Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, female infertility does not have obvious signs or symptoms. However, some common signs that may indicate a potential fertility issue include irregular menstrual cycles, painful periods, excessive hair growth, or changes in libido. It is important to remember that the absence of these signs does not necessarily mean that you are not experiencing fertility issues. If you have been actively trying to conceive for a year without success, consult with a fertility specialist for a comprehensive evaluation.
Certain lifestyle habits can contribute to female infertility. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, poor nutrition, and excessive exercise. These habits can negatively impact hormonal balance, ovulation, and reproductive health. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits when trying to conceive is essential. These include maintaining a balanced diet, exercising moderately, avoiding excessive alcohol drinking and smoking, and managing stress effectively. Making these lifestyle changes can significantly improve fertility outcomes.
Ovulation disorder is a condition where a woman’s ovaries do not release eggs regularly or do not release eggs at all. It can lead to female infertility, as without the release of a mature egg, fertilisation and pregnancy cannot occur. Ovulation disorders can occur due to various causes, such as hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or premature ovarian failure. Therefore, consulting with a fertility specialist to diagnose and treat ovulation disorders effectively is essential.
Tubal factors, conditions that affect the fallopian tubes, are a significant aspect of reproductive health. These tubes transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus. Blockages or damage to these tubes can prevent the egg from reaching the uterus and interfere with fertilisation. Common causes of tubal factors include pelvic inflammatory disease, previous pelvic surgeries, or endometriosis. Tubal factors can significantly impact female fertility and may require medical intervention to achieve successful conception.
Uterine abnormalities are structural abnormalities in the uterus that can interfere with implantation and pregnancy. These abnormalities can include uterine fibroids, polyps, or a septum in the uterus. Uterine abnormalities can affect the ability of the fertilised egg to get implanted in the uterus and can increase the risk of miscarriage. Diagnosis and treatment of uterine abnormalities are essential for successful conception and a healthy pregnancy.
Diabetes can contribute to female infertility, mainly if not correctly managed. Diabetes can affect fertility by causing hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and anovulation. It can also increase the chance of complications during pregnancy. Proper management of diabetes through regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and medications can help improve fertility outcomes in women with diabetes.
Asherman’s Syndrome, also known as intrauterine adhesions, is a condition characterised by the formation of scar tissue inside the uterus. This scar tissue can lead to adhesions or fibrous bands that can obstruct the uterine cavity and interfere with implantation and pregnancy. Asherman’s Syndrome can develop due to previous uterine surgeries, including dilation and curettage (D&C;) or infections. It is a potential cause of infertility in women and requires medical intervention to restore normal uterine function.
IVF success rates vary based on age, cause of infertility, embryo quality, and clinic expertise. Women under 35 generally have a 60–70% success rate per cycle. Success rates decline with age. Your fertility specialist can provide individual success estimates.
The overall risk of birth defects in IVF babies is low and comparable to naturally conceived babies. Some studies suggest a slight increase in specific conditions, possibly linked to the cause of infertility rather than IVF itself. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can help screen embryos.
The success rate of IUI treatment ranges from 15% to 20% per cycle. Success depends on several factors, including the woman’s age, cause of infertility, and sperm quality. Most successful pregnancies occur within the first 3 to 4 IUI cycles.
IUI and IVF serve different purposes. IUI is a simpler, less invasive, and more affordable treatment often recommended for mild infertility cases. IVF is more advanced and typically used when IUI fails or for complex fertility issues. The best option depends on individual circumstances.
Most fertility specialists recommend trying 3 to 4 IUI cycles. If pregnancy is not achieved after that, IVF is often suggested due to its higher success rates in complex or persistent infertility cases.
