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IUI TREATMENT

IUI Treatment procedure, side effect & success rate – arriva ivf

Today we will be talking about one common infertility treatment, which is often recommended by doctors, and is popularly known as Intra-Uterine Fertility or IUI. Let us see what IUI is in detail to address all your curiosities and concerns.

What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine Insemination or IUI is a simple infertility treatment processing which the sperm cells are taken from your partner and are inserted into your uterus.

In other words, it is an artificial insemination which refers to artificially introducing the sperm into the female uterus to assist pregnancy.

The process is quite simple and easy to follow. IUI is the initial or first-line treatment for patients with mild or unexplained infertility.

How is the female partner evaluated for IUI infertility treatment?

The female partner is tested for hormones and reproductive health by checking the following parameters:

a) Endometrial Thickness: During menstruation, the woman is checked for the thickness of the inner lining (Endometrium) of the Uterus. This is where the egg gets implanted post fertilisation.
b) Blood Test:It is done to check the right level of hormones in the woman’s body.
c) Ovulation cycle: The ovulation cycle of the woman is studied to see if the ovulation is healthy or not.

How is the male partner evaluated for IUI infertility treatment?

The male partner is checked for the following parameters:

(a) Sperm Count: The higher the sperm count, the higher the chances of conception are and vice-versa.
(b) Sperm Motility: The sperm should be motile to be able to reach the woman’s egg.
(c) Morphology of the Sperm: The sperm should be in good shape without any defects.

Also read this : Male Infertility: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment – Arrivaivf Shimla

If the sperm count is less or the quality of sperms is not good, then you also have the option of using donor sperm sample.

Is Intrauterine Insemination Painful?

The good news is that IUI is a painless procedure. However, you may feel mild pain, discomfort or cramps when the sperms are injected inside your Uterus. The trouble, if any, is mild and tolerable. You are discharged within one hour after the procedure.

Another good thing about this infertility treatment process cost is that it is highly affordable.

The process of IUI infertility treatment in India

The IUI process is simple and straightforward. The following steps are followed in this procedure:

• Your doctor understands your medical history from you and tries to evaluate your and your partner’s reproductive health.
• You are asked to report during menstruation when you are sent for Ultrasound and blood tests.
• As per the doctor’s understanding of your case, the doctor advises medication involving fertility drugs, to start during menstruation. The fertility drugs are given to increase the number of eggs reaching maturity to increase the chances of conception.
• You are called back to repeat the same tests after a week.
• After 15 days of your menstruation, you are examined to check your ovulation, meaning your ovaries are releasing eggs in proper number, size, time, etc.
• Semen samples are collected from your partner and refrigerated.
• Sperms are washed with a chemical to remove seminal fluid and debris. This helps the sperm to swim faster to reach the egg.
• You are made to lie down.
• The sperms are inserted into your Uterus using a long sterile tube.
• You are made to stay in a reclined position for at least 30 minutes. With this, the IUI infertility treatment procedure is over.

When do you get to know the result?

Well, you are called two weeks after the procedure when your pregnancy test is done, till then you are required to keep your fingers crossed.

IUI infertility treatment success rate?

Various factors govern the success rate of IUI treatment. Factors like your age, your spouse’s age, causes of infertility, medical history, other medical conditions, etc. affect the success rate of IUI infertility treatment procedure.

Usually, it has been noted at Arriva IVF Superspeciality Centre Shimla , that IUI procedures come with a10% to 20% success rate. If somehow, you are not able to find success with IUI, then you may be advised to go for IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation). IVF procedureis known to have a better success rate when it comes to infertility treatment.

Risks involved in IUI Infertility Treatment

The chances of any medical complications arising during or after the procedure are very less. The birth defects are also very less as reported till date. The chances of catching an infection are also minimal as the process is short-lived and non-invasive.

However, there are increased chances of getting pregnant with twins, triplets or more because the woman is kept on fertility drugs which increase the number of eggs available to be fertilized.

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Fertility preservation

Fertility Preservation: Purpose, Procedure Options & Benefits

Fertility preservation involves the freezing of reproductive tissue such as eggs, sperm, embryos or ovarian tissue to increase the chances of having biological children in the future.

This technique can benefit individuals facing cancer treatment or those who want to delay parenthood.

Preservation of fertility is possible for both men and women, and advancements in medical technology have led to numerous options to help preserve fertility.

Fertility preservation is a sub-specialty within the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility.

It helps men and women of reproductive age understand the risks of infertility and possible treatment options associated with cancer treatment.

The process involves freezing reproductive tissue before cancer treatment begins.

Also read this : Male Infertility: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment – Arrivaivf Shimla

Various methods exist for preserving fertility. Semen samples can be routinely preserved, and frozen sperm can be used for donor samples.

Embryos can be frozen before chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Egg freezing is another option for young cancer patients, as well as those who want to delay parenthood for social reasons.

Despite the benefits of fertility preservation, certain risks and factors must be considered. Chemotherapy or radiation can damage sperm and eggs, making it harder to predict future fertility potential.

Patients with diminished ovarian reserve may experience difficulty conceiving, and some specific cancers can damage the testes.

At Arriva IVF, we offer a robust vitrification program, with outcomes that compare favorably to the best in the world.

Our fertility specialists are available to provide information about the benefits and risks of fertility preservation and assist patients in making informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Few Frequently asked question related to this topic.

1.What age does a woman stop being fertile

The age at which a woman stops being fertile can vary, but in general, women experience a decline in fertility starting in their late 20s or early 30s, with a more significant decline after age 35.

Menopause, which marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being 51.However, some women may experience menopause earlier or later than this range.

It is important to note that while fertility declines with age, it is still possible for women to get pregnant into their 40s and even early 50s, although it may be more difficult and the risk of complications may be higher.

2. Signs of high fertility in a woman

There are several signs that may indicate high fertility in a woman. These include:

  1. Changes in cervical mucus: As a woman approaches ovulation, her cervical mucus may become thinner, clearer, and more slippery, resembling the texture of egg whites.
  2. Basal body temperature changes: A woman’s basal body temperature (BBT) may increase slightly after ovulation, indicating that she is in her fertile window.
  3. Ovulation pain or cramping: Some women may experience mild pain or cramping on one side of their abdomen around the time of ovulation.
  4. Breast tenderness: Some women may experience breast tenderness or swelling around ovulation due to hormonal changes.
  5. Increased libido: Some women may experience a higher sex drive around ovulation, which can be an indication of increased fertility.
  6. Positive ovulation test: An ovulation test can detect the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that triggers ovulation, indicating that a woman is in her fertile window.

It is important to note that while these signs can be helpful in identifying a woman’s fertile window, they are not foolproof and should be used in conjunction with other fertility tracking methods to increase the chances of conception.

3.Will I get pregnant on fertile days?

Having sex during your fertile days can increase your chances of getting pregnant, but it is not a guarantee.

It is estimated that the chances of getting pregnant during each menstrual cycle are around 25%, and this percentage increases slightly during the fertile window.

The fertile window is the time in your menstrual cycle when you are most likely to get pregnant. It usually starts about five days before ovulation and ends on the day of ovulation.

However, there are several factors that can affect fertility, including age, health conditions, and lifestyle habits.

It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about your fertility.

Additionally, if you have been trying to conceive for over a year without success (or six months if you are over the age of 35), it may be a good idea to speak with a fertility specialist to discuss potential causes and treatment options.

4. Can I get pregnant 3 days after my period?

It is possible to get pregnant 3 days after your period, although it is less likely. Ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of your next period.

However, the timing of ovulation can vary from woman to woman and even from cycle to cycle.

Sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you have sex during this time, there is a chance that sperm may fertilize an egg when it is released during ovulation.

That being said, the chances of getting pregnant 3 days after your period are lower than during your fertile window.

It’s important to remember that there are many factors that can affect fertility, including age, health conditions, and lifestyle habits.

If you are trying to conceive, it may be helpful to track your menstrual cycle and use ovulation prediction kits to determine when you are most fertile.

Additionally, speaking with your healthcare provider can help you better understand your fertility and any potential issues that may be affecting your ability to conceive.

5.How can I know my fertile days?

There are several ways to identify your fertile days:

  1. Track your menstrual cycle: Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before the start of your next period. By tracking your cycle, you can estimate when you are most likely to ovulate.
  2. Monitor your basal body temperature (BBT): Your basal body temperature can increase slightly when you ovulate. By tracking your BBT every day, you can identify a pattern and determine when you are most likely to ovulate.
  3. Use ovulation predictor kits (OPKs): OPKs detect luteinizing hormone (LH) in your urine, which surges just before ovulation. This can help you determine when you are about to ovulate.
  4. Observe changes in cervical mucus: Cervical mucus changes throughout your cycle, becoming thin and stretchy around ovulation. By observing these changes, you can identify when you are most fertile.
  5. Pay attention to physical symptoms: Some women experience mild cramping or abdominal pain around ovulation. You may also notice breast tenderness or increased sex drive.

It’s important to remember that each woman’s body is different, and these methods may not work for everyone. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as stress, illness, and travel can affect your menstrual cycle and ovulation. If you are having trouble determining your fertile days or are experiencing fertility issues, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider.

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Male Infertility

Male Infertility: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment – Arrivaivf Shimla

If you are facing male infertility you are not alone. One in every eight couples face problems in getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy. Approximately one-third of infertility is attributed to the male partner.
Infertility in men is the failure to conceive a child even after twelve months of unprotected and frequent sexual intercourse. Many factors contribute to male infertility, such as anatomical, genetic, and environmental causes. In many cases, the underlying cause of infertility in male cannot be determined. You need to consider undergoing formal assessments and tests for better clinical diagnosis.

Male Infertility Symptoms

You may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Reduced sexual desire due to stress or other lifestyle habits
  • Difficulty in maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
  • Pain or swelling in the testicle area
  • Difficulty in ejaculation
  • Decreased facial and body hair, and abnormal breast growth or hormonal abnormality

Visit your doctor to get yourself evaluated for these symptoms. Sometimes there are no apparent signs and symptoms of male infertility. You may not experience any issues with sexual activity, erection or ejaculation, and the only symptom you will have is the inability to conceive a child.

Male Infertility Problems/Causes

Fertility in Men is a result of a complex combination of factors. The following markers help us evaluate fertility or infertility in men.

Production of healthy sperms: This involves the growth and formation of the male reproductive organs during puberty. At least one of the testicles must be functioning optimally and the body must be producing testosterone and other hormones to trigger and maintain sperm production.

Carrying of sperm into the semen: Once sperm cells are produced in the testicles, tubes transport them until they mix with semen and are ejaculated out of the penis. This must not be obstructed in any way.

A good amount of sperm in the semen: The sperm count is considered low if enough sperms are not present in the semen. It decreases the chances that one of the sperm will fertilize the partner’s egg. Fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen or lesser than 39 million per ejaculate is considered as low sperm count.

Sperm must be healthy and functional: Healthy sperms move with great speed. If the sperms are not healthy or not able to move, it may not be able to reach or penetrate your partner’s egg. Hence the motility of the sperm is a very important factor in determining male fertility.

Sperm disorders can be hereditary or can be the result of bad lifestyle choices. Drug usage, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, emotional stress, and depression can result in sperm related disorders. Also, any congenital disability or damage to the reproductive system may result in low sperm count.

Varicoceles

Varicoceles are swollen veins of the scrotum that causes infertility. This occurs due to the blockage of blood flow to the scrotum, leading to difficulty in temperature regulation. The warm temperature does not favor the production of sperms resulting in low sperm count.
Varicocele can be treated, which helps to improve sperm number and function, and this may also improve the potential outcome of assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF.

Immunity related infertility

Though it is not a common cause of infertility, sometimes your body creates antibodies that attack your own sperms. These antibodies affect the functionality of sperms, which makes it difficult for them to fertilize the egg.

Ejaculation Issues

During orgasm, if semen enters the bladder instead of going out through the penis, it is called retrograde ejaculation. Various health problems can cause retrograde ejaculation, such as surgery, medication, spinal injuries, or diabetes. Generally, in retrograde ejaculation sperm count is normal and can be retrieved and used for assisted reproduction techniques.

Blockage of sperm transporting tubules

Some defects can block the tubes that carry sperms. This blockage can occur due to repeated infections, injury due to surgery, swelling, or it can be an inherited condition. This blockage can prevent the sperm from leaving the body for fertilization.

Hormonal Imbalance

Any hormonal abnormality affecting the hypothalamus, pituitary, or adrenal glands can cause infertility. The inability to produce an adequate amount of testosterone can lead to a reduced number of healthy sperms.

Chromosomal Defects

An inherited disorder can result in abnormal development of male reproductive organs. Some of the genetic syndromes causing infertility in men are Klinefelter’s syndrome, Kallmann’s syndrome or cystic fibrosis.

Medications

Certain medications can impair the function, structure, and production of sperms and interfere with male fertility. Long term use of steroids, cancer medication (chemotherapy), antifungal medications, and medications advised for arthritis and depression can cause infertility.

Environmental Causes

Overexposure to industrial chemicals, heavy metals, or radiation may contribute to your reduced sperm count. Increased scrotal temperature due to tight underpants can also be the reason for infertility.

Lifestyle Choices

Tobacco, Chewning, Smoking or drinking alcohol can lead to erectile dysfunction or decreased sperm production. Usage of drugs like marijuana or cocaine can reduce the quality and production of your sperms. Emotional stress and depression can lead to sexual dysfunction. Excessive weight or obesity can also be the reason for male infertility.

Also Read this : What Does a Fertility Specialist Do? By Dr.Yogita Dogra

Male Infertility Diagnosis

The diagnosis of infertility in men can be a complicated process. Getting yourself evaluated from a physician, specialized in male fertility can help you with better diagnosis. The method of diagnosis starts with medical history, lifestyle, and physical examination.

History and Physical examination

Your health care provider will take a detailed history of your health and any previous surgeries. You will be asked about any childhood diseases, current health problems, any medications you are taking, which might be causing infertility. You will also be assessed for exposure to any environmental or lifestyle-related causes leading to infertility. You will be asked if you are facing any difficulties with sexual functioning.
Physical examination includes examining your reproductive organs. Here you will be assessed for varicocele or other physical abnormalities.

Semen analysis

This is a routine lab test in which semen is collected in a sterile tube, and the sample is studied. The quality of the sperm is analyzed by studying sperm volume, sperm count, movement, concentration, and structure. Low sperms or no sperms indicate blockage of the ejaculatory duct, which can be corrected through surgery.

Testicular biopsy

This test is done when your semen analysis shows low sperm count or no sperms. A needle biopsy is taken to check for the presence of healthy sperms. This helps to diagnose if there is any blockage, and these sperms can be used in the process of assisted reproduction.

Hormone Evaluation

Testosterone and other hormones are responsible for the production of healthy sperms. Hormone evaluation also helps the doctor to rule out if you are suffering from any other underlying health problem.

Male Infertility Treatment

Treatment of male infertility mainly depends on the possible causes. Many issues can be treated with medication and surgery. This helps in reversing the cause of infertility and achieving conception naturally.

Nonsurgical procedures

Infertility of male caused due to abnormalities of hormones, immunity, retrograde ejaculation, or genital tract infection can be corrected by using medications. If the drugs don’t seem to help, you can opt for assisted reproductive techniques (ART’s) to achieve conception.

Surgical procedures

Condition like varicocele can be treated by minor outpatient surgery called varicocelectomy. Any blockage causing azoospermia can also be corrected using minor surgeries.

Treatment options for unknown causes of infertility

Treatment of male infertility mainly depends on the possible causes. Many issues can be treated with medication and surgery. This helps in reversing the cause of infertility and achieving conception naturally.

Nonsurgical procedures

Infertility of male caused due to abnormalities of hormones, immunity, retrograde ejaculation, or genital tract infection can be corrected by using medications. If the drugs don’t seem to help, you can opt for assisted reproductive techniques (ART’s) to achieve conception.

Surgical procedures

Condition like varicocele can be treated by minor outpatient surgery called varicocelectomy. Any blockage causing azoospermia can also be corrected using minor surgeries.

Treatment options for unknown causes of infertility

Sometimes the cause of infertility may not be known or is non-specific. During such conditions, an experienced doctor can help you to decide which treatment can work for you.
With the latest developments, Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART) offers powerful treatment options. These treatments have made it possible to attain pregnancy even when men have low sperm count.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

In this method, sperms are directly injected into the female partner’s uterus during ovulation. This method often works for low sperm count or in conditions like retrograde ejaculation.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

In this procedure, sperms are mixed with eggs of the female partner in a Petri dish in a lab. This allows retrieval of matured eggs and their fertilization. After 3 to 5 days, fertilized eggs are placed back in the uterus. IVF can be the best treatment option in men with severe oligospermia.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

It is a form of IVF used in the treatment of severe male infertility. In this, a single healthy sperm is injected into an egg through a tiny needle. The fertilized egg is then transferred to the female partner’s uterus.

Conclusion

You may find it challenging to accept male infertility. As mentioned above in many cases, male infertility can be treated. Consulting a skilled infertility doctor and getting evaluated can help you to overcome infertility. Right diagnosis and treatment can make it possible to achieve pregnancy and take home a healthy baby.

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female infertility Fertility preservation fertility treatments for women Male Infertility Secondary Infertility

What Does a Fertility Specialist Do? By Dr.Yogita Dogra

A fertility specialist, also known as a reproductive endocrinologist, is a medical professional who specializes in treating infertility and reproductive disorders. They have extensive training and experience in the fields of gynecology, obstetrics, and reproductive endocrinology. Their primary focus is to help couples who are struggling to conceive and give them the best chance of having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Fertility specialists work with both men and women to diagnose and treat infertility. They perform a range of diagnostic tests to determine the cause of infertility, including semen analysis, hormone tests, and ultrasound imaging. They also conduct comprehensive medical histories and physical exams to identify any underlying health issues that may be affecting fertility.

Once a diagnosis has been made, fertility specialists develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient. This may involve medications to stimulate ovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF). They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or quitting smoking, to improve fertility.

One of the most common treatments that fertility specialists provide is IVF. This is a complex medical procedure that involves fertilizing eggs outside of the body and then transferring them back into the uterus. The process typically takes several weeks and requires close monitoring by the fertility specialist.

Fertility specialists also help patients who are at high risk of genetic disorders. They may recommend pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) to identify genetic abnormalities in embryos before they are transferred back into the uterus. This can help reduce the risk of passing on genetic disorders to the baby.

In addition to treating infertility, fertility specialists also provide care for other reproductive disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. They work closely with other medical professionals, such as urologists and genetic counselors, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

Becoming a fertility specialist requires extensive education and training. After completing medical school, a fertility specialist must complete a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, followed by a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. This can take up to six years of additional training.

Also read this : Fertility treatments for women with irregular periods

Fertility specialists must also maintain ongoing education and certification to stay up-to-date with the latest advances in their field. They may belong to professional organizations such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, which provides opportunities for continuing education and networking with other fertility specialists.

In conclusion, fertility specialists play a crucial role in helping couples who are struggling to conceive. They provide compassionate care and expertise in diagnosing and treating infertility and other reproductive disorders. With their help, many couples are able to achieve their dream of having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

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fertility treatments for women

Fertility treatments for women with irregular periods

Fertility treatments for women with irregular periods can be challenging. Irregular periods can indicate a hormonal imbalance or other underlying medical conditions that can affect fertility. However, with the help of modern medicine and assisted reproductive technologies, there are still options available for women who have irregular periods and are trying to conceive.

One of the first steps to take when trying to conceive with irregular periods is to determine the underlying cause of the irregularity. In some cases, irregular periods may be due to lifestyle factors such as stress, excessive exercise, or weight changes. In other cases, they may be caused by medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or endometriosis.

Once the underlying cause of the irregular periods has been identified, treatment can be prescribed. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive exercise may be enough to regulate menstrual cycles and improve fertility. However, in other cases, medical intervention may be necessary.

One of the most common medical treatments for irregular periods is the use of fertility drugs such as clomiphene citrate. These drugs help to stimulate ovulation and increase the chances of conception. Another option is injectable fertility drugs, which are more potent and can be used in women who do not respond to oral medications.

In cases where fertility drugs are not successful, assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended. IVF involves the retrieval of eggs from the ovaries, fertilization with sperm in a laboratory, and the transfer of embryos to the uterus.

Another option for women with irregular periods is intrauterine insemination (IUI). This involves the injection of washed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization.

For women with irregular periods due to PCOS, lifestyle changes and medication may be recommended. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove cysts or other growths that are interfering with fertility.

In conclusion, fertility treatments for women with irregular periods can vary depending on the underlying cause of the irregularity. It is important to consult with a fertility specialist who can help to identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. With the right treatment and care, women with irregular periods can increase their chances of conception and achieve their dream of starting a family.