age is above 35 years.
  • Blocked fallopian tubes
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
  • Recurrent abortions.
  • In case a woman has a poor ovarian reserve.
  • A woman with endometriosis(the proper implantation of the embryo in the uterine wall) can rely on IVF.
  • A couple has been trying to conceive for more than a decade without success.

Medical Conditions in Men

Apart from women-related fertility issues, some severe medical conditions in men might be the root cause of infertility. IVF is found to be the most suitable fertility treatment for the following medical conditions in men-: 

  • If the male partner has severe oligospermia, the sperm concentration is as low as 1-5 million sperm per millilitre of the semen sample. 
  • A man may have azoospermia which is a severe reproductive shortcoming. In azoospermia, zero or no sperms are ejaculated during intercourse.
  • IVF is one of the best treatments for males with genetic conditions like Klinefelter Syndrome.

IVF also unlocks the opportunity for couples to choose donor embryos, donor eggs, and donor sperm to get pregnant. Same-sex couples can also welcome their little ones with IVF. Another boon of IVF treatment is that a couple with medical ailments may seek a surrogate mother. 

In the modern era, people prefer not to marry in their twenties. But because pregnancy is an age-dependent parameter, infertility is rising due to modern choices and lifestyle. However, at the same time, the youth is gaining more awareness about infertility and its treatment options. 

Nowadays, a plethora of young people is taking the help of IVF to freeze their eggs and sperm to stay on the safer side. If natural conception doesn’t bring fruitful results, they can use their frozen eggs and sperm reserve timely and embark on their journey of parenthood. 

Which is more Painful, IVF vs IUI? 

IUI is a painless procedure generally carried out without giving anaesthesia to the woman. You may feel a sense of discomfort when the needle carrying the washed and processed sperm makes its way through the vagina to reach the egg. If a patient is sensitive to a needle, then the patient is given some painkillers before the treatment. 

Moving further to IVF, it is also a painless treatment. However, a woman sensitive to injections can feel a little pain as 15-30 injections are administered to stimulate the ovaries. Apart from this, the entire procedure of IVF doesn’t involve any surgery that may cause pain. 

Success Rates of Intrauterine Insemination and In-vitro Fertilization

The success rates of IUI lie between 12-15% per attempt. In contrast, the success rates of IVF lie between 30-40% per cycle. The success rates of IVF vary significantly with the age of a woman. If a woman is under 35 years of age, then she has a better success rate of getting pregnant with IVF. But if a woman is over 35, success rates fall between 25% and 30% per cycle. 

Once a woman crosses 40, IVF success rates decline to 16% per cycle. And as she reaches 45, the chances of success stand at 7% per cycle. 

Some people have this misconception that IVF will result in pregnancy. But in reality, IVF has its fair share of limitations. Some couples have been through several cycles of IVF but are still struggling to get pregnant. 

It is a fact that IVF offers a higher chance of conceiving a baby. However, it must be remembered that IVF doesn’t provide a 100% guarantee of achieving pregnancy. Medical studies and research are in progress to develop methods that increase the success rate, especially in older women. 

A couple needs to undergo IVF treatment in a laboratory equipped with modern incubators, microscopes, lasers, fertilization media, coda air filters, micromanipulators, workstations, filters, etc. If you are looking for one such laboratory armed with medical expertise for your IVF treatment in Srinagar, we welcome you with open arms at Imprimis IVF. 

Final Words for IVF vs IUI

Articles, videos, and other material help you know and understand medical treatments like IVF vs IUI. However, these sources alone can’t be used to decide the best treatment option. Every couple has specific medical conditions that can not be generalized. Only a reproductive expert can help you choose the best for you and increase your chances of success. Imprimis IVF, the best IVF centre in Srinagar, cordially requests you to visit an experienced fertility expert for consultation. 

The success rate of ART also depends on your lifestyle, stress levels, and mindset. So, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude so that you will be a parent very soon!

What is Recurrent Abortion – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Recurrent Abortion: A miscarriage is a common mishappening. Around 15 to 20% of couples have had a miscarriage in their journey to parenthood. However, if you have a miscarriage every time you try to carry your pregnancy to term, you may need to seek timely medical guidance from an obstetrician.

Miscarriage is an age-dependent event. The risk of miscarriage in women below 30 is lower than in women over 35.

What is Recurrent Abortion?

Suppose a woman has two or more consecutive miscarriages before 20 weeks of pregnancy or the first trimester due to some complications. In that case, it is termed recurrent abortion or recurrent pregnancy loss.

Around 2-5% of couples around the globe are affected by recurrent pregnancy loss.

Recurrent Abortion Causes

Recurrent Abortion Causes

The root cause of recurrent abortion is complications in the embryo, the uterus, or the environment. Some of the recurrent abortion causes are stated below:

Genetic Abnormalities-:

The most common cause of recurrent abortion or recurrent miscarriage is genetic dysfunction. Twenty-three pairs of chromosomes are found in both men and women. 22 of the chromosomes are the same, but the last one decides the gender of the embryo.

The embryo takes half of the chromosomes from both parents. But sometimes, the chromosomes inherited by the embryo are abnormal. Due to these abnormal chromosomes, the woman has a recurrent abortion. The inheritance of abnormal chromosomes takes place naturally. However, this problem must be addressed by a fertility expert.

Uterine Anomalies-:

The uterus, or the womb, is the home of the growing fetus for nine months. Any problem associated with the shape of the uterus is bound to affect the embryo’s growth and may lead to recurrent miscarriage.

Uterine anomalies that lead to recurrent abortion are witnessed to affect 10-15% of women worldwide.

An abnormally shaped uterus in which only one side is fully developed, uterine fibroids, polyps, uterine septum, and double uterus in which the uterus is divided from the centre are some of the most common uterine anomalies.

Uterine anomalies are detected by running the following tests to determine the root cause and proceed with further diagnosis.

  • Ultrasound
  • Hysterosalpingography
  • Sonohysterography
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Magnetic Resonance
  • Laparoscopy

Antiphospholipid Syndrome-:

Antiphospholipid syndrome is a medical condition in which a person’s body starts producing antiphospholipid antibodies that attack the body’s internal system, resulting in the formation of clots and affecting pregnancy. The most common complications due to antiphospholipid syndrome that affect 3-15% of women include recurrent early abortion, late miscarriages, early preeclampsia, and stillbirths.

Hormonal and Metabolic Diseases-:

Metabolic and hormonal diseases like uncontrolled diabetes, PCOS, obesity, insulin resistance or insulin sensitivity, and untreated thyroid problems can be the causes of recurrent abortion. Also, if the female hormone responsible for a healthy pregnancy, progesterone, is not produced timely and in healthy amounts, this may lead to recurrent abortion.

Uterine Infections-:

Uterine and other bacterial infections like rubella, listeria, toxoplasmosis, and certain genital infections may contribute to miscarriages.

Apart from these, there are other less common causes of recurrent abortion, including stress, immunological causes that may treat the fetus as a foreign body and attack it, and cervical insufficiency.

Studies and research are still going on to identify the root cause of recurrent abortion and diagnose it accordingly.

Recurrent Abortion Symptoms

Recurrent Abortion Symptoms

Recurrent abortion may or may not be accompanied by any symptoms. However, if you are doubtful about your pregnancy, there are specific recurrent abortion symptoms that you can watch out for, like-as:

  • Bleeding or spotting
  • Frequent and excruciating contractions
  • Pain in the belly or back (mild to severe)
  • Discharge of pinkish-white mucus from the vagina
  • A clot-like tissue coming out from the vagina
  • Visible and sudden vanishing of signs of pregnancy
  • A constant feeling of grief

Preventive Measures to Avoid

If you want to increase your chances of delivering a baby by decreasing the risk of another miscarriage, there are certain precautions you can adopt for a positive outcome.

Experts state that the expecting couple can undertake the below-mentioned measures.

Plan Your Pregnancy at the Right Age-:

The risk of miscarriage increases with age. The rate of miscarriages witnesses a sharp increase once a woman crosses 30 years of age. This sharp increase is due to the increase in chromosomal abnormalities in the eggs produced by the ovaries. The most fertile age for women to become a mother is between 24 to 30. So, to reduce your risk of recurrent abortion, planning pregnancy at the right age is vital.

Maintain a healthy Body Mass Index-:

Medical experts believe a healthy body weight is essential for a healthy pregnancy. If the BMI is too low or too high, it may lead to complications in conceiving and sometimes may result in a miscarriage.

Proper and Timely Correction of Uterine Anomalies-:

Suppose the home of the growing embryo is not of the appropriate shape or has any other complication. In that case, it must be corrected timely under an experienced expert with the help of state-of-the-art technology available at fertility clinics like Imprimis IVF, Srinagar.

Check for any Antiphospholipid Syndrome Symptoms-:

Antiphospholipid syndrome must be checked for and diagnosed properly to end recurrent abortion.

Removal of Uterine Polyps and Uterine Fibroids-:

Uterine polyps and uterine fibroids should be removed if detected as the reason behind recurrent abortion.

Diabetes, Thyroid, and Kidney Problems must be addressed-:

Before thinking about conceiving, it is for the best that issues related to thyroid, kidney, and insulin production must be addressed to reduce the chances of recurrent abortion.

Addressing Hypertension Before Pregnancy-:

There is not much data to support the link between hypertension and pregnancy. However, experts believe that high blood pressure before conceiving may result in a miscarriage. So, it would help if you tried to bring your blood pressure under control to ensure a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.

Monitor Your Caffeine intake-:

It might be astonishing, but excessive caffeine consumption directly hampers your chances of carrying your pregnancy to term. Overconsumption of caffeine increases your heart rate as well as blood pressure. So, it is advised to cap your caffeine consumption to 150-200 milligrams per day to increase your chances of success in welcoming a healthy newborn.

Lifestyle Plays a Key Role-:

Following a healthy lifestyle can significantly help with a healthy pregnancy. The woman should avoid alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy to avoid any chances of miscarriage.

Recurrent Abortion Treatment

Recurrent Abortion Treatment

Recurrent abortion treatment is carried out after thoroughly examining the couple to identify the root cause. Based on the root cause, various treatment options are available to help prevent further miscarriages in women.

Some of the most trusted treatment options for recurrent abortion are stated below-:

In-vitro fertilization (IVF)-:

IVF treatment is a reliable option for couples with recurrent abortions. During this process, fertilization that naturally takes place in a woman’s vagina is carried out on a petri dish in a laboratory. Then after the successful fertilization of the egg, it is implanted in the woman’s uterus, where it grows for nine months.

Surgeries to fix Uterine Anomalies-:

After detecting the uterine anomaly, proper surgeries are undertaken by the reproductive specialist.

Treating other Medical Ailments-:

Diabetes, thyroid, and kidney problems are treated to increase the chances of a healthy nine months of pregnancy.

Medications to Prevent Blood Thinning and Clot Formation-:

Medications like Aspirin and Heparin are administered to the woman to avoid blood thinning and clotting.

The first step to diagnosing the problem of recurrent abortion is to consult an expert and avoid indulging in self-medication, as it may do more harm than good. Always remember stress-free lifestyle and a positive mindset are necessary for a healthy pregnancy.

Conclusion

We at Imprimis IVF understand that recurrent abortion can shatter hopes and bring sadness into your life. But the good news is recurrent abortion can be reversed with the proper treatment. The problem should be handled under the supervision and guidance of a good and experienced obstetrician. If you cannot carry a pregnancy to term, it is your calling to pay a visit to an obstetrician.

PCOS – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous, multisystem endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age. PCOS symptoms may begin shortly after puberty but can also develop during teen years and early adulthood. It is defined and diagnosed by a combination of signs and symptoms of androgen excess, ovarian dysfunction and polycystic ovarian morphology or ultrasound. The symptoms involve chronic anovulation or ovulatory dysfunction resulting in infertility. In clinical practice, 75% of women with PCOS have anovulatory infertility and 50% experience recurrent pregnancy loss. A diagnosis of PCOS incurs a higher risk of infertility, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and gynaecological malignancies. There is a multitude of treatments for each sequel of Pcos, ranging from lifestyle modification to In-Vitro fertilization (IVF).

Pathogenesis involves environmental, dietary and hereditary factors. Efficient management of Pcos provides a window of opportunity towards the risk of associated complications. Treatment is broadly aimed at managing the effects of hypoandrogenism, irregular menstruation and infertility. In India, its prevalence is between 8.2% to 22.5%.

Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome PCOS:-

Causes of PCOS

  • Family History:- Research suggests that certain genes might be linked to PCOS. Having a family history may play a role in developing this condition.
  • Excess androgen:- With PCOS, ovaries may produce high – levels of androgen. Having too much androgen interferes with ovulation. It means that eggs do not develop regularly and aren’t released from the follicles where they develop. Excess androgen also can result in hirsutism and acne.
  • Insulin Resistance:- An increase in Insulin levels causes ovaries to make and release male hormones (Androgen), which suppresses ovulation and contributes to other symptoms of PCOS.
  • Weight and lifestyle:- Pcos can occur in both slender and overweight women. However, women with PCOS are at a greater risk of being overweight or obese. Being above a healthy weight woman worsens insulin resistance, which is thought to be a key part of the development of PCOS. The good news is that a healthy lifestyle of nutritious food and physical activity can help to treat PCOS and improve symptoms.
  • Environmental:- Environmental factors, including stress, play an important role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome PCOS:-

Symptoms of PCOS - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

  1. Irregular Periods: Pcos results in irregular cycles as a result of ovulation. It may include Amenorrhea (abnormal absence of periods), oligomenorrhea (decreased flow of periods) or menorrhagia (excessive periods).
  2.  Excess Androgen: It causes symptoms like hair growth on the face, acne, weight gain, darkening of the skin, and thinning of hair on the head.
  3. Infertility: Difficulty in conceiving due to ovulation. PCOS is a leading cause of female infertility. However, not every woman with PCOS is the same. Although some may need assistance with fertility treatment, others can conceive naturally.

Treatment for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome PCOS:-

Treatment of PCOS - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Most symptoms of PCOS are a result of hormonal imbalances. The treatment of PCOS includes a multidisciplinary approach:-

Health and Nutrition:-

It is the first line of treatment. We must meet a nutrition counsellor who will work with you to ensure that your diet and lifestyle are healthy and balanced. Weight loss can lower insulin and androgen levels, resolve ovulation, and reverse the symptoms of PCOS. The carbohydrates are to be limited. Choose complex carbohydrates, which raise your blood sugar levels slowly. Complex carbohydrates are found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and cooked dry beans and peas.

Exercise plays an important role. Increasing daily activity and regular exercise may treat or even prevent insulin resistance.

 Medications:-

  • To regulate your periods:
  1. Oral Contraceptive Pills: Pills that contain estrogen and progesterone decrease (combined) androgen production and regulate estrogen. Regulating hormones can lower the risk of endometrial carcinoma.
 To help ovulation so that you can become pregnant:
  1. Clomiphene: This oral anti-estrogen medication is taken during 1st part of the menstrual cycle.
  2. Letrozole: It helps to stimulate ovaries and help in ovulation induction.
  3. Metformin: It helps to improve insulin resistance and lower insulin levels. It also plays an important role in ovulation.

IVF Treatment:-

If you have PCOS and medication does not help you to get pregnant, you may be offered In – Vitro fertilization (IVF). It involves eggs being collected from the ovaries and fertilized outside the womb. The fertilized eggs are then placed in the womb. IVF treatment increases the chances of having twins or triplets if you have PCOS.

Surgical:-

A minor surgical procedure called laparoscopic ovarian (LOD) may be a treatment option for fertility problems associated with PCOS who do not respond to medications.

The ovaries will be surgically treated using heat or laser to destroy the tissue-producing androgens. Laparoscopic ovarian drilling has been found to lower levels of testosterone and LH and increase FSH. It corrects the hormone imbalance and restores the normal function of the ovaries.

Options for infertility treatment in PCOS:-

  1. Non – Pharmacological Intervention:-
  2. Diet (low-calorie diet)
  3. Exercise (150 min/week of moderate-intensity or 75 min/week of severe intensity)
  4. Pharmacological Intervention:-
  • Oral ovulation induction agents like letrozole or clomiphene.
  • Injectable Gonadotrophin.

Assisted reproduction technologies:-

Complications of PCOS:

  1.  Infertility: Epidemiologic evidence suggests that PCOS is the most common cause of ovulatory disorder, and oligo anovulation is related to increased risk for fertility.
  2. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus:- If women with Pcos conceived, they are at a higher risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy (almost three folds) because of increased insulin resistance.
  3. Miscarriage and premature birth.
  4. Metabolic Syndrome:- This includes raised blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol or triglycerides that significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  5. Type II Diabetes Mellitus.
  6. Sleep apnea
  7. Depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
  8. Endometrial Carcinoma.

Diagnostic criteria for PCOS:-

Two of the three features must be present for the diagnosis of PCOS:

  • Clinical: Acne, hirsutism or acanthosis nigricans.
  • Biochemical:

Total testosterone > 70ng/dl

Androestenedine > 248 ng/dl

DHEA – S > 248 ug/dl

  •  Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound ( > 12 follicles (2-9mm diameter) in each ovary or ovarian volume > 10cc).

Role of IVF in PCOS:-

IVF is an excellent option when PCOS fertility medications fail. With IVF, there are higher chances of getting pregnant with lower risk. The main cause of infertility due to PCOS is that these women do not ovulate regularly, which can be regulated to conceive using IVF and have up to a 70% chance of becoming pregnant.

Ovarian Cyst – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

What is Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries, a female reproductive system’s part. An ovarian cyst is a common issue in women, and it’s assumed that most women will get it once. Although most ovarian cysts are typically harmless and often resolve without any medical intervention, some can cause discomfort and pain, and in rare cases, they can become cancerous.

This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of ovarian cysts, covering their symptoms, causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment options. It will also cover some potential complications of ovarian cysts and ways to prevent them. By reading this post, you will gain valuable information about ovarian cysts and how they can be effectively managed to improve your overall health and well-being.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms

All ovarian cysts’ symptoms can differ depending on the size, type, and location. Some women may not experience symptoms, while others may have one or more of the following symptoms. It’s essential to note that these symptoms may also be related to other health issues, and only a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose an ovarian cyst. Women who face these symptoms need medical help to determine the leading cause.

  1. Pain and discomfort: One of the most common symptoms of an ovarian cyst is pain, which can range from dull to sharp. The pain is typically felt in the pelvis. It’s important to note that while pain is a common symptom of an ovarian cyst, it can also be associated with various other conditions.
  2. Changes in the menstrual cycle: Some women can experience changes in their periods.
  3. Bloating and fullness: Ovarian cysts can cause pressure in the lower abdomen and bloating.
  4. Other possible symptoms: Other symptoms that may be associated with ovarian cysts include:
  • Difficulty urinating or frequent urination
  • Pain during bowel movements
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Weight gain
  • Fatigue

It’s essential to note that while the symptoms mentioned in this post are common indicators of ovarian cysts, they can also be caused by other health conditions. As a result, it’s essential to seek medical attention from an IVF expert if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

What are the Causes of Ovarian Cysts?

There are several potential causes of ovarian cysts, including:

  1. Hormonal imbalances: Ovarian cysts can develop due to hormonal imbalances, such as excess estrogen or androgen hormones.
  2. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a medical condition in which the ovaries produce high androgen hormones, which can lead to the formation of multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
  3. Endometriosis is a medical condition where the lining tissue of the uterus grows outside, which can cause ovarian cysts when it grows on ovaries.
  4. Pregnancy: Ovarian cysts can sometimes form during pregnancy, typically in the first trimester, due to changes in hormone levels.
  5. Other possible causes: Ovarian cysts can also be caused by many medical conditions or fertility drugs.

Ovarian cysts can develop without any known cause. It’s important to note that having an ovarian cyst does not necessarily mean a person has cancer. Still, having any ovarian cysts evaluated by IVF experts to rule out any underlying severe conditions is essential.

What are the Types of Ovarian Cysts

There are different types of ovarian cysts, which are:

  1. Functional cyst: Follicular and corpus luteum cysts are various functional cysts that perform like normal ovaries.
  2. Dermoid cysts: These cysts are the form of cells that produce human eggs and contain various tissues.
  3. Cystadenomas: These are formed from cells on the upper layer of the ovary and are filled with watery or mucous-like fluid.
  4. Endometriomas: These are cysts that form due to endometriosis.

It’s important to know that some ovarian cysts may need treatment while others must resolve themselves. It is essential to look for a healthcare provider if you are facing these symptoms, as they need immediate treatment.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cysts

The diagnosis of ovarian cysts typically involves a combination of different methods, including:

1: Physical examination: A healthcare provider may conduct a pelvic exam to check for any signs of tenderness or swelling in the ovaries.

2: Ultrasound: This technique uses sound waves to make images, which can help recognize a cyst and provide information about it.

3: Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to measure hormone levels or detect tumour markers and substances produced by specific cancer cells.

4: Other diagnostic tests: Depending on the type and characteristics of the cyst, additional tests may be recommended, such as a CT scan, MRI, or biopsy. These tests can help provide more detailed information about the cyst and determine if it is cancerous or noncancerous.

It’s important to note that not all ovarian cysts require treatment. Still, a healthcare provider will typically recommend follow-up testing and monitoring to ensure that the cyst is not causing any complications or growing in size.

What can be the Preferred Ovarian Cysts Treatment?

Treatment of ovarian cysts can vary depending on many factors, like type and the size of the cyst, the presence of any symptoms, and the patient’s health and age. Treatment options may include:

  • Watchful waiting: Small, noncancerous ovarian cysts may not require treatment and may resolve independently over time. In these cases, a healthcare provider may recommend watchful waiting and regular monitoring to ensure the cyst does not grow or cause complications.
  • Medications: Hormonal birth control pills or other hormone therapies may be used to regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to developing ovarian cysts. Pain relievers can also be recommended in pain.
  • Surgery: Surgery may be necessary if a cyst is significant and causing pain. The type of surgery will depend on the characteristics of the cyst, but options may include laparoscopy or laparotomy to remove the cyst or the affected ovary.
  • Ovarian cystectomy is a surgical process that includes removing the cyst while preserving the ovary. It is typically performed in cases where the cyst is small and noncancerous, and the individual wishes to maintain their fertility.
  • Oophorectomy: This surgical procedure involves removing the affected ovary and may be recommended in cases where the cyst is large, cancerous, or causing significant pain or discomfort.

What are Preventions for Ovarian Cysts?

It is not always possible to prevent the development of ovarian cysts, as they can occur naturally and for various reasons. However, some steps can reduce developing ovarian cysts, including:

  1. Hormonal birth control: Taking hormonal birth control, such as the pill or the patch, may help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the risk of developing functional cysts.
  2. Regular gynaecological check-ups: Regular visits to a gynaecologist help detect the presence of ovarian cysts early on before they become problematic.
  3. Keeping a healthy weight: Being obese can grow the risk of developing ovarian cysts. Having a healthy weight through a healthy diet and exercise can help decrease the risk.
  4. Managing underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as endometriosis and PCOS, can increase the risk of developing ovarian cysts.
  5. Avoiding exposure to toxins: Certain toxins, such as cigarette smoke and certain chemicals, may increase the risk of developing ovarian cysts. Avoiding these toxins can help decrease the risk.

These steps can help reduce developing ovarian cysts, but they do not guarantee that cysts will not grow. It is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cysts and seek medical attention if any symptoms arise.

What Size of Ovarian Cyst is Dangerous?

Any ovarian cyst that causes symptoms such as pain, bloating, or changes in the menstrual cycle, regardless of its size, should be evaluated. Additionally, ovarian cysts that are larger than 5 centimetres in length or that continue to grow should be closely monitored and may require further evaluation or treatment.

Conclusion

Ovarian cysts are an ordinary condition that affects every woman. While many cysts are minor and do not cause symptoms, some can grow larger and cause pain or discomfort. It’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of ovarian cysts, as early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.

At Imprimis IVF, we understand ovarian cysts’ impact on a woman’s fertility and overall health. Our experienced team works closely with every patient and develops a personalized treatment plan accordingly.

What are the Five Stages of IVF?

Five Stages of IVF – Life becomes even more blissful and fulfilling with the appearance of two pink lines on the pregnancy testing kit. These two lines bring a wave of emotions you have never experienced. But due to numerous physical, physiological, and environmental reasons, some couples can not conceive naturally. Medical advancements over the years have helped overcome this hurdle with Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). 

In-vitro fertilization, or IVF treatment, is the most trusted medical procedure that helps infertile couples trying hard for a baby but cannot do so.

However, before going for IVF treatment in Srinagar, it’s essential to prepare yourself by becoming familiar with the five stages of IVF Treatment.

Five Stages of IVF

IVF is a highly complex medical procedure that involves the following five stages of IVF-: 

Pre-cycle Testing

Before IVF treatment, the male and the female must undergo various tests like pelvic examination and transvaginal ultrasounds.

The fallopian tubes and uterus are carefully examined for any issues requiring a diagnosis. It is also known as ovarian reserve testing or fertility testing, which includes detecting sexually transmitted diseases, blood tests for hormonal imbalance, semen analysis, thyroid function, and ovarian reserve. 

Stage 1Ovarian Stimulation and Ovulation Triggering

 A woman’s ovaries are home to thousands of ovarian follicles. Each follicle contains an oocyte which is an immature egg cell. Stimulation of the ovaries is the process that prepares the ovaries to produce these eggs. The more eggs, the more favourable the outcome and success rate! 

To increase the shares of success, the woman is on hormone medication for 8-14 days. These medications are given as pills, patches, and injections that act on the ovaries to produce or overproduce eggs for fertilization. Also, these medications prepare the uterine lining for pregnancy. On average, 15-30 hormonal medicines in the form of injections are administered to the female. 

These IVF injections happen to be quite expensive. The cost of IVF injections and medications for ovarian stimulation is around 60,000-80,000 INR. 

Stage 2: Egg Pick Up (EPU) or Egg retrieval

The egg retrieval process consists of using a needle, which is performed under general anaesthesia. As is clear from the name, this stage involves the collection of eggs from both ovaries. It is performed 34-36 hours after the last medication dose or trigger shot. The vagina is adequately cleaned, and the fertility expert correctly examines the ovaries through ultrasound before this stage. 

EPU is achieved with the help of transvaginal ultrasounds in which a needle is connected to a suction device. Through the vagina, this needle makes its way into each ovary. The egg (oocyte) is collected from each follicle as the needle enters the ovaries. It takes about 15-30 minutes to retrieve an egg. These retrieved eggs are stored to fuse with sperm harvested from the male.  

Stage 3: Sperm Retrieval

The sperm from the male are harvested two-three days before fertilization or on the day of retrieval of eggs. 

The various methods available to retrieve sperm from the male are stated below: 

  • Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA)
  • Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE)
  • Microdissection TESE (microTESE) 
  • Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA)
  • Micro Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA) 

Stage 4: Fertilization

IVF treatment typically involves the manual fertilization of eggs with sperm ejaculated by the male partner. The necessary condition for fertilization is that the eggs must be mature. The retrieved eggs are examined for mature eggs. 

In this stage, the sperm is injected into the eggs collected during stage 2 with the help of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) or through conventional fertilization, where the sperm and eggs are placed on a small dish where the sperm is allowed to fuse with the egg on its own. Fertilization is carried out 3-5 days after the retrieval of eggs at a clinic or doctor’s office. The ICSI IVF cost may vary from one fertility centre to another. 

Stage 5: Transferring the Embryo into the Uterus

3-5 days after the successful completion of EPU, embryo transfer is carried out. During this stage, a long, thin, and flexible tube is allowed into the vagina, which enters the uterus. The tube is coined as a catheter. The catheter carries a syringe consisting of one or more embryos. One of the embryos is finally placed in the uterus. If the embryo gets successfully implanted in the uterine lining, it will result in a pregnancy. 

Embryo transfer takes up to 5 minutes and is performed without anaesthesia as it’s a painless procedure. 

After this stage, a pregnancy test is undertaken by the woman after ten days. The pregnancy test is repeated after 7-8 days. The IVF treatment is successful if two pink lines appear on the pregnancy test kit. 

Conclusively, IVF treatment takes about 6-8 weeks (45-60 days). 

Should you return home and continue your daily activities after IVF treatment? 

A common question may strike a couple’s mind after IVF treatment is completed. The answer is plain and simple, yes. There’s no need for strict bed rest after IVF. 

It’s for the best that you carry on with your daily activities to keep your mind occupied. Staying positive is the key to turning your IVF cycle successful. 

The Success Rate and Cost of IVF Treatment in 2023

The success rate of IVF treatment depends on an array of factors. The success rate of IVF treatment lies between 30-40% for women below 35. For women above 35, the success rate decreases and is witnessed to be around 20-30%.

The average IVF treatment cost, including medical tests, drugs, and the entire process, lies between 1,50,000 to 2,50,000 INR. 

The cost of IVF treatment will vary according to the type of IVF treatment, number of cycles, medical tests during IVF, geographical location, and success rate of the fertility centre. 

Potential Risks and Complications of IVF Treatment

Even though IVF treatment has one of the highest success rates among all other reproductive treatments, it also has potential risks and complications that a couple must be aware of.

Some of the most common risks and complications of IVF treatment are stated as follows:  

  • Multiple Pregnancies-: Sometimes, the IVF cycle can result in multiple pregnancies, which can lead to low birth weight and early labour and, in some cases, pose a threat to the life of both the mother and the babies. 
  • Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)-: The medications given during the first stage of IVF to stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs can sometimes result in overstimulation. This overstimulation of ovaries due to medications like human chorionic gonadotropins (HCG) may result in bloating, vomiting, diarrhoea, swelling of the abdominal region, and nausea. This condition is known as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).  
  • Premature Births-: The IVF procedure can also increase the risk of early labour and premature births. 
  • Ectopic Pregnancy or Extrauterine Pregnancy-: In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg, instead of getting implanted along the uterine lining, will get implanted somewhere else, like the fallopian tube. Data shows that around 2-5% of women are seen to have ectopic pregnancy after undergoing IVF treatment. If ectopic pregnancy occurs, the couple can not carry the pregnancy to term. 
  •  Emotional fatigue-: IVF treatment is more of an emotional ride for a couple, especially a woman. Since the success rate of IVF is around 30-40% only, fear of failure always lingers in a woman’s mind.

A plethora of times, a couple has to undergo more than one IVF cycle. As mentioned, each IVF cycle can take up to 45-60 days. It can build up negative thoughts about conceiving and take a toll on a couple’s mental health. 

Bottom line

Five Stages of IVF – IVF treatment is advised for infertile couples who have tried other ART techniques or have had multiple failures. Couples considering IVF treatment must consult the best fertility centre, like Imprimis IVF, Srinagar, for the best consultation. Since IVF is a complicated process, fertility centres like Imprimis IVF also help ensure a maximum success rate.

Female Infertility: Symptoms, Cause, Diagnosis & Treatment

Female Infertility: Infertility is a medical condition in which a couple cannot get pregnant after having regular sexual intercourse without contraception for 12 months or more. For women above 35, infertility means being unable to conceive after having traditional intercourse for six months. 

It can also be defined as the condition where a woman can conceive but either has repeated miscarriages or stillbirths. If infertility is due to the female partner, it is termed female infertility.  

Scientifically, during unprotected intercourse, the sperm ejaculated by the fertile male partner swims through the uterus and reaches the egg for fertilization. But the sperm cannot do so because of some ovulatory dysfunction in the female. Or even if the sperm can fertilize the egg, the embryo so formed cannot get implanted in the uterus, which leads to a miscarriage. 

Types of Infertility in Females 

Female infertility has become a household term affecting 1 in every six women. Infertility in females, or infertility, in general, can be classified into two types:

  • Primary infertility-: If a couple has never been able to conceive, or even if they have, they could not carry the pregnancy to term. 
  • Secondary infertility-: If a couple has at least one child but cannot conceive for a second time. 

Female Infertility Causes

The female reproductive system is quite delicate. Even the slightest dysfunction in any part, namely the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tube, can lead to issues in conceiving.  

The root cause behind female infertility may or may not be detected accurately. The reports may appear normal, but you may still be unable to conceive. However, numerous factors have been witnessed to be the primary causes of female infertility causes which are stated below: 

PCOS

PCOS is found to be one of the most common causes of female infertility as it disrupts menstruation and can lead to the formation of cysts which are around 8mm in size. These cysts produce eggs but cannot release them, so ovulation can not occur. 

The ovaries regulate the production of estrogen and progesterone. However, sometimes the ovaries produce an excess of male hormone androgens. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS refers to a medical condition that leads to disruption of the menstrual cycle and shedding of the endometrium as a result of hormonal imbalance due to the production of the male hormone androgens. 

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are found in the form of growths or lumps and are caused due to the imbalance of reproductive hormones, namely estrogen and progesterone. The uterine fibroids can block or damage the fallopian tube, which may further lead to complications in conceiving. Around 20% of childbearing women have uterine fibroids.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a medical condition when the uterine lining starts to grow outside the uterine cavity, like the abdomen, pelvis, behind the uterus, or in the ovaries. 

This condition can lead to infertility as it doesn’t allow the smooth transfer of eggs from the ovaries to the fallopian tube because of the growth of scars between the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. 

Endometriosis may also lead to endometrial cysts and may prevent the fertilized egg from getting implanted in the uterine wall. 

Blocked or Damaged Fallopian Tubes-:

Fallopian tubes are home to eggs. The sperm swims through the uterus and enters the fallopian tube. A blocked or damaged fallopian tube prevents the sperm from reaching the eggs and makes natural conception almost impossible. 

Sexually transmitted infections, pelvic inflammatory disorders, pelvic surgery, and pelvic tuberculosis are some of the reasons that block or damage the fallopian tubes.  

Around 20% of infertility issues stem from damaged or blocked fallopian tubes

Hyperprolactinemia

Production of Prolactin hormone in large amounts is referred to as hyperprolactinemia which can result in infertility issues. 

Ovarian Cysts

If ovarian cysts (a fluid-filled sac in or on the ovaries) are formed due to medical conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, it may pose problems in conceiving. 

Premature Ovarian Failure

Premature ovarian failure refers to the early onset of menopause around or before the age of 40 or 45. It is bound to cause problems in conceiving naturally. 

Hypothalamic Dysfunction

Hypothalamic dysfunction occurs when the hypothalamus cannot function optimally. When this happens, the hypothalamus cannot coordinate with the pituitary gland that regulates the timely release of healthy eggs for fertilization. The process of ovulation comes to a stop due to hypothalamic dysfunction. 

Ectopic Pregnancy

During a normal pregnancy, the egg, after fertilization, is implanted in the endometrial lining. Ectopic pregnancy, also known as extra-uterine pregnancy, occurs when the embryo gets implanted somewhere else in the uterus. This medical condition may lead to miscarriages. Bleeding is often witnessed during an ectopic pregnancy.

Sexually Transmitted Infections-:

Sexually transmitted diseases can potentially prevent natural conception.

These infections can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and can also cause damage to the fallopian tubes. Both these conditions are directly linked to infertility in females. 

  • Uterine Abnormalities-: Uterine abnormalities can be the reason behind female infertility. Uterine abnormalities may result from the growth of scar tissues, fibroids, polyps, miscarriage, multiple abortions, infections, and the growth of benign tissues. 
  • Cancer-: Uterus cancer is the primary reason behind the development of tumours of varying sizes. These tumours are found to be one of the causes of female infertility. 
  • Other Hormonal Imbalances-: LH, FSH, and estrogen are the hormones responsible for the timely release of healthy eggs. However, the ovulation process gets disrupted if the eggs are released in the wrong amount and at the wrong time due to hormonal fluctuations. 
  • Unexplained infertility-: When the cause behind infertility can’t be ruled out during the infertility tests in females, this type of infertility is categorized under unexplained infertility. 

Data shows that in as many as 10-30% of cases, the root cause behind female infertility can not be identified. 

Risk Factors of Infertility in Females

Gynaecologists have drawn up a list of risk factors associated with infertility in females. The risk factors of female infertility include: 

  • Age (above 35)
  • Drugs and steroids
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Smoking
  • Poor diet
  • Heavy exercises 
  • Medications
  • Chemotherapy and radiation treatment 
  • Eating disorders like anorexia, binge eating, bulimia 
  • Unhealthy lifestyle
  • Stressful regime
  • Poor Body Mass Index (being underweight or overweight) 

Female Infertility Symptoms

Numerous symptoms back infertility in females you can keep an eye on before arriving at any conclusion. Female infertility symptoms include: 

  • Irregular and Abnormal Menstrual Cycle-: If you have irregular periods or your menstrual cycle lasts for more than seven days, it can be a symptom of infertility. A healthy menstrual cycle is of around 21 to 35 days. Reproductive issues may arise If it is less than 21 days or more than 35 days. The irregular menstruation cycle accounts for around 30-40% of cases of female infertility.
  • Prolonged and Heavy Bleeding during Periods-: If you have heavy bleeding during periods that last for more than the normal range of 2-7 days, it can lead to fertility issues. 
  • Excruciating Pain during Periods-: Bearable pain for a day or two is common, but if your periods are accompanied by severe pain and cramps, it can be due to a reproductive health problem like endometriosis. 
  • Unexplained Weight Gain or Loss-: If you have lost or put on weight unexpectedly, you should get a medical checkup. 
  • Pain during Sexual Intercourse-: If you feel Intolerable pain constantly during sexual intercourse with your partner, it can point towards infertility. 
  • Hair Growth on Unwanted Areas-: If you witness hair growth on unwanted areas like the chest, jawline, and at your back, it may indicate PCOS or other medical problems linked to infertility. 
  • Hormonal Imbalances-: If the hormonal balance in the body is disrupted, it may affect fertility in females and can cause acne, reduced sex drive, and thinning of hair. 
  • No Periods-: Complete absence during childbearing age indicates something is wrong with your reproductive system. 

If you observe such symptoms, you should visit a gynaecologist or IVF expert

Infertility Tests for Females

Before treatment comes the identification of the root cause behind the reproductive ailment. We’ve already learned that female infertility can be caused by many factors that need to be identified. The fertility specialist carries out an array of infertility tests for females to determine the cause, which includes: 

  • Physical examination 
  • Urine test
  • Pap smear
  • Blood test
  • Genetic testing 
  • Ultrasound scan
  • Laparoscopy
  • X-ray Hysterosalpingography (HSG)  
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Saline sonohysterogram 

Female Infertility Treatment

After the root cause behind infertility is identified, fertility specialists take other parameters like the woman’s age, personal preferences, and overall health status into account for choosing the right fertility treatment

  • Fertility drugs and medications-: Fertility drugs are prescribed to women to stimulate ovulation and regulate irregular ovulation cycle. 
  • Tubal surgeries-: Tubal abnormalities are corrected with tubal surgeries like laparoscopy. Laparoscopy helps treat blocked or damaged fallopian tubes by creating a new opening for the sperm to enter. This surgery also helps treat fibroids and abnormal uterine shapes and remove endometrial cysts. 
  • Assisted Reproductive Technology-: Assisted reproductive Technology like IVF, IUI, and ICSI have helped infertile women conceive and welcome a healthy baby. 

Conclusion

Pregnancy is an age and time-dependent process. In today’s world, couples do not prefer having children at an early age which is why infertility is a common problem. So, planning a pregnancy can help you enormously if you want to increase your stakes of natural conception. If you notice any symptom that you think can be problematic, visit a gynaecologist. Also, ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle to welcome a healthy baby. 

And if you want to know more about ART treatment in Srinagar, we welcome you to the best fertility centre, Imprimis IVF