Understanding Infertility

Infertility is generally defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Some women experiencing infertility may have irregular menstrual periods or no periods, while men may notice symptoms associated with hormonal changes, such as changes in hair growth or sexual function. However, infertility may also occur without noticeable symptoms.

There are various factors that may contribute to infertility in both men and women. Some causes can be identified through medical evaluation, and treatment options may be considered depending on the diagnosis.

Fertility treatment options include IUI, IVF, ICSI, Egg Freezing, LAH (Laser Assisted Hatching), IMSI, PESA/TESA, Sperm Freezing, and other procedures.

IVF is an assisted reproductive treatment that may be recommended depending on the cause of infertility and individual medical circumstances.

Step by Step Guide to IVF Procedure

The IVF process is an assisted reproductive treatment that may help individuals and couples experiencing certain fertility concerns. The procedure typically consists of several stages and is performed at a fertility centre.

• Ovarian Stimulation: The process begins with medications that stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles. The response is monitored through ultrasound examinations and, when required, blood tests.

• Egg Retrieval: Once the follicles reach an appropriate stage of development, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries using an ultrasound-guided procedure performed by a medical professional.

• Sperm Collection and Preparation: A sperm sample is collected from the male partner or an eligible donor, where applicable. The sample is then processed and prepared for fertilization.

• Fertilization: The retrieved eggs and prepared sperm are brought together in a laboratory. Fertilization may be attempted through conventional IVF or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected into an egg.

• Embryo Culture: Fertilized eggs are cultured in the laboratory for several days. During this period, embryologists monitor embryo development.

• Embryo Transfer: An embryo is selected for transfer based on clinical and laboratory assessment. The embryo is placed into the uterus using a thin catheter. The number of embryos transferred depends on individual medical circumstances and applicable clinical guidelines.

• Implantation and Pregnancy Test: Pregnancy may occur if an embryo implants in the uterine lining. A blood pregnancy test is generally performed around 9–14 days after embryo transfer, depending on the treatment protocol.

IVF Helps Address Certain Causes of Infertility

If you are experiencing difficulty conceiving after a period of regular, unprotected intercourse or noticing reproductive health concerns such as irregular periods, hormonal changes, or unusual menstrual bleeding, consulting a fertility specialist may help identify possible causes.

Some factors associated with infertility include:

Female Factors

• Irregular Menstrual Cycle: Menstrual bleeding typically lasts between 2 and 7 days, while menstrual cycles generally range from 21 to 35 days in adults. Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days may indicate menstrual irregularities. Irregular ovulation associated with certain menstrual disorders may affect fertility.

• PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that may be associated with irregular menstrual periods, increased androgen levels, and changes in ovarian function. Some women with PCOS experience irregular or absent ovulation, which may make conception more difficult.

• Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. Some fibroids may cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic discomfort, frequent urination, or other symptoms. Depending on their size and location, certain fibroids may affect fertility.

• Polyps: Uterine polyps are growths that develop from the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). They may be associated with irregular menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods. Some polyps may affect fertility, and removal may be considered depending on clinical findings.

• Tubal Factor: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes may interfere with the movement of eggs and sperm or the transport of a fertilized egg toward the uterus. Tubal abnormalities, including blockages and adhesions, may contribute to infertility. IVF may be considered in certain cases based on medical evaluation.

• Genetic Factor: Certain genetic or chromosomal conditions may affect reproductive health and fertility. Genetic evaluation or counselling may be recommended depending on individual medical history. Assisted reproductive treatment, including IVF, may be considered in selected cases, but it does not correct underlying genetic conditions.

• Age Factor: Age is an important factor influencing female fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Female fertility generally begins to decline gradually in the early 30s, with a more noticeable decline after the age of 35. Individual fertility may also be influenced by reproductive health and medical conditions.

Male Factors

There are several factors that may contribute to male infertility. Some of these include:

• Sperm Disorders: Male infertility may be associated with low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, or changes in sperm morphology. Other factors, including certain medical conditions, hormonal changes, medications, lifestyle habits, and environmental exposures, may also affect sperm health.

• Genetic Factor: Certain genetic abnormalities may affect sperm production or reproductive function. Semen analysis can help assess sperm count, motility, and morphology. Depending on the findings and medical history, genetic testing may be recommended to investigate possible genetic causes of male infertility.

• DNA Fragmentation: Sperm DNA fragmentation refers to damage or breaks in the genetic material within sperm cells. Increased sperm DNA fragmentation may be associated with certain fertility concerns. Tests and treatment options may be considered based on individual medical findings. IVF, ICSI, or IMSI does not guarantee correction of sperm DNA damage.

• Infections: Certain infections may affect sperm production, sperm function, or the reproductive tract. These may include gonorrhea, chlamydia, and other infections affecting reproductive health. The effects vary depending on the type and severity of infection, and medical evaluation may be required.

Some of the Infertility Factors Affecting Both Males and Females

• Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drug use, obesity, and exposure to certain environmental substances may affect reproductive health and fertility in both men and women.

• Unexplained Infertility: Unexplained infertility may be diagnosed when standard fertility evaluations do not identify a specific cause despite difficulty conceiving. Treatment options, including IVF, may be considered depending on individual medical circumstances.

Why Choose Neelkanth IVF?

Infertility can be a challenging experience for individuals and couples considering parenthood. Neelkanth IVF Centre in India provides fertility evaluation and treatment services for individuals and couples experiencing infertility. Our centres in Rajasthan, including Udaipur, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, and Ajmer, provide fertility consultations and related treatment services based on available facilities.

• Individualized Treatment Options: Neelkanth IVF Centre provides fertility evaluation and treatment planning for both men and women based on individual medical needs and clinical findings.

• PGT for Genetic Screening: Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) may be considered in selected IVF cases to assess embryos for certain genetic or chromosomal conditions. Its suitability depends on individual medical circumstances, and it does not eliminate all genetic or pregnancy-related risks.

• Addressing Age-related Challenges: At our IVF centres in Rajasthan, fertility treatment options are discussed according to individual medical needs and reproductive health. IVF or donor gamete treatment may be considered in selected cases, subject to medical assessment and applicable regulations.

• Fertility Preservation: Fertility preservation options, such as egg, sperm, or embryo freezing, may be considered by individuals undergoing medical treatments that could affect reproductive function, including certain cancer treatments.

• Fertility Planning: Fertility preservation may be considered by individuals who wish to explore reproductive options for the future. At Neelkanth IVF Centre, our specialists provide information about egg, sperm, and embryo freezing based on individual needs and medical evaluation.

• Fertility Care Team: Our fertility doctors, embryologists, and support staff provide medical guidance and patient support throughout different stages of fertility treatment.

• Fertility Treatment Services: Neelkanth IVF Centre provides a range of fertility treatment options, including IVF, ICSI, and services for male and female infertility. Other assisted reproductive services, including donor-related treatments, may be available at designated centres subject to applicable regulations and clinical requirements. Treatment plans are developed according to individual medical needs.

Book your appointment with Neelkanth IVF Centre in Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Kota, or Ajmer to discuss fertility concerns and available treatment options.