Frequently Asked Questions

A healthy sperm count is typically regarded to be at least 15 million sperm/millilitre of semen. However, it’s important to note that semen quality can vary, and a low sperm count does not necessarily indicate infertility. Other components, such as sperm motility and morphology, also significantly affect fertility.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can potentially result in a low sperm count. Infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or syphilis can cause inflammation and injury to the reproductive organs, including the testes and epididymis. These conditions can result in decreased sperm production and quality. It’s crucial to practice safe sex and seek timely treatment for any STDs to prevent long-term effects on fertility.

Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively influence sperm count and quality. Alcohol can disrupt hormone production, affect sperm development, and impair sperm motility. To optimise fertility, limiting alcohol intake or abstaining entirely is advisable.

Managing a healthy lifestyle that involves regular physical activities and a balanced diet can positively influence sperm count and overall fertility. Regular physical activity promotes circulation and hormone balance, while a nutritious meal provides essential nutrients for sperm production. Maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating foods rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals is vital for optimal sperm health.

Hysteroscopy can provide valuable information about female fertility issues by directly visualising the inside of the uterus. It can help diagnose and evaluate various conditions, such as uterine polyps, fibroids, adhesions, and structural abnormalities. Hysteroscopy can also help with certain fertility treatments, such as removing polyps or fibroids, correcting abnormalities, or performing endometrial biopsies. At Ferty9 Fertility Centre, our skilled reproductive specialists utilise hysteroscopy to gather essential information to guide your fertility treatment plan effectively.

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical method that allows visualisation and evaluation of the inside of the uterus. It involves inserting a hysteroscope (a thin, flexible catheter with a camera and a light source) through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. At Ferty9 Fertility Centre, our expert surgeons commonly use hysteroscopy to evaluate fertility ailments and perform various treatment modalities.

As with any other medical procedure, hysteroscopy has some potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, injury to the uterus or surrounding organs, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. However, complications are rare, and our experienced reproductive specialists at Ferty9 Fertility Centre take every precaution to minimise the risks and provide optimal care.

Surgeons generally perform hysteroscopy on an outpatient basis, using either local or general anaesthesia. They insert a hysteroscope through the vagina and cervix into the uterus and use carbon dioxide gas or saline solution to expand the uterine cavity for better visualisation. The hyst-when is hysteroscopy recommended hysteroscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to inspect the uterine lining and identify any abnormalities. The surgeon may use additional instruments to remove polyps, fibroids, or adhesions if necessary. After the final evaluation or treatment completion, the surgeon removes the hysteroscope and finishes the procedure. At Ferty9 Fertility Centre, our skilled reproductive specialists ensure a safe and comfortable hysteroscopic procedure for infertility diagnosis.

Healthcare professionals may recommend hysteroscopy fertility evaluation in various situations. It is instrumental in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the uterine cavity, such as uterine polyps, fibroids, adhesions, and structural abnormalities. Hysteroscopy can also help remove polyps or fibroids, correct abnormalities, or perform endometrial biopsies. Our experienced reproductive specialists at Ferty9 Fertility Centre will determine if hysteroscopy is necessary in your specific case to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Infertility is a disease that affects a couple’s ability to conceive a child. It is described as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of routinely unprotected sexual intercourse for women under 35 or after six months for women over 35. Various factors, such as problems with ovulation, sperm quality, or reproductive organs, can cause infertility. It is essential to seek medical help if you suspect you may be infertile, as there are treatments available to help you achieve your dream of starting a family.

At Ferty9 Fertility Centre, we understand that accessibility can be a concern for patients living in rural areas. We strive to make the process as convenient as possible, and we offer the option for you to have your tests done at a nearby clinic. Our team will work closely with your local healthcare provider to ensure that all necessary tests are conducted accurately and efficiently. We strongly believe that everyone, regardless of their geographic location, should have equal access to exceptional fertility services.

Various factors can cause secondary infertility, including an age-related decline in fertility, changes in reproductive health, hormonal imbalances, or previous medical conditions or procedures that may have affected fertility. In some cases, underlying health ailments such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis can contribute to secondary infertility. Lifestyle habits, such as obesity, cigarette smoking, or excessive alcohol intake, can also play a role. It is essential to consult with a fertility professional to identify the specific causes of secondary infertility and explore treatment options.

Several lifestyle factors can contribute to infertility. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, poor nutrition, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins. These lifestyle factors can negatively impact reproductive health in both men and women, affecting sperm quality, hormone levels, and overall fertility. Making some positive lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and following a balanced diet, can significantly improve fertility outcomes. It is essential to address these lifestyle factors when seeking infertility treatment.

Yes, stress and mental health can have a significant impact on fertility. High levels of stress and anxiety can disturb hormonal balance and intervene with ovulation in women. In men, stress can impact sperm production and quality. Additionally, conditions such as depression and anxiety can impact sexual function and desire, further affecting fertility. It is vital to prioritise mental well-being and manage stress when trying to conceive. Techniques such as counselling, mindfulness, and stress-reducing activities can help improve fertility outcomes.

Lying down after an IUI procedure is not compulsory but is often recommended for a short period. Some women choose to lie down for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the sperm to swim towards the fallopian tubes. However, research on the optimal position after IUI is inconclusive, and the decision to lie down or resume normal activities is a personal choice. It is advisable to discuss this with your fertility expert, who can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

While it is essential to take care of yourself after the IUI procedure, there is no need to restrict your activities overly. Taking it easy and avoiding rigorous physical activities or heavy lifting is generally advised for the rest of the day. However, you can resume your routine activities the next day as long as they are not excessively strenuous. Listening to your body and prioritising self-care during this time is crucial.

The number of IUI cycles recommended before considering other options depends on individual circumstances and the advice of your fertility specialist. In general, fertility experts suggest trying IUI for three to six cycles before exploring alternative options such as IVF. However, this may vary based on numerous factors, such as age, cause of infertility, and previous treatment history. Your fertility specialist will assess your progress and guide you on the optimal treatment plan.

After the IUI procedure, most women can resume their normal activities without any restrictions. However, it is advisable to take it easy for the rest of the day. Avoid strenuous physical activities or heavy lifting that could affect the success of the procedure. It is also essential to follow any specific guidelines or instructions provided by your fertility specialist for optimal results.

Intercourse is generally allowed during IUI treatment, but it is essential to follow the guidance of your fertility specialist. In some cases, your fertility specialist may advise abstaining from intercourse for a specific period leading up to and following the procedure to optimise the chances of success. It is crucial to have open communication with your fertility specialist and follow their recommendations for the best possible outcome.

During an IUI cycle, regular monitoring is necessary to track the progress of follicle development and determine the optimal time for the procedure. This monitoring typically involves ultrasound scans and hormone level tests. The number of clinic visits will depend on your individual treatment plan and how your body responds to ovarian stimulation. Rest assured, your fertility specialist will create a tailored monitoring schedule that takes into account your unique circumstances and aims to ensure the best possible outcome.

Abstaining from intercourse before providing a semen sample for IUI is recommended to ensure the best quality and quantity of sperm. Typically, it is advised to abstain from ejaculation for two to five days before the scheduled IUI procedure. However, it is essential to consult with your fertility specialist for specific recommendations based on your unique circumstances.

Timing is crucial for the success of IUI. The procedure is usually performed around ovulation time, typically 24 to 36 hours after the surge in luteinising hormone (LH). Your fertility specialist will closely monitor your menstrual cycle, perform ultrasound scans, and conduct hormone level tests to discover the optimal timing for the procedure. This careful timing enhances the chances of successful fertilisation.

The IUI procedure is generally well-tolerated and relatively painless. It is similar to a regular pelvic exam and does not require anaesthesia. Some women may notice mild discomfort or cramping during the procedure, but it usually subsides quickly. If you have concerns about pain or discomfort, it is essential to discuss them with your fertility specialist, who can provide guidance and address your individual needs.

Ovarian stimulation is a crucial step in an IVF cycle. It involves using fertility medicines to stimulate the ovaries to produce a few mature eggs. The professionals administer fertility medications through injections, and the dosage is carefully monitored based on the individual’s response. Regular ultrasound scans can track follicle growth and determine the optimal time for egg retrieval.

Ovarian hyperstimulation is a potential side effect of ovarian stimulation during an IVF cycle. It occurs when the ovaries respond excessively to fertility medications, leading to the development of a large number of follicles. It can result in ovarian enlargement and fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Severe cases of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) are rare but can cause discomfort and require medical intervention. Your fertility expert will closely monitor your response to medications and take appropriate measures to minimise the risk of hyperstimulation.

Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure usually performed under sedation or anaesthesia. Using ultrasound guidance, fertility experts insert a thin needle through the vaginal wall and reach the ovaries and aspirate the mature eggs from the follicles. The retrieved eggs are then handed to the laboratory for further processing and fertilisation.

The number of eggs or ova required for a successful IVF cycle differs depending on individual circumstances. However, the quality of eggs is equally essential. Your fertility specialist will aim to retrieve an optimal number of mature eggs based on your age, ovarian reserve, and previous treatment history.

After the eggs are retrieved, embryologists carefully examine them in the laboratory. The eggs are then prepared for fertilisation by removing the surrounding cells. For conventional IVF, the eggs are either placed in a culture dish along with a sample of sperm or subjected to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for cases with severe male factor infertility or previous fertilisation issues.

We usually put a maximum of two embryos into the woman’s uterus during one cycle. If there are more embryos left after the first cycle, we cryopreserve them for later. This way, if the first try doesn’t work, we can use the frozen embryos in another attempt.

Embryo transfer is the final step of the IVF process, where the selected embryos are transferred into the woman’s uterus. It is a relatively simple and painless procedure that does not require anaesthesia. Using a catheter, fertility experts gently transfer the embryos into the uterus with the guidance of ultrasound imaging. The number of embryos transferred depends on various factors, including the woman’s age, embryo quality, and preferences.