Author name: srishtifertility

What Are The 5 Stages of IVF? For many couples struggling with infertility, in vitro fertilization (IVF) offers new hope for building their family. This assisted reproductive technology bypass the usual fertilization process by manually combining eggs and sperm in a laboratory environment. Once an embryo or embryos form, they are then transferred into the uterus in hopes of implantation and pregnancy.IVF is a complex, multi-step process that allows conception even when natural conception fails. If you’re considering IVF, understanding what’s involved can help you mentally and emotionally prepare. Here, we break down the 5 main stages of the IVF process. Stage 1: Ovarian Stimulation IVF starts with stimulation of the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs in one cycle, instead of the single egg typically developed each month. The patient undergoes ovarian stimulation by taking a series of fertility medications, either in pill form or by injection. These medications regulate and boost hormones that control ovulation and egg development.During this time, the patient will have frequent blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor follicle growth and development until the lead eggs are deemed ready for retrieval. At that point, ovulation is triggered with a “trigger shot” of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Timing of this shot is critical, as egg retrieval must occur just before ovulation happens. Stage 2: Egg Retrieval Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure performed 34-36 hours after the trigger shot is administered. The patient receives IV sedation while the doctor inserts an ultrasound-guided needle through the upper vaginal wall to reach the ovaries. The needle is connected to a suction device that aspirates the follicular fluid containing the eggs from each follicle.The procedure takes about 30 minutes, but expect to be at the clinic for a few hours for before and after monitoring. Most women experience cramping and bloating for a few days post-retrieval, along with spotting. Taking it easy physically while the ovaries recover is key. Stage 3: Fertilization After the eggs are retrieved, they are immediately paired with sperm in a laboratory culture dish and stored in an incubator. A few hours later, the eggs are examined to confirm whether fertilization was successful.If sperm quality or motility is problematic, a process called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be used for fertilization instead. With ICSI, a single sperm is directly injected into each mature egg to achieve fertilization.Fertilized eggs now become embryos and are allowed to grow undisturbed for 5-6 days. The timely combination of egg and sperm set the stages for the miracle of life. Even at this early stage, these little clusters of cells hold breathtaking potential. Stage 4: Embryo Transfer Usually 3-5 days after egg retrieval, the embryo transfer takes place. One or more chosen embryos are loaded into a thin catheter and gently placed within the patient’s uterus. The procedure requires no anesthesia nor recovery. You can expect some mild cramping and more spotting post-transfer.Selecting which embryo(s) to transfer depends on embryo quality, imaging techniques like PGT-A testing, and how many the parents hope to transfer at one time. Transferring multiple embryos does increase chances of pregnancy but also increases health risks and chance of multiples. It’s a delicate discussion between doctor and parents-to-be. Now begins the “two week wait” as you endure days of wondering, hoping, analyzing every twinge…waiting to take a pregnancy test. Try to take it easy and do relaxing, comforting activities as your embryo(s) hopefully implant into your uterine lining and begin rapid cell division. But know that it’s emotionally taxing for any hopeful parent. Lean on your loved ones during this period and take care of yourself. Stage 5: Confirmation Congratulations! After many years of waiting and this intensive IVF process, you hopefully now are met with two beautiful pink lines confirming pregnancy at last! Should the cycle not result in pregnancy, know that you can explore trying another cycle with your doctor.With a positive pregnancy test, your doctor will monitor you closely through the crucial early weeks before releasing you to standard obstetric care around week 12 if all continues smoothly. After so much striving, loss, and overcoming, celebrate your profound persistence culminating in this hard-won success. You are brave, you are strong – and you will change that baby’s world…as they change yours forever through the gift of life. Conclusion The path to pregnancy through IVF can be complex, lengthy, and emotional. But the promise of new life gives strength for the journey. Understanding each stage allows patients to anticipate what’s required physically and emotionally at that phase. From ovarian stimulation through egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo transfer, and those anxious two weeks waiting—it is quite a rollercoaster. But the profound reward at the end makes each difficult twist and turn worth enduring. If you reach that thrilling positive pregnancy test, congratulations! Now go lovingly cradle your hard-fought miracle as you dream of the wondrous future ahead together as a family. IVF can truly make the deepest wish of so many longing parents come true at last.

How Many Injections for IVF Treatment? Undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment involves a complex series of steps to prepare for embryo transfer and pregnancy. A key part of this process is self-administering numerous hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries. If you’re considering IVF, some common questions are: how many injections can I expect? And will the injections be painful? This article provides more detail on the injection protocol. Why Injections Are Given in IVF? Injectable fertility medications allow doctors to precisely control the timing of egg production, development, and maturation. The goals of using injectable medications versus relying solely on your natural cycle include: Stimulating Multiple Eggs – Injections contain follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) to make ovaries produce multiple mature eggs rather than just one per cycle. This provides more targets for fertilization and improves success rates. Synchronizing Development – Injections synchronize your egg growth with your partner’s scheduled sperm sample collection for the fertilization stage. Timing Retrieval – Hormones precisely time final egg maturation to plan the retrieval procedure right before ovulation occurs. This ensures eggs can be collected at peak maturity. Overall, injections offer a major advantage in providing the ovary control needed for a well-timed, well-orchestrated IVF treatment cycle. Step-By-Step Process of an IVF Cycle Before injections even begin, you’ll undergo baseline ultrasound and blood work to evaluate your fertility health status. These initial tests assess ovarian reserve, screen for issues needing addressed before IVF, and gather hormonal baselines.Once cleared to begin, an IVF cycle comprises five main phases: Ovarian Stimulation Self-administer injectable FSH drugs for 8-14 days Stimulates multiple follicles containing mature eggs Dosage customized based on age, AMH levels, prior response Final Oocyte Maturation Trigger shot of hCG hormone given 36 hours pre-retrieval Matures eggs, preparing for release from follicles Egg Retrieval Eggs collected transvaginally under ultrasound guide Anesthesia used for comfort during 15-30 minute procedure Fertilization Eggs and sperm combined in embryology lab Successful fertilization forms embryos Embryo Transfer 1 or more embryos transferred to the uterus Hopeful implantation establishes pregnancy Now let’s take a detailed look at what’s involved in those crucial hormone injections leading up to the egg retrieval process. Step 1: Fertility Injections Protocol Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Injections FSH stimulates growth of ovarian follicles containing eggs Typical protocols administer FSH injections once daily Started on cycle day 2-3 and continued for 8-14 days on average Dosage individualized based on factors like ovarian reserve May use combination of FSH products to improve efficacy Ongoing monitoring tracks follicle development via ultrasound Potential Addition of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Might supplement FSH with low-dose LH injections Especially helpful for women over 35 or those with low LH levels Utilizes natural synergistic role LH plays in follicle growth Final Oocyte Maturation Trigger Injection hCG injection given approx 36 hours before egg retrieval Matures eggs and triggers impending ovulation Crucial for precise timing of egg release from follicles Throughout ovarian stimulation injections, your IVF team will monitor you very closely with frequent bloodwork and ultrasounds to track follicle growth and hormone levels. This allows them to time the hCG trigger injection exactly right for peak egg maturity and retrieval success. Potential Side Effects of IVF Injections While generally well-tolerated, IVF injections can cause some unpleasant side effects, including: Abdominal bloating and pressure Breast tenderness Irritability, mood swings Headaches, fatigue Nausea Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (rare but serious overresponse) Imbalances in hormone levels from injections make side effects possible. Stay closely looped in with your IVF medical team regarding concerning reactions so your treatment protocol can be adjusted in a timely manner. Are IVF Injections Painful? Today’s fertility injections utilize very thin, short needles that insert painlessly into the skin’s surface. The actual pricks last just seconds and should not cause much – if any – discomfort for most patients.Consider the shots more like a basic vaccination vs. an intensive needle injection into the muscle. Any mild pinching fades quickly. Some tips to make your injection experiences even smoother include: Use an ice pack to numb the skin beforehand Have your partner help with the injection process Inject slowly – no need to rush Vary your shot locations around the abdomen Administer shots after meals or before bedtime Apply gentle pressure with a cotton ball post-injection While the needles may seem intimidating at first, keep your eye on the prize during this short phase! The few moments of pricking and plunging are well worth it for the chance to achieve your dream of building a family through IVF treatment. Conclusion You can expect to self-administer hormone injections 1-2 times daily for an average of 8 to 14 days when undergoing in vitro fertilization. This intensive but temporary injection protocol serves to stimulate the ovaries for developing multiple mature follicles to retrieve during the egg harvest procedure. Exact injection quantities per IVF cycle depend on your age, history, changing hormone levels, and individual response to the medications. Work closely with your fertility doctor to monitor progress through the cycle, making proper dosage adjustments as needed. While the shots themselves should not prove too painful, some women do experience unpleasant side effects that also need to be addressed. Although challenging, keep your eyes on the bright hopes these crucial injections are making possible!

Are You Suffering From Uterine Prolapse? – Tips for Managing Symptoms Uterine prolapse is a condition where the uterus drops down into the vagina. This can cause a range of uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptoms. Here, we’ll discuss the common uterine prolapse symptoms, what causes it to occur, treatment options, and tips for managing your symptoms. What is Uterine Prolapse? Uterine prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments stretch and weaken, no longer able to support the uterus in its normal position. As a result, the uterus slips down into the vagina. In mild cases, the uterus drops partway into the vagina. With more severe prolapses, the uterus can protrude past the vaginal opening. Uterine prolapse has four stages: Stage 1: The uterus drops into the vagina, but does not extend past the vaginal opening. Stage 2: The uterus extends past the vaginal opening when straining, but retracts back inside afterward. Stage 3: The uterus extends past the vaginal opening both during straining and at rest. However, it can be pushed back in manually. Stage 4: The uterus hangs outside the vagina at all times and cannot be pushed back inside. Uterine prolapse often occurs alongside rectal prolapse, when the rectum bulges into the vagina, and cystocele, when the bladder sags into the vaginal wall. Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse The most common uterine prolapse symptoms include: A heavy or dragging sensation in the pelvis Feeling of sitting on a small ball Tissue protruding from the vagina Recurrent bladder infections Incontinence or urine leakage Constipation and pain during bowel movements Pain during sexual intercourse Symptoms tend to worsen with physical activities that put pressure on the pelvic floor, such as standing for long periods, heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or straining during bowel movements. The severity depends on how far the uterus has prolapsed. What Causes Uterine Prolapse? There are several factors that can contribute to weakening of the pelvic floor and cause uterine prolapse, including: Pregnancy and childbirth – Pregnancy places extra weight and pressure on the pelvic floor, and vaginal delivery can overstretch and damage muscles and ligaments. Women who deliver large babies or require forceps are at higher risk. Menopause – Loss of estrogen after menopause leads to tissue thinning. Aging – Pelvic floor muscles weaken over time. Risk increases above age 50. Chronic constipation and straining – Repeated straining damages pelvic floor over time. Obesity – Extra body weight puts pressure on pelvic floor. Genetics – Some women have connective tissue disorders that make prolapse more likely. Prior pelvic surgery – Pelvic surgery can damage or impair pelvic floor function. Heavy lifting or high impact exercise – Activities that increase abdominal pressure raise prolapse risk. Treating and Managing Uterine Prolapse If you suspect you may have uterine prolapse, make an appointment with your gynecologist. They can examine you and determine the stage of your prolapse. Treatment options include: Kegel exercises – Strengthening pelvic floor muscles with Kegel exercises can sometimes improve mild prolapse. Pessary – A rubber or silicone device inserted in the vagina to help hold up the uterus. Surgery – Several surgical procedures can repair pelvic floor and reposition the uterus. This is often needed for severe cases. To help manage symptoms: Wear a pessary during activities that worsen prolapse. Use vaginal estrogen cream to improve tissue strength if post-menopausal. Try squatting instead of sitting to urinate and have bowel movements. Take stool softeners and laxatives to avoid constipation and straining. Limit lifting heavy objects and high impact exercise. Perform Kegels regularly to strengthen pelvic floor. Consider physical therapy with a pelvic floor specialist. Use a vaginal support device like Poise Impressa to provide internal support. Uterine prolapse can negatively impact your quality of life. But knowing what to do can help you take control of your symptoms. Focus on pelvic floor strengthening, minimising strain, and getting the right treatment for your situation. With a proactive approach, you can continue living comfortably and actively. Conclusion Uterine prolapse can be frustrating to deal with, but the good news is there are ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Focus on gentle exercise, smart lifestyle modifications, using support devices as needed, and seeking the right treatment plan for your individual case. While uterine prolapse may not yet have a cure, it is a condition that you can learn to successfully live with. Stay positive, be proactive, and don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions. With the right approach, you can minimise the impact of uterine prolapse on your daily activities.

What You Need To Know About Ovarian Cystectomy Surgery If you’ve been diagnosed with an ovarian cyst, your doctor may recommend ovarian cystectomy surgery to remove it. This procedure involves surgically removing the cyst while preserving normal ovarian tissue as much as possible. Ovarian cystectomies are very common. If you’re facing this surgery, it helps to understand exactly what it entails and what to expect. What is an Ovarian Cystectomy? An ovarian cystectomy is the surgical removal of an ovarian cyst. It’s typically performed laparoscopically through small incisions using a camera and instruments. During an ovarian cystectomy, the surgeon will: Make small incisions in the abdomen. Insert a laparoscope (thin tube with a camera) to see inside. Insert narrow instruments through other incisions. Locate and remove the ovarian cyst while preserving the ovary. Close the incisions with stitches or surgical glue. This minimally invasive laparoscopic approach results in faster recovery compared to open surgery through a large abdominal incision. When is Ovarian Cystectomy Performed? There are several reasons why ovarian cystectomy may be recommended: The cyst is large (over 5-10 cm), causing pelvic pain/pressure. Removal provides symptom relief. The cyst appears suspicious or complex on imaging. It may need to be removed and biopsied. The cyst persists over 2-3 menstrual cycles and doesn’t respond to other treatments. The cyst ruptures or twists, cutting off its own blood supply (ovarian torsion). This is a medical emergency requiring prompt cyst removal. The cyst is causing infertility by disrupting ovulation. Removing it can restore fertility. So in general, ovarian cystectomy is performed when a cyst is symptomatic, persists over time, or appears worrisome based on testing. Types of Ovarian Cystectomies There are a few types of ovarian cystectomy depending on the specifics of your case: Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy:This is the most common approach today. It involves removing the cyst laparoscopically through small incisions. It results in faster recovery while allowing doctors to clearly see and access the ovary. Laparotomy Ovarian Cystectomy:If the cyst is very large or your doctor needs better access, they may use an open surgery approach through a larger abdominal incision. This is more invasive but sometimes necessary. Oophorectomy (Ovarian Cyst Removal with Ovary): If the cyst has significantly damaged the ovary, or if there are concerns about cancer, the entire ovary may need to be removed. This is called an oophorectomy. Your doctor will discuss if this option is right for your case. What to Expect During Ovarian Cystectomy Surgery Here’s a step-by-step overview of what you can expect during the ovarian cyst removal procedure: Preparation: You’ll change into a hospital gown and an anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia so you’re asleep for the procedure. Incisions: Small incisions (1/2 inch) are made in the navel and lower abdomen wall if laparoscopic. A larger incision is made if open surgery. Inserting Camera/Instruments: The laparoscope (camera) and narrow surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions. The abdomen is inflated with gas for visibility. Locating the Ovarian Cyst:The surgeon uses the laparoscope to visualize inside and locate the ovarian cyst. Removing the Cyst: The cyst is carefully separated from the ovary and drained/extracted. It is removed intact when possible. Preserving Ovary The surgeon meticulously dissects away only the cyst, leaving healthy ovarian tissue intact.Removing Ovary if Needed.If the ovary can’t be saved due to damage, the surgeon may remove the entire ovary. Checking for Bleeding:The area is irrigated and checked for bleeding. Bleeding is controlled with cauterization. Closing Incisions:The small incisions are closed with absorbable stitches, surgical tape or glue. The small incisions are closed with absorbable stitches, surgical tape or glue. The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours depending on the complexity. Throughout the procedure, doctors take steps to meticulously remove only the cyst while preserving fertility when possible. Recovering After Ovarian Cystectomy Surgery Here’s what to expect for recovery after your ovarian cyst removal: Hospital Stay: You’ll stay in the hospital 1-2 nights after the surgery for close monitoring. Pain Management: You’ll be given intravenous pain medications. After discharge, over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage discomfort. Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activity for 2-4 weeks after surgery. Walking and light activity is encouraged to prevent blood clots. Listen to your body. Diet: Eat a high fiber diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation. Avoid heavy meals at first while your system adjusts. Incision Care: Keep incisions clean while healing. Avoid submerging them in water for 1 week. Watch for signs of infection like redness. Follow-up Appointment: You’ll see your doctor again after 1-2 weeks for exam and to remove any stitches/staples. Full Recovery: Most people are back to their usual routines within 2-4 weeks after the procedure. Complete recovery can take 4-6 weeks. Call your doctor right away if you experience fever, bleeding, severe pain, nausea/vomiting or other concerning symptoms after your ovarian cyst removal. Report any issues promptly to avoid complications. Potential Risks and Complications Ovarian cystectomy is considered a very safe procedure, especially when performed laparoscopically. However, as with any surgery, there are some risks: Bleeding: Usually controlled during surgery but may rarely require additional procedures or transfusions. Infection: Occurs in less than 5% of cases. Treated with antibiotics. Injury to other organs: The bladder, bowel or arteries may rarely be injured during dissection. Another surgery may be required to repair any injury. Loss of ovarian function: Cyst removal may impair the ovary. Up to 10% of women have reduced fertility after cystectomy. Menopause onset may occur 1-2 years earlier. Recurrence: There’s a 15-25% chance a new cyst develops later. Repeat surgery may be an option if this occurs. Blood clots: Estrogen patches and early walking help reduce clotting risk after surgery. Your surgeon will take steps to minimize risks and complications. Be sure to discuss your personalized risks based on your health profile before deciding on ovarian cyst removal surgery. Long-Term Outlook After Ovarian Cystectomy An ovarian cystectomy is very effective for removing benign cysts and relieving symptoms. Most women will make a full recovery and

Endometriosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis Endometriosis is a painful disorder that affects an estimated 1 in 10 women during their reproductive years. Despite how common it is, endometriosis often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years due to the widespread lack of knowledge about the condition. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and diagnosis of endometriosis is key to getting proper treatment and managing this chronic condition. What is Endometriosis? Endometriosis is a disorder in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus. This misplaced endometrial tissue develops into growths or lesions that can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic structures. Each month, these endometrial growths respond to hormonal changes and break down and bleed, just as the uterine lining does during a normal menstrual cycle. However, unlike the uterine lining that is shed and leaves the body during menstruation, the blood and tissue from endometrial lesions become trapped. This leads to inflammation, scar tissue formation, and adhesions that can cause severe pain, infertility, and other complications. Key Endometriosis Symptoms The most common symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, especially around the time of menstruation. Specific endometriosis symptoms may include: Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) – Cramps, aching, or stabbing pain during menstruation that is more severe than typical period cramps. Chronic pelvic pain – Dull ache or pain in the pelvis and lower back that persists for months. Pain during or after sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). Painful bowel movements or urination during menstrual periods. Excessive bleeding during or between periods. Gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and abdominal bloating. Fatigue and low energy. Unfortunately, these symptoms are often dismissed as just normal menstrual discomforts. But severe or debilitating period pain is not normal and may indicate endometriosis or other underlying problems. What Causes Endometriosis? Researchers still don’t know exactly what causes endometriosis, but several theories exist. Most experts believe it happens due to a combination of factors: Retrograde menstruation – During a period, some blood and tissue flows back through the fallopian tubes instead of leaving the body. Cells may attach and grow in the pelvic cavity. Hormonal influences – Estrogen promotes the growth of endometrial implants, while progesterone makes them shed. Imbalances may contribute to endometriosis. Immune system dysfunction – Impaired immune response fails to identify and remove displaced endometrial cells. Inflammation promotes tissue growth. Genetics – Endometriosis tends to run in families, implying certain inherited genes make women more susceptible. Gene mutations may play a role. Environmental toxins – Dioxins and other environmental pollutants may promote endometrial cell growth and contribute to hormone disruption. While most women get endometriosis during their reproductive years, it has been found in girls as young as 11 and can persist into menopause. Endometriosis lesions and symptoms may subside with pregnancy but often return after giving birth. How is Endometriosis Diagnosed? Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step to properly managing endometriosis through treatment options like pain medications, hormone therapy, and surgery. However, endometriosis is often overlooked or misdiagnosed as pelvic inflammatory disease or irritable bowel syndrome. Others dismiss the symptoms as normal menstrual cramps and delay seeking help.Here are the main ways doctors diagnose endometriosis: Medical history and physical exam – Discussing symptoms, medical history, and family history of endometriosis can help identify the disorder. A pelvic exam allows the doctor to feel for any signs of cysts, nodules, or tissue growth. Transvaginal ultrasound – This internal ultrasound uses a wand inserted in the vagina to examine the uterus and ovaries. It may detect endometriomas or ovarian cysts caused by endometriosis. Laparoscopy – Often considered the gold standard for definitively diagnosing endometriosis, this minor surgical procedure uses a thin, lighted camera scope inserted through a small abdominal incision to view endometrial implants in the pelvic region. Laparoscopy also allows for biopsy of lesions. MRI – If laparoscopy is not feasible, an MRI can be done to try to identify endometrial implants and cysts using detailed pelvic imaging. Blood tests – Doctors may check certain hormone levels like CA-125 tumor marker or order other lab tests to help rule out conditions with similar symptoms. Gaining a proper endometriosis diagnosis requires being your own health advocate, tracking symptoms, and finding a doctor who takes your concerns seriously. Don’t suffer in silence – seek help to identify the cause of severe menstrual pain or other troubling symptoms. Accurate diagnosis leads the way to timely treatment and relief. Conclusion Endometriosis is a complex disorder that can significantly impact the lives of those it affects. While there is still much to learn about its exact causes, it’s clear that multiple factors contribute to the development and progression of endometriosis lesions outside of the uterine cavity. Understanding the wide range of symptoms, from debilitating menstrual cramps to pain during intercourse, is key to identifying endometriosis as the potential culprit. The gold standard for diagnosis is laparoscopic surgery, but transvaginal ultrasound and MRIs can also detect potential indicators of this challenging condition. Accurate and timely diagnosis of endometriosis provides the opportunity to better manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you suffer from severe pelvic pain and excessive bleeding, don’t write it off as normal period discomfort. Seek out an obstetrician-gynecologist who has experience diagnosing and treating endometriosis. There are many treatment options available, including pain medications and hormone therapies. While there is no known cure for endometriosis, the right diagnosis and treatment plan can help women find much-needed relief.