Tag Archive for: IVF Clinic Srinagar

What does Lupron do for IVF?

Medications are an integral part of the IVF treatment. Depending on the medical condition and other factors certain injections are administered to set the base for healthy development of the eggs. Lupron Injection is one such medication that is frequently administered before ovarian stimulation medications are given for a successful IVF treatment. 

Another drug, hCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, is also widely used for egg maturation. But Lupron tops the list as it is better tolerated by the body. 

Lupron, lupride, or leuprolide acetate is a synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a). It is given to a woman at the start of the IVF treatment especially when there is a need to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs in a controlled manner. Putting it simply, lupron helps control the development of eggs in the ovaries. 

Why is Lupron injection needed? 

To understand the need for Lupron injection we need to get down to the process of ovulation. 

  1. During menstruation, the hypothalamus which is a part of the brain releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone ie. GnRH. 
  2. This hormone sets the pituitary (another part of the brain) in motion to produce Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and the Follicle follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the blood.
  3. These two pituitary hormones awaken the ovary every month to produce an egg for fertilization, secrete estrogen, and ovulate. 

So, when Lupron is injected into the body regularly it mimics the structure of GnRH and triggers the production of pituitary hormones FSH and LH. 

Initially, the pituitary glands fail to recognize the difference between GnRH and lupron (GnRH-a). However, with the regular administration of lupron, the pituitary glands become alert to this foreign element. As a result, the pituitary glands cap the production of both FSH and LH. The secretion of these hormones keeps on reducing as long as lupron injections are administered. This condition is termed pituitary down-regulation. In simple terms, it can be stated that Lupron helps reduce the secretion of these hormones

But why is it important to control the secretion of these hormones during IVF? Aren’t these hormones important for conception? 

Lupron is administered to the woman to limit the secretion of certain hormones to prevent early or premature ovulation during IVF. This helps in the development of multiple mature eggs in the ovaries. As soon as this condition is achieved the ovaries and the reproductive system are ready to respond positively to other medications that are administered for a successful IVF cycle. Ultimately, fertility experts gain more control over the ovulation timing, the egg retrieval process, and the implantation timing.

After embryo transfer, lupron ensures a healthy environment for its development free from any hormonal fluctuations. Hence, increasing the chances of success of the IVF cycle.

That’s just one part of the story of Lupron. It also has other significant roles to play in an IVF cycle like:
  • Leuprolide acetate is also administered to stimulate the ovaries. 
  • Also, it can be used as a trigger to assist with the complete maturation of the eggs for IVF. This is referred to as Lupron Trigger.
  • As the ovaries are also responsible for the production of estrogen and progesterone, Lupron indirectly helps regulate their secretion.
  • Lupron also finds application in the treatment of endometriosis, prostate cancer, and large uterine fibroids.
  • It plays a vital role in treating CPP which is central precocious (early) puberty in children.

The Lupron Protocol during IVF 

It is generally given daily for 2-3 weeks before the process of ovarian stimulation begins. However, the duration depends on your medical reports and your body’s requirements. The Lupron medication kit generally contains 14 injections (for 2 weeks) and 2.8 ml of Lupron in the form of Leuprolide acetate. Typically fertility specialists administer Lupron in three phases which are stated below: 

Phase 1

This phase generally starts one week before the ovarian stimulation process. The Lupron administration process begins as soon as the natural ovulation is completed. 

Phase 2

The administration of Leuprolide acetate will carry on. But in phase 2 the fertility experts cut down on the dosage in comparison with phase 1. 

Phase 3

This phase sets in 36 hours before the egg retrieval process. The dosage is discontinued before the hCG trigger shot is administered for final egg maturation. 

After some days of regular Lupron shots, FSH injections will also become a part of the IVF journey. You will have blood tests and ultrasound to monitor the entire process. 

Lupron Injection Side Effects

More than anything else, keeping your stress levels in check is the first step towards a successful IVF cycle. However, experiencing side effects at the start of your IVF journey can quickly switch on the panic button. So, it’s always better to know all the common side effects associated with a medication to stay calm during IVF. Lupron injection is accompanied by several short-term side effects mentioned below: 

  • Erratic mood swings
  • General body aches
  • Upset stomach
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Headache
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Hot flashes or night sweats
  • Edema
  • Weight gain
  • Body and face acne

The secretion of pituitary hormones is reduced to the same level as is witnessed during menopause (the time when a woman no longer has a monthly menstrual cycle). This means your body is pushed into a state of temporary menopause. So, you may have lighter or no periods during this phase. 

Other symptoms during the initial days include: 

  • Breast tenderness
  • Abnormal fluid retention
  • Joint pain
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Anxiety
  • Tingling
  • Itching or swelling at the injection site
  • Decreased libido

These symptoms vanish once Lupron usage is discontinued. 

In case, you suffer from excruciating pain or any other extreme side effect consult with your gynaecologist at the earliest. 

How is Lupron Injection Administered? 

Lupron injection is generally administered into the fatty tissue present just below the skin either in the form of daily injections or as monthly intramuscular depot injections using a small needle. It can be administered by the medical expert at your fertility clinic or you can also do it yourself at home by following the below-mentioned steps: 

  • Wash your hands thoroughly and properly sanitize the surface where you will lie down. 
  • Take a clean syringe and fill the Lupron medication into it. Always ensure that there is no air in the vial containing the medication.
  • Select a spot on the abdomen about two inches from your navel.
  • Hold the syringe at an angle of 45 degrees from the injection site.
  • Empty the contents of the syringe quickly.

Lupron injection can also be administered on the outer region of a woman’s thigh. As far as storage of Lupron injections is concerned, they generally don’t require refrigeration. However, it is for the best that you strictly follow your doctor’s guidelines. 

Imprimis IVF advises you to visit your fertility expert to get your Lupron injections. Once you feel confident enough go for self-administration. Do not miss out on any of the steps mentioned above every time you take your Lupron dose. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does Lupron increase IVF success

Well not directly. IVF success rates depend on a plethora of factors. Some of them include the age of the woman, the quality of both the egg and the sperm, medical history, genetic conditions, and the expertise of your fertility specialist. However, proper and timely administration of Lupron will lay a robust foundation for other medications that play a vital role in IVF success rates. 

Is Lupron always given during IVF? 

No. Even though it is one of the best options available when it comes to ovulation regulation, Lupron is not always given during IVF. Doctors have a variety of options available in the form of agonists and antagonists to choose from and reduce the production of FSH and LH. hCG or human Chorionic Gonadotropin is seen as an alternative to Lupron. However, Lupron is seen as the better option because it is more tolerable than the former. 

Final Word 

IVF is a complex and delicate procedure in all dimensions. Not only the technology but also the medications administered before the treatment starts need to suit the woman’s body and meet some requirements for the treatment to proceed smoothly. 

Lupron is one such medication that doesn’t directly affect the success rate of IVF but sets the base for the treatment to proceed efficiently and offer promising success rates.

If you have any queries regarding Lupron, other medications or anything related to IVF treatment feel free to visit us at Imprimis IVF, Srinagar.

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an overstimulated reaction that often occurs in the ovaries of women who use injectable medications to increase hormone production. This problem leads to severe pain caused by inflammation of the ovaries.

Women undergoing IVF or ovulation stimulation by using injection medications may manifest this OHSS. This article will focus on better understanding what OHSS is, its causes, its symptoms, and how to treat it.

What is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?

OHSS, or Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, occurs when the ovaries swell and release fluid into the abdomen. This complication typically affects individuals undergoing fertility treatments that stimulate their ovaries to produce more eggs.

Usually, a woman who is menstruating only releases one egg monthly. Consequently, women who are going through fertility treatment might have to undergo hormone therapy for hyperovarian activity, especially during the egg retrieval process of IVF. Due to the ovaries’ hyper-response to those medications, it eventually leads to OHSS. This happens often with the medicines that are injected and activate the ovaries more frequently.

While OHSS used to be a common complication of IVF, new protocols have reduced its occurrence, although mild cases still arise occasionally.

OHSS is more prevalent in individuals undergoing fertility treatments who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances. It’s also more common in those with a high egg supply.

Primary Causes of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

OHSS is primarily triggered by the hormone HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which stimulates the ovaries. While ovaries typically release one egg, hormone treatments prompt them to produce multiple eggs simultaneously. During fertility treatments, individuals often receive an HCG “trigger” to help egg maturation before in vitro fertilization’s egg retrieval process. Excessive response to this medication can lead to OHSS.

In OHSS cases, fertility drugs cause blood vessels surrounding the ovaries to leak fluid. This fluid may enter the abdomen, resulting in symptoms like swelling and pain.

What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?

Symptoms of OHSS typically appear within a week of using injectable ovulation-stimulating medications, although they may take longer to manifest. These symptoms vary in severity and can fluctuate over time.

OHSS presents in these categories, determined by symptom severity:

  • Mild (Grades 1–2): Characterized by abdominal distention and discomfort, nausea, and diarrhoea.
  • Moderate (Grade 3): Exhibits ultrasonographic evidence of ascites, excessive weight gain, increased abdominal girth, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
  • Severe (Grades 4–6): Shows clinical evidence of ascites, hydrothorax, and breathing difficulties.

Your healthcare provider assesses the type based on symptom severity. Most OHSS cases are mild, causing temporary discomfort. Severe instances are uncommon but can pose life-threatening risks.

If you’re undergoing fertility treatments and experience symptoms of OHSS, inform your healthcare provider. Even if your case of OHSS is mild, your provider will want to monitor you for sudden weight gain or worsening symptoms.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

If you are undergoing fertility treatment and notice symptoms that could indicate OHSS, it is important to contact your doctor promptly. They will want to examine you to determine if you are experiencing this condition. Some exams your doctor may perform to diagnose OHSS include:

  • Physical Tests:

During physical examination, doctors carefully check indicators like weight gain and belting. The daily scale measurement, the go-to step for diagnosis, will support the conclusion with the rate of weight gain. 

By doing so, it becomes apparent how far the severe swelling is going. Analysis of the sample results yields information that allows the doctors to reject or confirm the diagnosis that may be the reason for the observed changes.

  • Ultrasound:

Nowadays, doctors can use imaging equipment, like ultrasounds and X-rays, to find out whether there has been an accumulation of excess fluid inside the body. Patients with OHSS experience excessive water retention, which causes fluid to leak through their blood vessels into the abdominal cavity and the surrounding spaces, resulting in bloating and body aches. 

As the amount of fluid increases and starts leaking out of spaces where it was normally held, the symptoms of OHSS gradually worsen. Imaging tests give a doctor the chance to see how much the fluid is enlarging tissues and forcing someone to gain excessive weight.

  • Blood Tests:

Blood tests are often used together with ultrasounds for people undergoing fertility treatment. These medical exams analyze hormone levels, any abnormalities in the blood, and possible kidney problems caused by enlarged, leaking ovaries. If blood tests are part of your regular treatment, early identification of OHSS is more probable. Detecting OHSS sooner can help avoid serious issues. Blood tests measure several vital markers of hormone levels. 

Hormone levels indicate how ovaries react to medications designed to stimulate egg growth. Abnormalities in red or white blood cell counts may signal OHSS. Kidney function is also assessed since OHSS can lead to kidney strain if ovaries swell extensively. Together, ultrasounds and blood tests provide doctors with a fuller picture of ovarian health and response to treatment. This helps optimize care and reduce the risks of complications.

Treatment of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome

The treatment approach for OHSS depends on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, the primary focus is on ensuring proper fluid intake and monitoring symptoms for worsening.

Mild OHSS may commonly improve independently within around fourteen days. The care concentrates on relieving distress and forestalling issues. Here are some treatments to consider:

  • Keeping fluids and electrolytes in balance is crucial to avoid dehydration when the kidneys are damaged. Water or any other fluid intake of 1.5 to 2 litres daily is highly advisable to keep your kidneys in top condition and eliminate any unwanted toxins from your body. Consuming Gatorade or broth restores the right amount of fluids in your body. It is needed to get rid of the excess fluid in your body.
  • Adequate sleep plays a significant role in maintaining strong kidneys. To boost your daily activity, follow your doctor’s instructions and try walking, even if just short distances.
  • In case of headache or digestion problems, you can use any of the already existing pain relievers to feel more life-like.

Usually, hospitalization or major treatments are not required as long as the patients are stable or their symptoms do not become worse. Nevertheless, in severe cases, an OHSS might have to be hospitalized so that comprehensive medical care can be administered to avoid more serious complications arising. You can resolve these issues with immediate medical consultation.

Plausible and Feasible Treatments may include:

  • IV fluids may be administered to replenish fluids and important electrolytes lost through vomiting or diarrhoea.
  • If your abdomen has accumulated a sizable amount of fluid, doctors may drain it manually using a syringe, which can potentially provide comfort.
  • Other medication will be provided to reduce the activity in the ovary.

Conclusion

OHSS has become the most alarming problem for people with fertility treatments and those using injectable medications for the stimulation of egg production. Appreciating causes, signs, and therapy of OHSS is important as it relates to patients and healthcare providers.

Huge ovarian and abdominal swelling and fluid collection occur because of the over-reproduction of hormonal medications. The impact of that intensive may be mild discomfort or life-threatening complications. Prompt diagnosis using physical exams, ultrasounds, or blood tests is essential to enable the right course of treatment.

Treatment approaches are based on symptom alleviation, which could include fluid intake, adequate rest, pain relief, hospitalization, and intravenous fluid drainage of excess fluid when the case is severe. Close monitoring, communication, and relationships between patients and healthcare professionals mitigate negative outcomes and guarantee the best outcomes during fertility treatment.

Hydrosalpinx: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Hydrosalpinx happens when a fallopian tube gets blocked with fluid due to illness or injury. It can lead to abnormal discharge, pain, and trouble getting pregnant. The fallopian tubes are crucial for reproduction. They connect to the uterus and carry eggs from the ovaries. If an egg meets sperm in the tubes, conception can happen, and the fertilized egg travels to the uterus to implant.

Certain illnesses or injuries can cause fluid buildup at the end of a fallopian tube, resulting in hydrosalpinx. Hydrosalpinx can cause reproductive problems like infertility or ectopic pregnancy. This article covers the Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of hydrosalpinx.

What is Hydrosalpinx?

Hydrosalpinx is when fluid builds up in one or both fallopian tubes, causing a blockage. These tubes connect your uterus to your ovaries. Every month during your menstrual cycle, your ovaries release an egg that travels through these tubes. Healthy tubes provide a clear path for the egg and sperm to meet and fertilize. If fertilization happens, the embryo moves through the tubes to the uterus, where it can implant and grow into a fetus. With hydrosalpinx, the fluid blockage stops this process. A blocked tube can prevent sperm from reaching the egg. The blockage can stop the embryo from reaching the uterus even if fertilization occurs.

If one fallopian tube has hydrosalpinx, it’s often found in the other one too, known as bilateral hydrosalpinx. Hydrosalpinx can hinder fertility treatment. According to previous studies, if a woman with hydrosalpinx undergoes assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, the success rate is halved compared to those without it. That’s why women seeking IVF are often advised to have the hydrosalpinx removed beforehand.

Moreover, hydrosalpinx seems to affect pregnancy success if a woman conceives, whether naturally or through fertility treatment. Scientists suspect that hydrosalpinx may cause toxicity in embryos and eggs and affect the endometrium, leading to poor embryo implantation and growth.

What are the Causes of Hydrosalpinx?

Hydrosalpinx often develops from an untreated infection in the fallopian tubes. Various factors can cause such infections, including:

  • Untreated infections: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause inflammation and scarring.
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This infection can damage your fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs.
  • Pelvic surgery scars: Scar tissue from surgeries like C-sections or appendectomies can sometimes block the tubes.
  • Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the lining of your uterus can grow outside the uterus and block the tubes.
  • Pelvic adhesions: Severe scar tissue that binds organs together can also block the tubes.
  • Other infections: Sometimes, infections like appendicitis can spread and damage the fallopian tubes.
  • Injuries: Injuries to the pelvis can also damage the tubes.

Infections damage the delicate finger-like fimbria at the end of the fallopian tubes. Fimbria are crucial for transporting eggs to meet sperm and facilitating fertilization. When injured, fimbria fuse together, blocking the tubes. This blockage leads to fluid accumulation in the tubes, preventing their normal function.

What are the Symptoms of Hydrosalpinx?

While hydrosalpinx may not produce noticeable signs for some, others may only discover they have this condition when trying to conceive, which proves challenging. As hydrosalpinx often does not induce perceivable symptoms, many people are only alerted to its existence if they face problems starting a family.

However, for some individuals, symptoms such as unusual vaginal secretions and stomach or pelvic discomfort may arise, particularly worsening throughout menstruation. The discharge and soreness could intensify with the onset of menstrual flow.

Diagnosis of Hydrosalpinx

Blocked fallopian tubes are a common issue encountered during fertility evaluations. To find blockages in tubes, doctors may perform the hysterosalpingogram (HSG), a specialized x-ray imaging test. In the HSG procedure, contrast material is injected traditionally from the chin and upstairs in the uterine and fallopian tubes. Being open and uninjured, the tubes supply the contrast material, which will spread effectively. Nevertheless, suppose any part of the tube gets clogged or swollen in some areas. In that case, the contrast material in the images may not be clear enough, or the excessive contrast material may be trapped in a swollen area.

Having the capability to settle whether the blockage can be classified as hydrosalpinx, a sono hysterosalpingography checkout will receive no alternative but to be performed since it is indeed the advanced variant of a hysterosalpingogram. Moderate-sized amounts of saline solution with air are injected into the cervix and then driven to the uterus with a syringe.

Thus, the procedure goes on. Next, a transvaginal ultrasound gives information by scanning visually by sending sound waves to see the reproductive organs. The fallopian tubes and the uterus can be examined by the sonographer utilizing an ultrasound beam as the fluids are passed through the sterile materials. Any obstruction or abnormalities can be diagnosed by this method. This gives doctors the possibility to make the prognosis as to whether the right or left fallopian tube or both are affected by hydrosalpinx.

While ultrasound imaging can help identify a hydrosalpinx in some cases, it does not always enable detection of the fluid-filled fallopian tube. A medical research study discovered that ultrasound examinations could only visually confirm the presence of a hydrosalpinx in approximately one-third of patients affected. Laparoscopy can also serve as a useful diagnostic tool for hydrosalpinx. The procedure allows physicians to visually examine the fallopian tubes and surrounding pelvic region to determine if a hydrosalpinx is present. Any fluid-filled cysts or abnormalities affecting the tubes will be visible.

Treatment of Hydrosalpinx

Treating hydrosalpinx can improve your chances of getting pregnant. Your treatment options depend on factors like your age and the severity of the blockage. Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat any remaining infections. Some surgical options may include the following:

  • Salpingectomy: Removal of one or both fallopian tubes.
  • Neo salpingostomy: Clearing the tubes of blockages. This is usually done through laparoscopy. During the procedure, your doctor makes a small incision in the fallopian tube to remove blockages and reopen the sealed ends.

Salpingostomy is less common now because it’s less successful in achieving pregnancy compared to IVF. Many people opt for IVF instead of fallopian tube surgery after hydrosalpinx treatment. Your doctor can advise you on the best option based on your situation.

Conclusion

Hydrosalpinx seems to be a massive threat to fertility and human reproduction. The cause for this ailment could be a result of different factors, including untreated infections, pelvic surgeries, or endometriosis, which characteristically interferes with the normal function of the fallopian tubes and thereby reduces the possibility of pregnancy and increases the risk for ectopic pregnancy.

Although the symptoms can be too subtle to notice, accurate diagnosis through hysterosalpingogram (HSG) ultrasound and sonohysterography (SHG). The procedures are crucial since these blockages can be found. The choice of treatment you use can be prescribed medicine or technical procedures such as salpingectomy or neo-salpingostomy, as they result in better fertility outcomes. Consequently, customized treatment plans based on cases that will be established to meet every patient’s requirements and conditions become indispensable in treating hydro supposedness correctly.

Choosing the Right IVF Clinic: Factors to Consider in Your Decision-Making

Choosing the Right IVF Clinic – It is wonderful to be able to give birth to any couple, but not everyone can conceive naturally. Those trying for a baby who is unable to conceive should approach an infertility specialist and evaluate fertility treatments, too.

It makes it difficult to select a suitable fertility clinic for IVF procedures. As more and more clinics appear all over the city, giving nearly identical promises, choosing the right clinic is challenging. Extensive research should be conducted to choose the ideal fertility clinic. To help you through this process, we have provided a list of some key qualities to find.

The Importance of Choosing the Right IVF Centre

In recent years, in vitro fertilization (IVF) has become increasingly popular as a fertility treatment option. With declining fertility rates among women, many couples in India are turning to IVF procedures to fulfil their dreams of starting a family when natural conception isn’t possible.

However, selecting the right IVF centre can be a big decision for couples hoping for success. Infertility is a significant global health concern, affecting around 8%–10% of couples worldwide. Everyone must have a good understanding of IVF specialists.

When choosing the best IVF centre, it’s essential to consider several key factors. That’s why we’ve put together a list of essential things to remember while selecting an ethical and suitable IVF centre for yourself.

Things to Consider While Choosing the Right IVF Centre

1. Doctor’s Qualifications and Experience

When choosing an IVF fertilization clinic, you’ll want to consider the qualifications and experience of the doctors. Are they highly trained in infertility and reproduction?

IVF treatment might seem straightforward but often requires subtle adjustments for the best results. A good fertilization clinic will create a personalized treatment plan for each patient because everyone responds differently to medications. To avoid complications, closely monitoring each patient’s stimulation and egg retrieval process is crucial.

Booking an appointment and meeting the doctor with the best fertility centre can help determine if it’s the right clinic. A skilled infertility clinician will become apparent quickly.

2. Check Out the Success Rates of the Centre

The next thing to check when considering the best fertility centre is the success rate of their IVF procedure. Ask about the clinic’s track record with various cases, like unsuccessful previous IVF treatments, older couples, or those with existing medical conditions.

IVF success is influenced by factors such as age, the health of persons involved, response to treatment and lifestyle. At the same time, the rate with which a fertilization clinic has successfully handled situations informs you about their performance in helping different kinds of people attain good outcomes. Moreover, consider the clinic’s technology and equipment that will be equipped with their facilities — even in operating rooms and embryology labs. How staff members perform through the process can also affect IVF success rate.

3. Explore the Different Fertility Treatments Available

Fertility issues are different for everyone. So, when checking out reviews for a trustworthy fertilization clinic, ensure they provide a broad range of treatments to cater to diverse needs. Here are some types of fertility treatments:

  • Intrauterine Insemination: The IUI treatment process involves bypassing the cervix and putting sperm directly into the uterus.
  • In Vitro Fertilization: IVF is a complex procedure comprising fertilization of eggs and sperm outside the body while embryos are transferred to a uterus.
  • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: ICSI treatment is an advanced version of IVF in which a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
  • Egg Freezing: Preserving a woman’s egg cells for use in the future.
  • Donor Options: A good option for couples experiencing great infertility. An institution providing various therapies demonstrates that they are always patient-centred.
  • Pre-implantation genetic screening: The most modern treatment method will evaluate embryos for genetic disorders before implanting them in the uterus.

4. Technologies and Equipment 

Success in IVF depends greatly on the quality of a clinic’s equipment and technology. It’s not just about having the latest fancy gadgets – what matters is if they’re effective and suitable for your needs. While many of the best fertility centres boast about their state-of-the-art tech, it’s just as important to focus on their essential functions and the expertise of their staff.

The best IVF clinic should have Andrology, Genetics, and Embryology labs, all meeting international quality standards. They should also use top-of-the-line equipment like the Geri-Time-Lapse Incubator, which allows detailed monitoring of embryo development without disturbing them.

Technology plays a crucial role in IVF, especially in embryo culture. Embryos need to reach a certain stage before they can be transferred, and the right equipment helps ensure they get there safely.

5. Choose the Right Location

When it comes to picking the best fertility centre, location is key. Since you’ll need to visit the specialist’s IVF clinic multiple times – this isn’t a one-day thing – it’s best to choose one close to you.

Picking a nearby IVF specialist means less travelling for appointments, which is a big plus. Plus, it might not be easy or practical to travel once pregnant. So, go for the IVF procedures with a professional closest to your home.

6. Transparency in IVF Clinic Costs

A good fertility clinic should be upfront about their procedures’ medical and financial aspects. Ensure they know the IVF treatment cost and whether counselling is part of the package before and after treatment. The price they quote at the beginning should be what you pay. 

It helps you budget and arrange funds if needed. They should also explain the procedures thoroughly so you can mentally and physically prepare. If there are any risks, they need to tell you about them, too. Confidentiality is crucial for patients, so ensure the clinic respects your privacy, whether you’re a donor or a patient.

7. Read the Reviews

Reading reviews from other patients helps you understand what it is like to get IVF procedures from that clinic. In some cases, if there are no referrals or testimonials in the clinic, you will normally find them on social media if you want to know people’s responses to their posts or how they comment about the treatments and services rendered on that clinic’s Facebook page. The best fertility centre would also narrate good case stories to the patients under them. You should make an effort to do some research.

Be aware that reviews are objective; hence, consider every factor. It is smart to view, feel, and judge the doctors and clinic through phone calls or personal encounters.

Conclusion

There you have it! Now, take your life’s most important decision with ease. Remember, when listing out the best IVF clinics, ensure you get all your queries answered by them, and only then move forward if satisfied.

Oocyte (egg) Retrieval Step-by-Step Process

What is Egg retrieval?

Egg retrieval is a crucial procedure in assisted reproductive technology (ART), just like in IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). It involves the extraction of mature eggs (oocytes) from a woman’s ovaries for fertilization in a laboratory setting. Here is a step-by-step guide to the oocyte retrieval process:

Oocyte retrieval is a critical step in the process of IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies.

Here’s a detailed information of the process:

1. Ovarian Stimulation:

The woman undergoes ovarian stimulation using hormonal medications before retrieval. It increases the chances of successful fertilization and embryo development.

2. Monitoring:

The woman’s response to the medications is monitored closely using ultrasound scans and hormone level measurements throughout the ovarian stimulation process. This monitoring helps healthcare providers adjust the dosage of medications as needed to optimize the number and maturity of the eggs.

3. Timing:

Once the ovarian follicles containing the eggs have reached a sufficient size, a shot of hCG is administered. This hormone triggers the final maturation of the eggs and prepares them for retrieval. The retrieval procedure is typically scheduled about 36 hours after the trigger shot to coincide with the optimal timing for egg retrieval.

4. Preparation:

On the day of the retrieval procedure, the woman is ordered to fast it. She may also be given medications to help relax or sedate her, as the procedure can cause discomfort.

5. Procedure:

The retrieval procedure is performed in a specialized fertility clinic or hospital setting. It is usually done transvaginally, meaning the eggs are retrieved through the vaginal wall using a thin needle. Ultrasound guidance is used to visualize the ovaries and guide the placement of the retrieval needle.

6. Egg Aspiration:

Once the ovaries are visualized, a needle is inserted through the vaginal wall and into each ovarian follicle containing an egg. The follicular fluid containing the eggs is aspirated into a test tube attached to the suction device. This process is repeated for each mature follicle identified on ultrasound.

7. Egg Identification:

Embryologists immediately examine the follicular fluid collected during the retrieval procedure under a microscope to identify and retrieve the eggs. The eggs are placed in a special medium and incubated in the laboratory until they are ready for fertilization.

8. Post-Procedure Care:

The woman is generally monitored after retrieval to ensure no immediate complications. She may experience cramping, bloating, or spotting after the procedure, which is resolved within a few days.

Details Process of Oocyte Retrieval

Oocyte retrieval, also known as egg retrieval, is a procedure that involves several steps. Here’s a detailed information:

1. Preparation and Ovarian Stimulation:

  • Before starting the IVF cycle, the woman undergoes a detailed evaluation, including various tests to assess ovarian reserve and reproductive health.
  • Once deemed suitable for IVF, the woman begins ovarian stimulation using hormonal medications. Ovarian stimulation is monitored closely through ultrasound scans and blood tests to track follicle growth and hormone levels. The dosage of medications may be adjusted based on the individual’s response to ensure optimal follicular development.

2. Trigger Shot Administration:

  • When the follicles containing the eggs reach an appropriate specification, a hCG trigger shot is administered. This hormone triggers the final maturation of the eggs, preparing them for retrieval.
  • The timing is crucial, as it determines when the eggs will be ready for retrieval. The retrieval procedure is typically scheduled approximately 36 hours after the administration.

3. Pre-Retrieval Preparations:

  • On the day of the retrieval procedure, the woman is advised to fast for a certain period before the procedure to minimize the risk of complications associated with anaesthesia.
  • She may also be given medications to help relax or sedate her, as the procedure can cause discomfort. An anesthesiologist may administer intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia based on the woman’s preference and medical history.

4. Retrieval Procedure:

  • The retrieval procedure is usually performed in a specialized fertility clinic or hospital setting. It is typically done transvaginally under ultrasound guidance.
  • The woman lies in stirrups, similar to a pelvic exam. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to visualize the cervix.
  • A thin, hollow needle attached to a suction device is then guided through the vaginal wall and into each ovarian follicle containing an egg. Ultrasound imaging helps guide the needle placement to avoid injury to surrounding structures.
  • The follicular fluid containing the eggs is gently aspirated into test tubes attached to the suction device. This process is repeated for each mature follicle identified on ultrasound.

5. Egg Identification and Processing:

  • The test tubes containing the follicular fluid are immediately taken to the laboratory, where embryologists examine them under a microscope to identify and retrieve the eggs.
  • The eggs are kept in a special culture medium, where they are incubated until they are ready for fertilization.

6. Post-Retrieval Care:

  • The woman is usually monitored for a short period to check her. She may experience mild cramping, bloating, or spotting, which is normal.
  • Pain medications and instructions for post-retrieval care are provided to help manage any discomfort or side effects.

Overall, oocyte retrieval is a critical step in the IVF process, allowing IVF specialists to collect the woman’s eggs for fertilization in the laboratory. It requires careful planning, skilled execution, and close monitoring to optimize the chances of success.

Thin Endometrium Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Thin endometrium refers to a condition where the inner lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, is thinner than normal. If the lining is too thin, it may make it a little hard to maintain a full pregnancy. Thin endometrium can be caused by various factors, including age, menopause, endometrial biopsy, radiation therapy, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and smoking. Treatment options for thin endometrium depend on the underlying cause and may include estrogen therapy, gonadotropins, assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures, lifestyle changes, and surgery.

Understanding the Thin Endometrium

The endometrium, a crucial layer of tissue lining the uterus, plays an essential thing in the reproductive system of women. Sometimes, this lining may become thinner than optimal, a condition known as thin endometrium. While it may not always manifest noticeable symptoms, there are specific signs that could indicate potential issues. The endometrium is an inner lining that thickens during the menstrual cycle. It consists of different layers, including the basal layer, which contains stem cells that can regenerate the lining, and the functional layer, which thickens and sheds during the menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of Thin Endometrium:

Understanding these symptoms is crucial for women seeking to comprehend their reproductive health.

Difficulty in Conception:

One of the primary symptoms associated with a thin endometrium is difficulty in conceiving. The endometrial lining serves as a crucial environment for the implantation of a fertilized egg. If this lining is too thin, it may pose challenges for successful implantation, leading to infertility issues.

Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding:

Women with a thin endometrium may experience irregular and abnormal menstrual bleeding. This can manifest as lighter periods, shorter menstrual cycles, or spotting between periods. These irregularities could be indicative of an insufficiently developed endometrial lining.

Recurrent Miscarriages:

Thin endometrium has been linked to an increased risk of recurrent miscarriages. The inadequate thickness of the endometrial lining may compromise its ability to support a developing embryo, resulting in recurrent pregnancy losses.

Hormonal Imbalances:

Hormonal imbalances, particularly disruptions in estrogen levels, can contribute to thin endometrium. Women experiencing hormonal irregularities may notice changes in their menstrual cycles, and these imbalances can negatively impact the development of the endometrial lining.

Pelvic Pain or Discomfort:

In a few cases, women with a thin endometrium may experience pelvic pain or discomfort. This may be associated with hormonal fluctuations, compromised blood flow to the uterus, or other factors affecting the health of the endometrial tissue.

Thin Endometrium Causes

The endometrium, a vital layer of tissue lining the uterus, undergoes dynamic changes throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle. However, in some cases, this lining may become thinner than optimal, a condition known as thin endometrium. Understanding the potential causes of thin endometrium is crucial for those facing fertility challenges or recurrent pregnancy loss.

Hormonal Imbalances:

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels, can contribute to thin endometrium. Estrogen plays a crucial role in promoting the growth and thickening of the endometrial lining. Disruptions in hormonal balance can impede this process, leading to a thinner lining.

Age-related Changes:

Advancing age is a significant factor in the development of thin endometrium. As women approach menopause, hormonal shifts occur, and the ovaries produce fewer hormones. This process can result in a decrease in endometrial thickness and quality.

Uterine Adhesions or Scarring:

Prior uterine surgeries, such as dilation and curettage (D&C) or other procedures, may lead to adhesions or scarring in the uterine lining. This scarring can interfere with the normal growth and development of the endometrium, resulting in thinning.

Chronic Medical Conditions:

Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, or diabetes, can impact endometrial health. These conditions may affect blood flow to the uterus or disrupt hormonal balance, contributing to thin endometrium.

Infections or Inflammation:

Infections or chronic inflammation of the uterus can hinder the normal regeneration of the endometrial tissue. Conditions like chronic endometritis, an inflammation of the endometrium, may lead to thinning of the lining over time.

Lifestyle Factors:

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or extreme stress, can negatively impact reproductive health. These factors can contribute to hormonal imbalances and reduce blood flow to the uterus, affecting endometrial development.

Poor Blood Flow to the Uterus:

Insufficient blood flow to the uterus can impede the nourishment and growth of the endometrial tissue. Conditions such as vascular abnormalities or uterine artery embolization may compromise the blood supply, resulting in a thin endometrium.

Thin endometrium is a complex condition with various potential causes. Recognizing these factors is crucial for individuals facing fertility challenges or recurrent pregnancy loss. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for a comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and development of a personalized treatment plan to address the specific causes and improve endometrial health. Early detection and targeted interventions can significantly enhance the successful conception and a healthy pregnancy.

Treatment for Thin Endometrium

Thin endometrium, characterized by a suboptimal thickness of the uterine lining, can present challenges for women trying to conceive. However, advancements in reproductive medicine have led to various treatment approaches aimed at improving endometrial health. This article explores the key strategies employed in the treatment of thin endometrium, offering hope to those seeking to enhance their fertility.

Hormonal Therapies:

Hormonal interventions are often employed to address thin endometrium. Estrogen, a hormone crucial for endometrial growth, may be administered in different forms, such as oral medications, patches, or injections. Additionally, progesterone supplementation may be prescribed to support the second phase of the menstrual cycle and facilitate a healthy endometrial response.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can positively impact endometrial health. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, managing stress, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These lifestyle changes contribute to overall reproductive well-being and may promote the development of a thicker endometrial lining.

Uterine Surgeries and Interventions:

In cases where structural abnormalities or scarring contribute to thin endometrium, surgical interventions may be considered. Procedures such as hysteroscopy can be used to remove adhesions or address underlying issues affecting the uterine lining. These interventions aim to create a more favourable environment for endometrial growth.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:

Emerging as a promising option, PRP therapy involves injecting platelet-rich plasma, derived from the patient’s blood, into the uterine lining. Rich in growth factors, PRP stimulates tissue regeneration and improves blood flow, potentially enhancing endometrial thickness.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Embryo Glue:

For couples undergoing assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, the use of a specialized embryo transfer medium known as “embryo glue” has been explored. This medium contains substances that may aid in better embryo attachment to the thin endometrial lining, potentially improving implantation rates.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine:

Some individuals turn to acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine as complementary approaches to enhance endometrial thickness. Acupuncture is believed to improve blood flow to the uterus and regulate hormonal balance, potentially creating a more supportive environment for endometrial growth.

Growth Factor Therapy:

Research is ongoing in using growth factors, such as granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), to promote endometrial regeneration. Preliminary studies suggest that these factors may stimulate tissue repair and improve endometrial thickness.

The treatment landscape for thin endometrium is diverse, reflecting the complexity of the condition. Individualized care plans, tailored to address specific causes and patient needs, are essential. Consulting with a fertility specialist is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation and the development of a personalized treatment strategy. With advancing medical interventions and a holistic approach, there is optimism for individuals facing the challenge of thin endometrium to realize their dreams of conception.

Conclusion to Thin Endometrium

Thin endometrium can be a challenging condition for women who are trying to conceive. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to improve endometrial health and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. If you are having difficulty conceiving, it is important to talk with your IVF experts and develop an appropriate treatment plan. If you are looking for any treatment like this then you can consult any of the best organisations like Imprimis. They will help you to get fully recovered at reasonable prices.

Top 10 Reasons for Failed IVF Treatment

IVF Failure:- Starting an In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) journey is a very personal and frequently emotional undertaking. IVF offers a glimmer of hope for couples who are struggling with infertility in their quest for parenthood. But the road is not always easy, and it takes an unfathomable amount of perseverance to ride out the storms of failed attempts. We examine the intricacies of in vitro fertilization in this investigation, illuminating the various factors that lead to the procedure’s sporadic failures.

Reasons for IVF Failure

You may learn more about the main causes of IVF failure from this article:

1 Failure of Embryo Implantation

Embryo failure to implant into the uterine lining is one of the main causes of IVF failure. The precise causes of the failed attempt are yet unknown to the doctors. There are two possible causes for the attempt to fail: either an embryonic issue or an issue with the uterus. Finding the precise source of the issue is still challenging.

Embryos have no chance of surviving for more than five days. In the field of IVF, the cause of weak and unhealthy embryos is still unknown and is referred to as a “black box” question. The lady can choose to undergo PGS testing in conjunction with IVF, which can assist infertility experts in choosing healthy embryos for implantation and increase the likelihood of successful embryo implantation.

2. Egg Quality

For women under 35, the success rate for embryo implantation is 50%, but for those over 40, it is just 12%. It makes sense to go with IVF using donor eggs if the lady has a healthy uterus but her female egg quality is low. If the primary cause of an IVF failure is poor egg quality, then transferring the eggs to a surrogate will likewise fail. Reproductive difficulties in older women are primarily caused by poor-quality eggs rather than problems with the uterus.

3. Age Is Important

The biological clock, a constant factor in fertility, determines how well IVF treatment works out. The success of IVF procedures is significantly influenced by the ages of both partners. Growing older presents women with a variety of difficulties, such as decreased egg quality and a reduction in ovarian reserve. Just as the number of candles on a birthday cake rises, so too does the difficulty of getting pregnant with IVF.

Fertility is a dynamic variable rather than a timeless constant in biological reality. Age reduces both the quantity and quality of eggs, which impacts the likelihood of successful fertilization and implantation. Age-related infertility is still a major obstacle for couples, necessitating a complex dance between biology and time, even with advances in reproductive technologies.

4. Reduced Ovarian Reserves

Ovarian reserve is a key component in the complex dance of in vitro fertilization. The amount and calibre of a woman’s eggs are referred to as her ovarian reserve, and they play a crucial role in the outcome of in vitro fertilization. The quantity and quality of eggs available for fertilization decrease as women age due to ovarian reserve reduction.

Early detection and treatment of reduced ovarian reserve during the IVF process is a hurdle. Fertility doctors can adjust treatment strategies based on the assessment of ovarian reserve made possible by advanced diagnostic techniques including blood tests and antral follicle counts. Aggressive ovarian stimulation is one strategy that can be used to increase the likelihood of obtaining viable eggs.

5. Imbalances in Hormones

Any mistake in the intricate dance of hormones might have a cascading effect on the IVF procedure. Reaching a hormonal balance is not only necessary but also a delicate dance that must be coordinated with the cycle of reproductive therapies. The delicate balance between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries can be upset by hormonal abnormalities, affecting the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles.

Hormonal imbalances can be exacerbated by disorders like irregular menstrual cycles or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Gonadotropins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues are among the drugs that must be carefully administered to control hormonal fluctuations and improve the environment for egg maturation and retrieval.

6. Aberrant sperm and poor-quality sperm

Sperm plays a role in the health of the developing embryo. Men with severe male factors, such as diabetes and azoospermia from genetic causes, may have low sperm quality and quantity.
The amount and quality of sperm can be impacted by chromosomal abnormalities. Hence, the embryo becomes aberrant both during and after fertilization.

It may have two or three times as many chromosomes as it does or fewer. Breaks in the sperm head’s DNA can result in DNA fragmentation, which can ultimately lead to unsuccessful implantation and miscarriage.

7 . The Ovarian Reaction

To enhance egg production, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a fertility hormone, must be injected daily into the female during the initial stages of IVF treatment. Some women’s ovaries react incorrectly to this medicine, which prevents them from producing enough eggs for harvest. Because of their already lowered egg production, elderly women are particularly affected by this.

The IVF procedure doesn’t have to cease if there is a poor ovarian response. Changes to medicine and investigations might be able to improve the situation. The ovarian reserve is measured by a blood test for the Anti-Mullarian Hormone (AMH) and an ultrasound scan looking at the antral follicle count. The optimal hormonal regimen and dosage to stimulate your ovaries and generate a sufficient number of eggs would depend on your ovarian reserve.

8. Molecular Biology

Each spouse’s biological characteristics may have an impact on the health of the embryo. Chromosomal issues can be caused by genetic disorders that may impact the sperm or the egg, making it difficult for an embryo to take root or boosting the possibility of miscarriage. Genetic testing is one method that can be used to identify these defects in embryos before they are transplanted. The possibility of selecting healthy eggs can be increased by genetic testing such as PGT, which is especially important if there is a sign of genetic problems or repeated losses.

9. Failure of Implantation

Sometimes the embryo may not attach itself to the uterine lining sufficiently. Issues with the embryo or the uterine environment could bring this on. The uterine lining, or endometrium, needs to be appropriately prepared to receive the embryo. Inadequate endometrial thickness, hormonal abnormalities, or certain immunological conditions are among the causes of implant failure. To address these issues and raise the chance of successful implantation, hormonal treatments and techniques such as IUI (intrauterine insemination) may be used.

10. Endometriosis

Tissue that resembles the lining of the uterus develops out of the uterus in this condition. Given that it may result in oedema and scarring, it might affect the efficacy of IVF and conception. Patients with endometriosis may have lower-quality eggs, a decreased ovarian reserve, and a higher risk of unsuccessful implantation. For certain individuals, endometriotic tissue removal via laparoscopy surgery may be beneficial.

How to Identify IVF Failure Symptoms

Even though the emotional toll of an unsuccessful IVF cycle can be severe, being aware of the symptoms and possible causes can help you make proactive decisions. Unusual bleeding, pelvic pain, or abrupt mood swings are symptoms that should drive you to see a reproductive doctor right away.

Periods Following a Failed IVF Cycle

Going through a phase following unsuccessful IVF treatments can be emotionally taxing. It signals the end of an optimistic wait and frequently necessitates helping couples deal with disappointment. Planning the next steps and getting through this stage can be made easier by seeking open communication, emotional support, and advice from fertility specialists.

Managing IVF Failure

It can be depressing to experience the signs of IVF failure or to have an IVF cycle fail, but you must keep in mind that this does not mean the end of your journey to motherhood. After one or more failed efforts, many couples find success. During this phase, it’s important to have coping techniques, emotional support, and open communication with your healthcare team. Hope never wavers for couples who experience an unsuccessful IVF cycle.

A comprehensive assessment of the IVF cycle will result from speaking with your fertility doctor, making it possible to pinpoint the precise elements that contributed to the cycle’s failure. With this knowledge, a customized strategy can be created for your next tries, raising the likelihood of a favourable result.

In Summary for IVF Failure

IVF is a multifaceted, intricate process that depends on a wide range of variables to be successful. Couples and individuals can work together with their fertility doctors to address any potential concerns by being aware of the common reasons why IVF fails. Better results can be achieved by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, following prescription instructions, and getting emotional support, even though not all elements are under your control. Every fertility journey is different, and it’s critical to keep in mind that an IVF failure does not automatically rule out becoming a parent. For more information visit our blogs or consult our IVF specialist at Imprimis IVF & Fertility Centre in Srinagar.

Breaking Down Myths and Facts About IVF

Myths and Facts About IVF – Reproductive medicine has undergone a revolution thanks to in vitro fertilization (IVF), which has given hope to millions of infertile couples. IVF has been incredibly successful, but it has also given rise to many myths and misunderstandings. For those considering or undergoing IVF therapy, these beliefs can cause misconceptions and unwarranted anxiety. To empower people to make informed decisions about their reproductive journey, it is imperative that these beliefs are dispelled and that accurate information is provided.

Myths and Facts about IVF

Here are some of the following: 

1. Children receiving IVF are not typical. Either they have inherited genetic defects or are predisposed to certain diseases.

IVF is a procedure that helps the conception process happen faster and increases the chance of it happening. The development and growth of the fetus and newborn are identical to that of a naturally created child. The baby born through IVF does not have any genetic defects or health problems. If an IVF child is born with an illness or problem, it is not because of the IVF process; rather, he could have inherited it from one or both parents.

In fact, before implanting the embryo into the uterus during an IVF pregnancy, your fertility doctor may recommend pre-implantation genetic testing. This helps them understand if the baby is likely to suffer from future illnesses or problems caused by a genetic defect. To produce healthy embryos, the embryologist also selects the healthiest sperm and eggs from the batch.

2. The IVF Process is Painful.

There are no additional discomforts or difficulties related to the IVF procedure itself. You will not feel any severe pain after extraction and implantation, although you may feel slight discomfort. Each person has a different pain threshold. As a result, you may experience discomfort during treatment that is noticeably different from another person. These injections are usually given after the transfer. You should prepare for an equivalent level of discomfort with infertility if receiving regular injections in your arms causes you anxiety or discomfort. However, unpleasant injections are no longer necessary thanks to modern notions such as the natural cycle.

3. IVF is Effective for Women of All Ages.

IVF is a viable option for women who have passed their peak fertility age and want to give conception one last chance, but it is not a guarantee. Compared to older women, women under 35 are significantly more likely to successfully conceive through IVF. Women’s egg reserves and quality begin to decline as they age. Women who have chosen to use in vitro fertilization (IVF) for their first or previous pregnancy can occasionally freeze their viable embryos for use in subsequent pregnancies. This way, people can still try IVF for successful conception even if their egg reserves decrease over time. However, given her current ovarian reserve and the quality of her eggs, the woman would be much less likely to conceive if she had not kept her embryos. Although women over 35 are less likely to conceive through IVF, those under 35 also do not have a 100% success rate. Attempts to conceive can also fail after IVF cycles, just as during natural conception. However, after consulting your IVF specialist, you will be able to determine the number of embryos to transplant.

4. IVF Results in Multiple Pregnancies.

Although many IVF treatments result in multiple pregnancies, this is not always the case. The concept is that when you turn to an IVF professional to help you get pregnant, the best eggs and sperm are selected to create embryos. Suppose you are lucky enough to have more than one viable embryo. In that case, you have two options: freeze the remaining embryos or attempt multiple pregnancies by implanting several embryos into your uterus. Multiple pregnancies occur when all the embryos implanted in the uterus successfully implant in the wall of the uterus.

5. The Only Treatment for Infertility is IVF.

No, IVF is only an option for same-sex couples who have tried another treatment. Otherwise, there are a variety of therapies that can improve your fertility health. After receiving treatment, you can try to conceive naturally and, in all honesty, you can even get pregnant naturally without the help of IVF. Many other options include in vitro fertilization. But it does the best job of informing us about the causes and treatments of infertility.

6. The Success Rate of IVF is 100%. IVF can Solve Any Problem related to Infertility.

If you’ve read the introductory paragraph on our homepage, you already know that IVF’s 100% success rate is a terrible deception. At best, a typical success rate is between 20% and 50%. Not all fertility problems can be solved by IVF. IVF is just one of many treatments used to help infertile couples get pregnant, including sperm mapping, ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), IUI (intrauterine insemination), ovulation induction, etc. Indeed, many problems and reasons can cause infertility in men.

In Summary

Myths and Facts About IVF – Finally, to ensure people have access to the correct information when considering fertility treatments, it is important to dispel myths and misconceptions associated with IVF. We can eliminate unnecessary worry and give people a clear idea of what to expect from the IVF process by dispelling these myths. Making informed decisions about fertility treatments requires speaking with fertility doctors and obtaining information from trusted sources. Ultimately, we can help people in their quest to start a family through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, by separating fact from myth. Imprimis IVF is always there to help you at affordable prices if you need any help regarding this. 

Asherman Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Asherman Syndrome – An acquired illness known as Asherman’s syndrome causes adhesions, or scar tissue, to develop inside your uterus. There may be less room for expansion inside your uterus as a result of the accumulation of scar tissue. This illness may develop as a side effect of cancer therapy or medical procedures. Asherman’s syndrome can cause infertility, pelvic pain, or light or nonexistent periods in women.

What is Asherman’s Syndrome?

Scar tissue, sometimes known as adhesions or intrauterine adhesions, accumulates inside your uterus in a rare illness known as Asherman’s syndrome. Less space is created inside your uterus by this additional tissue.

Imagine a room where the walls grew thicker and thicker, thus reducing the amount of space in the middle. This illness may result in irregular uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and problems conceiving. Treatment for Asherman’s syndrome frequently results in symptom relief.

IUDs and Asherman’s Syndrome: is it possible?

A kind of long-term birth control called an intrauterine device (IUD) is inserted into your uterus and left there for a certain amount of time, usually several years. There is always a chance of infection and scar tissue formation when this device is inserted into your body. IUDs and Asherman’s syndrome are not frequently associated with one another, while this is not the condition’s known aetiology.

How to identify Asherman Syndrome?

Asherman’s syndrome is usually diagnosed based on symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular uterine flow, amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), or difficulty becoming and maintaining pregnancy. Asherman’s syndrome may potentially be diagnosed based on your medical history. You might be evaluated for Asherman’s syndrome if you have undergone radiation treatment, a c-section, a dilatation and curettage (D&C) procedure, or a pelvic infection. Asherman’s syndrome can be brought on by any of these treatments or ailments.

 Your IVF experts will review your medical history when you book an appointment. Make sure to let your provider know if you have ever had any pelvic surgery that isn’t listed in your medical history. That data may be crucial for the diagnosis of Asherman’s syndrome. After that, your doctor will examine you physically, but first, they will do a sonohysterogram to look for scar tissue inside your uterus. Using a tiny catheter, your doctor will inject a small amount of saline solution into your uterus during a sonohysterogram. After that, transvaginal ultrasonography is used to check for tissue blockages in the cervix or cavity.

Which tests are appropriate for the diagnosis of Asherman Syndrome?

Your IVF specialist can view your interior organs thanks to imaging tests. Different tests offer varying levels of specificity. These tests can be simple procedures performed on top of your skin with little to no preparation, or they can be more involved.

The following imaging tests can be used to identify Asherman’s syndrome:

 1. Ultrasound

This kind of imaging exam makes an image of your interior organs by using sound waves. You can have an internal transvaginal ultrasound or an external ultrasound performed on your skin. This variation of the test involves inserting a thin wand into the vagina.

 2. Hysteroscopy

This procedure involves your doctor seeing inside your uterus with a thin tool that has a camera on the end. This is placed in your vagina and advanced into your uterus via your cervix. With a hysteroscopy, your doctor may look into your uterus in great detail. It can be applied to the management of Asherman’s syndrome.

 3. Saline Infusion Sonography

To get a clear image of the inside of your uterus, this imaging procedure combines ultrasound technology with a saline solution, which is a solution of salt and water. Your uterus expands as a result of the fluid, allowing your healthcare professional to observe the specifics of the structure and flaws in your uterus.

What Is The Impact of Asherman Syndrome on Fertility?

It could be difficult for you to become pregnant if you have Asherman syndrome. The likelihood of miscarriage is considerable if you do. Although there is no room for fetal growth due to adhesions in the uterine walls, it is possible to become pregnant despite suffering from the condition.

 This increases the likelihood of miscarriage or stillbirth compared to women without the disease. Pregnancy with Asherman syndrome also increases the chance of certain disorders, such as:

1. Placenta Accreta

The placenta adheres to the uterine wall too firmly. Pregnancy at high-risk results from this. The placenta stays connected after birth in whole or in part, which results in excessive bleeding.

 2. Previa Placenta

The cervix’s opening is blocked by the placenta, which can result in heavy bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth. Premature birth is another risk that is increased by it.

The Symptoms of Asherman Syndrome 

A rare disorder called Asherman Syndrome affects women’s reproductive systems and results in the development of scar tissue inside the uterus. Many symptoms, such as the following, may result from this scar tissue:

  •  Amenorrhea, or irregular menstruation
  • Consistently losing babies
  • Infertility
  • Light or absent menstruation
  • Pain in the pelvis
  • Trouble getting pregnant or repeated losses

 Women with Asherman Syndrome sometimes don’t show any symptoms at all, and their menstruation stays regular. On the other hand, the illness may cause problems that arise during pregnancy, including low birth weight, retained placenta, and placenta accreta. Asherman syndrome is typically diagnosed with imaging techniques such as saline sonography, hysteroscopy, or hysterosalpingography.

 These techniques can assist in determining whether and how much scar tissue is present inside the uterus. In more severe cases, a hysteroscopy or MRI may be required to assess the disease’s extent. Asherman Syndrome can be treated surgically by dilation and curettage (D&C), hysteroscopy, or in certain situations, a total hysterectomy, to remove the scar tissue. To ascertain the best course of action for their unique circumstances, people must speak with their healthcare providers.

Asherman Syndrome Causes

Asherman Syndrome is a rare condition where scar tissue grows inside the uterus and/or cervix. It’s also called intrauterine adhesions or synechiae. The primary causes of Asherman Syndrome include:

1. Dilation and Curettage (D&C) Procedures

It most often happens after a D&C procedure done for voluntarily ending a pregnancy, late or not fully completed miscarriage, or to treat a placenta left over after having the baby.

2. Severe Pelvic Infection

A bad pelvic infection not connected to an operation could also cause Asherman Syndrome.

3. Other Factors

Stickiness in the uterus can also happen after getting sick with tuberculosis or schistosomiasis.

 This condition can cause problems like having light or no periods, pain in the lower body area and trouble getting pregnant. It may also lead to repeat losses of pregnancies and issues during childbirth. It can also mess with making babies, increasing the chances of a miscarriage or a baby not being born alive.

How is Asherman Syndrome treated?

Asherman’s syndrome can be treated in several ways. It’s a good idea to talk about your goals for future fertility as well as how this illness makes you feel, including any discomfort you may encounter, with your healthcare professional. Sometimes the best course of action for a woman who is symptom-free is to do nothing.

 On the other hand, there are therapy alternatives that can eliminate the scar tissue if your plan calls for more pregnancies. In addition, treatment may be beneficial if you have pelvic pain or cramps. Removing the scar tissue and getting your uterus back to its normal size and shape is the major objective of treatment. Help for Asherman’s syndrome treatment can include:

  •  Ease discomfort.
  • Return your menstrual cycle (periods) to normal.
  • If you are not yet menopausal, permit yourself to become pregnant.

Hysteroscopy

may be used by your doctor to remove the adhesions inside your uterus. During a hysteroscopy, your doctor looks inside your uterus using a thin instrument called a hysteroscope. Scar tissue can also be eliminated with this instrument. The hysteroscope is passed via your cervix, into your uterus, and your vagina. During this process, scar tissue is removed with extreme caution. While the scar tissue is being removed, there is a chance that the surgery will damage good tissue inside your uterus.

Hormonal Therapy

For a few days following the hysteroscopy, a tiny intrauterine catheter may be left inside your uterus in addition to hormonal therapy (estrogen). This will lessen the possibility that scar tissue will regrow following the surgery. Estrogen encourages the healing of your endometrium, which is the inner lining of your cavity, and the catheter creates a physical barrier between your anterior and posterior uterine walls to prevent adhesions in the days that follow the scar tissue removal surgery. Antibiotics will be administered to you to avoid infection during the insertion of an intrauterine catheter.

In Summary

Scar tissue forms inside the uterus in Asherman Syndrome, a rare and acquired disorder that can cause light or nonexistent periods, pelvic pain, infertility, recurrent miscarriages, and irregular menstruation, among other symptoms. The illness is frequently contracted as a consequence of cancer therapies, infections, or surgical operations. It might be difficult to identify Asherman Syndrome because some people may not show any symptoms at all.

Surgery to remove adhesions or scar tissue is the main treatment for Asherman Syndrome; this is usually done using hysteroscopy. Estrogen therapy is frequently used in conjunction with this operation to aid in the uterine lining’s healing and regeneration. Preventive and restorative procedures, like implanting devices to stop scar formation, may be taken into consideration in more severe situations. Many hospitals like Imprimis IVF are suitable for these treatments. It is one of the best hospitals for this. If you need any help, Imprimis IVF can help you.

Ectopic Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Ectopic Pregnancy – The uterus, or the womb, is the place where the baby grows for 9 months. The ovaries release an egg, which waits in the fallopian tube for the sperm. When the sperm fertilizes the egg, a zygote is formed. This zygote moves through the fallopian tube, reaches the womb (uterus), and gets implanted in the uterine lining. It is what happens in a normal pregnancy.

This entire process highlights the specific function of all the reproductive parts, namely the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, and the uterus. If the location of fertilization (fallopian tube) or implantation (uterus) changes due to some complications, then the pregnancy cannot be carried to term.

What is Ectopic Pregnancy? 

When the fertilized egg then the pregnancy is known as ectopic pregnancy. When this happens, the fertilized egg develops outside the uterus.

More than 90% of ectopic pregnancies are witnessed in the fallopian tube. In other cases, it is found in the cervix, ovary, or somewhere in the abdomen.

An ectopic pregnancy can never result in a healthy baby. If not treated timely, it can pose a threat to the life of the pregnant woman. Only when the growing embryo gets implanted in the uterus results in a viable and healthy pregnancy.

So, it becomes important to know why it happens in the first place. Then, we need to understand the associated symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy

The symptoms , like a missed period, nausea or upset stomach, and breast soreness, are similar to those of uterine pregnancies.

However, various symptoms are typically associated with it that warrants medical intervention. These include:

  • Heavy vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Severe pain in the abdomen, shoulder, neck, or pelvic region
  • Sudden and sharp pain on one side of the abdominal region
  • Tenderness in the cervix
  • High level of human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
  • Rectal pressure

Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy

1. Getting stuck in the fallopian tube-:

As already mentioned, the majority of ectopic pregnancy occurs in the fallopian tubes. It happens because, due to some conditions, the movement of the fertilized egg through the blocked fallopian tube or is slowed down.

Now, because the fertilized egg cannot reach the uterus, it starts to grow in the fallopian tube.

The fallopian tube is not meant to support a growing embryo, so urgent medical attention is required. If not treated timely, it may rupture the fallopian tube.

But why does the growing embryo slow down or get stuck in the tube? 

There are various reasons for this like:

  • A previous pelvic surgery or infection that resulted in scar tissues, adhesions, or inflammations in the fallopian tube.
  • Fallopian tubes are damaged because of sexually transmitted infections (STI) like chlamydia or gonorrhea.
  • Fallopian tubes are irregularly shaped since birth which makes it difficult for the fertilised egg to move forward.
  • A growth or fibroid is blocking the fallopian tube.

2. Excessive smoking-

Fine hair-like structures known as cilia are present inside the fallopian tube. Excessive smoking damages the cilia, which can hinder the smooth movement of the fertilized egg through the fallopian tube and result in an ectopic pregnancy. 

3. Age factor-:

Women lying in the age group of 35 to 44 years are at a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy. 

4. A previous ectopic pregnancy-

If you have had an ectopic pregnancy earlier, then there is a possibility of future pregnancies also resulting in an ectopic pregnancy.  

5. Endometriosis

It is a medical condition in which the uterus lining grows outside it, like in the pelvic region. It can also be a reason for an ectopic pregnancy. 

6. Intrauterine device (IUD)

IUD is a small device that is placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. But sometimes, the pregnancy can occur with IUD or tubal ligation in place. Such a pregnancy is often an ectopic pregnancy. In rare cases, IVF treatment can also result in an ectopic pregnancy. 

7. Emergency oral contraception

Sometimes oral contraception fails to prevent pregnancy. In this situation, there is a possibility that the woman can conceive in the same cycle. It may result in an extrauterine pregnancy. 

8. If a woman has pelvic endometrial or genital tuberculosis and she gets pregnant, then chances are that it is an ectopic pregnancy. 

9. Certain medical conditions can affect the shape and functioning of the fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs, which can result in an ectopic pregnancy. 

10 Abdominal surgery

If you have had an abdominal surgery like appendectomy or cesarean section. 

The best thing to do if you have abnormal vaginal bleeding, unexplained severe pain, or notice any unusual symptom is to visit a gynecologist without any further delay.

Diagnosis of an Ectopic Pregnancy

The first thing your doctor does is perform a transvaginal ultrasound to trace the location of the developing embryo. An ultrasound cannot help show the pregnancy until the fetus is more than 5 or 6 weeks because, at this time, it is too small to be located.

So a special band-like instrument makes its way into the vagina to provide images of the gestational sac in the womb.

Along with this, the doctor can perform a blood test to determine hCG and progesterone levels in your body. If the level of these two hormones has decreased or is constant over a few days and a gestational sac is absent in the ultrasound, the pregnancy is likely to be ectopic.

In case you are experiencing severe pain or heavy bleeding, all these steps might not be necessary. In extreme cases, the fallopian tube can rupture if not treated timely, which can cause severe internal bleeding. In this situation, the doctor will have to perform an emergency surgery to save the woman’s life.

Treatment of an Ectopic Pregnancy

Once it is confirmed, a treatment to remove the embryo without delay is necessary for the mother’s health and life. The line of treatment will depend on the size and location of the ectopic pregnancy.

Medications 

In the early stages, it can be treated with an injection of methotrexate. This drug helps stop the growth of the developing embryo, and after that, the body absorbs this tissue. Surgery is usually performed when the pregnancy is further along.

To check how well this treatment is working and if you need more doses, another hCG test is performed.

Laparoscopic Surgery

When the laparoscopic surgery, a small cut is made in or near the navel. Then a thin tube connected with a camera lens and light makes its way through this incision to examine the tubal area.

Two laparoscopic surgeries to treat an ectopic pregnancy are salpingostomy and salpingectomy.

The main difference between these two treatments is that in salpingostomy, the ectopic pregnancy is removed, and the fallopian tube is left to heal on its own. But in salpingectomy, the ectopic pregnancy, as well as the tube, is removed.

Abdominal Surgery

In case you are having heavy bleeding due to this, emergency surgery has to be performed. The doctor can go for laparoscopy or laparotomy (abdominal incision). If the fallopian tube is not damaged, then it can be saved, but if the tube is ruptured, it must be removed.

Future Pregnancy

It is possible to have a normal pregnancy after an ectopic pregnancy. However, the risk of developing an ectopic pregnancy after a previous one is higher. So, it is best to consult with a gynecologist before planning a pregnancy.

How Imprimis IVF Srinagar can help? 

The diagnosis and treatment of an ectopic pregnancy needs meticulous examination and experience. We at Imprimis IVF can help you remove ectopic pregnancy and plan your future pregnancy.

Bottom line 

Pregnancy is a magical and extremely delicate process. All the reproductive organs involved in pregnancy should be in perfect condition. It is not a very common phenomenon, but it can happen if you have a history of previous ectopic pregnancy, STI, or pelvic surgery. If you face any serious symptoms, you must consult a gynecologist.

Remember, every second matters. If diagnosed timely, your fallopian tube can be saved from rupturing, and the ectopic pregnancy can be removed using medications only. Do not panic if your symptoms are severe; book an appointment with a trusted IVF specialist as soon as possible.