Frequently Asked Questions

Mild discomfort or pain may be felt during a hysteroscopy, particularly during cervical dilation or biopsy. However, this discomfort is usually short-lived and manageable with medication if needed.

Yes, specific exercises should be avoided or modified during IVF treatment. High-impact exercises (running, jumping, or intense aerobic activities) may be discouraged during certain stages of the IVF process, as they can potentially increase the risk of ovarian torsion or cause discomfort. Additionally, exercises that involve excessive abdominal crunches or twisting movements may be contraindicated after embryo transfer, as they can potentially dislodge the embryo. Consulting with your fertility specialist and following their recommendations for safe and appropriate exercise routines during each stage of the IVF process is crucial.

Yes, over-exercising or engaging in excessive physical activity can affect IVF success rates. Excessive exercise can lead to hormonal imbalances, disrupted menstrual cycles, and decreased fertility. It can also increase stress levels, disrupt sleep patterns, and negatively affect overall well-being, all of which can potentially reduce the chances of successful IVF treatment. It is crucial to strike a balance and avoid over-exercising during the IVF process.

If you have been leading a sedentary lifestyle, avoiding starting an entirely new and intense exercise routine during IVF treatment may be best. Sudden changes in physical activity levels can disrupt hormonal balance and increase stress levels, which may negatively impact IVF outcomes. However, it is generally safe to gradually incorporate gentle forms of exercise, such as walking, light stretching, or gentle yoga, during the IVF process, especially if you have been previously inactive.

Yes, exercise can potentially improve the success rates of IVF for women with fertility issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or hormonal imbalances. Regular physical activity can help regulate hormones, manage weight, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health, positively impacting fertility and IVF outcomes. However, it is essential to note that the benefits of exercise may vary and depend on the specific fertility issue and individual circumstances. Consulting with a fertility specialist and following their recommendations for appropriate exercise routines is crucial.

First-trimester screening is typically performed between weeks 11 and 14 of pregnancy, as this window provides the most accurate results for assessing potential risks and concerns.

First-trimester screening is not designed to detect all potential conditions or abnormalities. It primarily evaluates the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities (Down syndrome, trisomy 18 & trisomy 13). However, it may also identify other potential concerns related to the baby’s growth and development.

Discuss your options with your doctor if you missed the optimal first-trimester screening window. They may recommend alternative screening methods, such as second-trimester screening or diagnostic tests, to assess potential risks and concerns.

If you have concerns or are unsure about the results of your first-trimester screening, it’s essential to discuss them with your doctor. They can provide further explanation, counselling, and guidance on the next steps, including additional testing or specialised care.

Women can identify ovulation through several physical signs. The most reliable indicators include a change in cervical mucus consistency, mild cramping on one side of the abdomen, and a slight rise in basal body temperature. Using ovulation prediction kits provides additional confirmation of approaching ovulation.

Daily tracking provides the most accurate picture of fertility patterns. Women should monitor their signs throughout their entire cycle, with particular attention to the following:

• Temperature readings each morning
• Cervical mucus changes daily
• Physical symptoms as they occur

Research indicates that women typically release one egg per menstrual cycle. While multiple eggs can be released within a 24-hour period, true multiple ovulations across different days in the same cycle are extremely rare.

Pregnancy is possible on the day of ovulation, but the chances are higher during the two days before ovulation. The egg remains viable for about twenty-four hours after release, while sperm can remain vital for up to five days in the female reproductive tract. This creates the optimal fertile window for conception.

IUI and IVF are two important assisted reproductive technologies that help women get pregnant in cases of infertility issues. In both cases, the woman receives medicine that promotes the development of several egg-producing follicles in her ovaries. In IUI, after the ovulation induction, the sperm is placed inside the uterus for fertilization to take place. In IVF, the eggs, after achieving the desired development, are taken out of the uterus, and fertilization of the egg and sperm occurs in the laboratory.

It frequently takes more than one treatment cycle to conceive. Some people, meanwhile, will not become pregnant even after several attempts. Your doctor may suggest in vitro fertilization (IVF) if you have experienced many cycles of ineffective ovulation induction.

Monitoring follicular development and the ovulation process requires regular hormonal blood tests. Hormonal baselines, including Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH), estrogen, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), are assessed before ovulation stimulation. The key hormones that are analyzed during this phase are:

• Estradiol (estrogen)
• Progesterone
• Luteinizing hormone

The TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) procedure is a minimally invasive technique used to retrieve sperm directly from the testis. It is primarily employed in cases of azoospermia, where the individual is unable to produce sperm in the ejaculate.

Studies have shown that the success rates of TESA-IVF can be comparable to those achieved with conventional IVF using ejaculated sperm. However, the success rates can vary and depend on various factors, such as the underlying reason for infertility, the age of the individuals involved, and the medical team’s expertise.

The TESA procedure is generally considered safe and minimally invasive. Its potential side effects may include mild pain at the injection site, swelling or bruising in the scrotal area, infection (though rare), bleeding or haematoma formation, and temporary testicular tenderness or discomfort.

Most individuals experience a full recovery within 1–2 weeks, and they can resume normal daily activities and light exercise. However, doctors may recommend rest and limited physical activity for the first few days following the TESA to allow proper healing.

The success rates of fertility preservation methods can vary and depend on a myriad of factors, such as the woman’s age, the specific technique used, and the quality of the preserved eggs, embryos, or ovarian tissue. Generally, egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) has a success rate ranging from 30% to 60% for women under 35, while embryo freezing has a slightly higher success rate. However, consulting with a fertility specialist is essential to understand the specific success rates based on individual circumstances.

Age is an essential factor that can impact the success of fertility preservation methods. A woman’s fertility naturally declines with age, and the quality and quantity of eggs decrease over time. Generally, it is recommended to pursue fertility preservation at a younger age, ideally before the age of 35, to maximize the chances of successful conservation and future conception.

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a condition where a woman’s ovaries become non-functional before the age of forty, leading to infertility. Fertility preservation can be beneficial for women with POF by allowing them to preserve their eggs or ovarian tissue before the onset of the condition. Doctors then use this preserved material in assisted reproductive technologies to conceive a child in the future.

Yes, secondary infertility can be caused by factors affecting either partner or an amalgamation of issues from both partners. Both individuals should undergo comprehensive fertility evaluations to identify any potential contributing factors.

Absolutely. Secondary infertility can be a symptom of various underlying health conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, autoimmune disorders, or chronic illnesses. Identifying and addressing these conditions is crucial for improving fertility outcomes.