Infertility
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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
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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
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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
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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
An Unforgettable Journey – From PCOD to Motherhood
Motherhood is a blessing that most female eagerly waits for. But sometimes it is just a dream which is far from reality for a few females.
PCOD/PCOS is becoming common nowadays and is happening to every 1 in 5 girls. It is such an issue, and if it is not addressed at the right time, then this could lead to infertility.
I was diagnosed with PCOD after a couple of months of my marriage in the year 2017. Our world suddenly turned upside down when I learned about this disorder. I consulted many doctors in Delhi but all in vain. They all suggested that I must get an IVF, and were least interested in treating the condition.
My husband and I were not in favour of this and started looking for another doctor. Luckily, we found one who not only cured the disorder but assured us that we would conceive naturally.
After two long years of medications, the day I had been waiting for finally arrived, and the doctor said that I had been cured completely of PCOD. These words were sheer poetry to my ears. That day was the beginning of good days in our lives.
Months passed and out of nowhere, I realised that I had missed my period. I then checked and found the result to be “positive”.
We were over the moon after getting to know that we are pregnant!! Nothing in the world can be compared to the joy and happiness of having able to carry a baby within you.
I felt blessed that I could experience this beautiful phase of motherhood.
The start was rough, but the ending was just amazing. We welcomed our angel on 04 Jan 2020. Soon she will be turning a year old. This journey of the first year has been wonderful. I wish all the luck to all those who are expecting and those who are planning. Those who have welcomed their kids, good luck to them as well.
STAY SAFE!!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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My Story of False Diagnosis of Missed Miscarriage (Absent Heartbeat)
I want to share the story of my pregnancy that was declared a missed miscarriage, but now I am the proud mother of a 9-month-old. Maybe my story will give people hope, if they suffer from the same.
During the 4th week of my pregnancy, I did a beta hCG. Being a doctor, I preferred a more accurate method than a home pregnancy test. Also my curiosity made us do a beta hcg. It was 186 – a confirmed pregnancy! As we had done IUI, I was pretty sure about my dates. I made a call to my gynaecologist, and scheduled an appointment for the 5th week.
We went for the check-up at the scheduled time. The doctor did a vaginal sonography. He could not find a gestational sac. So, he asked us to do a repeat hCG. It came to 1500. hCG is a marker of a healthy pregnancy. During a very early pregnancy, if it is getting doubled in 48 days, then the pregnancy is healthy.
We went for a checkup again after 3 days. Again, he performed a vaginal scan, and could not find a sac. He suspected a tubal pregnancy, and suggested surgery. My husband and I were not convinced, so we thought of doing sonograms with a radiologist.
We went to a radiologist the very next day, and by God’s grace, there was a sac. There was no implantation in the tubes. I was very happy. But, happiness does not last long. We had the next USG in 10 days, to check the viability of the pregnancy and to check the foetus heart beat. The day came, and we were very excited to see the tiny heart beating. But, we were shocked when the radiologist said that the baby did not have any cardiac activity (no heartbeat). I could not help crying.
We could not accept it. We went for a second opinion. That doctor asked for a hCG blood test again. She said if it’s increasing, then we can wait, but if not, we must do an abortion ASAP. The report gave us some hope, as the hCG level had increased. She prescribed me hCG 5000 injections once a week for 2 weeks, and to repeat use.
That was the longest 15 days of our life. I tried to be optimistic, but sometimes, I would burst into tears thinking that I might be carrying a dead foetus.
After a long wait, the day came. We went for a USG during the 8th week of pregnancy, with the least hope of a positive result. But, God had planned our happiness, which had no bar when the radiologist touched the probe on my abdomen, and there was a moving dot (heartbeat) on the screen. He said there was cardiac activity, and also it was a healthy pregnancy, though the dates were off by a week. That was not a thing to worry about for us at that moment, as we got what we never expected.
That tiny miracle is 9 months old now. If this happened with us, it could happen with you, too. So, please believe in your motherly instinct. Never lose hope till the end. The doctor too can be wrong. Always seek a 2nd opinion before aborting.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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50 Uplifting Infertility Quotes for Tough Times
The journey to parenthood can be full of challenges and for some couples, these challenges can start right from the moment when they consider planning for a baby. A couple who is trying to get pregnant for a while now but not getting the good news may wonder what’s wrong with them. One of the reasons for not being able to conceive could be infertility, but there’s no need to lose hope. There are various treatments available that could help one get pregnant and bring their bundle of joy in their lives. And here’s something for you that will inspire you to stay strong while you try to get pregnant. We bring you positive infertility quotes that will help you stay strong on this hard journey.
Inspirational Quotes About Infertility
This collection of infertility motivational quotes will help you and your partner stay positive throughout the journey! You will learn, through these motivational quotes for infertility that hope is everything.
1. “You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” — Margaret Thatcher
2. “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” — Mary Anne Radmacher
3. “I am learning to trust the journey even when I do not understand it.” — Mila Bron
4. “Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.” — Suzy Kassem
5. “Hope is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words –And never stops – at all.” — Emily Dickinson
6. “I was taught the way of progress is neither swift nor easy.” — Marie Curie
7. “Life is tough, my darling, but so are you.” — Stephanie Bennett-Henry
8. “And you begin again and sometimes you lose, sometimes you win, but you begin again. Even though your heart is breaking, in time the sun will shine and you will begin again.” — Barry Manilow
9. “A strong woman looks a challenge dead in the eye and gives it a wink.” — Gina Carey
10. “Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.” — Nora Ephron
11. “Not everyone will understand your journey. That’s fine. It’s not their journey to make sense of. It’s yours.” ― Zero Dean
12. “People cry not because they’re weak but because they’ve been strong for too long” — Johnny Depp
13. “Just because your path is different doesn’t mean you’re lost.” — Gerard Abrams
14. “You always pass failure on your way to success.” — Mickey Rooney
15. “You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.” — Bob Marley
Hopeful Quotes on Infertility
When the journey feels long and uncertain, hope can be the light that gets you through. These fertility quotes are gentle reminders to keep believing, even on the hardest days.
1. “People talk about the miracle of birth. No. There’s the miracle of conception. I did IVF, but nothing happened. So I began to think of adoption, and then I got pregnant. It was definitely a miracle.” —Iman
2. “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” — Nelson Mandela
3. “Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future.” — Robert H. Schuller
4. “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.” — F. Scott Fitzgerald
5. “Love recognises no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” — Maya Angelou
6. “Hope is the only thing stronger than fear.” — Robert Ludlum
7. “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
8. “No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true.” — Cinderella
9. “Hang on to your hat. Hang on to your hope. And wind the clock, for tomorrow is another day.” — E.B. White
10. “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” — Desmond Tutu
Infertility Quotes About the Desire to Have a Baby
The longing to hold a baby in your arms can be overwhelming. These quotes for infertility speak to that deep desire and the love you already carry in your heart for the child you’re dreaming of.
1. “However motherhood comes to you, it’s a miracle.” — Valerie Harper
2. “Infertility is this huge emotional roller coaster. If you want in your heart more than anything to have a baby, it’s the hardest thing you will ever go through physically, emotionally, and financially.” — Cindy Margolis
3. “Oh, what a power is motherhood, possessing a potent spell. All women alike fight fiercely for a child.” — Euripides
4. “Parenting begins the moment you make any conscious effort to care for your own health in preparation for enhancing your child’s conception.” — Carista Luminare-Rosen
5. “Even miracles take a little time.” — Fairy Godmother, Cinderella
6. “There is purpose in your season of waiting.” — Megan Smalley
7. “As long as we are persistent in our pursuit of our deepest destiny, we will continue to grow. We cannot choose the day or time when we will fully bloom. It happens on its own.” — Denis Waitley
8. “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
9. “Whatever the struggle, continue the climb. It may be only one step to the summit.” — Diane Westlake
10. “Believe me, the reward is not so great without the struggle.” — Wilma Rudolph
Infertility Quotes for Those Struggling to Conceive
Trying to conceive without success can be an emotional rollercoaster. These quotes are for the moments when you need to feel seen, understood, and supported.
1. “After a while, when you’re not successful, you start to associate the word ‘failure’ every time you pee on a stick and it doesn’t come out the right colour. What starts out as a dream becomes a project that’s all-consuming — everywhere you look, women are pregnant, and every song on the radio seems like it’s all about being pregnant! It becomes a very frustrating, frightening place.” — Brooke Shields (Down Came the Rain)
2. “Going through years-long infertility struggles is not for the faint of heart. It can either make or break your marital relationship. Make the determined commitment that no matter what happens, you and your husband were…and are a couple first.” — Cheryl
3. “Infertility often comes with grief and loss. You have to let go of the vision of how long the journey will be and learn to flow and become stronger through the process.” — Halle Tecco
4. “I found that each time a test was negative, it stopped the dreaming and hoping for a while. Taking the test was a way of puncturing the balloons of hope because if I didn’t, they would lift and lift without any evidence, and their falling back down every month was too painful. Essentially, I took all these tests to keep myself from hoping, because the hoping was breaking my heart.” — Shauna Niequist (Bread and Wine: A Love Letter to Life Around the Table with Recipes)
5. “I learned that all pain and loss is, in fact, a gift. Having miscarriages taught me that I had to mother myself before I could be a mother to someone else.” — Beyonce
6. “The English language lacks the words to mourn an absence. For the loss of a parent, grandparent, spouse, child or friend, we have all manner of words and phrases, some helpful, some not. Still, we are conditioned to say something, even if it is only “I’m sorry for your loss.” But for an absence, for someone who was never there at all, we are wordless to capture that particular emptiness. For those who deeply want children and are denied them, those missing babies hover like silent ephemeral shadows over their lives. Who can describe the feel of a tiny hand that is never held?” — Laura Bush
7. “Anyone that’s been in the place of wanting another child or wanting a child knows the disappointment, the pain, and the loss that you go through trying and struggling with fertility.” — Nicole Kidman
8. “The life an infertile person seeks comes to her not by accident and not by fate but by hard-fought choices. How to put together the portfolio of photographs. How to answer at the home study.” — Belle Boggs
9. “For those who deeply want children and are denied them, those missing babies hover like silent ephemeral shadows over their lives. Who can describe the feel of a tiny hand that is never held?” — Laura Bush, Spoken From The Heart
10. “It is one thing, I was discovering, to think, “Maybe I won’t have kids” and quite another to be told, “Maybe you can’t.” This is how impatience turns to desperation.” — Peggy Orenstein
11. “They don’t get the particular nature of this grief, how it’s less about the loss of a potential child than it is about the endless possibility that there may yet be an actual child.” — Alexandra Kimball
12. “Women often endure infertility, pregnancy, infant loss, miscarriages and stillbirths in isolation, because while sadness is a socially palatable response to these often life-altering events, rage, frustration, jealousy and guilt are not.” — Soraya Chemaly
13. “The world was selfish, unjust. How could so many undeserving people be given the opportunity to raise children they didn’t even want while so many worthy individuals didn’t get the chance?” — Brittainy C.
14. “Is there anyone dearer than the children of people you love, especially when you don’t have your own?” — Lisa Unger
15. “There’s a unique pain that comes from preparing a place in your heart for a child that never comes.” — David Platt
FAQs
1. How can I emotionally cope with infertility?
Infertility can bring grief, isolation, and anxiety. Seeking support from a therapist, joining a support group, journaling, or simply talking with loved ones can help. Give yourself permission to grieve, feel, and rest.
2. Can reading inspirational quotes really help my mindset?
Yes. While they’re not a solution to infertility, uplifting quotes can shift your focus, bring emotional relief, and give you something positive to hold onto, especially on the days that feel heavier than others.
Your journey to parenthood might be full of challenges, but do not lose hope. The moment you feel low, read these quotes to fill positivity in you. On your fertility journey, it is important to realise that hope is everything. There’s a thin line between giving up and pressing forward to reaching your goal. Keep your hope alive through this list of inspirational infertility quotes, and take good care of your health, eat nutritious food, and exercise regularly, and soon you will have your little one who will bring happiness in your lives!
Also Read:
Best Parenting Quotes
Pregnancy Quotes and Sayings
Rainbow Baby Quotes and Sayings
Encouraging Quotes for New Mom
Read more
Can Chlamydia Cause Infertility in Men and Women?
Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs may sometimes impact your fertility and chlamydia is one such STD that may sometimes affect male and female fertility! However, can chlamydia cause infertility problems and affect your chances of getting pregnant or the possibility of having a baby, well, read on the following post to know more about this condition, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and other associated aspects!s
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs and this ailment can aptly be called a silent killer because it does not show any outward or evident symptoms. Chlamydia is caused by a bacterium known as Chlamydia Trachomatis. This bacteria may get transferred during unprotected sex without the use of condoms. People infected with the condition may not know for weeks, months or even years, that they are infected with the condition and may infect others too. This disease infects approximately 3 million people every year with the higher per cent found in the age group of 18 to 24 years of sexually active adults.
Causes of Chlamydia
Chlamydia transmits through the bodily fluids of an infected person through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The bacterium enters the body through the cervix, urethra, rectum, or throat. Men who are infected can acquire and transmit the infection even without ejaculating.
A pregnant woman who has chlamydia may infect her baby during the vaginal birth. The baby infection may have pneumonia (infection in the lungs) or conjunctivitis (infection in the eyes), as a result.
Can Chlamydia Lead to Infertility in Men and Women?
Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia that are caused by pathogenic bacteria may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. Under such a condition, bacteria may enter the reproductive tract, fallopian tubes, or uterus, leading to inflammation and scarring. This, in turn, may lead to chronic pain, ectopic pregnancy, or also increase the chances of being infertile. If a woman is suffering from chlamydia, she is at a high risk of developing HIV too. However, chlamydia may not lead to such severe complications in men.
Symptoms of Chlamydia
The strangest fact is that there are not any evident signs and symptoms of this condition and this can be a cause of concern because you may have it and not even know about it. Approximately 70 per cent of women and 50 per cent of men suffering from chlamydia may not show any symptoms. However, those who experience may often mistake it for infection in the cervix or urethra. Here are some signs of this condition:
Experiencing pain during sexual intercourse.
Experiencing pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
Abnormal or strong-smelling vaginal discharge.
Experiencing pain in the lower belly.
Watery or milky discharge from the penis.
Experiencing bleeding between periods.
Discharge, pain or even bleeding from the anus.
Experiencing tenderness or swelling in the testicles.
Long Terms Effects of Chlamydia in Men and Women
Following are some long-term effects of this condition in men and women:
In Men
Here are some of the long-term effects of chlamydia on men:
Chlamydia can lead to pelvic pain and infertility.
It can cause epididymitis, a condition that is characterised by inflammation in the epididymis, which is a tube that carries the sperm.
In Women
Some of the long-term effects of chlamydia include the following:
It can lead to ectopic pregnancy, a condition where the embryo develops outside inside of inside the womb.
It can cause inflammation in the cervix, also known as cervicitis.
It can cause pelvic inflammatory disease or PID.
It can cause blockage in the Bartholin glands, which helps in lubricating the vagina.
Who is at a Higher Risk?
Well, it is established from the above section that chlamydia can have long effects on both women as well as men. However, this condition is more prevalent in younger women, who are under the age of 25 years. Also, women who are on oral contraceptive pills, coil, implants, or other such methods of contraception other than condoms, are at an increased risk.
It is very difficult to establish the symptoms of this disease, which means if you have it then you can easily spread it to the person you have sex with. The risk is highest in people with more than one sexual partner, incorrect or inconsistent use of condoms, or who have a history of any kind of sexual disease.
Also, in women who have a condition where the cervical cells are on the outside, also known as cervical ectropion, there is an increased risk of catching infections like chlamydia.
How Long Does it Take for Chlamydia to Cause Infertility in Males and Females?
Women who get infected with this condition may be affected with a PID or pelvic inflammatory disease (may happen in 10 to 40 percent cases). PID is a condition that can scar the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and womb of the infected woman and if the condition has been there for long then it may lead to scarring and blockage in the fallopian tubes. If such a condition occurs in men, then it may hamper the sperm to get to the egg. This means that if this condition develops in PID, it may lead to infertility.
Chlamydia may affect male fertility also a great deal by affecting the quality of the sperm and also by reducing the sperm count. This condition also increases the chances of infection in the tube that carries sperms, which is also known as epididymitis. This may lead to scarring in the male reproductive parts and, thus, leads to infertility. However, there are no definitive parameters to establish a chlamydia infertility timeline. In simple words, it is difficult to establish how long will it take for this condition to cause infertility is not clearly known. If you are wondering how to know if chlamydia has caused infertility, it mainly depends on the extent of infection and it helps in determining whether or not it may lead to infertility. Therefore, in order to be safe, it is better to treat it as soon as you establish any signs or symptoms of the disease.
Again, just because you have chlamydia for a really long time does not necessarily mean that you are infertile or if you are thinking that chlamydia can make you infertile forever, that may not be the case. This is because there are many men and women who have this condition but did not develop any severe complications.
Diagnosis
Chlamydia shows very mild symptoms which may sometimes go neglected or associated with other STD infections, therefore, the best way to confirm whether or not you have this condition is by getting a lab test done. Usually, your doctor will advise you to get yourself tested if you are sexually active and are of 25 years age or younger, you are a pregnant woman (and tested positive during the first prenatal visit) or you fall in the high-risk category of men and women (those who have multiple sexual partners, have had STD before, etc.). The testing or screening for this condition is fairly simple. Your doctor will ask to get your urine tested to check for any infection. A swab test can be conducted for antigen or culture tests of chlamydia.
If your test results are positive and you will be treated for the same, your doctor may recommend a re-test after three months to establish whether there are any traces of the infection or not.
Treatment
The treatment of this STD is very simple and a course of antibiotics can help treat the condition. Your doctor can prescribe a one-time dose or prescribe medicine that needs to be taken twice or thrice a day for a stipulated period of time. You will be advised against sexual intercourse during the course of treatment. Your sexual partner will also need to take medicines, even if they show no signs, or else the infection may keep transmitting back and forth.
The best way to keep this condition at bay is by practising safer sex and also by using condoms to reduce the chances of catching the infection. Make sure you get yourself regularly tested if you are sexually active.
Also Read:
Reasons of Infertility in Males & Females
Azoospermia (No Sperm Count)
Ovulation Induction Treatment for Infertility
Read more
Getting PGS and PGD Before IVF Treatment
Genetic testing methods like PGS and PGS when combined with IVF treatment reduce the possibility of passing on genetic diseases to the child, risk of recurring miscarriages, and also improve the odds of getting pregnant.
Both these genetic screening technologies require IVF and are different in the way they are used. Both these treatments also differ in their methods of application. They do not guarantee a healthy birth but can be helpful for those couples trying to get pregnant without much success. You can decide if PGS/PGD with IVF is suited for your family. But before that, you must understand the procedure, its impact, costs and risks associated with each of these technologies. Read on to find out more in detail about these genetic testing methods that are being used by fertility doctors to help couples have a healthy pregnancy.
What Is Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS)?
Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) does not look for specific genes but the overall chromosomal makeup of the embryo. Embryos are classified into two types: euploidy and aneuploidy. Under normal circumstances, the egg and sperm both contribute 23 chromosomes each. Together, they create a healthy embryo with 46 chromosomes and this is what is called an aneuploid embryo.
In some cases, if an embryo happens to have an extra chromosome or misses one it is called aneuploidy. Aneuploidy embryos, in most cases, fail to implant or result in a miscarriage. In exceptional circumstances, it can result in pregnancy and birth, and the child born may be born with mental or physical disabilities. Down’s Syndrome is an example of an additional chromosome. PGS testing results can identify this prior to the embryo being transferred to the uterus. PGS can also determine the genetic gender of the embryo. Comprehensive Chromosome Screening (CCS) is a technique used in PGS that identifies whether the chromosome is XY ( male) or XX (female). This is done to avoid any particular gender-linked disorder or to balance family.
To Whom is PGS Recommended?
PGS is recommended to those parents who do not have a history of known genetic abnormalities. It is also recommended to patients who meet the below criteria:
Couples who wish to know the sex of the baby.
The female partner is over 38 years of age.
Couples who are interested in single embryo transfer.
Couples who have a history of miscarriages.
Couples who have a record of failed IVF treatment or implantation.
Reasons for Considering Preimplantation Genetic Screening
Listed below are a few common reasons why PGS may be used with infertility treatment.
It may improve the chances of success for a single embryo transfer.
With an elective single embryo transfer, doctors transfer just one healthy embryo through IVF. This improves the odds of pregnancy, reduces the risk of miscarriages and also the risk of multiple births, which can be a risk to the mother and babies.
2. To identify the gender of the baby.
PGS can help detect the gender of the baby and thereby reduce the risk of gender-based genetic diseases.
3. It may help lower the risk of miscarriage.
Miscarriage is common in 25% of pregnancies. Having recurrent miscarriages (three times in a row) is not a good sign. It could be detrimental to the mother’s health and also reduce the chances of getting pregnant. PGS helps to reduce the odds of having a miscarriage.
4. Increasing the chances of pregnancy through IVF
Fertility doctors recommend IVF to enhance the chances of getting pregnant especially where there is male infertility, repeated failed attempts of IVF implantation and women who are beyond maternal age. There are some clinics who offer PGS mandatorily with IVF to all patients.
PGS IVF Procedure
PGS testing for IVF is done in two methods. There are several methods to screen the presences of 24 chromosomes and it is called Comprehensive Chromosomal Screening ( CCS). The most common methods for CCS are Array-Comparative Genomic Hybridization ( aCGH) and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). Both these methods are performed on several cells on an embryo that is 5-6 days old. In some cases, it is done on some cells on embryos that are 3 days old too. The steps involved are performed by experts and laboratories:
Embryos are produced with conventional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and these fertilized embryos are cultured for 3-5 days.
Embryo biopsy is performed on the third or fifth day of development. On day 3, embryo biopsy involves removing one or two cells for testing.
Once the biopsy of cells is completed, it is placed in test tubes and transported on the same day to reference laboratories for analysis.
The cells are analysed to check for any inconsistencies.
The results of the analysis take about 24 hours, so the embryos have to be frozen by a method called vitrification.
Finally, the embryos are thawed. A single embryo with a normal PGS result is picked and the embryo is transferred back into the uterus in the subsequent IVF procedure.
Cost of PGS
Different clinics charge different rates for PGS treatment. The cost of PGS treatment is over and above the cost of IVF treatment. Typically, PGS treatment will cost about $3000 -$5000 in addition to the IVF treatment. Each clinic will differ in their charges depending on the number of embryos they test. Over and above, you may also need to pay for the frozen embryo transfer cycle too.
PGS Accuracy
The PGS normal embryo success rate in combination with IVF treatment depends on the result of the number of embryos produced in the IVF cycle. As per research, there is a 60%-80% chance of a live birth rate when the chosen frozen embryo is transferred in an IVF cycle. This data has a positive bearing on women who undergo PGS and IVF and are over maternal age, at risk of miscarriages and have had previous IVF failure. There is always a chance of no embryos being suitable for transfer to the womb for the following reasons:
Failure to produce enough eggs or less unfertilized eggs.
Damage to the embryos while removing the cells.
All the embryos are aneuploid.
What Is Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)?
PGD is more of a diagnosis. PGD is used to identify a specific disease or a set of genetic diseases in an embryo. This is to avoid passing on the genetic disease. There are times when both PGD and PGS are needed. It can also be done when a couple has a genetic disease and they do not want to pass it on to the child. PGD does not test one single embryo for all possible diseases. It tests for one specific disease and does not tell you any other possible genetic diseases that could be present. PGD is suited for anyone who knows they are at risk of passing a chromosome abnormality or genetic disease to the child. Through this process, the laboratory determines the embryos that are unaffected and suitable for uterine transfer. Couples opting for PGD also conduct genetic tests like amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling during pregnancy.
To Whom Is PGD Recommended?
PGD is recommended to couples who have a particular genetic tendency. It is done to ascertain the probability of passing on the abnormality. The following are those who could get it done:
Couple with a family history of aneuploidy (imbalance in a number of chromosomes) resulting in miscarriage, Down’s syndrome, and birth defects.
Families with single-gene defects like sickle cell, anaemia, muscular dystrophy, and cystic fibrosis.
Reasons Why Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis Maybe Recommended
The possible reasons why a doctor may recommend PGD are:
To prevent the specific genetic disease from getting passed on to the baby.
The most common reason is to determine the likelihood of whether a genetic disease is likely to be passed on to the child.
2. To detect abnormalities in the embryos.
PGD is useful to detect abnormalities in chromosome numbers, translocations, hereditary cancer and genetic mutations.
For gender selection.
Many couples choose to use PGD to select the gender of their child.
PGD IVF Procedure
PGD is performed during the IVF procedure. Eggs are fertilized in a petri-dish and placed in a special incubator. Eggs grow for up to 5-7 days until they reach the size of hundred cells which is called a blastocyst. At this stage, doctors perform ‘trophectoderm biopsy’ by removing cells from the area which forms the placenta (cells developing into the foetus are not used in PGD). The embryo is held under a microscope using a pipette. A hole is created in the shell around the embryo using a laser and another pipette draws out a few cells away from the embryo. While doctors perform genetic testing on the extracted cells, the embryos are frozen. Doctors carry a genetic probe based on the genes of the parents and the disease they carry. This probe is then used on the biopsied cells to locate the embryos which have the disease, may carry it or are normal. Normal embryos are thawed and transferred to the uterus to complete the IVF procedure.
Cost of PGD
PGD costs about $3000-$5000 over the IVF treatment which costs $12,000.The PGD cost includes the fertility boosting medications and it increases the total cost of the treatment by a few thousand dollars. The costs vary according to the type of tests and the number of tests performed. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of the treatment.
PGD Accuracy
PGD is able to diagnose the presence of genetic defects and the accuracy is up to 98% in most cases. Post undergoing PGD, prenatal testing like amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) will be recommended to confirm the results of PGD diagnosis. The revelation of genetic defects prior to pregnancy reduces the risk of a foetus being affected significantly.
Difference Between Genetic Testing and PGD/PGS Testing
PGS and PGD testing take place during preimplantation. Prenatal testing is done when implantation has occurred and is done once pregnancy is established.
CVS and amniocentesis identify chromosomal abnormalities in the unborn foetus letting the couple decide whether they wish to terminate the pregnancy.
PGS and PGD are not final determinants of the existence of genetic defects. Doctors, very often, recommend prenatal testing in addition to PGS/PGD in case there is an error.
Risks Involved With PGS/PGD Testing
Any IVF treatment involving PGS and PGD comes with the associated risk of conventional IVF treatment. There are additional risks involved for those considering PGD/PGS:
Birth rates will not be similar to those of age-similar peers. The main reason being some embryos may not survive the process and some may come back with negative results.
Biopsy done on day 5 embryos carries the risk of identical twinning.
The chances of errors are more. Embryos tested as abnormal may be ‘normal’ and vice versa. This could result in healthy embryos being discarded.
If all the embryos test negative then there will be no transfer resulting in loss of money, time and mental trauma.
Vitrification and thawing can lead to the loss of healthy embryos.
A few healthy embryos may not stay alive until day 5, when the eggs are retrieved.
Conducting biopsy on day 3 of the embryos may lead to the embryos not developing.
PGD/PGS is not a guaranteed success. A child may still be born with genetic diseases which are why doctors recommend prenatal testing in addition to PGS/PGD for additional assurance.
Both PGS/PGD testing along with prenatal tests do not guarantee a baby with no physical or mental disability.
PGS aids in reducing the odds of a miscarriage but there is still an element of risk involved.
The wait for results and the need to make a decision about embryos that come with inconsistent results can be emotionally draining.
The technology is relatively new and we do not know what long-term effect PGS/PGD and IVF treatment can have on children post their birth.
Genetic screening tests have made families with genetic disorders or chromosomal translocations get a better chance of having a healthy baby. It has also helped the lives of doctors by helping them select healthy embryos. By reducing the chances of miscarriage and the chance of a healthier baby, these assistive technologies are helping the lives of many childless couples and bringing a ray of hope in their lives.
Also Read:
Effective Success Tips for IVF
Side-Effects and Risks of IVF
IUI vs IVF: Which One is Right for You?
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Azoospermia (No Sperm Count) – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
If you and your partner are having unprotected sex for a while now (a year, to be precise) in order to conceive, and not getting the ‘good news’, chances are that you could be infertile. For a couple who is eager to have a baby, hearing that they are infertile can obviously be disheartening and intimidating. After trying to conceive for a year now, you may suspect that you could have infertility issues and may wonder what you should do next. The first thing that you need to know is that you’re not alone. Many couples face infertility issues and half of these cases can be attributed to male infertility, and one of the possible reasons for the same can be azoospermia.
In this article, we will tell you about this infertility condition that affects men, its types, causes, treatment, and more.
What Is Azoospermia?
Azoospermia is a male infertility condition where there is no sperm found in the ejaculate or the semen after the orgasm. Though it is a very rare condition, however, zero sperm count or azoospermia is a very severe form of infertility condition that may affect 1 in 10 men experiencing male infertility. Men who suffer from this condition have usually normal semen volumes or fluids and they may not be aware until or unless they get themselves tested. If your spouse has infertility issues, azoospermia could be a cause for the same. Nevertheless, there are treatment options available that may help him father your child.
Types of Azoospermia
The types of azoospermia can be classified in two ways. Either by determining at what juncture in the reproductive cycle the glitches occurred or has it occurred as a result of blockage or not. Well, if we talk about the reproductive cycle, azoospermia can be classified into three parts:
1. Pre-testicular azoospermia
If your spouse suffers from this condition, it means that the testicles are normal but his brain may not be able to send signals to produce healthy sperms. This occurs when the endocrine glands present in the brain are unable to guide the body to assist healthy sperm development.
2. Testicular azoospermia
In this condition, infertility occurs because of the problem present in the testicles. The testes may not respond to the hormones released by the brain for healthy sperm development. Testicular azoospermia may also occur if there is some problem in the cellular development of sperm.
3. Post-testicular azoospermia
In this condition, the testicles produce normal sperm but either some kind of blockage or ejaculation dysfunction hampers it from getting out.
The above-mentioned are the types of azoospermia according to the reproductive cycle. However, this condition is commonly characterized by a blockage or no blockage. In this context, your doctor will tell you whether your spouse has obstructive (which happens when the sperm cannot get into the semen because of issues with ejaculation or blockage) or non-obstructive azoospermia (which occurs either due to hormonal issues or some kind of issues with healthy sperm development).
Causes of Azoospermia
Mentioned below are the possible causes of obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia:
Obstructive Azoospermia
Obstructive azoospermia may occur due to any of the following reasons:
1. Infection or inflammation in the male reproductive tract
Sometimes infections or inflammation that may be present due to untreated sexual disease or non-sexually transmitted diseases such as childhood diseases (mumps, etc.) may lead to this infertility condition.
2. Congenital anomaly
Sometimes genetic reasons such as congenital anomalies may lead to blockage in one or both sides of the male reproductive tracts.
3. Retrograde ejaculation
Sometimes no or low sperm count can be a result of retrograde ejaculation. In this condition, the semen moves backwards to the bladder rather than getting out of the urethra.
4. Surgery or Trauma
A surgery that may have been performed in the male reproductive part may lead to unintentional injury or scarring, which may become a cause of obstructive azoospermia. Also, certain traumas to the male reproductive parts may lead to scar tissue, blockage or damage to the epididymis or ejaculatory duct leading to this condition.
Non-Obstructive Azoospermia
Here are some causes of non-obstructive azoospermia:
1. Hormonal imbalance
A disrupted hormonal level in the body can lead to non-obstructive azoospermia. A right hormonal balance is important to healthy sperm production.
2. Toxin exposure, radiation, or chemotherapy
Any kind of exposure to toxins may lead to permanent or temporary non-obstructive azoospermia. Also, if any direct radiation therapy has been performed to cure any kind of cancer treatment, this condition may occur. Again, chemotherapy may also lead to this condition, however, it may or may not get better post-therapy.
3. Chromosomal or genetic anomalies
Non-obstructive azoospermia can be caused by genetic or chromosomal anomalies such as Kallmann syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, etc.
4. Side effects of certain medication
Certain medicines may cause temporary or long-term side effects that can lead to this condition. Some of these drugs are Cyclophosphamide, Chlorambucil, Colchicine, etc.
Signs of Azoospermia
The signs and symptoms of azoospermia may go unnoticed until a couple fails to get pregnant even after having unprotected sex for more than a year. Azoospermia as such has no prominent or evident symptoms, however, infertility can be one of the indications. In some cases of azoospermia, there can be some noticeable symptoms, such as:
Pain while urinating
Cloudy urine after sexual intercourse
Low ejaculation fluid or having a dry orgasm
Pain in the pelvic region
Undescended or small testicles
Swollen testicles
Experiencing low sex drive
Abnormal or delayed puberty
Lesser male hair growth
Difficulty in erection or ejaculation
Muscle loss
Smaller penis
There is a likelihood that a man may have none of the above-mentioned symptoms but he may still suffer from azoospermia.
How Is Azoospermia Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects that a person has azoospermia, he may be asked to get the semen analysis done. Your spouse will have to deposit the semen sample in a cup, which will then be sent to the lab for testing. If there is no sperm count present in the sample, there is a strong possibility that he may have azoospermia. However, the doctor may like to repeat the test after a couple of months to be sure that there is no sperm count. Apart from testing the semen samples, the doctor may also like to conduct a few more tests that may include the following:
Conducting a physical exam to check the testicles
Conducting some blood tests to establish FSH and testosterone levels. The doctor may also check estrogen and prolactin levels
Checking the medical history to know of any childhood illnesses or any previous history of sexually transmitted diseases
Conducting TRUS or Transrectal ultrasound to check for any blockage in the reproductive tract
Conducting Karyotype testing and in some cases, even genetic testing to establish any inheritable genetic condition that may have led to congenital azoospermia
In some cases, the doctor may recommend getting a testicular biopsy
Your spouse may not be required to undergo any invasive tests such as testicular biopsy if other above-mentioned procedures or tests may have helped in diagnosing the condition. After the diagnosis is complete, the doctor will suggest the correct treatment option based on the cause of the condition.
Azoospermia Treatment
The treatment or azoospermia cure majorly depends on the cause of the condition. Some cases of azoospermia respond well to medication such as retrograde ejaculation. Apart from taking medicines for azoospermia, hormonal therapies sometimes are fruitful in stimulating sperm development.
If your spouse is suffering from obstructive azoospermia, the doctor may suggest microsurgical treatment options to correct severed or blocked connections. Surgeries are often helpful in curing retrograde ejaculation or even for treating or removing varicocele.
In the case of retrograde ejaculation, if treatment is not possible, the doctor may suggest extracting sperm from post-ejaculate urine and according to the number of sperms available or whether or not there are any female fertility problems, the doctor may suggest IVF or IUI treatment.
Natural Remedies for Azoospermia
Men with low sperm count can also try some natural remedies such as making dietary changes or consuming certain herbs, however, these kinds of natural remedies may not work that well in case of azoospermia. Here are some of the things that men can try:
Eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet that can help in the production of sperm.
Exercise on a regular basis, doing so may help in boosting the testosterone levels.
Practice mindfulness by doing meditation and yoga. Doing so can help in keeping a tab on cortisol, a stress hormone, which is responsible for impacting the testosterone production.
Consider some supplements or herbs that are known to promote male fertility such as horse chestnut, zinc, black seed, folic acid, etc.
Prevention Tips
If azoospermia has occurred by taking certain kinds of medication, injury, or other such reasons, the good news is that there are tips that may help in preventing it. Here are some tips that can come handy:
Limiting exposure to any kind of radiations.
Staying away from activities or sports that may harm or injure the testicles or reproductive organs.
Refraining from doing activities that may lead to exposing testes to high temperatures such as steam baths and saunas.
Azoospermia is a rare male infertility condition but if your partner is diagnosed with this condition, do not lose hope. It is still possible for him to be a biological father. However, it is imperative to understand the cause of the condition. Once the doctor establishes the cause, measures can be taken to cure the problem or come up with a correct treatment plan. On the other hand, the procedures of IUI or IVF have been helpful in getting pregnant. You can always consider foster parenting or adopting a child if you wish to be parents.
Coping with the condition and weighing your options can be overwhelming for some couples. You should get in touch with a professional counsellor and seek support from family and friends to sail smoothly through this phase!
Also Read:
Fertility Foods Which Can Help Increase Your Sperm Count
Ways To Increase Your Sperm Motility Fast
Effective Tips for Dealing with Stress of Infertility
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