In infertility treatment for individuals at risk of fetal abnormalities, a comprehensive chromosomal analysis known as array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) can be used to detect abnormalities across all chromosomes, including sex chromosomes. This allows for more accurate selection of embryos with a normal chromosomal profile.
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What Does the Term “Difficulty Conceiving” Mean?
In medical terms, “difficulty conceiving” refers to a situation where a couple has regular unprotected sexual intercourse (about 3–4 times per week) for one year without achieving pregnancy.
If a couple is unable to conceive, it indicates a desire to have children but an inability to do so naturally. Certain risk factors may contribute to this condition, such as irregular menstruation, previous injuries or surgeries involving reproductive organs (ovaries or testes), or hormonal imbalances. Women over 35 years old are especially advised to seek medical advice early, even before completing one year of trying.
Causes of Male Infertility
Male infertility may be caused by:
- Genetic factors that affect sperm production or result in the inability to produce sperm.
- Medications, including chemotherapy, radiation, certain drug treatments, smoking, or alcohol.
- Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or hormonal disorders.
- Injuries or surgeries involving the reproductive system.
Causes of Female Infertility
Female infertility may result from:
- Increasing age, which is linked to stress, poor diet, obesity, and reduced fertility.
- Chronic diseases, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, or hormonal imbalances.
- Congenital abnormalities affecting reproductive organs.
- Fallopian tube blockages from inflammation or surgery.
- Ovarian dysfunction, such as irregular ovulation, ovarian cysts, or poor egg quality.
How Doctors Diagnose Infertility
To determine the cause of infertility, doctors will:
- Take a complete medical history from both partners.
- Ask women about menstrual cycles, pelvic pain, and any history of infections or sexually transmitted diseases.
- Ask men about past injuries, surgeries, or infections affecting reproductive organs.
- Perform physical examinations.
- Conduct semen analysis for men.
- Perform internal exams and imaging for women, including ultrasound or hysterosalpingography (HSG) using contrast dye and X-ray.
Once the cause is identified, targeted treatment is provided. For instance, uterine fibroids may be removed via surgery. If natural conception is still not possible, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are considered.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Common ART options include:
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Ideal for mild male factor infertility or when the woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes are normal. It involves stimulating ovulation and injecting prepared sperm into the uterus during ovulation. - Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)
An older method, now rarely used. Eggs and sperm are placed directly into the fallopian tubes for natural fertilization inside the body. - Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)
Used in cases of blocked fallopian tubes or poor fertilization. Eggs are fertilized in the lab and cultured for 3–5 days before being transferred into the fallopian tubes. Success rate: ~30–40% per cycle. - Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
A form of IVF, used when sperm quality is low. A single sperm is injected directly into an egg, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus after 3–5 days. Success rate: ~30–40% per cycle.
Preparing for Assisted Reproductive Treatment
- Women should seek consultation before age 35 to avoid reduced success rates and risks like miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities.
- Both partners should quit smoking and avoid alcohol.
- Undergo health screenings and treat any underlying medical conditions.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with exercise, good sleep, and stress reduction.
Men should:
- Avoid ejaculation for 3–7 days before sperm collection.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Get enough rest and reduce stress.
- Avoid heat exposure from hot baths or motorcycles, which can affect sperm quality.
Menstrual Cycle Clues Related to Infertility
- Irregular cycles (shorter than 21 or longer than 35 days) may signal ovulation problems.
- Light flow may indicate a thin uterine lining.
- Heavy flow may suggest fibroids or other uterine abnormalities.
- Extended bleeding could result from endometrial issues or fibroids.
- Other symptoms like frequent urination, constipation, or abdominal masses may indicate pressure from abnormal tissue.
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Consult a doctor early to identify and address potential fertility issues before they become more serious.
Tips to Boost Natural Conception Before Medical Help
- Track ovulation (usually around days 14–16 of a 28–30 day cycle).
- Men should abstain from sex for 2–3 days before ovulation.
- Avoid lubricants that contain spermicides.
- Reduce alcohol, tobacco, and exposure to toxins.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Manage stress and exercise regularly.
- Avoid overheating the testicles (e.g., hot tubs, tight underwear, motorcycles in hot weather).
Seeking help early and making healthy lifestyle changes can improve the chances of conception and lead to a successful pregnancy.
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