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  • How to Reduce Stress When Trying to Conceive: Tips for Managing Stress During Pregnancy

    How to Reduce Stress When Trying to Conceive: Tips for Managing Stress During Pregnancy

    Having a biological child is filled with countless moments of pride and jubilation. However, the path to conception can be a challenging one for many parents-to-be. Millions of couples around the globe struggle to pregnant, indicating that they have fertility issues. While infertility can be due to various reasons, you’ll be surprised to learn that stress is one of the biggest factors. Since you’re eager to start a family, you must know how to managing stress during conception.

    That’s what today’s blog is about. I’ll tell you why it’s important to manage stress during pregnancy and how you can relieve stress.

    Stress and Fertility Connection

    We all know that going through fertility treatments can cause severe stress, depression, and anxiety. But is stress making you more infertile?

    Studies have revealed that there can be a stress impact on ovulation. This happens because when you are under stress, the hormone balance in your body is disrupted. As the body releases cortisol (the stress hormone) when you are stressed, it can interfere with sperm production. In females, high levels of stress impact the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Then it gets tricky to predict the fertility window when you should have intercourse. So, the chances of conception become low.

    Even after one gets pregnant, regulating stress is important as chronic stress enhances the risk of preterm labor and other pregnancy complications like delivering a baby with low birth weight.

    Ways to Manage Stress During Pregnancy

    Everyone tells would-be-moms to eat well when planning their motherhood adventure. However, your mental health matters as much as your physical well-being. So, here are some stress reduction tips for trying to conceive:

    1. Get active

    Regular exercise can help calm your agitated nerves as when we exercise, endorphins are released. You can choose any form of exercise like jogging, yoga for fertility health, dancing, swimming, etc. Just aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.

    Note: If you are undergoing IVF or some other fertility treatment, consult your fertility specialist before exercising.

    2. Focus on your breath

    Deep breathing exercise is among the relaxation techniques for conception. Meditation for fertility regularly is again among the healthy habits to reduce stress. You can start doing that today by sitting in a quiet place and playing some soothing music on your phone. Inhale and exhale deeply, mimicking the body’s breathing pattern when you sleep. This will send powerful signals to your brain to stay carefree.

    3. Reduce stress through diet

    For anybody dreaming of getting pregnant, consuming well-balanced meals is a must. When you eat nutrient-rich foods, the likelihood of a successful conception will increase dramatically.

    Another reason why you should keep yourself well-fed is to reduce levels of stress. Research shows that foods high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber can keep stress at bay. Additionally, limit the intake of starch, sugar, and caffeine as they negatively affect stress and pregnancy.

    4. Prioritize sleep

    What’s the easiest way to deal with any problem in life – sleeping. When you sleep, your body and mind heal. So, if you stress often, scrolling on Instagram won’t do you any good. Instead, put your phone aside and sleep 8-9 hours at night.

    When you sleep, your body will naturally recover from physical and mental stressors. Getting adequate sleep at night also increases the fertility levels. That’s why fertility experts always advise would-be-moms to keep up with a sleep hygiene. It means establishing a proper sleep schedule and following it with discipline. If you have trouble sleeping, stay away from electronics when it’s bedtime.

    5. Create a support network

    Pregnancy is a unique experience and nobody else will understand what you’re going through. If you have opted for some Assisted Reproductive Technology, it’s important to surround yourself with women who are walking the same path. This way, when you feel overwhelmed or you’re in a weak emotional state, you can talk to them. Getting emotional support while trying to conceive will truly help you manage stress during fertility treatment.

    6. Enjoy a hobby

    When it comes to managing your stress during pregnancy, there are many ways other than eating healthy foods. To calm your mind, doing things that bring you joy is very important. It could be anything like reading a crime thriller, watching romantic movies, painting, or baking cookies. You should also spend quality time with your spouse for optimal emotional health.

    To Sum Up

    Lastly, it is normal to feel stressed occasionally if implantation doesn’t take place despite multiple attempts. However, you cannot overlook acute stress, depression and anxiety as now you know their adverse effects on your pregnancy journey.

    With simple lifestyle changes to improve fertility, you can go a long way. If the above-mentioned stress-relieving techniques fail to improve your mood, visit your healthcare provider.

    You can get in touch with Ritu IVF as we are a reputed fertility treatment center in Jaipur and we also provide counseling for fertility stress.

  • How Does Smoking Affect IVF? Effects of Smoking on Male Fertility and Female Fertility

    How Does Smoking Affect IVF? Effects of Smoking on Male Fertility and Female Fertility

    Are you a smoker who’s planning to become a biological parent naturally or through IVF? Then this blog is for you and gives complete information about the effects of smoking on fertility.

    There is enough research to prove that smoking negatively impacts male fertility and female fertility. From reducing egg quality to decreasing sperm motility – smoking affects male and female fertility in many ways. Hence, it goes beyond saying that for someone undergoing in vitro fertilization, there can be serious IVF complications due to smoking. If you and your partner has been considering IVF, in today’s blog, we will discuss the effects of smoking on fertility and the link between smoking and IVF success rates.

    The Connection Between Smoking and Fertility

    Let’s talk about male smoking and IVF outcomes as well as smoke exposure’s negative impact on female fertility.

    First, let us debunk the biggest myth: only women should be concerned about the impact of nicotine on fertility. Smoke exposure is as had for men as it is for women. Here’s why:

    Smokers get exposed to high levels of lead and cadmium. These are toxic metals with harmful effects, especially on fertility levels.

    Effects of Cigarette Smoking on IVF Outcomes

    According to fertility specialists, smoking during fertility treatments affects male fertility and female fertility. That’s because if a woman needs IVF, it means that her fertility levels are already low. In such a situation, exposure to even secondhand smoke can make it more challenging to conceive. Studies on fertility treatment and smoking risks have shown the same kind of detrimental effects of cigarette smoking on male fertility.

    Here are some of the ill effects of cigarette smoking on your reproductive health during your IVF journey:

    1. Egg quality and smoking

    Ovaries are among the major reproductive organs in females. The chemicals present in cigarette smoke can potentially damage a woman’s ovaries. When ovaries are not in perfect condition, during the egg retrieval process, very few oocytes will be received. This can result to a failed IVF cycle. So, now you must understand the connection between smoking and ovarian reserve.

    2. Sperm damage

    Levels of metals like cadmium and lead are high in nicotine. Both metals affect the quality of semen and lead to lower sperm count. Sperm morphology, DNA integrity, and motility are also affected. Then the male fails to fertilize the mature eggs of the female.

    3. Impaired endometrial lining

    Did you know that smoking can even make your uterine line thin? It has been discovered that for smokers, the uterine lining is 2 mm thinner compared to non-smokers. It goes beyond saying that when endometrial thickness decreases, the IVF treatment will be futile.

    4. Increased risk of miscarriage

    The risk of miscarriage is also higher in smokers than non-smokers. Due to the presence of chemicals, the placenta and developing fetus can be directly harmed. The fetus can suffer from problems like obstructed blood supply, developmental issues, and nutrient deprivation. This happens primarily because of the vasoconstrictive effects of carbon monoxide and nicotine found in tobacco smoke.

    When to Stop Smoking?

    Smoking in general is not good for people of any age group. And for couples trying to get pregnant, both partners should quit smoking at least four months before planning the baby.

    Just limiting the intake of cigarettes won’t suffice as even low levels of nicotine can be life-threatening for your baby. For instance, smoking less does not decrease the risk of low weight during birth. As mentioned already, premature birth and ectopic pregnancy are also linked with smoking.

    Although several cigarette manufacturing companies assert that low nicotine and low-tar cigarettes are safe to consume during pregnancy, these are false claims. However, here’s the good news: If you bid adieu to smoking just a few months before taking those IVF injections, the risks of pregnancy failure will get as low as birthing women who have never indulged in smoking.

    In case the process of IVF has already begun, stop smoking immediately as you are looking forward to becoming pregnant.

    How to Quit Smoking During Pregnancy

    Smoking cessation before IVF is not easy for those who are long-term smokers. Nicotine replacement therapy is considered safe. Patches, mouth sprays, nasal sprays, and inhalers are commonly available NRT products. However, it is better to get them prescribed by a healthcare professional based on the level of addiction.

    There are several natural ways to resist cigarette cravings. Relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga can help you stay away from cigarettes. Exercising too will increase your willpower and self-control.

    The Bottom Line

    So, now you know that decrease in the quality of sperm and eggs, implantation failure, miscarriage, etc., are some outcomes of tobacco use. Hence, to achieve a successful pregnancy through assisted reproductive technology, stop smoking at the earliest.

    The impact of smoking can be reversed quicker if you adopt a healthy lifestyle. A pregnancy-friendly lifestyle should include exercise, nutrient-rich foods, regular intake of prenatal proper hydration, and adequate sleep.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does smoking reduce IVF success rates?

    Yes, smoking causes various fertility problems (like poor egg quality, low sperm count, etc.), thus making it more difficult for you to conceive through IVF or any other assisted reproductive technology.

    How long before IVF should I quit smoking?

    Fertility experts opine that one should quit smoking 3-4 months before committing to the process of IVF. This is mandatory to maximize the chances of success.

    References:

    Cigarette smoking and outcomes of in-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: a prospective cohort study – PubMed

    Does cigarette smoking really have detrimental effects on outcomes of IVF? – PubMed

    How Smoking Affects Reproductive Health | FDA

  • Everything About Fertility Preservation in Patients with Cancer

    Everything About Fertility Preservation in Patients with Cancer

    Cancer and cancer treatment may affect fertility in women and men. So, if a young person gets cancer, fertility preservation is a wise decision. This way, they can conceive naturally if they feel like becoming a parent after defeating cancer. Would you like to know more about fertility preservation in cancer patients? Then scroll down to find out why and how it’s done.

    Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Patients

    According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, chemotherapy drugs can adversely affect female fertility in young women. Cancers that affect girls of reproductive age have a greater risk of decreasing their fertility levels. So, doctors advise fertility preservation in breast cancer patients. cervical cancer patients, uterine cancer patients, and ovarian cancer patients.

    If you have an interest in fertility preservation, scroll down to explore fertility preservation services for female patients with cancer.

    1. Ovarian Suppression

    Ovarian suppression is an interesting technique to shield ovaries during cancer treatment. Injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone can put the ovaries to sleep for a brief period. That’s because when this hormone drug is injected, the individual goes into a temporary menopause.

    If your doctor recommends ovarian suppression, make sure to take the injection a week before your first chemotherapy session. Keep in mind that if your chemo continues, GnRH should be injected once every 3-4 weeks. Then your ovaries will get sufficient protection from chemotherapy’s harmful effects.

    Note: As you will experience temporary menopause, don’t panic if you notice menopause symptoms such as hot flashes.

    2. Freezing Eggs

    Freezing eggs is a preferred way of fertility preservation in ovarian cancer​ and for patients with breast cancer.

    It’s a simple procedure and many celebs and career-oriented women choose to freeze their eggs in their late 20s and early 30s. Cancer patients, especially the ones with ovarian cancer, can freeze their eggs before the commencement of their cancer treatment.

    First, the doctor will give drugs for ovarian stimulation. Ovaries will make high-quality eggs and the doctor will collect the eggs to freeze them. Whenever you are ready, those eggs can be fertilized in a lab or naturally by having intercourse.

    3. Freezing Ovarian Tissue

    Another option for fertility preservation in endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer is removing one of the ovaries surgically.

    If cancer affects one ovary and the other is perfectly fine, chemotherapy and strong cancer medication can still cause potential damage to the healthy ovary. For women with cancer, a small operation can remove the ovary by freezing it in a lab. This advanced method is known as ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Once the cancer treatment is over, the tissue is put back into the womb.

    4. Freezing Embryos

    To freeze your embryos, a fertility specialist will administer drugs for the stimulation of the ovaries. Ovarian stimulation will result in egg production and then the eggs will be collected. In a laboratory, the doctor will fertilize the eggs by bringing them in contact with donor sperm or the woman’s partner’s sperm. This process is termed embryo creation and then they freeze the embryo. Later, the embryo can be returned to the womb through IVF (in vitro fertilization).

    Fertility Preservation in Male Cancer Patients

    The testis is highly susceptible to the harmful effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for both young cancer patients and adult cancer patients. So, male cancer patients may preserve their fertility in the following ways:

    1. Sperm Cryopreservation

    Sperm banking, sperm freezing, or sperm cryopreservation involves keeping the sperm in a frozen condition for future use. Frozen sperm can be kept for decades, and it can be used for procedures such as intrauterine insemination (abbreviated as IU). It’s the most reliable method of fertility preservation in male cancer patients.

    2. Freezing Testicular Tissue

    If a boy gets diagnosed with cancer and he’s not old enough to produce sperm, cancer treatment can still affect his fertility levels when he grows up. There is an experimental option that involves removing tissues from the testicles and freezing the tissues for later use.

    When the person is completely cured and becomes an adult, the preserved tissue could be used if he is infertile. The tissue pieces could be placed into the testicles, thus increasing the chances of more sperm production.

    However, it’s a risky process and very few fertility treatment centers perform this procedure. Moreover, till now, no live birth has taken place through this process. So, more research needs to be done to confirm that tissue freezing can result in successful births for cancer survivors.

    The Bottom Line

    Advances in the detection of cancer and treatment processes in the past few years have vastly improved the survival rates for young cancer patients. Moreover, being diagnosed with cancer is not the end of the world and not all cancers are deadly if detected at an early stage.

    So, don’t let cancer stand in your way of becoming a parent and enjoying a fulfilling life. Discuss with your oncologist the best way to preserve your fertility and get well soon.

    References

    All our articles contain reliable information as we take references from resources published by reputed institutions.

    Fertility preservation in female cancer patients: An overview – PMC

    Preserving Fertility in Females with Cancer | American Cancer Society

    Women’s fertility and chemotherapy | Cancer Research UK

    Preserving Fertility in Males with Cancer | American Cancer Society

  • Age Limit for IVF in India: What’s the Legal Age Limit for IVF Treatment

    Age Limit for IVF in India: What’s the Legal Age Limit for IVF Treatment

    In-vitro fertilization has become one of the most popular treatments for people with infertility issues. While it is a great option for couples who cannot conceive naturally, many factors impact IVF success. Age, for instance, can be one of the major reasons behind the failure of IVF. Any couple thinking of undergoing this advanced reproductive technology must know the age limits to avoid complications and ensure safety.

    So, in this blog, I will offer valuable insights into this topic: the age limit for IVF in India.

    Legal Age Limit for IVF in India

    Before I tell you the age limit for IVF, it’s important to have some idea about the ART Act. So, what is the ART Act? The Assisted Reproductive Technology Act is a law curated to supervise and regulate fertility clinics in India. So, what does this Act tell us about the IVF age limit for women and men?

    The 2021 Assisted Reproductive Technology Act specifies the following age limits for in vitro fertilization (IVF) in India. 
    • 21–50 years old (for women)
    • 26-55 years old (for men)  

    Couples and fertility treatment centers should take the above-mentioned age limits seriously. We must all remember that the IVF age limit is there to ensure that a mother and her baby remain safe during and after the process.

    Best Age for IVF Treatment

    I just shared that the maximum age for IVF is 50 for women and 55 years for men. However, this age limit of 50 years does not guarantee that a woman can have a successful IVF when she’s 48 or 49. Many women get their menopause in their late 40s. Once your menopause arrives, the chances of giving birth are slim.

    So, what’s the ideal age for IVF? According to fertility specialists and the ART Act 2021, 25-35 years is the best time to plan a baby. Both men and women are youthful in their 20s and early 30s and the fertility levels are extremely high. The ovarian reserve and egg quality are also better, thus positively impacting the success rates.

    However, the right age differs from one person to another. Fit people who maintain a healthy lifestyle can have a smooth pregnancy with IVF in their late 30s and early 40s.

    Minimum Age for IVF

    Now that you know the maximum age to get pregnant is 50 years for women, are you intrigued to find out the minimum age for IVF?

    Conceiving is easy for a woman in her 20s, but girls below the age of 20 should never consider IVF or normal pregnancy. Teenage pregnancy is risky for various reasons. The risk of puerperal endometritis, systemic infections, and eclampsia tend to be higher for adolescent mothers. Preterm birth and low birth weight are also common in teenage pregnancies.

    Even in your early 20s, becoming a mother isn’t a wise decision. Although the quality of eggs is the best during these years and visiting an IVF clinic won’t be necessary, it is also the time to explore the world and build a career. A baby is a huge responsibility and so, early 20s is not the optimal age to conceive.

    Factors Affecting IVF Success Rate

    By now it must be clear to you that as age increases, the potential risks associated with IVF also increase. However, someone seeking IVF should be mindful of several other factors:

    • quality of the eggs
    • ovarian reserve
    • lifestyle choices (habits like smoking, drinking, and having excessive junk food significantly decrease fertility levels in men and women)
    • stress (chronic stress makes us less fertile)
    • issues like ovarian malfunction or uterine abnormalities
    • the thickness of the uterine lining
    • sperm quality of the male partner or donor
    • expertise of the fertility specialist 

    The Bottom Line

    So, that was all about the best age for IVF treatment. Therefore, keep in mind the upper age limit if undergoing IVF or some other advanced fertility treatment is your only option. Additionally, to receive reliable IVF treatment in India, research well and find the best IVF center in your area.

    References:

    The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021: A Step in the Right Direction – PMC

  • Lifestyle Changes to Boost Male Fertility: What Every Man Should Know

    Lifestyle Changes to Boost Male Fertility: What Every Man Should Know

    Parenthood is a blissful experience and for a couple to achieve that, both man and woman need to come together. Many people forget that male fertility is an important factor, and a woman can’t make a baby without high-quality sperm. So, in today’s blog, we will discuss male fertility and lifestyle changes for male fertility.

    Male Fertility: An Overview

    In simple words, a man’s ability to impregnate a woman is defined as male fertility. The fertility levels of a man are determined by multiple factors like sperm quality, sperm motility, sperm quantity, etc. So, to boost male fertility is to produce more sperm as well as healthy sperm.

    Wondering if there’s a way to improve sperm count and sperm motility without taking any medications? The answer is yes! By making some simple alterations to your lifestyle, you can give your sperm a much-needed boost.

    Lifestyle Changes to Improve Male Fertility

    As stated already, the lifestyle choices you make play a big role in your reproductive outcomes. These are the main lifestyle factors on male fertility:

    1. Eat Nutrient-rich Foods

    There is a direct link between male infertility and food habits. So, to produce healthy sperm, a man must eat well. So, what kinds of foods should you consume? Having plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits daily will decrease oxidative stress within your testicles as they are loaded with antioxidants. Fruits and veggies also contain key nutrients like vitamin E, vitamin C, lycopene, and folic acid – all of which are essential for sperm production.

    Now let’s talk about the foods that you should avoid because of their negative effects on male fertility. Sugar is one of the biggest culprits that decreases sperm count significantly if you have too much sugar daily. Over-intake of soy products, red meat, processed food, and deep-fried food should also be avoided – whether you have a low sperm count or not. Learn more about diet and fertility.

    2. Drink Plenty of Water

    Besides eating nutritious meals, you should also drink 3-4 liters of water daily as dehydration worsens semen quality and increases the chances of prostate infections. So, to maintain semen volume and sperm quality, keep yourself hydrated. The easiest way of ensuring that your body isn’t dehydrated is by monitoring the color of urine. If it is yellowish, it’s an indicator that you need to increase the fluid intake.

    3. Quit Smoking and Drinking

    From the moment you start planning a baby, heavy drinking or regular smoking are the two things you must quit. Chronic drinking is dangerous for both men and women as it decreases the production of female/ male reproductive hormones. Additionally, drinking and smoking can severely impact the health and development of the fetus. So, if you want to optimize your sperm health and improve fertility, stay away from tobacco and alcohol.

    Read to know: Male infertility treatments

     4. Reduce Stress

    Did you know that chronic stress disrupts our body’s hormonal balance and therefore, negatively impacts the production of sperm? When you are under stress, the body releases excess cortisol and adrenaline and that leads to a hormonal imbalance. Moreover, stress will make sex less pleasurable for you and your partner. Hence, deal with stress by meditating, practicing mindfulness, and doing yoga. All these have proven benefits for sexual health. Learn more about Stress and Fertility.

    5. Exercise Regularly

    Studies have revealed that people who exercise for at least 30 minutes a day are more fertile. If you like to exercise, your testosterone levels will naturally increase, and sperm motility will improve. Even mild exercises like jogging can significantly better your sperm health.

    Note: While being extremely lazy will affect your sperm health and general health, even too much of a heavy workout can have detrimental effects. Yes, overtraining may lead to less production of testosterone. Again, some exercises can cause physical damage to the vessels and nerves around your testicles.

    6. Maintain a Healthy Weight

    One of the major lifestyle changes for male fertility is to get back in shape as male obesity negatively affects male fertility. If you have a body mass index of over 30, it means there is an increase in testicular heat and oxidative stress. This will lead to poor-quality semen. To lose some weight quickly, stick to a healthy diet and prioritize exercising.

    Learn more: Infertility And Obesity

    The Bottom Line

    So, now you know what you have to do to help your little swimmers reach your partner’s uterus. Make the above-mentioned positive changes and your sperm quality is bound to improve within a few months.

    If you’re still unable to father a child, remember that implantation failure can happen due to a variety of reasons. Hence, it will be better if you and your partner consult an accomplished fertility specialist to address the underlying reasons. Stay hopeful as now there are many kinds of treatment options for both male and female infertility.

  • Oligospermia or Low Sperm Count in Fertility: Causes, Treatments, and Impact on Fertility

    Oligospermia or Low Sperm Count in Fertility: Causes, Treatments, and Impact on Fertility

    Low sperm count is one of the major causes of male infertility and the medical term for it is oligospermia. As it affects thousands of men around the globe, it is important to know its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. However, very few people know about this condition and how it can be treated. So, in today’s blog, we will understand the link between oligospermia and fertility. 

    What is Oligospermia? Types of Oligospermia

    The sperm count of a healthy person exceeds 15 million sperm per milliliter of seminal fluid. If you are producing less than 15 million sperm in every 1 milliliter of seminal fluid, you have oligospermia. Another name for oligospermia is oligozoospermia.

    In some rare cases, sperm production is as low as 5 million sperm per milliliter of semen. This is called severe oligospermia.

    Are Azoospermia and Oligospermia the Same?

    While non-medical professionals end up using the terms oligospermia and azoospermia interchangeably, they are different. Oligospermia is characterized by a low sperm count. Azoospermia, on the other hand, means no sperm is produced at all.

    Causes of Oligospermia

    Oligospermia is caused by various factors, including:

    • Nutrition and Exercise: Your fitness levels can be directly proportional to your fertility levels. If you do not eat a balanced diet consisting of protein, vitamins, and minerals, chances are high that sperm count in your ejaculate will be less. On the contrary, a person who eats nutrient-rich meals is expected to have high sperm count in the semen. Inadequate exercise can also lower the sperm count. Similarly, excessive exercise too can have adverse effects on your sperm count as overtraining can damage the vessels/ nerves surrounding the testicles.
    • Environmental Factors: Studies have revealed that exposure to radiation, heavy metals, and toxic industrial chemicals can lower a person’s sperm count. Overheating of testicles can have an equally damaging impact.
    • Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase an individual’s chances of getting severe oligospermia. Some examples are Varicoceles (a condition that causes swelling of veins and makes the testicle turn dry), ejaculation issues, defects in tubules responsible for transporting sperm, infections, tumors, hormonal imbalances, and undescended testicles.
    • Lifestyle Choices: If you do not maintain a healthy lifestyle, oligospermia may stand in the way of fathering a child. Habits like drug consumption, smoking, and regular intake of alcoholic beverages affect fertility levels and might cause low sperm. Obesity also affects sperm quality and quantity Stress is another enemy to your overall health and reproductive health. So, to improve sperm count, you need to switch to a healthy lifestyle and stay happy.

    Signs and Symptoms of Oligospermia

    Oligospermia’s primary symptom is the inability to conceive a baby. Other symptoms may be:

    • sexual dysfunction
    • swelling or pain in the testicular area
    • hormonal imbalances
    • low libido

    If you experience any of these symptoms, it is better to get yourself checked once.

    Diagnosis of Oligospermia

    To know if you have oligospermia, your healthcare provider will rely on a physical examination and check your complete medical history to discover the underlying cause. Some diagnostic tests to detect this condition are:

    • Urinalysis for testing retrograde ejaculation
    • Semen analysis
    • Imaging tests like scrotal and transrectal ultrasounds
    • Tests to measure the level of testosterone

    Treatment Options for Low Sperm Count

    As oligospermia leads to fertility issues, it is natural to wonder if the condition is treatable. These are the most effective treatment options:

    • Medication: First, doctors try to resolve the issue by starting hormonal treatments and prescribing medications for treating infections (if any).
    • Surgery: If medications don’t give the desired result, surgical intervention is the next step.
    • Assisted Reproductive Technology: Techniques such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, IVF, and IUI can also be tried.

    Home Remedies to Increase Sperm Count

    If you do not have severe oligospermia, medications may not be necessary. In that case, you have to make simple changes to your lifestyle to boost healthy sperm production. Some excellent home remedies to address reduced sperm production are stated below:

    • Maintain a healthy weight by exercising for 30 minutes daily. You can choose any form of exercise like yoga, jogging, and swimming as these have proven benefits on reproductive health.
    • As part of your treatment of oligospermia, eat a balanced diet with plenty of veggies and fruits. Additionally, quit smoking, drinking, and eating processed foods.
    • If you have a lower sperm count, have coitus when your partner is ovulating to maximize the chances of conception.
    • To help improve sperm production, you should also get 7 hours of sleep at night.

    Read to Know: How to Increase Sperm Count

    The Takeaway

    Now you know how oligospermia can affect male fertility. If you have been struggling to make a baby, it does not confirm that you have oligospermia. Factors like erectile dysfunction, low sperm motility, etc. also lead to male infertility. So, to find out the exact cause and receive treatment, visit an experienced fertility specialist.

  • Understanding Genetic Testing in IVF: PGT, PGD, and PGS Explained

    Understanding Genetic Testing in IVF: PGT, PGD, and PGS Explained

    Assisted Reproductive Technology is the greatest ray of home in the lives of aspiring parents. There have been astounding technological advancements in the past few years that have helped thousands of infertile couples fulfill their dream of becoming parents. Preimplantation Genetic Screening, Preimplantation Genetic Testing, and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis are some of the most reliable advanced options.

    However, it is important to have complete awareness before opting for any of these technologies and that’s what this blog is all about. So, what is genetic testing in IVF and what should you know about it?

    Preimplantation Genetic Testing: An Overview

    There are different kinds of genetic tests performed by fertility specialists before embryo transfer. PGT or preimplantation genetic testing is one such screening test performed on an embryo that’s created through IVF (in vitro fertilization). Doctors do it to make sure that there aren’t any chromosomal or genetic disorders. PGT can be of the following three types:

    • PGT-M: Earlier referred to as preimplantation testing, this test is a type of PGT and it can screen for specific genetic defects or genetic abnormalities (that is, single-gene abnormalities)
    • PGT-A: The earlier name for this screening test was preimplantation genetic screening. PGS screens for any kind of chromosomal abnormalities. During this process, a single cell is taken from the embryo to test its DNA.
    • PGT-SR: Structural rearrangements of chromosomes can be detected through this test.

    Who Undergoes Genetic Testing for IVF

    Doctors suggest PGT under the following circumstances:

    • Both partners/ just one has a family history of genetic disorders
    • The man/ woman/ both is a carrier of some kind of chromosomal abnormality
    • The pregnant woman has reached an advanced age
    • The mother has suffered recurrent miscarriages in the past

    Reasons to Rethink PGS or PGD

    Although the various types of genetic testing are becoming increasingly popular in many fertility clinics, there are some compelling reasons why you should think carefully before you decide to screen embryos.

    1. Genes and chromosomes are different

    PGT does not reduce the risk of miscarriages. Even for embryos that are chromosomally normal a miscarriage can happen because of genetic defects, and this is not something that PGT can predict. So, if you are doing this screening test for embryo selection because you think that you will not have a miscarriage after it, then you should reconsider it.

    2. Mosaicism

    Not every cell in an embryo is genetically identical, and this phenomenon is termed mosaicism. This means that the 2-3 sells that go for Biopsy may fail to represent the other hundred cells present in the embryo. So, if there isn’t an abnormality in the biopsied cells, a healthy embryo might get detected only because the test results were misleading.

    3. Self-correction of embryos

    Self-correction is one of the qualities of embryos as they are dynamic entities. Even if some cells turn out to be abnormal, if the remaining cells are normal, they can multiply, resulting in a healthy baby. But if an embryo is discarded based on a false positive result, a viable pregnancy will be lost.

    4. Technical challenges

    We must not forget the technical complexity of tests like PGS. Most fertility treatment centers do not perform the tests on their own but depend on genetic labs where the biopsy cells are sent. The embryo biopsy results are often confusing and ambiguous, and they may not identify the problems. If the embryologist is not skilled enough, the result can’t be completely trusted. If a biopsy is poorly executed, it can kill or damage a healthy embryo.

    5. Psychological impact

    Saying yes to fertility treatments like IVF treatment is a big step for any couple. Feeling low at times is common and genetic analysis may add to their anxiety. For a pregnancy to be successful, the emotional well-being of the mother is of utmost significance.

    6. Additional expense

    Whether you do PGT or not, you will still have to undergo prenatal diagnosis if you get pregnant. It is done to prevent delivering a child with chromosome defects. It takes place at around eight weeks, and it is more reliable. So, if it is compulsory to do PND, why spend extra money on PGT?

    Parting Thoughts

    So, PGT, PGD, and PGS in IVF are beneficial in specific scenarios. However, the PGT process is not mandatory to have a rewarding IVF cycle and a successful pregnancy. Moreover, infertility issues differ from one couple to another, and hence, having a personalized preimplantation genetic diagnosis is the best way to achieve pregnancy. Reconsidering using the newest technologies and relying on proven methods will help you get the desired outcome.

    If you have more questions regarding IVF or want to further expand your knowledge on PGT testing, get in touch with an accomplished fertility expert or a genetic counselor.

  • Understanding How Stress Affects Fertility and Ways to Manage It

    Understanding How Stress Affects Fertility and Ways to Manage It

    Most couples interested in starting a family make sure they have intercourse regularly and consume nutritious meals. But they end up neglecting one of the most crucial factors which is stress. When you are struggling to get pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment, mental stress can deeply impact your fertility levels. So, in today’s blog, we will discuss in detail the connection between stress and fertility. We will also tell you ways of dealing with stress to maximize your chances of conceiving.

    How Does Stress Affect Fertility?

    We all understand that infertility and IVF treatment can increase our stress levels. But you will be surprised to learn that even stress, depression, and anxiety can lead to infertility in both men and women.

    Many studies have revealed that stress and infertility are interconnected. Wondering how your professional or personal stress can stand in your way of becoming a parent? Let’s find out!

    What is stress? Stress is how your body responds to various challenges – external and internal. This psychological and physiological reaction is quite complex, and it occurs if we experience a threatening, overwhelming, or demanding situation. Stress can be of different kinds like oxidative stress, emotional stress, etc. While getting stressed occasionally is normal, prolonged stress significantly impacts our quality of life.

    A variety of mental and physical responses are triggered by stress. For instance, when we experience stress, cortisol, a stress hormone, is released. But what is the connection between cortisol and fertility? If you are constantly stressed, your body will be forced to produce high levels of cortisol, and this will cause hormonal imbalance. So, the secretion of reproductive hormones like progesterone and estrogen will decrease, thus making you less fertile. Men too can suffer as chronic stress can reduce the production of testosterone, the most important male reproductive hormone. If testosterone is less, the sperm will be of poor quality. Naturally, it will get more difficult to conceive.

    Impact of Stress on Ovulation

    There can be effects of stress on ovulation. Women who remain under stress admit that they experience irregular menstrual cycles. How will you track your ovulation and predict your fertility window if your periods are inconsistent?

    In rare cases, stress can result in anovulation. It is a medical condition that stops the ovaries from releasing mature eggs.

    Tips to Cope with Stress

    Now that you realize that distress and infertility are directly proportional, identify symptoms of depression and anxiety. Here are some things you can do to address stress:

    1. Exercise daily

    One of the best ways of bidding adieu to stress is by exercising for at least 30 minutes every day. When you exercise, feel-good hormones like dopamine and endorphins will replace cortisol. And who says exercising means only sweating out at the gym?

    For the best results, feel free to pick physical activities that you will enjoy doing. It can be anything like gardening, stair climbing, playing badminton, dancing, riding a bicycle, walking, swimming, or jogging.

    Read: Fertility Yoga Benefits

    2. Rely on relaxation techniques

    Many stress-management techniques can work wonders. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga are excellent techniques to get rid of stress, anxiety, and depression. Getting hot oil massages can also give quick relief from stress and thus, minimize the risk of infertility.

    3. Sleep soundly at night

    People who have a consistent sleep routine wake up feeling happy, motivated, and energized. So, for women experiencing infertility, it is very important to go to bed on time and sleep peacefully for 7-8 hours. Sleeping is also the best way of blocking negative thoughts. Hence, when in a bad mood or feeling hopeless, sleep it off.

    4. Spend time with your favorite people

    Irrespective of the outcome of IVF treatment, don’t forget that you are not alone in this journey. Your partner is your biggest support system, and therefore don’t isolate yourself in your grief. Do fun things with your man like going on dinner dates, playing bedroom games, etc. to ease the situation. You should also catch up with your close friends and family members to feel better.

    5. Eliminate the source of stress

    Arriving at the root cause of stress is an organic way of deleting stress from your life. For example, if you are feeling stressed because you have an extremely demanding job and your work-life balance is disrupted, look for another job. If problems in your conjugal life are causing stress, have discussions with your spouse or go to a marriage therapist. Lastly, if the stress is due to the failure of assisted reproductive technologies, speak about it to your fertility specialist.

    6. Seek professional help

    Mental health is not something to be neglected. If you fail to manage stress on your own, some professionals can make your life easier. Find an accomplished therapist in your neighborhood and you will begin noticing positive changes right from the first session.

    The Takeaway 

    So, women with infertility should follow the above-mentioned tips to tackle fertility issues naturally. If you have opted for assisted reproductive technology, that too can be stressful as you need to be patient to get the good news. Therefore, when trying to conceive, say no to stress and try to be happy.

    References:

    SART: Stress and Infertility – a patient education micro-video

    The relationship between stress and infertility – PMC (nih.gov)

  • How to Boost Natural Conception: Tips and Precautions

    How to Boost Natural Conception: Tips and Precautions

    Everyone adult knows that having unprotected sex can get them pregnant, but conceiving is not as simple as you think. Most of the people who succeed after trying to conceive are just lucky. So, if you’ve been trying for months and still not getting the desired outcome, it doesn’t mean that you are infertile, and medical intervention is your only hope. Perhaps, you do not know the right time and way to have coitus to maximize the chances of natural conception.

    Also, did you know that eating certain kinds of foods and making some lifestyle changes can treat various infertility issues?

    Tips to Boost Natural Conception

    1. Set fitness goals

    Being physically healthy is a must to get pregnant, and have a risk-free pregnancy and a smooth delivery. Being underweight or overweight can affect your fertility negatively. Therefore, before you embark on this thrilling adventure called motherhood, start with treating your body well.

    No matter how tight your schedule is, exercise 30 minutes daily, sleep soundly at night, and remove unhealthy habits like having alcohol. This will prepare your body to conceive. getting pregnant at 40 naturally.

    Read to know more: Fertility Yoga benefits

    2. Get rid of nutritional deficiencies

    Did you know that there’s a direct link between nutrition and conception? Yes, to increase fertility levels, both the man and the woman should consume well-balanced meals. So, what are the key nutrients that should be a part of your daily diet?

    The most important thing is hydration and hence, drink plenty of water to support proper functioning of the organs and avoid hormonal imbalances. Your meals should be wholesome combinations of proteins, and complex carbs. whole milk, different vitamins, fatty acids, and minerals.

    Additionally, you have to stay away from foods that will make you less fertile. These include caffeine, soy products, and red meat. While having these occasionally won’t be an issue, excessive consumption will significantly reduce sperm count and egg count. If you are a smoker, then quit smoking the moment you begin your pregnancy planning,

    3. Track your ovulation

    Interested in getting pregnant at 40 naturally? While the chance of conception without assisted reproductive technology is less post-40, there’s no harm in trying. For that, you must track your menstrual cycle to know when you ovulate. Predicting ovulation is easy, but it’s confusing for you, ovulation predictor kits or fertility monitors can come in handy.

    For women who have a regular cycle, the calendar method is reliable for knowing the fertility window. You simply have to note down the first day as well as the last day of your previous period. For 28-day cycles, you can ovulate any day from the 11th to the 21st day.

    Read to know: What is ovulation days

    Before ovulation, the vaginal or cervical mucus becomes thinner and whiter, like the egg white. More secretion of the luteinizing hormone is responsible for triggering ovulation. After ovulation, the basal body temperature rises. All these will give you the hint that now is your fertile window and you should utilize this time by having intercourse. We’ve explained this in detail in the next section.

     4. Have coitus on optimal timings

    As explained already, having sex without protection does not ensure you will become pregnant. If the sperm does not fertilize the egg, implantation won’t take place. And the egg needs to be mature to facilitate clinical pregnancy.

    Therefore, having sex before ovulation and on the day of ovulation will help you get pregnant quickly. Your partner can use natural male fertility supplements to produce high-quality sperm during this time. This is one of the most natural things to help get pregnant. 

    The Takeaway

    So, after learning these natural remedies to get pregnant fast, do you feel motivated and confident to start your pregnancy journey with renewed enthusiasm? You should also consult an experienced fertility specialist who’ll help you conceive naturally without taking any reproductive medicine.

    If you still can’t achieve pregnancy, there are excellent advanced treatments like in vitro fertilization. Thousands of women around the globe are delivering healthy babies through procedures like ICSE, IVF, etc. Hence, just stay happy, listen to your Gynecologist, and your dream of becoming a parent will soon be a reality.

    References:

    How to Get Pregnant Naturally | American Pregnancy Association

    Antioxidants for female subfertility – PMC (nih.gov)

  • ICSI Fertility Treatment Procedure: Everything About Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Procedure 

    ICSI Fertility Treatment Procedure: Everything About Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Procedure 

    of Doctors often recommend ICSI to infertile couples, especially when male infertility issues are the reasons behind unsuccessful conception. But for most couples considering IVF, procedures like ICSI or artificial insemination seem too intimidating. It’s only because of the lack of awareness. So, today I’ll tell you all about the ICSI fertility treatment procedure., its benefits, associated risks, and ICSI cost.

    ICSI Treatment: An Overview

    ICSI stands for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, and it is among the most effective IVF treatments. During IVF, sperm is placed directly into the mature egg to facilitate fertilization.

    IVF and ICSI Treatment Differences

    People often end up using the terms ICSI and IVF interchangeably. However, not all IVF pregnancies are ICSI pregnancies. So, what is the difference between IVF and ICSI treatment? The difference lies in the fact that in ICSI, sperm and egg come in contact in a lab environment. In both in vitro fertilization and ICSI, the fertilized egg is placed into the uterus.

    Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection or ICSI Procedure

    Just like other infertility treatments, ICSI takes place in several steps that are explained below:

    1. Initial Consultation

    When you book an appointment with an accomplished fertility specialist, they perform various tests to find out what’s standing in your way of conceiving. Based on the reports, they discuss the best treatment option for you and your partner. If the doctor thinks ICSI will be effective in your case, they will walk you through the procedure before the treatment starts.

    2. Ovarian Stimulation

    If multiple eggs are produced, the chances of implantation will be higher. So, the ovaries are stimulated by injecting medicines like the follicle-stimulating hormone for 8-14 days. The human chorionic gonadotropin is also injected for the final maturation.

    3. Egg Retrieval

    Once eggs are sufficiently fertilized, egg retrieval is the next crucial step in the ICSI pregnancy procedure, and it is usually done under local anesthesia. Healthcare providers rely on transvaginal ultrasound technology for guiding a thin needle into the ovaries through the vaginal opening. There is a suction device that is connected to the end of the needle, and it draws out the eggs.

    4. Sperm Collection

    After acquiring the fertilized eggs, it is time for semen collection. The male partner needs to provide his semen sample. The fertility specialist analyzes the semen in the lab to isolate the healthiest sperm cells.

    Usually, sperm collection and egg retrieval take place on the same day to save time. To ensure that quality sperm is produced, the doctor gives some tips like:

    • Not having sex and avoiding masturbation for 2-3 days before the sperm collection
    • Eating nutrient-rich foods
    • Refraining from having alcohol
    • Getting enough sleep the night before

    5. Sperm Preparation & Injection

    Sperm preparation means choosing the sperm cells that appear the most viable. Then, the sperm is brought into contact with the eggs in the lab.

    6. Fertilization

    After the sperm is injected into the eggs, the doctor closely monitors the eggs. Ideally, the eggs get fertilized within a week and form a blastocyst. The doctor evaluates the cell mass and size of the blastocyst to determine if it is capable of leading to a pregnancy.

    7. Embryo Transfer

    You and your doctor will select a suitable day for the embryo transfer, which can be done as soon as the egg is fertilized. A small catheter is used for embryo transfer. The embryo must attach itself to the uterus, which is termed implantation.

    8. Testing

    Doctors advise their patients to wait at least 2 weeks before doing a pregnancy test. Initially, you can buy a pregnancy test kit and perform the test at home. If you are pregnant, there can be some early pregnancy signs like breast tenderness, missed periods, etc.

    ICSI Benefits

    ICSI can come to the rescue if there are issues with:

    • low sperm count
    • sperm motility
    • poor sperm quality

    Risks of ICSI

    Any medical procedure carries risks. Some possible risks associated with ICSI fertility are:

    1. Multiple pregnancies
    2. Birth defects like intellectual disabilities or growth disorders
    3. Failed fertilization
    4. Infection and bleeding
    5. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

    However, the risks are low and ICSI has a high success rate. So, you should stay positive.

    Is ICSI Painful?

    ‘Is ICSI painful?’ is a common question that any woman considering ICSI asks. The answer is no.

    Ovum pickup takes place under the effect of anesthesia. So, there is no way you will experience any kind of pain during the procedure. However, as a tube will be inserted into your body, feeling mild discomfort is not unusual. But there is no reason to worry as the discomfort will disappear in a day or two.

    ICSI Treatment Cost

    Wondering how much is ICSI treatment?

    It is an expensive treatment. However, the exact cost varies from one fertility clinic to another.

    To Sum Up

    Now that you know all about the ICSI process, do you feel more confident to go ahead with it? ICSI may be perfect in your case if there is male factor infertility. So, be hopeful and obey your doctor’s instructions dedicatedly.