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Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): Costs, Procedure & Success Rate

IVF is a popular fertility procedure that many women consider if for some reason they are unable to conceive. No doubt, IVF is a trusted means to fulfil your dreams of pregnancy and motherhood. But there are other options as well that can help a woman get pregnant. Frozen embryo transfer implantation is one of them. It a natural successor to any IVF process and its benefits can help you make better financial decisions as well as invest in family planning the right way. What Is a Frozen Embryo Transfer? When an embryo created during an IVF cycle and frozen for storage is retrieved and utilized for a pregnancy cycle, it is termed as a FET or a frozen embryo transfer. This saves on undergoing a repeat IVF cycle and injections altogether. Why Would You Freeze an Embryo? During the process of IVF, there is a possibility of creating multiple healthy embryos. These frozen embryos are stored for later cycles, should the current one fail, or if you choose to get pregnant again at a later stage in life. When Can You Have Frozen Embryo Procedure? There is no rush for using frozen embryos since they can retain their potential to no end. A FET can be conducted after an IVF procedure has failed to bear fruit, or even later in life when an IVF cycle does not help obtain healthy eggs. Benefits of Frozen Embryo Transfer Although frozen embryo transfer may not seem like the most natural way of giving birth, there are a bunch of benefits which may convince you to consider this procedure if you are looking to get pregnant. It is not only good for the mother’s well-being but also helps in making smart decisions when it comes to the future of the child and the family together. Let’s find out what are the benefits of frozen embryo transfer. 1. Ability to Plan a Family at a Later Stage These days couples generally focus on their career and want to achieve success in life and then start with family planning. But as a woman’s biological clock keeps ticking, it may be a tussle for her to establish a balance between her personal goals and the chance to start a family. Making use of frozen embryos can help a woman undergo the procedure and have a child even until she is nearly 50 years old. 2. Genetic Issues Can Be Detected The news of pregnancy is wonderful. But if your baby is diagnosed with certain problems and your doctor suggests that you do an abortion, it can be extremely disheartening for you. But with the option of external embryo creations, their genetic makeup can be examined. Also, any genetic defects can be determined beforehand. Based on the results, you can opt for the embryo that has the best chances of growing into a healthy child. 3. The Risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome is Reduced Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is usually observed in women who tend to have oestrogen levels way above the safe mark; women who are susceptible to an increased number of follicles; women who gain weight rapidly during pregnancy, and so on. If a woman with such signs gets pregnant, the embryos can be opted for frozen storage to avoid any risks. Pregnancy can be executed later on when the conditions are suitable for it. 4. The Risks in Pregnancy When Progesterone Levels are High are Avoided Medical sciences and research have made observations that have established a link between high progesterone levels and embryo implantation. The lining of the uterus, termed as the endometrium, does not portray a favourable response to the embryo for implantation when the progesterone levels in a woman are high. In such a case, opting for freezing the embryos can help you avoid a loss of pregnancy later on. 5. The Procedure is Very Convenient Compared to many other procedures, many women tend to favour and opt for a frozen embryo transfer, or FET, once they know the details. Primarily, the entire procedure is surgery-free, including the obtaining of the eggs. No anaesthesia needs to be administered and it is painless. Hence, it a convenient and painless option for pregnancy. 6. The Cost of Undergoing a Frozen Embryo Transfer is Less Than Creating Fresh Embryos The cost of fertility treatments, particularly in-vitro fertilization, are usually high. Compared to those, opting for a frozen embryo transfer to continue a pregnancy is much cheaper than generating embryos all over again. 7. The Existence of an Opportunity to Have Additional Cycles Without Going from Scratch Once you undergo the stimulation from the medicines and other procedures of the in-vitro fertilization, the embryos that are created from the eggs obtained in that cycle can be frozen and stored for later use as well. This allows you to have a repeat pregnancy later in life, or even resume an interrupted one. How and Where Are Embryos Frozen? Embryos are frozen using a technique called vitrification. They are stored within plastic trays placed within glass goblets. Once frozen, these are stored in cryopreservation chambers that make use of liquid nitrogen to keep the embryos safe. Frozen Embryo Transfer Procedure To begin a frozen embryo transfer cycle, the embryos are thawed and prepared for implantation. Based on the stimulation medicines and the woman’s optimal date, the embryos are transferred via the vagina and allowed to implant within the uterus. What Is the Success Rate of Frozen Embryo Transfer Procedure? The success rates of pregnancy with a FET are the same as that of a fresh cycle via IVF. Women who are 35 years old or less can expect a 60% success rate. However, it plummets as a woman’s age increases. Factors That Affect the Success Rate of Frozen Embryo Transfer For many years, the success rates associated with a frozen embryo transfer were quite erratic. But in recent years the factors that govern the success of the FET procedure were determined. There are two major ones that play a vital role in that regard. 1. The Technique Used to Freeze the Eggs In recent years, the cryopreservation process has been replaced with a smarter, modern one. This is called vitrification. Quite contrary to cryopreservation, vitrification makes use of freezing in a flash, by suddenly cooling down the embryos to a freezing point within a matter of seconds. It also makes use of certain substances that protect the embryos, avoiding the formation of ice crystals. This has ramped up the survival rate of the embryos to nearly 95%. 2. The Quality of the Embryos Procured Embryos were being created in labs for many years, but their chances of surviving in those conditions were extremely low. Even if they were transferred successfully, the implantation within the uterus would fail. In recent years, techniques and equipment have improved considerably. Now, embryos are known to survive for nearly a week at the blastocyst stage, the point where an embryo transfer has the highest chance of success in matters of implantation and continued pregnancy. How Soon After a Frozen Embryo Transfer Can You Take Pregnancy Test? Similar to an IVF cycle, it is recommended to wait for at least a couple of weeks before undertaking a pregnancy test. Any earlier than that could result in a false positive. The tests should be repeated again after a few days for confirmation. Can Anything Go Wrong With a Frozen Embryo Transfer? As advanced as frozen embryo transfer might be, there are a few possibilities that can make a transfer go wrong. 1. Presence of Fluid in the Uterine Cavity While the uterus is constantly producing and leaking fluid, some of it might be stored in the cavity, reducing the chances of embryo implantation. It could also indicate the presence of blocked fallopian tubes, which can be corrected with surgery. But if that isn’t the case, draining the cavity is a challenge and might require cancelling the FET altogether. 2. Wrong Time to Carry out the Transfer Some women ovulate earlier than expected, shifting the implantation window to a different zone. Medical testing can help determine the right timing of the window and adjust the transfer accordingly. 3. Ovulation at an Unexpected Time Progesterone supplements that are taken to prepare the endometrium for implantation are used as a marker to determine the right timing for transfer. A shifted ovulation can cause progesterone levels to rise early on and make it difficult to transfer correctly. Certain medications can also be administered to prevent ovulation from taking place. 4. Presence of a Thin Endometrial Lining Even after medication and treatment, the endometrium may not be as thick as needed for successful implantation. This can substantially reduce the success rate of a FET. Doctors usually strengthen the medication to counter this issue and carry out the FET anyway or cancel the procedure completely. 5. FET Problems Due to Undetermined Factors The entire process of implantation depends on numerous factors that are beyond hormones levels and endometrial strength. While research is being conducted to determine more dependencies that are present, a FET may continue to fail even when the conditions seem to be optimal. What Are the Risks of Frozen Embryo Transfer? A frozen embryo transfer surely has many benefits but it has its risks too. The benefits are absolutely feasible but so is the possibility of things not going ahead as expected. Know what are the risks of frozen embryo transfer: 1. Multifetal Pregnancy There are multiple embryos that are transferred during FET to help with implantation. At times, many embryos among those could be implanted successfully causing you to be pregnant with triplets or even more babies. This might require you to undergo fetal reduction to ensure a better chance of completing the pregnancy successfully. 2. Failure of Medical Equipment All medical equipment used in fertility clinics and for the FET procedure is kept to a high standard of functioning. Despite that, there are chances of malfunction that could lead to a total loss of obtained eggs and frozen embryos. This may call for undergoing an IVF procedure again. 3. Ectopic Pregnancy When FET is being conducted, some embryos may not be ready for implantation and may continue to stay outside the uterus. At times, these could float towards the fallopian tubes and enter them, causing them to be implanted inside those. Such an ectopic pregnancy can be harmful to the mother and needs to be terminated immediately. How Long Can Embryos Be Frozen and Still Be Viable? The frozen embryos can retain their potential for nearly an infinite time. They can be utilized at any point in your life whenever you want to get pregnant. What to Do with Leftover Embryos? The leftover embryos could either be allowed to thaw and terminate naturally. Alternatively, you could donate them to other people or allow them to be used for scientific research. What Is the Storage Cost of Frozen Embryo? The cost of storing a frozen embryo depends from clinic to clinic. However, it starts from one lakh at the very least. What Is the Cost of Frozen Embryo Transfer? Embryo transfers can be covered by certain medical insurance policies. If not, the entire process can cost in the range of 1.5 to 2 lakhs, excluding any medication that might be required. Knowing the correct frozen embryo transfer implantation timeline is key to achieving a successful pregnancy from the procedure. Understanding the long-term benefits of FET can help you plan your family in the manner of your choosing. Also Read: Implantation Cramping – What Is It Read more

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12 Vitamins and Minerals to Boost Fertility

If you are planning to start a family, then you must have subscribed to a couple of pregnancy or parenting magazines and scoured the internet to gather all the information there is on pregnancy. Now that you are giving serious thought to bringing a new life into this world, it’s time that you prepare your body for the same. Both men and women need essential vitamins and nutrients to make a baby. Vitamins are an important part of our nutritional intake and they play an indispensable role in many of the bodily functions, especially important activities such as procreation. If you are trying to conceive, then as a couple, you may want to consider some vitamins. But just as your body needs to be prepared for pregnancy and child-rearing, you should also be emotionally and psychologically ready to have a child. Both men and women need to get plenty of vitamins and minerals in order to conceive. Here are some vitamins and nutrients that couples can start taking in order to conceive. However, it is suggested that you research well and understand the benefits and side effects of consuming these fertility vitamins for men and women to make an informed decision. List of Vitamins and Minerals That Help Boost Fertility Vitamins and minerals are organic compounds needed by the human body to function smoothly. An ideal diet should comprise of all the essential nutrients in small quantities as they cannot be synthesised in large quantities by the body. If they are not consumed in the normal food that you eat, fortified foods and supplements can help. To better your chances of getting pregnant, there’s a lot you can do, but including these nutrients and vitamins for fertility in females and males is the easiest solution out there. 1. Folic Acid This is an absolute must-have for anyone wanting to get pregnant. Folic acid, also known as B9, is the ‘superhero’ vitamin in pregnancy. A woman in her reproductive age and while trying to conceive must consume 400 mcg of folic acid in a day. It is a B-complex vitamin that is used by the body to create red blood cells. It is one of the most important vitamins for female fertility, and it lowers the possibility of a neural tube defect (an issue in the baby’s spinal cord). Men can also take this vitamin as it helps them produce healthier sperm. Folic acid is available in natural form as well as a synthetic vitamin. For a couple wanting to get pregnant, the woman must start consuming ‘folic acid’-rich foods at least a month or two prior to pregnancy. Best Sources of Folic Acid Citrus fruits Whole grains Leafy greens 2. Vitamin D Vitamin D and fertility are closely linked; women with normal levels of Vitamin D are likely to conceive naturally. It is a fat-soluble vitamin which is vital for reproductive hormones. A simple walk during the day with your partner can help your body get the sun, which is a good source of Vitamin D. Best Sources of Vitamin D Fortified dairy products Salmon Mackerel Tuna Sunlight exposure 3. Zinc Zinc is an essential mineral for improving fertility in both men and women. Zinc improves the reproductive health of women but it is equally important for men too. Zinc helps improve the quality of sperm and sperm motility. The recommended daily dosage of zinc for men is 11 mg and for women is 8 mg.  Best Sources of Zinc Oysters Crabs Lobsters Whole grains Dairy Legumes Beans 4. Iron Pregnancy can be taxing for a woman and can make her anaemic. But a high amount of iron intake during the baby-making process can improve a woman’s chances of conception and help her combat pregnancy-related anaemia. Low levels of iron lead to anaemia and also contribute to low levels of conception. So if you are planning to conceive, you need to ensure that you are getting the right amount of iron into your body prior to pregnancy. A woman must get the necessary tests done to check her iron levels and take adequate supplements to normalise the same. Iron builds the blood levels in the body and aids in fertility and also balances ovulation. Best Sources of Iron Meat Tomatoes Beetroot Spinach Broccoli Pumpkin Iron supplements (if prescribed) 5. Vitamin E Vitamin E is essential for fertility in women. Plus it also improves the quality of sperm in men. It is also important to protect the egg and sperm DNA integration after conception. Vitamin E is an antioxidant which protects the body from free radicals which can damage your cells, thereby leaving men and women prone to infections. In men, low levels of Vitamin E can lead to testicular damage thereby affecting sperm production. In women, a deficiency of Vitamin E can prevent ovulation and thereby affect the chances of getting pregnant. However, taking Vitamin E supplements is not recommended unless and until suggested by a doctor. Best Sources of Vitamin E Sunflower and pumpkin seeds Almonds Hazelnuts Peanut butter Kiwi  Mangoes 6. B Vitamins All the vitamins in the B group are essential for reproduction. They include thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), pyridoxine (B6), and cyanocobalamin (B12). The group of B Vitamins are crucial for conception, especially for women, as they aid the ovaries to release an egg around ovulation. Vitamin B6 helps balance the progesterone levels in a woman’s body and can also improve the luteal phase thereby ensuring the proper time between ovulation and menstruation which is integral to a successful pregnancy. B12 has been known to increase the quality of sperm production in men and is a hormone regulator.  Best Sources of B Vitamins Chickpeas Whole grains Cauliflower Leafy greens Eggs Tuna Bananas Clams Caviar 7. Beta-Carotene The human body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A (retinol) which is great for the skin and hair. It is also important for healthy eyesight, mucous membranes, and for the immune system. For pregnancy, it is a hormone regulator and helps prevent miscarriage.  Best Sources of Beta-carotene Carrots Sweet potatoes Kale Butternut squash Cantaloupe Broccoli 8. Omega 3 Fatty Acids The ultimate superfood for fertility and pregnancy, omega-3 fatty acids are an absolute must. These help the woman’s body to release eggs, increase blood flow to the uterus and balance out the hormones. Not only that, post-conception it is helpful for the foetal brain development and IQ. Although not all vitamins include omega-3 fatty acids, one can take it as a supplement. Omega 3 contains two acids which are crucial one is DHA and the other is EPA. Low levels of DHA have also been associated with premature birth, low birth weight and hyperactivity in children. Best Sources of Omega 3 Fatty Acids Chia seeds Flax seeds Walnuts Sardines Anchovies Herring Cod Liver oil Supplements (under medical guidance) 9. Selenium An antioxidant, this essentially helps protect the egg and sperm from free radicals which can destroy the cells. Normal levels of selenium promote sperm motility in men and oestrogen metabolism in women.  Best Sources of Selenium Brazil nuts Leafy vegetables Fish Whole grains 10. Coenzyme Q10 Taking this supplement helps improve fertility in men and women. It is a fat-soluble vitamin-like compound that occurs naturally in a human body. It is not naturally produced by the body hence must be consumed with food. It is an essential substance for the function of cells. It improves embryo quality and has high fertilisation rates in women. It is also known to increase sperm count and the recommended daily dose is 30-200 mg divided throughout the day. Best Sources of Coenzyme Q10 Fatty fish Meat (beef, chicken) Whole grains 11. L- Carnitine An absolute energy source for sperms and sperm maturation, it is a substance that is crucial to enhance sperm motility. It is an amino acid-like compound that has the main function of producing energy. Best Sources of L-Carnitine Dairy products (milk, cheese) Meat, especially red meat Fish (cod, haddock) 12. Magnesium Magnesium supports hormone regulation and aids the synthesis of progesterone, which is essential for a healthy pregnancy. It also improves sperm function in men. Best Sources of Magnesium Leafy green vegetables Nuts (almonds, cashews) Whole grains (brown rice, oatmeal) FAQs 1. Can you take fertility supplements to aid conception? Yes, female and male fertility supplements can be taken to aid conception but only after consulting with a doctor. 2.  What are the best fertility supplements for men? Although the mineral zinc works best to improve sperm motility in men, they can also take L-Carnitine and L-Arginine to increase both sperm count and motility. 3. Can taking too many vitamins and minerals harm fertility? Yes, excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can negatively impact fertility. For example, too much Vitamin A (from supplements, not food) may lead to toxicity, which can affect reproductive health. High doses of iron, zinc, and selenium can also interfere with hormonal balance or lead to side effects. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking high doses of any supplement to ensure they’re safe and beneficial for fertility. 4. Is there a specific time of day that’s best for taking fertility-boosting vitamins? Generally, fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin D, E, and CoQ10 are best taken with meals containing healthy fats to improve absorption. B Vitamins and Vitamin C, which are water-soluble, can be taken on an empty stomach in the morning for optimal absorption. However, timing may vary based on personal tolerance and lifestyle, so it’s helpful to experiment or seek guidance from a healthcare provider for a regimen that suits your needs. This was all about vitamins to boost fertility for males and females. If you are trying to conceive, taking the above-mentioned vitamins and nutrients will help you get started. You can also take supplements of the same but consult a gynaecologist before starting with any of these vitamins and minerals. Speak to your doctor about the dosage, and be safe! References/Resources: 1. Schaefer. E, Nock. D; The Impact of Preconceptional Multiple-Micronutrient Supplementation on Female Fertility (Clinical Medicine Insights: Women’s Health); National Library of Medicine; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6480978/; April 2019 2. Cueto. H, Riis. A, Hatch. E, Wise. L, Rothman. K, Sørensen. H, Mikkelsen. E; Folic acid supplementation and fecundability: a Danish prospective cohort study; EJCN; https://www.nature.com/articles/ejcn201594; June 2015 3. Mehendale. S, Bams. A, Deshmukh. C, et al.; Oxidative stress-mediated essential polyunsaturated fatty acid alterations in female infertility (Human Fertility); Taylor & Francis Online; https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14647270802298280; July 2009 4. Ben-Meir. A, Burstein. E, Borrego-Alvarez. A, Chong. J, et al.; Coenzyme Q10 restores oocyte mitochondrial function and fertility during reproductive aging (Aging Cell); Wiley Online Library; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/acel.12368; June 2015 5. Moslemi. M, Tavanbakhsh. S; Selenium–vitamin E supplementation in infertile men: effects on semen parameters and pregnancy rate (International Journal of General Medicine); National Library of Medicine; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3048346/; January 2011 6. Wong. W, Merkus. H, Thomas. C, et al.; Effects of folic acid and zinc sulfate on male factor subfertility: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (Fertility and Sterility); Science Direct; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028201032290; March 2002 Also Read: Best Herbs to Boost Fertility Ideal Foods to Boost Fertility Super Effective Ways to be More Fertile Ways to Boost Fertility After a Miscarriage Foods To Increase Fertility For Conceiving Twins Fertility Supplements That May Help You Conceive Natural Ways to Increase Fertility in Men and Women Read more

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Can You Get Pregnant Naturally With Low AMH?

Many couples tend to believe that there is a strong link between low AMH levels and natural pregnancy success rates. However, AMH mainly reflects ovarian reserve rather than egg quality. The ‘Anti-Müllerian Hormone’ is secreted by the follicles in your body, which are responsible for creating the egg reserves. Since healthy ovulation can still occur despite low Anti-Müllerian Hormone, understanding the hormone’s role alongside age, overall reproductive health, and fertility history can provide a more accurate picture of natural conception chances. What Is Low Anti-Müllerian Hormone? The Anti-Müllerian Hormone, or AMH, has a specific standard level based on the age of a woman. As age increases, AMH levels begin to decline, depending on the woman’s physical and biological constitution. If these levels fall below a certain threshold, they can substantially impact a woman’s fertility (1). As per the Cleveland Clinic, AMH low meaning is fewer eggs and a lower ovarian reserve (2). Standard AMH Levels Based on Age When tracking the AMH levels, the values and their link to the fertility of a woman are usually dependent on the woman’s age. On a general basis, any presence of an AMH level under 1 nanogram per ml is not a good sign, since it usually marks a presence of reduced reserves of eggs. A general value of AMH based on your age is as follows: Age (in years) AMH value (in ng/ml) 25 – 30 5.4 30 – 35 3.5 35 – 40 2.3 40 – 43 1.3 43 and above 0.7 How to Detect Low AMH? Doctors prescribe an anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test, which measures the amount of AMH in a blood sample (3). The test can help you get a precise level of the hormone and detect low AMH if there is any. Causes of Low AMH Levels The reasons why a woman might experience low AMH levels are not deterministic. The causes of low AMH levels depend on a number of factors and can range from personal individual conditions to other aspects beyond our control. Unsafe or inappropriate environmental conditions could expose your body to certain substances that may affect the levels of AMH in your body. Genetic reasons are a major contributor as well. If your mother or other members of your family suffer from low AMH levels, chances are you might face the same as well. The presence of endometriosis, causing the uterine tissue to grow outside instead of within the uterus, has also been termed a factor leading to reduced levels of AMH in the body. The fertility of a woman reduces substantially as her age increases. While various factors play a role in this, with increasing age, AMH levels are lower in the body, affecting clinical pregnancy (4). Progesterone and estrogen are just a few hormones responsible for maintaining fertility. If there is an imbalance in their levels or in other hormones, they could have an impact on AMH levels, too. Despite ruling out numerous factors, from age to environment, as well as hereditary conditions, there might exist certain aspects that are unknown and have a substantial effect on the AMH levels of your body. What Are the Symptoms of Low AMH? Unfortunately, there are no typical signs or conditions that can clearly indicate the reduced level of AMH in your body. However, some women have experienced erratic periods or a total absence of them for a few months as a result of low AMH. Does Low AMH Affect Fertility? Low AMH does not indicate infertility but is a determinant of reduced reserves of the ovaries. Fertilisation may still occur successfully in certain cases, but with increasing age, the chances of miscarriage and abnormal embryo development are also higher. What Are the Chances of Getting Pregnant With Low AMH? The chances of achieving low AMH pregnancy success are not as dismal as they seem. Women under the age of 35 can still get pregnant with a low AMH level. This may not be true for older women since different factors that affect fertility come into play as well. Women with low AMH can get pregnant naturally. A study reported a 35-year-old woman with critically low AMH achieved spontaneous conception three times, making natural conception possible with expert guidance (5). Can Diet and Lifestyle Lower AMH Levels? Poor lifestyle and poor intake of nutrients such as vitamin D, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids may affect overall reproductive health. While diet alone is not a direct cause of low AMH, maintaining a balanced nutritional diet can help support healthy ovarian function and conceive without any problem. Other factors that lead to low AMH fertility are: 1. Smoking and Tobacco Use Research has linked smoking with accelerated ovarian ageing and reduced ovarian reserve (6). Women who smoke may experience a faster decline in reproductive hormones compared with non-smokers. 2. Chronic Stress and Lifestyle Habits Persistent stress, inadequate sleep, and sedentary lifestyles can cause hormonal imbalance. Although they may not directly lower AMH levels, they can influence overall fertility health. 3. Weight and Metabolic Health Being significantly underweight or overweight may affect reproductive hormones and ovulation patterns. Maintaining a healthy weight supports better fertility outcomes and overall reproductive wellness. How to Treat Low AMH to Get Pregnant? While there are a few natural ways that might be useful in treating low AMH, such as yoga or even acupuncture, there are two major medical approaches you can take that have shown strong signs in achieving pregnancy even with low AMH levels. 1. Opting for IVF as a Means to Treat Low AMH IVF has been a popular procedure for various couples when it comes to treating infertility. It all begins by stimulating the ovaries since IVF highly depends on the collection of a substantial number of eggs. Stimulation injections are administered on a daily basis. These play a vital role in causing the ovaries to develop multiple eggs instead of a single one. A larger number of eggs increases the possibility of developing multiple healthy embryos at a later stage. The entire procedure may continue for around 2-3 weeks, where the stimulation frequency and strength is based on each woman’s biological aspects. Ultrasound scans help keep a check on the development of follicles, accompanied by monitoring the levels of serum in the blood. Once the scans determine that the follicles have reached a good proportion, the procedure for retrieving the eggs is commenced. Since the eggs need to be released from the body, a stimulant is injected that kicks the body into the ovulation stage. It takes a day and a half to reach a stage where eggs can be collected. The entire process takes 15-20 minutes and usually takes place under light sedation to avoid feeling any uncomfortable sensations. Once the eggs are procured, they are fertilised with the sperm of your choosing, either in a petri dish or by injecting them right into the egg. The embryo, once formed, is transferred to the uterus and allowed to implant naturally. 2. Going Ahead with Eggs Procured From a Donor to Achieve Pregnancy As is clear from the entire process of IVF, the most crucial aspect for it to be successful is obtaining a good amount of healthy eggs from a woman’s body, after stimulation and ovulation. However, if the levels of AMH are extremely low, the number of eggs might be insufficient, or their constitution may not be conducive to being fertilised or forming a healthy embryo successfully. In such a scenario, opting for an egg donor is a better alternative. The difference in the process between IVF and egg donation is quite minimal. Where eggs are obtained from your body in IVF, the eggs here are procured from a donor of your choice or from a clinic that stores frozen eggs for fertility purposes. These eggs then undergo the same procedure as IVF, following the egg procurement. Your partner’s sperm will be used to fertilise these eggs and form an embryo, which is then transferred to the uterus. How to Get Pregnant Naturally with Low AMH? While the above-mentioned medical procedures do have a strong chance of helping you achieve pregnancy despite having low AMH levels, you can even attempt to get pregnant the natural way if you are up to it. Making certain lifestyle changes and diet adjustments can help you achieve success as long as you keep trying. 1. Opting for a Fertility Massage A fertility massage is an option chosen by women even if their AMH levels are fine. This is primarily because the effects of the massage are all-encompassing and it helps create a conducive environment within your body for getting pregnant. By using specific oils and massage techniques, this fertility massage helps enhance the blood circulation in your uterine region, reduce the physical and mental stress, helps reset the hormone levels to a proper one, and even set the menstrual cycle at a proper frequency. 2. Eating Wheat Germ on a Daily Basis Women looking to get pregnant are strongly advised to have a good intake of wheat germ, whether in the form of oil or even pearl tablets. This is quite beneficial for men as well. Wheat germ consists of selenium and zinc, both of which play a vital role in improving the condition of the sperm as well as the fallopian tubes in the body. With stronger sperm and an easier way to transport them to the egg, your chances of pregnancy can increase as a result. 3. Consuming DHEA Tablets Multiple Times in a Day The increasing age of a woman can impact her chances of getting pregnant in a major way. One of the key factors that are affected as a result of ageing is the ovarian reserve. Increasing age tends to reduce the number of eggs as well as their quality, which can make it difficult to achieve pregnancy. DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a hormone responsible for replenishing the hormonal reserves to a healthy level. By taking 25mg DHEA tablets 3 times a day, you can help improve egg quality and even support an ongoing IVF process. 4. Undergoing Acupuncture Sessions There is no conclusive evidence that proves a connection between acupuncture and fertility improvement, but many women who have opted for it have walked away with great results. Acupuncture helps trigger certain areas within the body and optimise their functioning. Certain acupuncture specialists have a good understanding of the bodily areas responsible for fertility and can help you restore it to a good level once again. Even women opting for IVF should give acupuncture a try for a few months before going ahead with the procedure. 5. Yoga Exercises to Control Your AMH Levels The reduction in AMH levels is also dependent on your mental makeup. Being stressed and tired can seriously bring down your AMH levels considerably. Engage in yogic exercises, deep breathing, and muscle relaxation poses, as these can help restore calm and quiet to the mind, and work in healing your body from within. When to Consult a Doctor? You can consider consulting a doctor if: You are trying for a pregnancy without success Your AMH is significantly lower than expected for your age Your age is 35 years or above You have an irregular menstrual cycle It’s best to consult a doctor and rule out the possibilities of issues that could be delaying pregnancy rather than leaving everything to chance. FAQs 1. Can I get pregnant naturally with low AMH? Yes, you can. Low AMH levels in the body do not necessarily prevent natural conception, especially if you continue to ovulate regularly. 2. Does low AMH mean poor egg quality? Not always. AMH primarily reflects egg quantity (ovarian reserve) and not egg quality. 3. What AMH level is considered low? Reference ranges vary between laboratories, so results should always be interpreted by your fertility specialist. 4. Can AMH levels improve naturally? Since AMH generally declines with age, certain lifestyle improvements can help support reproductive health. But significant increases in AMH are uncommon. That does not mean you focus on your health or lifestyle. Continue to eat healthily, exercise regularly, and take necessary prescribed supplements to improve your Anti Mullerian Hormone low levels. 5. Is IVF the only option for women with low AMH? No, IVF is not the only option for conceiving if your AMH levels are low. Many women with low AMH conceive naturally. Your doctor can prescribe certain medications or supplements for low AMH. 6. Do low AMH levels mean menopause? Low AMH does not necessarily mean menopause. It suggests reduced ovarian reserve. Many women with low AMH continue to have regular menstrual cycles for years. Many couples often wonder if people with low AMH conceive naturally or should they opt for advanced medical procedures to make it happen. The right decision for you can be determined by attempting natural techniques while keeping an open mind for IVF or egg donation as a last resort. Also Read: Keys to a Successful IUI How to Get Pregnant Fast Delayed Ovulation Affect your Chances of Pregnancy Read more

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Can You Get Pregnant After Ovulation? – Understanding Fertility

Ovulation is when your body releases an egg, and it’s the best time for conception. But what happens after? Can you get pregnant after ovulation? Well, it’s a common question for anyone who wants to know how likely they are to get pregnant. The short answer is yes, it’s possible, but timing is everything. While the egg is only viable for about 12-24 hours after ovulation, sperm can live inside your body for up to five days, creating a small window for pregnancy. In this article, we will go over all you need to know to better understand your fertility window and your chances of becoming pregnant after ovulation. How Does Ovulation Work? Ovulation is an important part of the menstrual cycle, and it’s how your body prepares for a possible pregnancy. Every month, on or around the fourteenth day of a 28-day cycle, your ovaries mature and release an egg. However, this is just an average. Ovulation can happen between the 11th and 21st day of the cycle, with day 1 being the first day of your period. These 10 days are known as your “fertility window” (3). Once the egg is released, it goes through the fallopian tube to meet sperm for fertilisation. Since the egg remains for 12-24 hours, the days just before and during ovulation are the most fertile. If the egg isn’t fertilised, it will break down, and your body will eventually shed the uterine lining, leading to your period (2). Can You Become Pregnant After Ovulation? Yes, it’s still possible to become pregnant after ovulation, but the window is short. After an egg is released during ovulation, it remains viable for about a day. If sperm is present and fertilises the egg during this time, pregnancy can occur. The chances of getting pregnant while ovulation is generally quite high, making it the most fertile time in the menstrual cycle. However, because sperm could live in the reproductive tract for up to five days if you had intercourse before ovulation, there’s also a chance that the sperm could fertilise the egg once it’s released (4). After the egg’s viability ends, the chances of pregnancy drop significantly until the next cycle. So, even though the days just before and during ovulation are the most fertile for you, there is a little window right after ovulation for conception (5). How Many Days After Ovulation Can You Get Pregnant? The probability of getting pregnant after ovulation declines rapidly with each passing day. Here’s a look at your chances of pregnancy before, during, and after ovulation (6): 5 Days Before Ovulation 10% 3-4 Days Before Ovulation 15-20% 1-2 Days Before Ovulation 27-31% Day of Ovulation 33% 1 Day After Ovulation 10-15% 2 Day After Ovulation 0-1% How to Calculate Your Ovulation Days? Tracking your ovulation can be helpful if you’re trying to conceive. Here’s how you can calculate your ovulation days (1): 1. Track Your Menstrual Cycle: Ovulation typically occurs 14 days before your next period starts. For a 28-day cycle, ovulation would be around day 14. For longer or shorter cycles, deduct 14 days from the duration of your cycle to estimate ovulation day. 2. Changes in Cervical Mucus: As ovulation approaches, your cervical mucus gets clear and stretchy, similar to raw egg whites. This is a sign that your body is preparing to ovulate. 3. Track Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Your body temperature increases after ovulation due to increased progesterone levels. By tracking your BBT daily, you can identify the small spike that indicates ovulation has occurred. 4. Use an Ovulation Predictor Kit: These kits test hormone levels in your urine to detect the surge in luteinising hormone (LH) that happens right before ovulation. If the test is positive, you will probably ovulate within the next 24-36 hours. FAQs 1. How do I know if I’m ovulating? Several signs can indicate ovulation. Common symptoms include changes in cervical mucus, which becomes clear and stretchy, resembling egg whites, and a rise in basal body temperature. Some women may also experience mild pelvic pain (mittelschmerz) or increased libido around ovulation (8). 2. Can you ovulate more than once in a cycle? A woman only ovulates once per cycle. While multiple eggs can be released, this happens within a short time frame (within 24 hours), which could result in fraternal twins if both eggs are fertilised. However, ovulating at two different timings within the same cycle is extremely rare and not common in humans. 3. Do you always ovulate on the same day each month? Not necessarily. Even in women who have regular cycles, ovulation might vary from month to month. Stress, illness, or changes in routine can affect when ovulation occurs. While many women ovulate around the same time each month, tracking your cycle can help pinpoint any variations. 4. Can you get pregnant if you don’t ovulate? No, pregnancy requires the release of an egg from the ovary, which is the process of ovulation. If you’re not ovulating, there is no egg for sperm to fertilise. Women with conditions like anovulation (absence of ovulation) may need medical assistance to stimulate ovulation if they’re trying to conceive (7). So, when it comes to the question, “Will you get pregnant after ovulation?” the answer is yes! As long as the egg remains viable and sperm is available within that window, conception is possible. While your ovulation day might shift slightly, knowing your fertile window gives you a great advantage when it comes to planning. References/Resources: 1. Calculating Your Monthly Fertility Window; The Johns Hopkins University; https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/calculating-your-monthly-fertility-window 2. Ovulation and fertility; Tommy’s; https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/planning-a-pregnancy/how-to-get-pregnant/ovulation-and-fertility 3. Periods and fertility in the menstrual cycle; NHS; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/fertility-in-the-menstrual-cycle/ 4. OVULATION: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GET PREGNANT?; University of Utah Health; https://healthcare.utah.edu/fertility/patient-education/ovulation 5. Trying to Get Pregnant? Here’s When to Have Sex.; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/trying-to-get-pregnant-heres-when-to-have-sex 6. Right time for sex; Fertility Coalition; https://www.yourfertility.org.au/everyone/timing 7. Understanding Anovulation: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment; Women & Infants Fertility Center; https://fertility.womenandinfants.org/services/women/anovulation 8. Mid-menstrual cycle pain (mittelschmerz); Harvard Health Publishing; https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/mid-menstrual-cycle-pain-mittelschmerz-a-to-z Also Read: Ovarian Follicle and Its Role in Fertility Fertility Massage Freezing Sperm for Future Fertility Read more

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A Guide to Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT) – Infertility Treatment

Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT) is a fertility treatment that may be offered to couples who require help conceiving through assisted reproductive technology (ART). Doctors may recommend this treatment in those cases where the fallopian tubes are blocked, thereby preventing the fertilisation of the sperm with the egg. This procedure, though not as popular as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), is quite similar to it. The only difference is, in ZIFT, the eggs are first fertilised in a lab, and then the fertilised embryo is directly implanted in the fallopian tubes and not the uterus. The fertilised eggs are known as zygotes. Zygotes are embryos that are single-celled as they still haven’t started dividing into further cells. Zygote Intrafallopian transfer is also called “Tubal Embryo Transfer” (TET), as the fertilised egg is directly placed into the fallopian tubes. ZIFT is often compared to another fertility treatment named Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT). Research opines that ZIFT may have a higher success rate than GIFT as doctors have better chances of making sure that the egg fertilizes during the ZIFT procedure. What Is Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer? Zygote Intrafallopian transfer is an assisted reproductive technology treatment. This process involves the fertilisation of the eggs with the sperm in the lab. After fertilisation, the egg is laparoscopically placed into one of the fallopian tubes. The fertilised egg then travels through the fallopian tubes to reach the uterus, where it may get implanted, leading to pregnancy. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer is considered to be a very invasive procedure as it involves laparoscopic surgery, wherein small incisions are made in the abdomen. Therefore, it may not be a preferred option for childless couples. Who Is Treated With ZIFT? Doctors may advise ZIFT if other means of treatment have failed. A woman with healthy fallopian tubes or even with one open fallopian tube has more chances of conceiving through the ZIFT process. Zygote intrafallopian transfer cannot be performed if there is significant damage to the tubes, blockage in the tubes or severe uterine impairment. This procedure may be recommended in cases where the sperm count of the man is low, and the woman has problems with ovulation. ZIFT may most effectively help women who are in their early 30s or younger. The success rate of the treatment and its possible health risks to the expecting mother may rise with the increasing age of the woman. If the sperm count of the man is really low, ZIFT may be performed in combination with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection(ICSI), a process which enhances the fertilisation rate by directly inserting the egg with a single sperm. ZIFT Procedure The stepwise procedure of how ZIFT is performed is as follows: Stimulation of the Ovary: Doctors prescribe fertility medications to be taken at the start of the menstrual cycle. This is done so that ovaries get stimulated to release more mature eggs and prevent them from producing the eggs prematurely. Development of Follicle: Doctors will then constantly monitor the eggs and the development of follicles through ultrasounds. Blood hormone levels are also regularly checked. Collecting the Eggs: On maturing, the eggs are collected by inserting a thin needle into the vaginal wall. Fertilisation: The mature eggs are then combined with the husband’s sperm and fertilised in the lab. After a day or so, the successfully fertilised eggs develop into zygotes (one-celled embryos). Surgery: The fertilised embryo or zygote is transferred directly to the fallopian tube. This entails a small surgery. The surgery involves making a small incision in the abdomen after administering anaesthesia to the patient. The doctor, by using a laparoscope, then places 1 to 5 zygotes in the fallopian tubes. Any additional zygotes may be frozen for later use. Implantation: The zygote journeys down the fallopian tube to reach the uterus, where it may get implanted and develop into a foetus. Pregnancy Test: About two weeks after the surgery, the doctor may take a blood test to determine if the procedure has resulted in a successful pregnancy or not. How Long Does Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer Take? One procedural cycle of ZIFT, beginning with fertility drugs till the pregnancy test, may take about 4 to 6 weeks. This is because the eggs may take some time to mature. Thereafter, a day is required to collect and fertilize the eggs. Another visit becomes necessary to transfer the fertilised eggs into the fallopian tubes. The surgery is a small one, and the patient may go home the very same day. Success Rate of ZIFT The success rate of ZIFT largely depends on factors like the kind of fertility issue a couple has and also on the health and age of the couple seeking the procedure. A woman in her early 30s or even younger may generally produce healthier eggs and, therefore, have a greater rate of success. Studies have established the success rate of the ZIFT process to be between 25% and 40%. This implies that about one in every three ZIFT treatments leads to positive pregnancy results. Advantages Certain advantages of ZIFT can be listed as follows: The ZIFT process seems more encouraging as the doctor gets to confirm the fertilisation of the eggs before inserting them into the fallopian tubes. The process involves a more natural procedure as the embryo passes through the fallopian tubes to reach the uterus by itself. According to new research, there is no possible link between fertility medications and cancer. Disadvantages On the other hand, ZIFT has a few disadvantages as well. They are as follows: ZIFT is an invasive procedure as it involves a small surgery. ZIFT process may lead to multiple pregnancies or births, which can pose greater complications during pregnancy like premature birth, miscarriage, or decisions to be made regarding partial abortion, keeping in mind the best interest of the mother’s health. ZIFT procedure is an expensive treatment as it entails costly fertility medications, surgery, lab tests and ultrasounds. ZIFT requires the doctor to choose the best embryo from the multiple zygotes, which implies discarding the remaining ones. Some couples are not comfortable with this selection process. Similarities and Differences Between ZIFT and IVF The similarities between ZIFT and IVF are: ZIFT and IVF are artificial fertility treatments which may be offered to couples who are not able to conceive naturally. In both methods, embryo culture is done. Both processes empower the doctor to choose the best embryos for implantation. ZIFT procedure is often compared to IVF. The key differences between the two methods are: In ZIFT, the fertilised egg is placed in the fallopian tube, from where it journeys to the uterus on its own and in IVF, the fertilised embryo is directly transferred to the uterus. ZIFT requires a small invasive surgery, whereas IVF doesn’t need any surgery. Cost of ZIFT ZIFT procedure is a costlier treatment when compared to IVF and GIFT. It may prove more expensive, depending on the nature of the fertility problem, the place where the couple resides and whether the insurance policy offers any aid to meet the cost of the treatment. The treatment may cost anything around 1.5 lakhs to 2 lakhs for each cycle of ZIFT. ZIFT procedure offers childless couples a considerable chance of realising their dream of getting pregnant. It is always advisable to consult your doctor at length for proper guidance and knowledge about each aspect of the treatment before opting for it. References/Resources: 1. Gamete And Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT And ZIFT); NewYork-Presbyterian; https://www.nyp.org/healthlibrary/other-details/gamete-and-zygote-intrafallopian-transfer-gift-and-zift 2. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer: ZIFT; American Pregnancy Association; https://americanpregnancy.org/getting-pregnant/infertility/zygote-intrafallopian-transfer/ 3. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer; International Encyclopedia of Public Health (Second Edition), 2017; https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/zygote-intrafallopian-transfer 4. Zhu. T; Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer; The Embryo Project Encyclopedia; https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/zygote-intrafallopian-transfer; January 2011 5. Tournaye. H, Devroey. P, Camus. M, Valkenburg. M, et al.; Zygote intrafallopian transfer or in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer for the treatment of male-factor infertility: a prospective randomized trial; Fertil Steril.; PubMed Central; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1633900/; August 1992 Also Read: Unexplained Infertility Acupuncture for Infertility Primary Infertility – Causes & Treatment Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) – Infertility Treatment Read more

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Male Infertility: Causes, Symptoms, Tests & Treatment

It is estimated that 15% of all couples experience difficulties conceiving because of infertility. Unfortunately, women have been made to bear the brunt as they are held responsible, but that isn’t always the case. Male infertility is a topic that is largely avoided by men due to the social stigma attached and due to the patriarchal nature of our society. Often, the inability to conceive is due to problems with sperm production, ultimately relating to male infertility. What Is Infertility in Men, and How Common Is It? When men are unable to impregnate a woman for at least one year of unprotected intercourse, it is termed male infertility. This could be due to various reasons, from hormonal issues to lifestyle factors. Regarding infertile couples, it is thought that as many as 50% of the cases are because of male infertility. Causes of Male Infertility 90% of all male potency problems are due to low sperm count, poor sperm quality or both. Age is also a factor that could lead to male infertility. Male partners at the age of 40 or older have a hard time impregnating their female partners. Below are some of the medical, environmental and other reasons for male infertility: 1. Medical Causes Varicocele: This is the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum and can cause a reduction in the sperm count. Tumours: Growth of tumours in the testicles can affect male fertility as it interferes with sperm production. Undescended Testicles: Descended testicles have a lower temperature than the body. Undescended testicles hinder sperm count as optimal production is only at a temperature slightly below the body. 2. Environmental Causes Radiation: Radiation can reduce the ability of the testes to produce sperm or damage the structure of the sperm. People undergoing cancer treatment may be subjected to radiation, resulting in infertility. Industrial Chemicals: Studies have shown that chemicals like lead reduce fertility in men. Men who live in communities close to factories may be subjected to irresponsible disposal of industrial waste and may be subjected to chemicals, such as lead and benzene. Other toxic chemicals, like fungicides, insecticides, and pesticides, are also known to hinder male fertility. 3. Health, Lifestyle and Other Causes Alcohol: Drinking more than 20 units of alcohol weekly can decrease the odds of a successful conception. Tobacco: A study conducted on Indian men showed that tobacco consumption decreased the quality of sperm and led to infertility. Stress: Studies have shown that unpleasant experiences can have a negative impact on the ability of testicles to produce sperm. Symptoms While there are no obvious physical signs of male infertility, the below-mentioned signs and symptoms may indicate it. Sexual dysfunction, like difficulty in getting an erection Swelling of testicles Reduced hair growth on the face or other parts of the body Reduced sexual activity Testicles that are small in size Testicles that are hard and lumpy Low sperm count Ejaculation has negligible semen Sperm that has a weird shape Poor quality of sperm Large twisted veins on the scrotum Dull pain in the testicles Inability to smell Less body or facial hair Diagnosis and Tests Fertility tests in men can be done by checking the blood for hormones, a physical exam or inspecting the semen. While semen analysis continues to be the primary method for assessing male infertility, there have been significant advancements in diagnostic tests to enhance the evaluation of sperm quality and function. These innovative tests have been introduced to enhance the accuracy of diagnoses and improve the overall management of male infertility. Blood Test: A blood test for male infertility examines the levels of follicle-stimulating hormones known as the Luteinising hormone. Low amounts of the hormone have been attributed to hypogonadism, whereas high amounts are known to cause abnormalities in sperm production. Both the Semen Leukocyte Analysis: This test checks for any white blood cells in the semen. Its presence indicates a genital infection that can affect fertility. Seminal Fructose Test: A negative test for this indicates that the individual has no sperm in their semen. Post-Ejaculate Urinalysis: This test studies the urine after ejaculation to see if the semen is flowing into the bladder instead of going through the urethra. Kruger Morphology: This test analyses the sperm structure to check for defects or abnormalities. An improper sperm structure has been attributed to poor fertility. Anti-Sperm Antibodies Test: This test is used to check if there are any antibodies present in the semen that kill the sperm. This sometimes happens when there is an injury in the testicles. Sperm Penetration Assay (SPA): This test is used to test the ability of the sperm to penetrate a woman’s egg. Ultrasound: This is used to examine the testes to see if there are any abnormalities that could cause infertility. Biopsy: A small tissue of the testicles is removed to check for cancerous cells. These cells hinder the ability of the testes to produce sperm. Vasography: It is an X-ray to detect any blockages that may lead to poor sperm production. Possible Male Infertility Complications Male infertility is not life-threatening but can cause significant emotional damage. What makes male infertility difficult is that the treatment can often cause minor issues. Below are some of the associated complications men are likely to experience: Emotional stress due to the inability to conceive Marital discord Feeling of hopelessness due to long treatment duration which prompts many men to discontinue treatment Financial stress due to  expensive treatments such as Gonadotropin treatment Varicocele that has been left untreated for a long time cannot be corrected even with surgery Feeling a loss of masculinity that leads to depression Possible testicular damage while retrieving sperm for assisted reproductive techniques Ridicule by relatives and society can lead to a man becoming introverted Treatment Below are some of the methods on how to cure male infertility. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: The sperm is directly into the egg for fertilisation. Regulated Sex Life: Reducing the number of times that copulation takes place can improve the sperm count and improve the chances of conception. Drug Therapy: Medicine for male fertility works at a hormonal level. For example, Clomid is given to activate the pituitary gland to produce sex hormones. Electro-Ejaculation Therapy: This is a way of acquiring sperm in men who have neurological impairments. Small electrical jolts are given to the prostate and seminal vesicles to kickstart ejaculation. Diet: Consuming the herbs and food items listed below can help improve male fertility. Home Remedies to Improve Male Fertility Going to a fertility clinic can be expensive and an unpleasant experience. Below are some natural medicines that can improve your fertility naturally. Ashwagandha: A natural Viagra, it can not only increase  the libido in a person but also increase the sperm count by more than 160% Garlic: A natural treatment for male infertility, garlic helps reduce erectile dysfunctions and thus improves male potency. Green Tea: The presence of epigallocatechin gallate in green tea is known to have a positive effect on sperm quality. Ginko Leaves: Most erectile dysfunctions, which are a cause of male infertility, are because of cardiovascular issues. Ginko leaves have been known to increase blood flow and, as a result, improve male potency. Oysters: Apart from being a powerful aphrodisiac, they are packed with zinc, which helps in sperm production. Flaxseed Oil: One of the important ingredients for a male infertility diet is flaxseeds, which helps in prostrate health. It helps overall sperm upkeep with its rich reservoir of fatty acids and helps improve blood flow to the penis. Other Medicines for Male Infertility One of the main drugs for male infertility is Clomid. Though it is used by women, it can also be used by men. Male infertility supplements such as CountBoost and FertilAid are packed with vitamins and minerals that improve sperm health. How to Manage Emotional Stress? Learning about infertility can leave a man in shock. This is followed by anger, anxiety and a range of other emotions. Some of the methods to manage that emotional stress include: Consider treatment options. A discussion with the partner is crucial to narrow down what method works best for both Talking to a sexual therapist or counsellor can help reduce any tensions in the marriage/civil union Picking up a hobby can help channel the negative energy Talking to your spouse Prevention Avoid tight-fitting underwear Avoid hot water showers Good personal hygiene Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol Increase your intake of zinc and folic acid Do yoga Stay fit, as obesity has been known to affect sperm quality Avoid multiple sexual partners prior to marriage, as STDs like genital warts can affect fertility A moderate amount of sex to improve the sperm count Cryopreservation for cancer treatment When to Consult a Doctor? While there are no outward signs that can detect male infertility, one can go to the doctor when There is a low sexual drive Inability to conceive a child even after trying for a year Pain in the testicles Prior surgery in the testicles may have reduced fertility, and treatment may be needed. Male fertility can be challenging to deal with, but the success rates have been good, with more than 65%. Even in those situations where conventional methods don’t work, one can always opt for assisted reproductive methods or adoption. References/Resources: 1. Leslie. S. W, Soon-Sutton. T. L, Khan. M. A. B; Male Infertility; NCBI; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562258/; January 2023 2. Male infertility; Mayo Clinic; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-infertility/symptoms-causes/syc-20374773 3. What is Male Infertility?; Urology Care Foundation; https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/m/male-infertility 4. Male Infertility; Johns Hopkins Medicine; https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/male-infertility 5. Male Infertility; Cleveland Clinic; https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17201-male-infertility 6. Infertility in men; Better Health Channel; https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/infertility-in-men 7. Male Infertility; MedlinePlus; https://medlineplus.gov/maleinfertility.html 8. How common is male infertility, and what are its causes?; NIH; https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/menshealth/conditioninfo/infertility 9. Male Infertility; American Pregnancy Association; https://americanpregnancy.org/getting-pregnant/infertility/male-infertility/ 10. Infertility; WHO; https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility 11. Male Infertility; Urologic Clinics of North America, 2020; https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/male-infertility 12. Agarwal. A, Baskaran. S, Parekh. N, et al.; Male infertility; The Lancet; https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32667-2/fulltext; January 2021 13. 10 reasons for male infertility; FIGO; https://www.figo.org/news/10-reasons-male-infertility Also Read: Male Fertility Tests Azoospermia (No Sperm Count) Male Fertility – Foods That Can Increase Sperm Count Read more

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Ovarian Follicle and Its Role in Fertility

The female reproductive system undergoes cyclical and structural changes throughout the menstrual cycle driven by the production of hormones by the ovary. As ovarian follicular development begins while the female fetus is in-utero, its proper understanding of the Ovarian reserve plays a critical role in estimating the ovarian reserve in a woman with infertility and counseling her regarding the line of treatment for subfertility. Diminishing ovarian follicles in the uterus is a common phenomenon in women during their mid to late thirties or even earlier, reflecting the lesser number of follicles and diminishing oocyte quality. Therefore, healthcare providers must assess ovarian follicular reserve resulting in voluntary or involuntary delayed childbearing and decide on the potential benefit of assisted reproductive technology (ART), including in-vitro fertilization and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. What Is Ovarian Follicle?  Ovarian follicles are small spheroid cellular aggregation sets found inside a woman’s ovaries. Filled with fluid that secretes hormones, these sacs influence different menstrual cycle stages. Women have approximately 200,000 to 300,000 follicles at the time of puberty, and each of them has the potential to release an egg cell (ovum) at ovulation for fertilization. Once every menstrual cycle with around 450-500 are ovulated during a woman’s reproductive lifetime, these eggs are developed. The size and status of the follicles help assess fertility and fertility treatment. A pelvic ultrasound scan of your womb and ovaries, as well as an Anti-Mullerian Hormone blood test, can assess the size and number of follicles present on your ovaries, called an Antral Follicle Count. The follicle is the cell involved in the embryo obtained after fertilization. It is a functional anatomical structure that forms part of the ovary. The egg is the cell that matures in a tiny part of the inner wall of a follicle in each ovarian cycle under normal conditions. The follicles that don’t release a mature egg disintegrate through a process called atresia. About 99% of ovarian follicles can disintegrate at any stage of follicular development but never become mature enough to release an egg. Furthermore, the follicle contains other cell types that produce estrogen required to develop egg maturation. Whether or not eggs are released can be determined in the first weeks of the life of the female embryo in each cycle from the first menstruation. Higher quality eggs are selected first as they become poorer with successive cycles; hence older women have more difficulty getting pregnant and have a higher rate of miscarriages. What Are the Different Types of Ovarian Follicles? Human ovaries generally produce a single dominant follicle that must complete all the steps in folliculogenesis on time to result in single ovulation. However, only a few among the multiple follicles in the ovary become dominant. This demonstrates the fundamental principle that folliculogenesis in mammals is a highly selective process. Here is a classification of follicles that can help understand follicular development. 1. Primordial Follicle  An ovarian follicle undergoes several distinct phases before its ovum is released. Primordial follicles form in the fetal ovary in the first five months of development. They migrate into the developing gonad early in embryogenesis and form oogonia that proliferate by mitosis. Upon reaching sexual maturity, some of these Primordial follicles enlarge and mature to form primary oocytes to complete the first meiotic division to make gametes under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone. The oocytes synthesize a coat called the ‘zona pellucida’ and cortical granules. They also obtain ribosomes, yolk, glycogen, lipid, and mRNA that will be used later on after fertilization to direct the early development of the embryo. Ova are formed post a second mitotic division. The oocyte in primordial follicles is surrounded by a single layer of flattened ovarian follicular epithelial cells called granulosa cells. It gets arrested in the last stage of prophase, known as dictyotene.  2. Primary Follicle  Primordial follicles get stimulated to become primary follicles at the beginning of each menstrual cycle. The oocyte enlarges, and the follicular cells are separated by the zona pellucida, a thin band of glycoproteins. Proteins on a sperm’s surface bind to specific glycoproteins in the zona pellucida. A follicle with two layers of follicular cells is called a primary follicle. These cells grow into a stratified epithelium known as the zona granulosa proliferate to form many layers surrounding the oocyte. This is followed by the enlargement of a thick glycoprotein layer known as zona pellucida at the late primary follicle stage. Then, the stroma around the follicle develops to form a capsule-like ‘theca.’ One out of all maturing follicles completes the maturation process each month. The remaining follicles degenerate into atretic follicles. 3. Secondary Follicle  The primary follicle builds into a secondary follicle. The secondary follicles resemble the primary follicles but are larger and have more follicular cells. Small accumulations of fluid, called follicular fluid, happen in the intracellular spaces. These gradually merge to form an antrum rich in hyaluronan and proteoglycans. The surrounding granulosa cells are called the cumulus oophorus. The surrounding theca can be differentiated into the Theca Interna and Theca Externa. The androgens in Theca Interna are converted into estrogen by the granulosa cells. 4. Graffian Follicle  The secondary follicle develops into a Graffian follicle that appears between the first meiotic division and completion of ovulation. The oocyte has become a secondary oocyte and starts its second meiotic division. The follicular fluid fills a single space, called the antrum, surrounded by the follicular cells called the membrana granulosa. The granulosa cells surrounding the oocyte project into the antrum and are known as the cumulus oophorus. The secondary oocyte is now surrounded by the zona pellucida and a layer of cells known as the corona radiata. After the ovum is expelled from the Graafian follicle, it enters the fallopian tube and into the oviduct. Next, the oocyte begins its second meiotic division, as far as metaphase II, but only if the ovum is fertilized. 5. Corpus Leteum After ovulation, the remaining cells of the Granulosa and Theca Interna form the corpus luteum. Its center contains the remains of the blood clot formed after ovulation. Granulosa cells enlarge, become vesicular, and are called Glanulosa lutein cells. These become folded, and the space between the folds is filled with Theca Interna cells surrounding the clot, whereas theca lutein cells are on their own, lying outside. The zona granulosa cells produce progesterone and a small amount of cholesterol. The corpus luteum also secretes estrogen and relaxin. The corpus luteum degenerates into corpus Albicans in case pregnancy doesn’t happen. The levels of estrogen and progesterone fall, allowing the release of FSH and LH. If pregnancy does occur, then the syncytiotrophoblasts of the placenta release human chorionic gonadotrophin, and the corpus luteum persists. Out of 20 primordial follicles that start developing in each cycle, only one makes it. 6. Corpus Albicans  In the absence of fertilization, the cells of the corpus luteum remain active for around two weeks until the LH levels fall and the corpus luteum involutes to form the corpus Albicans. The secretory cells of the corpus luteum get phagocytosed by macrophages and are replaced by fibrous material. The corpus Albicans looks pale and continues to shrink until it forms a small scar on the side of the ovary. 7. Atretic Follicle  Although several primordial follicles are triggered to continue development on each menstrual cycle, only one follicle completes development to release an ovum. At any stage of development, the other follicles can degenerate through a process called atresia. During atresia, granulosa cells undergo apoptosis and are replaced by fibrous material. The oocyte degenerates, and the basement that separates the oocyte from granulosa cells thickens to become the glassy membrane. How Many Eggs Are in a Follicle? In a normal menstrual cycle, one follicle grows to contain one egg. The follicle gets bigger and ruptures at ovulation to release the egg. This happens around 14 days after the beginning of your menstrual cycle. How Many Follicles Is Normal?  A woman can have an adequate or normal ovarian reserve which can count between 6-10, depending on the number of antral follicles. The ovarian reserve is considered low if the follicles count is less than 6 and high if the number is more than 12. It is more likely that women with low ovarian reserve do not respond to treatment, and women with high ovarian reserve exaggeratedly respond to treatment. In both cases, the treatment cycle becomes unsuccessful than in the instance of a normal follicular count. What Is Antral Follicle Count? The antral follicle test is a transvaginal ultrasound that measures the number of antral follicles present in the ovary. A doctor or a technician conducts the test using a probe, which is inserted into the woman’s vagina to examine and count the number of antral follicles on the ovaries. Follicles in ovary ultrasound can be seen despite measuring between 2 to 9 millimetres in diameter. The number of antral follicles can ascertain the number of eggs and the number of follicles that are too small to see and remain in the ovaries. Although this test is usually conducted on the third day of your menstrual cycle, in reality, it can be done at any time. What Is the Usual Count of Antral Follicles?  Older women have fewer antral follicles than younger women. Women between mid-20s and early 30s have around 12 to 30 antral follicles. Those between 35 and 40 have between 8 to 15, and those between 41 and 46 have anywhere between 4 to 10 antral follicles. Women with lesser than five antral follicles may need fertility treatments, like in vitro fertilization (IVF) with the aid of donor eggs to conceive. What Is Dominant Follicle in Ovary?  Only one mature ovarian follicle or Dominant Follicle from the antral follicles is selected to “ovulate in a natural cycle.” This follicle can be differentiated from others in size and rapid growth. As part of a biological process, the other follicles disappear or die. The dominant follicle has an average diameter of 22 mm to 24 mm before ovulation occurs and can indicate whether ovulation will happen with ease. What Are Empty Follicle Syndrome?  An empty follicle syndrome is produced in very rare cases. It would not be egg retrieval after ovarian stimulation in IVF treatment in patients with adequate growth follicles and estradiol levels. An error in HCG administration, abnormal response to treatment, or impaired follicular mellowing can be the possible reasons for estimating or establishing their possible occurrence. This has been observed more frequently in women with a history of primary infertility and good follicle count. Despite being a rare event (<7%), its incidence increases with age. This, however, doesn’t imply that a patient has an exact fertility problem, and most may have a normal follicular mellowing and an adequate number of eggs. Can You Get Pregnant With a Single Mature Follicle? A woman can get pregnant naturally with a single mature follicle as long as it releases an egg down the fallopian tube to meet the sperm. But if a woman is undergoing fertility treatment, it depends on the type of therapy and her age. For women using intrauterine insemination (IUI) and those aged below 40, one or two mature follicles are preferred. More follicles may not significantly increase the chances of getting pregnant, but it does raise your chance of having twins or multiples for women who happen to conceive. However, women over 40 using IUI may consider using ovulation-stimulating treatments for stimulating more mature follicles. It has been found that those women above 40 and up to four mature follicles tripled their odds of pregnancy without significantly raising their chances of multiples. Regardless of age, women undergoing IVF can be suggested to use fertility medications that produce more mature follicles. Hormone injections with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), or both are administered a couple of weeks beforehand to stimulate the ovaries. An ultrasound-guided needle is used during the IVF egg retrieval procedure to reach the ovaries and collect at least 10 or more eggs per cycle. How Many Immature Follicles Show Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?  Women with PCOS have more antral follicles than women without PCOS. A woman with PCOS can have more than 30 antral follicles in total. They produce above-average levels of the hormone testosterone, which obstructs ovulation. As the follicles struggle to release eggs, they fail to undergo ovulation. Women with PCOS can still get pregnant, but it can get delayed. Medications, such as metformin that contain ovulation-inducing drug Clomid or letrozole or IVF can induce pregnancy. Losing weight, boosting vitamin D levels, and reducing stress may also help solve the problem. Along with medications and treatment, women can battle PCOS with non-chemical and organic additives that are known to regulate PCOS symptoms and bring a hormonal balance. andMe PCOS PCOD Tea For Hormonal Balance Tea Bags is one such goody that promises improved fertility by regulating ovarian hormones, healthy weight loss, regular periods, and detoxification of the body with its natural and non-toxic ingredients, including Shavatri, Ashwagandha, and Lodhra. This fortified organic green tea is 100% vegan, sugar-free, and free from baddies like preservatives and artificial flavours. Although ovarian follicles can serve as an indicator of fertility, other factors like age, weight, health history and even genetics can indicate the chances of pregnancy. An antral follicle count test can determine the chances of pregnancy at a certain point in time but not the entire duration of the reproductive cycle. A diagnosis of follicle size and low ovarian reserves can be a matter of stress for most women. IVF with an egg donor is a possible path that not all couples agree or can take up. While ovarian follicle counts are an important indicator of fertility, one number doesn’t define you or can certainly predict the future of your fertility. Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion on further fertility testing and diagnosis results if you’re unsure.  Also Read: Premature Ovarian Failure(POF) Is Ovary Size Important for Pregnancy? Is It Possible to Get Pregnant With One Ovary? Read more

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Chromopertubation – Procedure, Risk, and More

Chromotubation, also called chromopertubation, is a procedure performed medically. The process involves the introduction of a blue-coloured dye into the uterine cavity through the cervix. As the dye flows through the fallopian tubes, it provides a visual confirmation of whether the tubes are open or blocked, which is crucial for women experiencing infertility. While this test is done to understand the causes of failing to conceive, you should conduct extensive research before getting this procedure done. In this article, we will walk you through the procedure in detail, including its purpose, step-by-step process, potential risks, and benefits. What Is Chromotubation? Chromotubation is part of a slight invasive surgery called laparoscopy. Chromotubation is a process of determining infertility issues. A block in the fallopian tubes could be one of the many causes of not getting pregnant. Chromotubation is a medical procedure performed under general anesthesia and can also determine other underlying issues possibly hindering chances of becoming pregnant (1). Why Chromotubation Is Done? The chromotubation procedure is performed to determine the reason for difficulties in getting pregnant during an infertility evaluation. During any blockages in the fallopian tube, the eggs cannot pass from the ovary to the uterus. This again prevents the eggs from reaching the sperm, which will not result in a pregnancy. Similarly, if both fallopian tubes are found blocked, infertility can be diagnosed (2). What Happens During Chromotubation? A surgical device equipped with a camera is placed in the abdominal opening via a small cut, vaguely just below the belly button. This helps the doctors to examine the internal organs- the fallopian tubes in this instance. Before placing the laparoscope, a uterine manipulator, a camera-like device, is placed through the vagina and the cervix in the uterus. Then, a catheter is used to inject a dye into the uterus, and the fallopian tubes are monitored with the help of a laparoscope camera to see if the dye spills from the other end of the tube. There is no blockage if the dye comes out of the other end easily. However, if the dye does not come out, it indicates a blockage. It can indicate scarring or endometriosis (3). Chromotubation Risks Chromotubation is performed as a part of laparoscopy. As with any surgical procedure, it requires anaesthesia and does involve some risks, that include: Injury to organs in the abdomen Loss of blood Damage to nerve Allergic reactions to anesthesia Blood clots Scarred tissue To separate the organs and clear visibility, gas is injected into the abdomen during the surgery. This gas could be one of the most common causes and common after-effects of the procedure. The shoulder is the part of the body that gets hit by the gas pressure at the top of the abdomen. Chromotubation could be falsely indicated if a patient has an injury in the abdomen, any previous complication from surgery, or allergic reaction to anesthesia. Chromotubation Treatment If a laparoscopy with chromotubation is performed and a blockage is detected, minor treatments and procedures can help with the treatment. 1. Tube Resection Often, surgeons can rectify the blockage during laparoscopic surgery. Endometriosis or linkages that are blocking the tubes could be resected. However, this does not necessarily guarantee fertility. Often, damage in the tubes that cannot be repaired could result from the cause of blockages. It could also be due to the blockage resulting from pressure built in the tube due to the block. Even if the tubes are resected at the time of surgery, it may not always work in the long run as scarring could return even post the healing process. 2. Removal of Fallopian Tube If the surgeon believes that the tubes have internal damage after performing the chromotubation, the surgeon may suggest removing the tube as it may never function normally again (4). Removal of the tube does not mean that the patient cannot get pregnant. They will, however, have to undergo in-vitro fertilization to conceive. With the help of IVF, the sperm and eggs meet in the petri dish in the lab, where the embryo is placed directly in the uterus (5). Other Testing Options Given that chromotubation is a surgical procedure, many patients over the years have chosen non-invasive and non-surgical methods to determine any blockage. A few options are Hysterosalpingogram and Sonosalpingography. Both these procedures take less than 10 minutes and do not require anesthesia or surgery. 1. Hysterosalpingogram A hysterosalpingogram is a procedure that uses contrast that is infused into the uterus before an X-ray. The X-ray reveals if the contrast is spilling out of the tube or not (6). 2. Sonosalpingography A sonosalpingography is where air bubbles are infused into the uterus. Once this is done, a sonogram is taken to see if the bubble comes out of the tube (7). While determining a couple’s fertility through investigation, it is imperative to determine whether the fallopian tubes are blocked. There are various ways to do this, and laparoscopy is one of the best ways. Apart from assessing the tubes, the laparoscopy procedure examines the organs of the pelvis that include the uterus, ovaries, and other surrounding organs. Endometriosis and scarred tissues are conditions that can be determined through laparoscopy. A laparoscopy with chromotubation ascertains the cause of infertility and is a diagnostic procedure to determine more about the fallopian tubes. FAQs 1. Does chromotubation hurt? There may be some pain around the area where incisions have been made on the abdomen. There could be slight bruising around the lower abdomen. It is also common to experience discomfort on the right shoulder or around the neck. 2. How do I know my fallopian tube is blocked? The chromotubation procedure is performed by sedating the patient using general anesthesia. The laparoscope is inserted using a small cut on the skin with a tiny camera attached to it. A metal or plastic tube is placed into the uterus through the cervix, and a blue dye is passed through this tube. This passes through the uterine cavity and the fallopian tubes. If the tubes have no blockage, then the dye can be seen as spilling out of the ends of the tubes, which will be visible through the laparoscope camera. However, if the dye does not flow back into the uterus cavity, then it is evident that there is a block in the tube. Apart from evaluating the blockage in tubes, a laparoscopy with chromotubation also identifies other causes of infertility like endometriosis and scarring of tissues in the pelvic region. 3. Can I get pregnant after a laparoscopy? It is advisable not to try to get pregnant immediately after a laparoscopic chromopertubation. Post-chromotubation recovery can take some time. It takes a few weeks to recover from the pain and bloating you would experience after the laparoscopy. So, surgeons advise giving it a few weeks to try getting pregnant after the laparoscopy procedure. It is essential to recover before engaging in any physical activity, and that includes intercourse. This could vary from a few days to many weeks. It is vital to listen to your body and stay safe from any complications. Plenty of rest and ample nutrition is vital for a faster recovery. If you experience any pain during intercourse, stop and give your body time to heal. If pain continues, consult a doctor. 4. How long does a laparoscopy and dye take? The procedure of laparoscopy with chromotubation is performed under general anesthesia. The entire procedure should take about fifteen minutes. As with any medical intervention, it’s important to ensure that it aligns with individual health needs and circumstances. For women struggling with infertility, chromotubation procedure can provide essential information, guiding doctors toward the most effective treatment options. References/Resources: 1. PubMed Central – Fertility Improvement of Hysteroscopy with Chromopertubation in the Management of Infertile Women with Hysterosalpingography Evidence of Abnormal Tubal Patency: A Prospective Comparative Study 2. Tampa General Hospital – Chromopertubation 3. INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ANTICANCER RESEARCH – Chromopertubation – Presentation of a Modification of the Standard Technique 4. Healthdirect – Salpingectomy 5. Cleveland Clinic – IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) 6. Cleveland Clinic – Hysterosalpingogram 7. International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology – Sonosalpingography Also Read: Treatment of Primary Infertility Ovulation Induction Therapy for Infertility Intrauterine Insemination Process for Infertility Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) Read more

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Bee Pollen for Fertility – Benefits and Recommended Dosage

Every married couple eagerly waits for the day when their family is blessed with a baby. But sometimes, there are some hurdles that hinder the process of conceiving. Couples facing infertility issues have increased due to sedentary lifestyles, continuous radiation exposure through wireless networks, and unhealthy food choices. Several natural remedies offer couples a safe and effective choice to boost their fertility in such situations. Bee pollen for fertility is one remedy that has gained popularity in recent years, but whether it is genuinely effective is something many people are unaware of. So, is bee pollen for female fertility really effective, or is it just another hoax? Let’s read the post to know the effectiveness of bee pollen for fertility.  What Is Bee Pollen? When worker bees leave the hive for the day, they collect bee pollen and return it to the hive. They granulate pollen with the plant pollen’s enzymes, digestive enzymes from bees, and a little honey or nectar (1). Bee pollen is a natural, high-nutrient source with various trace minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants (2). Its health advantages include improving immunity, controlling weight and allergies, treating prostate issues, and enhancing fertility. Bee pollen is loaded with bioactive compounds and offers extremely successful natural therapy for infertility in both men and women. However, before using bee pollen to treat infertility, you should speak with your doctor. It is important to note that bee pollen should not be confused with beeswax, honey, bee venom, royal jelly, or propolis (3). Benefits of Bee Pollen on Women’s Fertility  The bee pollen’s benefits for female fertility are numerous. Here are some listed benefits of bee pollen on women fertility: 1. Rich in Nutrients Bee pollen contains many essential elements, around 96, that you need to live a healthy life. Pollen contains 40% proteins that your body can utilize without having to break them down. Bee pollen also contains various important minerals, including calcium, iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, and potassium, which contribute to your overall health and fertility. 2. Boosts Estrogen Levels  Estrogen aids in the proper release of eggs during ovulation by boosting ovarian activity. The higher the quality of the eggs, the more likely you are to become pregnant. If you’re attempting to conceive, bee pollen can help you enhance your estrogen levels and balance the hormones you need to get pregnant. Pollen also improves the capacity of the eggs to withstand and survive the incubation phase. 3. Improves Immunity and Libido  Pollen increases your libido and energy levels, making it easier to conceive. Pollen also stimulates your immune system and protects you from various ailments. All important fatty acids, carbs, glucose, antioxidants, fructose, vitamins, enzymes, and minerals included in pollen help to enhance your immune system. 4. Hormone Regulation Bee pollen is beneficial in regulating hormonal imbalance faced by women that lead to fertility issues like PCOS. However, to prove this claim, more research needs to be done. The relationship between bee pollen and fertility is not beneficial for only women; it is for men as well. A 2009 study found an increase in daily sperm production, testosterone levels, and sperm counts when rats were fed with the pollen of pollen of plant sources Raphanus spp. and Cistus spp. (4). Side Effects and Risks  You have heard numerous success stories about bee propolis fertility; however, you may be wondering, “Is bee pollen safe for getting pregnant?” Well, it is, as there are no significant side effects or risks after using bee pollen. Though in some rare cases, there could be some minor side effects. Here are some side-effects or risks to consider before starting the use of bee pollens:  If you are allergic to bees or bee products or have asthma, you might be allergic to bee pollen (5) (2). Bee pollen from industrialized areas can have toxins, chemicals, and heavy metals that can harm your health. So go for fresh, clean, and pure bee pollen that comes from an unpolluted environment.  Skin rash, low pulse, stomach pain, wheezing, tingling, and discomfort may happen in some cases for people allergic to bee pollen, and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis (6). Women taking blood thinners should avoid it.  If you have prostate problems, stomach problems, joint pains, or hay fever, consult your doctor first before consuming bee pollen. How to Improve Fertility Through Bee Pollen? To improve fertility through the consumption of bee pollen, follow these tips: Only use bee pollen from organic sources that are of good quality. Chemicals may be present in those supplied from industrial farms.  Eat healthy and nutritious foods in a balanced diet, and stay away from processed foods with high quantities of toxins and salts. Exercise regularly, get enough rest and de-stress. Have frequent checks to determine your and your partner’s fertility status. If you are on blood thinners, such as warfarin, make sure to consult your doctor before trying bee pollen for fertility, as it could bee pollen could interact with anticoagulants (6) (3). How Much Bee Pollen Should You Consume Daily to Improve Fertility? There are no recommended or set quantities of bee pollen for increasing fertility. Ask your physician or a certified herbalist for the recommended dosage before starting bee pollen. There are many ways to incorporate bee pollen into your daily diet. It can be used in various recipes for added nutrition and flavour. FAQs 1. Can bee pollen help or work with IVF treatments? A 2020 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition suggested that bee pollen may help bring improvement in the IVF treatments (7). However, more research is required on this case. 2. Can bee pollen help treat or reduce menstrual irregularities or PCOS? Although bee pollen is known to reduce premenstrual syndrome symptoms, there is not evidence that claims it can reduce or treat menstrual irregularities. It is also known to help with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) (8). Bee pollens are an effective and natural way to boost fertility. However, apart from them, make sure to lead a healthy lifestyle and eat a nutritious diet to get your body ready for pregnancy. References/Resources: 1. Khalifa. S. A. M, et al.; Bee Pollen: Current Status and Therapeutic Potential; Nutrients.; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8230257/; May 2021 2. Bee Pollen; URMC; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=BeePollen 3. Bee Pollen; MedlinePlus; https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/78.html 4. Selmanoğlu. G, et al.; The Effect of Pollen on Some Reproductive Parameters of Male Rats; Pestic. fitomed. (Beograd); https://doiserbia.nb.rs/img/doi/1820-3949/2009/1820-39490901059S.pdf; 2009 5. Jagdis A, Sussman G. Anaphylaxis from bee pollen supplement. CMAJ; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3394823/; July 2012 6. Bee pollen; Drugs.com; https://www.drugs.com/mtm/bee-pollen.html 7. Abdelnour. S. A, et al.; Useful impacts of royal jelly on reproductive sides, fertility rate and sperm traits of animals; Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jpn.13303; Januray 2020 8. Naseri. L, et al.; Synergic effect of bee pollen and metformin on proliferation and apoptosis of granulosa cells: Rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome; Journal of Food Biochemistry; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jfbc.13635; February 2021 Also Read: Feng Shui for Fertility Sonohysterogram Test for Fertility Is Royal Jelly a Super Fertility Food? Importance of Trigger Shots for Fertility Natural Ways to Increase Fertility in Men and Women Read more

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Sonohysterogram for Fertility – Procedure, Benefits, and Risks

A sonohysterogram is a specialized ultrasound of the uterus and fallopian tubes to determine the suspected intrauterine abnormalities. Suppose your doctor has asked you to undergo a saline sonohysterogram test. In that case, it may be to determine the actual cause of the uterine problems such as abnormal menstrual bleeding, cramping, infertility, or pelvic pain. Your doctor may also perform the exam before the IVF treatment to possibly rule out difficulties that could arise during the embryo implantation. What is a Sonohysterogram? Saline infusion sonohysterography (SHG) is a non-invasive transvaginal ultrasound that introduces saline water inside the uterine cavity. The exam does not use radiation and is a painless procedure. It uses sound waves that create real-time images of the inside of your uterus on a computer. During the sonohysterogram exam, a skinny tube, called a catheter, is gently inserted inside the cervical opening. Then a saline solution is slowly introduced into the uterine cavity through the catheter. The saline solution gently stretches the uterus, making the uterine walls move away from each other. This stretching of the uterus causes the transvaginal ultrasound wand to evaluate the condition of the uterus precisely. Also, the fluid pathway through the sonohysterogram fallopian tubes provides the details of its defects on ultrasound. Then a long and slender wand (transducer) is inserted into the vagina. The wand, in turn, emits sound waves that bounce back echoes. The transducer records these echoes and sends them to the computer screen, where a real-time image of the uterus’s inside is developed. Your doctor can perform SHG without using the saline solution as it is done during pregnancy. However, the results with saline solution are precise and beneficial. Why Would You Need Sonohysterography? SHG exam evaluates uterine abnormalities, such as uterine adhesion or scarring. It also considers endometrium problems and many other disorders such as abnormal pelvic pain or pressure, irregular shape or size of the uterus, and repeated miscarriages. Your doctor may also perform SHG during fertility testing. It gives a close glimpse of the endometrial cavity. It enables the doctor to evaluate the thickness of the endometrial lining and any irregularities that could interfere with pregnancy. Here are the benefits of Sonohysterogram: It is a very easy, non-invasive procedure for detecting Uterine fibroids, Uterine polyps, or cancer It causes no or only mild discomfort (varies from woman to woman) It does not carry any risk or scarce risk of infection or complications It doesn’t use radiations but only sound ways to get the real-time images It is less expensive compared to other tests It provides an excellent and real-time image of the inside of the uterus Risks of Sonohysterography Sonohysterography is a very safe procedure with rare chances of complications and risks. Some women may feel minor discomfort during the process that vanishes quickly after the test. There is a low risk of infection (in very rare cases) that needs doctor consultation. However, SHG may sometimes cause mild pain, spotting, or vaginal bleeding in some women, but that gets cured in a day or two. Due to this, a sonohysterogram during the period is not recommended. However, you don’t need to contact a doctor or be anxious about these mild problems. However, pregnant women and women with active pelvic or vaginal infections should not undergo this procedure. Cost of Sonohysterography An SHG exam may cost between $500 and $700. And, if your doctor has prescribed a combination of tests, the cost will be more. Although insurance covers this test, it may not be covered if it is advised for IVF treatment. So, make sure to confirm with your insurance provider and the financial advisor at the fertility clinic to find out if your medical insurance covers it. Other Fertility Tests During Sonohysterogram Many other tests are used to evaluate the abnormalities of the uterine cavity, endometrium, and fallopian tubes. Other tests are: 1. Hysterosalpingography (HSG) HSG is an age-old method that uses X-rays for evaluating tubal health. It places an iodinated contrast through the cervix and takes X-rays to assess the shape of the uterus and fallopian tubes. 2. Transvaginal Ultrasonography This ultrasound is done without using the saline solution to assess the uterus and the ovaries. The test doesn’t check the fallopian tubes because of the lack of contrast fluid. 3. Laparoscopy Laparoscopy is an operative procedure and needs the use of anesthesia. In this test, the doctor makes one, two, or three tiny cuts in the abdomen through which they insert a laparoscope and other specialized surgical instruments. It would be best to have hospitalization in this test for a day and at least 15 days’ rest at home. Your doctor may ask for an SHG test or any of the above tests or even a combination of an SHG and an HSG, depending upon your conditions. A combination of tests is generally performed to detect some complex uterine fertility problems. Will the Sonohysterography Test Hurt? Well, this is the question that comes to every woman’s mind when her doctor advises an SHG. Although a sonohysterogram exam doesn’t hurt, you may feel – Certain discomfort Little or no pain Anxiety Slight cramping All these side effects of a sonohysterogram may vary from woman to woman and fade away either right after the test, in a few hours, or a day or two. If you find it difficult to bear with the pain and discomfort, talk to your doctor, who may prescribe you an over-the-counter medicine. Certain factors can make SHG more uncomfortable, including: If you are anxious or stressed about the test, it is more likely that you will experience certain discomfort. If your cervix is narrow or the uterus is abnormally placed, it may cause difficulty in catheter placement and, in turn, result in pain. If there are any blocked fallopian tubes due to which the fluid may not spill out as it should be, it might cause pain. If you feel pain even during regular gynecological examinations, the procedure may be painful for you. Discuss with your doctor the potential risks, pains, and discomfort before undergoing the SHG test. It will help in relaxing your mind at the time of the test. Is Sonohysterography Better Than Hysterosalpingogram? Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an X-Ray of the abdomen that helps the doctor find out the condition of the fallopian tubes. The doctor may suggest this test to check whether tubes are open or blocked. The doctor performs the test to investigate the reasons for miscarriages, such as tumors, adhesions, or uterine fibroids. However, the test has a few disadvantages, such as: The procedure uses radiopaque contrast that contains iodine, which may cause a reaction. The procedure uses X-rays that may carry some risks of radiation. In contrast, SHG doesn’t use any iodine contrast; also, there is no radiation risk. The procedure is comparatively safe and painless. It is cost-effective, quick to perform, and delivers precise results. How to Prepare for the Sonohysterography Test? Doctors do not recommend sonohysterography during periods. They suggest the test in the mid-cycle of menstruation (from day 6 to 10 of a regular 28-day cycle). This duration is best suited as it helps in visualizing the thin endometrium with maximum clarity. Also, the risks of disturbing an early pregnancy or infections are less. Although you don’t need special preparation before the exam, but- Your doctor may advise you to take an over-the-counter painkiller, like ibuprofen, 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure to alleviate any potential discomfort. You must come dressed in a comfortable outfit that is easy to remove and put on. Or, the health adviser may give you a gown to change. The doctor may ask you to have an oral antibiotic to prevent any infection during this procedure. Your doctor may prescribe a urine pregnancy test as sonohysterography is not suitable for pregnant women. You need to visit the restroom just before going to the exam. How Does the Sonohysterogram Procedure Work? The sonohysterogram procedure utilizes sound waves to get clear pictures of the inside of a woman’s uterus. These pictures help the doctor diagnose unexplained vaginal bleeding and many other uterus anomalies. This test uses a saline solution and is also known as saline infusion sonography (SIS). The SHG test is performed very much like a regular gynecologic exam. Still, it involves the insertion of the transducer (a long and slender wand) and saline solution into the woman’s vagina on an empty bladder. The doctor inserts a small tube (catheter) into the vagina and injects a small sterile saline solution into the uterus cavity. Then, the doctor inserts an ultrasound transducer into the vagina. High-frequency sound waves travel from the transducer into the body, and it recollects the waves that bounce back. A computer uses these sound waves to create a real-time image of the inside of the uterus. It is a non-invasive medical test and helps doctors diagnose and treat a woman’s uterus-related medical conditions. During the Sonohysterography The sonohysterography test is performed by a radiologist or technician at a healthcare provider’s office or a hospital. You can expect the following during the test: Before the procedure begins, you have to empty your bladder. Then, you need to undress from the waist down and lie on an examination table. You may experience mild cramping during or after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam to check for any pain or infection. They will cover the transducer with a thin covering and a special gel and insert it into your vagina. They will move the wand slightly to capture different images of your uterus, just like a standard vaginal ultrasound. After this, they will remove the transducer and insert a speculum into your vagina to see and reach your cervix. They will insert a swab to wipe clean your cervix. Next, they will insert a thin catheter into the cervix and remove the speculum from your vagina. Then they will put the wand back into your vagina and send a saline solution through the catheter into the uterus. After sending enough saline fluid into your uterus, they will take images of the inside of your uterus. After that, the healthcare provider will remove the wand and catheter. And, the saline solution will drain out of your uterus by itself over the next few hours. After the Sonohysterography In most cases, you can resume your normal activities right after the procedure. But, for a few minutes or hours after the procedure, you may experience a few symptoms like: Cramping Light brown spotting Fluid leakage from your vagina All the after-effects mentioned above are usual and nothing to be worried about. However, most women do not feel any pain after the procedure; you can take over-the-counter painkillers if you think so. When to Contact Doctor? If you experience symptoms that are not normal, like- Severe pain that doesn’t go away after taking ibuprofen or another painkiller High fever in the next few days Change in the amount or type of vaginal discharge These might be indications of a rare pelvic infection associated with sonohysterography. These symptoms are alarming, and you need to see your doctor. Your doctor may examine your conditions and accordingly either prescribe some medication or other diagnostic tests. A sonohysterogram is a transvaginal ultrasound that puts saline fluid into the uterus cavity to judge the condition of the uterine cavity. The primary purpose of performing this test is to make sure your uterus and fallopian tubes are healthy and fit for a pregnancy to grow. It is a cost-effective, safe, and low-risk diagnostic test and doesn’t need any special sonohysterogram preparation. The SHG offers a simultaneous view of the uterine cavity, endometrium, and fallopian tubes. It is the preferred choice of doctors as a first-line diagnostic procedure for finding the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, abnormalities, and infertility. FAQs 1. How Much Time Does the Test Take? The sonohysterography exam takes about 45 minutes. While the preliminary pelvic scan may take approx. 20 minutes, the saline sonohysterography procedure will take around 15 minutes, making the total time to be approx. 45 minutes. 2. Who Interprets the Results and How to Get Them? A doctor trained in supervising and interpreting radiology exams, called a radiologist, will analyze the images produced in the sonohysterography test. The radiologist will create a signed report and send it to the doctor who asked for the examination. The doctor will go through the reports and share the results with you. In some cases (if you insist), the radiologist may also discuss the test results with you after the exam. After checking your test reports, your doctor may ask for some follow-up exams and explain your reasons and needs. The follow-up exams are performed to find out other potential causes or effects of the abnormality. Also Read: Feng Shui Methods for Fertility Importance of Trigger Shots for Fertility Effective Fertility Supplements That Helps to Conceive Read more

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