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Infertility is the inability to conceive after 12 months (or six months for women over 35) of regular, unprotected intercourse. It affects millions of people worldwide, with approximately 10-15% of couples experiencing difficulties conceiving. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 48 million couples and 186 million individuals globally suffer from infertility. Both male and female factors contribute to infertility, and in some cases, the cause remains unexplained.
Infertility can be caused by various medical, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Some common causes include: • Female Factors: o Ovulation disorders (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian failure) o Blocked fallopian tubes due to infections, endometriosis, or past surgeries o Uterine abnormalities, including fibroids and polyps o Age-related decline in egg quality and quantity o Hormonal imbalances affecting egg production • Male Factors: o Low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape o Hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production o Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum) o Genetic disorders such as Klinefelter syndrome o Exposure to toxins, smoking, alcohol, or excessive heat (saunas, tight clothing) • Unexplained Infertility: In some cases, despite extensive testing, no clear cause is found.
It is recommended to seek medical evaluation if: • You are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year without success. • You are over 35 and have been trying for six months. • You have irregular or absent periods. • You have a history of pelvic infections, endometriosis, or previous surgeries affecting fertility. • Your male partner has a known sperm issue or reproductive disorder.
Success rates depend on the cause of infertility, the treatment chosen, and individual health factors. Approximate success rates include: • Ovulation Induction (medications like Clomid or Letrozole): 20-25% per cycle • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): 10-20% per cycle • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): 40-50% for women under 35, decreasing with age • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Similar to IVF, often used for male infertility
To improve fertility naturally: • Maintain a healthy weight (BMI between 18.5 and 24.9). • Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids. • Exercise moderately but avoid excessive high-intensity workouts. • Reduce stress through yoga, acupuncture, or meditation. • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs. • Track ovulation using apps, basal body temperature, or ovulation predictor kits. • For men, avoid excessive heat exposure (hot tubs, laptops on lap) and wear loose-fitting underwear.
• Ovulation Induction or IUI: 4-6 weeks • IVF (from ovarian stimulation to embryo transfer): About 4-6 weeks • Egg retrieval to embryo transfer (if fresh transfer is used): 5-7 days • Frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle: About 4 weeks
Start IVF after a thorough fertility evaluation and discussion with a specialist. It is recommended for: • Women with blocked fallopian tubes or severe endometriosis. • Couples with unexplained infertility. • Women over 35 struggling to conceive naturally. • Men with severe sperm abnormalities.
Medications stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, increasing the chances of obtaining viable embryos. They also regulate hormone levels, prevent premature ovulation, and support embryo implantation.
While there is no universal age limit, most clinics recommend IVF before age 45 with own eggs and up to 50 with donor eggs. Success rates decline with age due to decreased egg quality.
• Blood tests for hormone levels (AMH, FSH, LH, Estradiol, TSH) • Ultrasound to check ovarian reserve and uterus condition • Semen analysis for male partners • Genetic testing (if needed)
Yes, many international patients get preliminary tests done locally and share results with their IVF clinic.
Day 1 is the first day of full menstrual bleeding, marking the start of the IVF process.
Intercourse is usually allowed before ovarian stimulation but should be avoided after egg retrieval due to discomfort and risk of infection.
Yes, but avoid excessive stress and dehydration.
Yes, but avoid long-haul flights immediately after transfer to reduce stress.
Yes, especially if multiple embryos are transferred. Single embryo transfer is recommended to reduce risks.
A waiting period of 1-2 menstrual cycles is recommended.
There is no strict limit, but after 3-4 failed cycles, doctors may suggest alternative treatments.
IVF involves multiple steps, including lab procedures, medications, and doctor consultations, making it resource-intensive.
Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure where eggs are collected from the ovaries using a needle under sedation. It takes about 20-30 minutes.
Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, and stress
Yes, a full bladder helps improve visibility during ultrasound-guided transfer.
It usually takes 10-15 minutes.
Yes, but wait at least 10-15 minutes.
Most clinics recommend resting for 15-30 minutes before resuming normal activities.
Wait at least 48 hours before taking a bath.
It is usually advised to wait until the pregnancy test confirms the outcome.
Typically, 10-20 days, depending on treatment.
Many clinics assist with accommodation arrangements
Most clinics do not arrange flights, but they provide travel recommendations.
Not necessarily; some monitoring can be done locally before arriving.