Low Sperm Count- Causes and Treatment

Low Sperm Count- Causes and Treatment

Author – Dr Poonam Garg
Consultant – Obstetrician, Gynaecologist at Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Chandigarh

Low Sperm Count- Causes and Treatment

Oligospermia or low sperm count is not something that strikes anyone’s mind until you wish to start your family. While it takes only one sperm to fertilize the egg, the journey to fertilize the egg can be difficult. According to Dr Poonam Garg, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, and Foetal Medicine, the more sperm your partner has, the better your chances of getting pregnant. The only way, however, to know if you have a low sperm count is through tests. If you have been trying to conceive for a year, visit the best infertility doctor in Chandigarh immediately for early detection.

What is Oligospermia?

The best doctor for infertility treatment defines oligospermia as a condition when you have less than 15 million sperm in 1 millilitre of semen. A healthy sperm count is more than 15 million sperm per 1 millilitre of semen. Another term for severely low sperm count is oligospermia which refers to less than 5 million sperm in 1 milliliter of semen.

What is the Difference Between Oligospermia and Azoospermia?

Oligospermia refers to a condition when you have a nominal amount of sperm in your semen. The numbers, however, are not adequate for pregnancy. Azoospermia, on the other hand, refers to a condition when you have no sperm in your semen.

What Causes Low Sperm Count?

Although the exact cause of low sperm count is not known yet the best infertility doctor in Chandigarh considers the following reasons:

  1. Certain hormonal or genetic diseases

    Some diseases including cystic fibrosis, sexually transmitted infections, urinary tract infections, and hypogonadism can result in oligospermia.

  2. Environmental toxins 

    Toxins are not good for any part of your body, especially for sperm count. Some toxins including arsenic, cadmium, lead or mercury can also cause oligospermia.

  3. Drugs 

    The best doctor for infertility treatment tells us that both prescribed and non-prescription drugs can cause low sperm counts.

  4. Heat 

    Testicles in your body only produce sperm at a particular temperature. The temperature of testicles is usually lower than your body temperature. Certain heat-related situations including having undescended testicles, varicocele, using a laptop on a lap, and spending a long time in hot tubs can cause low sperm count.

What are the Symptoms of Oligospermia?

The main symptom of a low sperm count is the inability to conceive a baby after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse.

How is Oligospermia Treated?

If you are unable to get pregnant for a year, visit the best doctor for infertility treatment in Chandigarh to get yourself evaluated. The doctor will diagnose the cause of infertility and begin treatment depending on your medical condition. The treatment may involve the following:

  1. Surgery to treat varicocele or blocked sperm ducts.
  2. Hormone supplements.
  3. Antibiotics for infections.
  4. Counselling to deal with erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.

What Precautions Should You Take During Treatment?

Once you have visited the doctor and received a treatment plan, make sure that you also make certain lifestyle changes in your routine. This includes:

  1. Maintaining a healthy weight by exercising and eating a balanced meal.
  2. Stopping alcohol or tobacco consumption.
  3. Reducing the consumption of other intoxicating beverages.
  4. Stopping the use of marijuana or other substances.

The best way to treat oligospermia is by making lifestyle changes and following the doctor’s treatment. The sooner you consult the doctor, the better your chances of conceiving a baby. If you are going through a difficult time conceiving a baby, consult Dr Poonam Garg at the Motherhood Hospitals for expert guidance.

Infertility Signs to Look Out for in Women

Infertility Signs to Look Out for in Women

Author – Dr Poonam Garg
Consultant – Obstetrician, Gynaecologist at Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Chandigarh

Infertility Signs to Look Out for in Women

Infertility is a common issue that affects couples all over the world. This is characterized by the inability to conceive naturally for over a year. According to Dr Poonam Garg, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, and Foetal Medicine, the main symptom of infertility is inability to conceive for a long time. Some initial symptoms, however, may also appear that can influence infertility. Although common yet infertility can be treated. If you have been trying to conceive for a long time, visit best doctors for PCOS treatment in Chandigarh.

What is Infertility?

Infertility is a condition that causes you to be unable to get pregnant. It can affect several women. To understand infertility, you must first know the steps involved in conception:

  1. Your brain must produce reproductive hormones for effective ovarian function.
  2. An egg must mature in your ovary.
  3. Your ovary should release an egg.
  4. Your fallopian tube should pick up the egg.
  5. The sperms should travel up your vagina and through the uterus to the fallopian tube.
  6. The sperm must fertilize the egg to create an embryo.
  7. The embryo should travel to the uterus and implant itself.

A pregnancy cannot occur if any of these steps are hampered.
If you are younger than 35 years of age, the best PCO PCOD PCOS specialist in sector 43, Chandigarh will diagnose infertility after one year of trying to conceive. If you are older than 35 years of age, the doctor will diagnose infertility after six months of trying to conceive.

What are the Symptoms of Infertility?

According to the best doctors for PCOS treatment in Chandigarh, the common infertility symptoms in women are:

1. Irregular Periods

On an average, a menstrual cycle can last for 28-30 days. Some women have their periods every 28 days while the others have it after 30 days. The cycle may be different for some women with either 27 days or 32 days. Thus, a variation in days is normal. However, a frequent change in the days or inconsistent cycle or skipping your period altogether for a month is not normal. A menstrual cycle of less than 21 days or longer than 35 days is considered abnormal.

2. Painful Periods

A lot of women go through menstrual cramps during their periods. Some women experience cramps for a day or two during their periods which is usually bearable. For some women, however, the cramps may interfere with their daily activities. Moreover, they may also have heavy flow than normal. This condition is called endometriosis that can also be a reason behind infertility.

3. Hormone Fluctuations

A number of hormones have an impact on fertility. This includes:

  1. Follicle stimulating hormone.
  2. Thyroid hormone.
  3. Progesterone and luteinizing hormone.
  4. Prolactin-luteotropic hormone

A hormonal imbalance is also a prime reason for infertility. Symptoms of hormonal imbalance are:

  1. Acne and other skin troubles.
  2. Facial hair.
  3. Hair thinning on scalp.
  4. Unexplained weight loss or weight gain.
  5. Reduced sex drive.

4. Painful Sexual Intercourse

Sexual intercourse should not be painful. Pain, however, during sex may be caused by some underlying issues, including:

  1. Fibroids.
  2. Endometriosis.
  3. Sexually transmitted diseases.
  4. Pelvic inflammatory disease.
  5. Problems with cervix and uterus.

Infertility is a common and treatable condition given the symptoms are recognized in the early stages. It is important for you to monitor your symptoms and bring any change to your doctor’s attention. You can also consult Dr Poonam Garg at the Motherhood Hospitals for expert guidance.

What is Infertility in Fibroids?

Infertility in Fibroids 

Author – Dr Poonam Garg
Consultant – Obstetrician, Gynaecologist at Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Chandigarh

Infertility in Fibroids

Infertility is an important social and economic problem today because a lot of couples plan their families much later in life. With increasing age, the chances of women getting pregnant are fewer and may be less likely to maintain a pregnancy. According to Dr. Poonam Garg, Obstetrician, Gynaecologist & Foetal Medicine, uterine fibroids are one of the prime reasons for infertility in couples. These block the fallopian tubes or stop a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. This is more common in women at a later age. In such cases, consulting the best IVF doctor in Chandigarh can be an excellent option.

What are Fibroids?

Fibroids or uterine fibroids are benign smooth muscle tumours of the uterus. These noncancerous growths of the uterus often appear during childbearing years. The size of fibroids ranges in size from seedlings to bulky masses that can distort or enlarge the uterus. Women might have single fibroids or multiple ones. In addition, these can also change the size and shape of the uterus making it difficult to get pregnant.

What are the Types of Fibroids?

The fertility specialist in sector 43, Chandigarh classifies fibroids into the following types:
  1. Subserosal Fibroids: These develop on the outer uterine wall and can continue to grow outward increasing in size.
  2. Intramural Fibroids: These develop within the uterine wall and expand from there.
  3. Submucosal Fibroids: These develop just under the lining of the uterine cavity.
  4. Pedunculated Fibroids: These fibroids grow in the form of a stalk on the uterus wall.

What are the Possible Causes and Risk Factors of Uterine Fibroids?

Although the exact cause of uterine fibroids is not known yet the best IVF doctor in Chandigarh considers below causes:
  1. Hormones: The estrogen levels in the body stimulate the development of the uterine lining to prepare for Pregnancy. A high level of this hormone may also promote the growth of fibroids.
  2. Heredity: Fibroids also run in the family.
  3. Obesity: Fibroids are more likely to develop in women with obesity due to increased estrogen production.

Can Fibroids Cause Infertility?

If you are thinking of starting a family, you may wonder if fibroids can hinder conception. According to the fertility specialist in sector 43, Chandigarh, approximately five to ten per cent of women experiencing issues with fertility have fibroids. Uterine fibroids can cause infertility differently. For starters, it can alter the shape of the cervix due to fibroids growing near it. A misshapen cervix can decrease the amount of sperm entering the uterus. Secondly, fibroids can also stretch and distort the uterus, affecting the lining, which can also interfere with sperm successfully fertilizing an egg or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting. Tumours can also block the fallopian tubes.

How Fibroids Cause Infertility?

Infertility due to fibroids depends on the location and size of your fibroids. A lot of women with fibroids get pregnant while others find it difficult. Fibroids can lead to infertility due to:
  1. Changing the shape of your cervix, allowing less sperm to enter.
  2. Changing the shape of your uterus blocks the movement of sperm or embryos.
  3. Blocking fallopian tubes.
  4. Impacting the size of uterine cavity lining.
  5. Reducing blood flow to the uterine cavity will not allow an embryo to implant.
Fibroids affect your fertility in many ways. If you are finding it difficult to get pregnant, visit the best IVF doctor in Chandigarh to check if you have fibroids. You can also consult Dr Poonam Garg at the Motherhood Hospitals.

IVF Pregnancies vs Normal Pregnancies

IVF Pregnancies

Author – Dr Ekawali Gupta   MBBS, MS Degree in OBG from IGMC (Shimla)
Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

What are IVF Pregnancies?

An IVF pregnancy begins its magical journey with the successful implantation of the transferred embryo into the uterine lining. From this moment, the embryo flourishes and grows, much like it would in any other type of pregnancy. Given the specialised beginnings of IVF pregnancies, we offer enhanced monitoring, particularly in the early stages. This extra layer of attention ensures the utmost well-being and health of both the mother and the growing baby, making your journey to parenthood as smooth and joyful as possible.

IVF Pregnancies vs Any Other Pregnancy

Similarities

While IVF pregnancies start with medical intervention, they share many similarities with any other pregnancies as they progress:

  1. Pregnancy Symptoms: An IVF pregnancy, like any other, exhibits similar symptoms such as morning sickness, fatigue, and hormonal changes.
  2. Gestational Period: The length of the pregnancy, typically around 40 weeks, remains the same regardless of the method of conception.
  3. Baby Development: The developmental milestones for the fetus are identical in both types of pregnancies, from the formation of organs to the growth of limbs.

Differences

Despite the similarities, there are some key differences that set IVF pregnancies apart:

  1. Method of Conception: The most obvious difference is the method of conception. IVF pregnancies involve a series of medical procedures, while other pregnancies occur without medical intervention.
  2. Increased Monitoring: IVF pregnancies usually require more frequent medical check-ups, especially in the early stages, to monitor the health of the mother and fetus.
  3. Risk Factors: IVF pregnancies may have a slightly higher risk of complications such as ectopic pregnancies or multiple births, although advancements in technology are continually reducing these risks.

 After How Many Weeks is IVF Pregnancy Considered Safe?

A common question that most couples undergoing IVF Pregnancies have is, “After how many weeks is an IVF pregnancy considered safe?” The answer varies from person to person, but generally speaking, the risk of complications decreases significantly after the first trimester. It’s crucial to consult with your gynaecologist for a personalised assessment and advice tailored to your specific medical history and needs.

Symptoms and Milestones

IVF Pregnancy Symptoms Week by Week 

Understanding the symptoms of an IVF pregnancy on a week-by-week basis can help you better navigate this unique journey. Here’s a more detailed look:

  • Weeks 1-4: Implantation and Early Signs
    – Mild cramping and spotting may occur as the embryo implants itself into the uterine     lining.
    – There are intense mood swings and emotions due to hormonal changes.
  • Weeks 5-8: The Onset of Morning Sickness
    – Nausea and vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness, often begin around this     time.
    – You may also experience heightened sensitivity to smells and changes in food      preferences.
  • Weeks 9-12: Physical Changes
    – Your breasts may become tender and swollen due to hormonal changes.
    – Increased appetite and cravings for specific foods may become noticeable.
  • Weeks 13-16: Second Trimester Begins
    – Morning sickness usually starts to subside.
    – You may start to show a small baby bump.

Symptoms of Pregnancy After IVF 

While many symptoms are similar to those of any other pregnancy, some unique signs may indicate a successful IVF pregnancy:

  • Tender Breasts: Hormonal changes can make your breasts feel tender and fuller than usual.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: Morning sickness is common but can be more pronounced in some IVF pregnancies due to the additional hormones used during treatment.
  • Fatigue: The body works extra hard to support the growing fetus, leading to increased tiredness. This can be exacerbated by the emotional and physical toll of the IVF process.
  • Frequent Urination: As the embryo grows and the uterus expands, you may find yourself needing to urinate more frequently.
  • Mild Cramping: Some women report mild uterine cramping, which is generally considered normal unless accompanied by severe pain or bleeding.

Risks and Complications

IVF Complications

While IVF has made it possible for countless couples to conceive, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with this form of assisted reproduction:

  1. Ectopic Pregnancy: In rare cases, the embryo may implant outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. It is characterised as an ectopic pregnancy and therefore needs immediate medical attention.
  2. Multiple Births: IVF increases the likelihood of multiple births (twins, triplets, etc.), which carry higher risks for both the mother and babies, such as preterm birth and low birth weight.
  3. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): The medications used to stimulate the ovaries can sometimes lead to OHSS, a condition where the ovaries swell and leak fluid into the body.
  4. Miscarriage: While the risk of miscarriage in IVF pregnancies is roughly the same as in any other pregnancy, the emotional and financial investment often makes the loss particularly challenging.

IVF Babies

Are Babies Born Via IVF Different?

A common question that many prospective parents have is whether babies born via IVF are different from those conceived naturally. The answer is largely no, with a few caveats:

  1. Physical and Cognitive Development: Studies have shown that babies born via IVF generally reach the same developmental milestones as those conceived naturally. They grow at similar rates and show no significant differences in cognitive abilities.
  2. Health Risks: Babies born via IVF have the same rate of congenital malformations as naturally conceived babies. However, they may be at a slightly higher risk for low birth weight if multiple embryos were transferred.
  3. Genetic Screening: One advantage of IVF is the option for Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), which can identify embryos with chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. This can be particularly beneficial for older parents or those with a history of genetic disorders.

Conclusion

The journey of IVF pregnancy is a special and unique adventure filled with its own set of rewarding experiences, opportunities for growth, and moments of joy. From the first steps of understanding the IVF process to navigating its distinct milestones, this path is a celebration of informed choices and proactive wellness. While IVF pregnancies may begin with expert medical guidance and benefit from enhanced monitoring in the early stages, they unfold into beautiful, full-fledged pregnancies that are every bit as magical as any other.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best IVF Specialist in Chandigarh.

Do take an appointment with the best Gynaecologist in Chandigarh at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr Ekawali Gupta, please book your appointment here 

10 Common Myths About Fertility Debunked

Myths & facts about Fertility | Motherhood Hospitals Know 10 Fertility Myths | Motherhood Hospitals

Author: Dr. Beena Muktesh MBBS, MS 
Consultant: Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospital Gurgaon

According to WHO’s latest report of April 2023, worldwide approximately 17% of total population find it difficult to get pregnant. Although fertility is becoming a rising concern today the subject is still taboo within the society. The couples trying to conceive either visit the Best IVF Doctor in Gurgaon or do not discuss the topic openly. According to the Best IVF Specialist in Gurgaon, Dr. Beena Muktesh, MBBS, MS, Infertility & IVF Specialist, an inability to discuss the topic openly causes the couples to believe in prevalent myths running down the mills. It is important for us as a society to debunk such myths, speak openly, and visit the doctor at the earliest.

10 Common Myths About Fertility Debunked

Here are the common myths about fertility that you need to be cautious about:

  1. Infertility is a female problem

Time and time again, the science has proved that male infertility accounts for one-third of the infertility issues. The fingers still are pointed at females when it comes to infertility issues. Both males and females face infertility issues that make them difficult to conceive.

  1. Infertility is rare

The Top IVF Doctor in Gurgaon at the Motherhood Hospitals sees a lot of patients who find it difficult to conceive. Today, infertility is no longer rare and 1 out of every 8 couples are unable to conceive normally.

  1. Age does not impact fertility

When it comes to fertility, age plays a crucial factor. In women, fertility begins to deteriorate after the age of 34 due to the reduced quality of eggs. Hence, it is important to consider your age when planning pregnancy.

  1. A regular menstrual cycle indicates fertility

Having a normal menstrual cycle does not imply that you are ovulating during each cycle. A regular cycle is not related to the quality of your eggs. Hence, the menstrual cycle should never be the deciding factor for fertility.

  1. Birth control pills safeguard your fertility

A lot of people believe that consuming birth control pills can save your eggs. According to the best IVF doctor in Gurgaon, egg freezing during fertility period is the one of the way to save your eggs.

  1. Men do not have a biological clock

Ageing affects both men and women. Similar to women, men do have a biological clock and experience a decline in their fertility after the age of 40.

  1. Stress causes infertility

Although stress does impact our overall health and fertility, however, the top IVF specialist in Gurgaon does not foresee a strong relation between the both. Reducing stress can improve your chances of getting pregnant.

  1. It is easy to get pregnant after having a baby

One successful pregnancy cannot guarantee consequent pregnancies. In fact, 10-14% of couples in India struggle to conceive after having their first child.

  1. Fertility treatments are covered by insurance

Not all fertility treatments are covered by insurance. A lot of companies only insure a part of the IVF process. The entire coverage, however, depends on the type of your policy. Hence, it is important to check your policies before planning for any infertility treatment.

  1. In-vitro fertilization (IVF) always works

Dr. Beena Muktesh comments that although IVF is an effective technique it does not always work. The success rate of IVF depends on a lot of factors including the age of the woman. Hence, to ensure IVF success, one should visit the best IVF specialist in Gurgaon at the earliest.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Gurgaon. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Gurgaon at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr Beena Muktesh, please book your appointment here.

5 Lifestyle Changes That Can Boost Your Fertility

Lifestyle Changes That Can Boost Your Fertility

Author: Dr. Beena Muktesh MBBS, MS
Consultant: Gynaecologist & Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospital Gurgaon

If you are hoping to get pregnant, you might wonder if you can improve it on your own. Dr Beena Muktesh, MBBS, MS-Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Specialist, considers improper lifestyle as the defining factor for infertility. Many of the patients suffering from infertility develop the condition gradually by not taking care of their health.  

The best Fertility specialist in Gurgaon tells us that both male and female fertility is greatly affected by age, lifestyle changes, and genetics. Many of these factors can be changed or improved to boost your fertility and overall reproductive health.  

Lifestyle Changes That Can Boost Your Fertility 

Here are some lifestyle changes that can help you boost your fertility: 

1.Healthy Diet 

The best Fertility specialist in Gurgaon considers diet as one of the important factors that not only affect fertility but also overall health. What you eat affects the quality of your eggs and sperm. A Harvard study found that women can decrease infertility issues due to ovulation disorders by 80% with a healthy diet.  

If you are wondering what to eat, here are some quick tips for you: 

  • Switch from full-fat dairy to low-fat dairy to promote healthy ovulation. 
  • Consume more protein and soy. 
  • Eat more fibre. 
  • Add walnuts to your diet. 
  • Reduce carb and sugar intake. 
  • Avoid processed foods.

2.Exercise 

Staying active or moderate exercise (up to 1 hour) reduces various health complications and boosts fertility. Studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle and lack of activity throughout the day increase the risk of infertility. On the other hand, exercise can help in losing weight, improving your reproductive health, relieving your stress & anxiety and in turn boosting fertility. 

3.Get Adequate Sleep 

Your body requires sufficient sleep to rest and recover. People who sleep for less than 6 hours a day are more prone to infertility than others. A healthy sleeping pattern boosts your overall well-being by decreasing stress, giving your body some time to relax, as well as improving fertility. 

4.Stress Management

Stress is one of the leading contributors to infertility. Any type of physical, mental, and emotional stress to both men and women has been shown to cause infertility. Aside from stress, depression and anxiety also harm your overall health and fertility. If you feel stressed out or anxious most of the time, seek professional help from combined team of fertility & psychologist to manage your stress level & reproductive health. 

5.Avoid Beverages, Smoking, and Alcohol

Excessive consumption of coffee, tea, or other beverages also impacts your fertility levels. Overconsumption of caffeine has been shown to increase the risk of miscarriages in women. Similarly, smoking and alcohol also have detrimental effects on fertility. If you are planning to conceive, it is the best time to avoid consuming even a moderate amount of alcohol or beverages in your diet. 

Infertility is still a taboo in our society and people avoid discussing it or at times do not even seek professional help. If you have been trying to conceive for a long time and see no results or have previous miscarriages, need some changes in your lifestyle and consult the best fertility doctor in Gurgaon. You can reach out to Dr. Beena Muktesh from the Motherhood Hospitals for expert guidance and help.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Gurgaon. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do take an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Gurgaon at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Beena Muktesh, please book your appointment here.

Endometriosis & Infertility

Endometriosis & Infertility

Author: Dr. Beena Muktesh MBBS, MS
Consultant: Gynaecologist & Fertility Specialist at Motherhood Hospital Gurgaon

Endometriosis has been estimated to affect up to 10-15% of women at their reproductive age. According to Dr Beena Muktesh, MBBS, MS-Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fertility Specialist, around 30-50% of women with endometriosis have infertility. Moreover, women with advanced endometriosis also have poor ovarian reserve, low eggs and embryo quality as well as poor implantation. A lot of women with endometriosis experience pain and heavy periods, however, they are not aware of the disease. The disease is often discovered in advanced stages that eventually lead to infertility. 

What is Endometriosis? 

Endometrium refers to the inner lining of your uterus. When you have a period, this inner lining falls away from the walls of your uterus and If you get pregnant, the embryo attaches itself to the endometrium for development.  

Endometriosis is a condition wherein the tissues like endometrium grow on other parts of your body. When these tissues start growing in the wrong places, it causes excruciating pain and makes conceiving difficult. 

The endometrial layer can grow on several parts of your body, such as: 

  1. Fallopian tubes. 
  2. Ovaries. 
  3. Vagina. 
  4. Back of your uterus. 
  5. Bladder and uterus.
  6. Rectum. 
  7. Intestines. 

These abnormal endometrial tissues do not shed tissues like healthy endometrial tissues inside the uterus. This leads to a buildup of abnormal tissues, inflammation, scarring, and painful cysts.  

Although the exact reason behind endometriosis is not yet known, it is supposed to be caused by genetics, reverse menstruation, and a family history of endometriosis. 

What are the Symptoms of Endometriosis? 

The common symptoms of endometriosis are as below: 

  1. Painful menstrual cramps radiating to the abdomen and lower back. 
  2. Pain during or after sexual intercourse. 
  3. Diarrhoea or constipation during the menstrual period. 
  4. Heavy or irregular periods. 
  5. Fatigue or low energy levels. 
  6. Pain during urination or bowel movements. 
  7. Spotting between menstrual periods. 

What are the Stages of Endometriosis? 

The best infertility doctor in Gurgaon classifies endometriosis into 4 stages: 

  1. Stage I: Minimal endometriosis with no scar tissues. 
  2. Stage II: Mild endometriosis with less than 2 inches of the affected abdomen. 
  3. Stage III: Moderate endometriosis with scar tissues around tissues and ovaries. 
  4. Stage IV: Major endometriosis with highly developed scar tissues. 

Endometriosis and Infertility 

Women with Stage I and II endometriosis can conceive on their own or need IUI however, complications may arise in the later stages. Generally, the best infertility doctor in Gurgaon suggests IVF treatment before going in for laparoscopy or surgical removal of visible endometriosis for women less than 35 years of age. For women older than 35 years, other fertility treatments are recommended.  

In the case of Stage III or IV endometriosis, pregnancy rates are high if Ovum pick up for IVF is done before surgery. If she has symptoms like severe pain due to cyst & endometriosis. Then surgery is planned before IVF. 

Hence, before starting any treatment, a complete evaluation is crucial. If you experience abnormal pain during periods, it is best to consult Dr Beena Muktesh at the Motherhood Hospitals to get expert guidance and treatment. 

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Gurgaon. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries. 

Do take an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Gurgaon at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life. 

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Beena Muktesh, please book your appointment here.

Tips to boost your fertility

Fertility and pregnancy

Author – Motherhood Medical Team

While trying to conceive, some couples may get pregnant immediately while for some it may take longer than expected. Therefore, the path towards parenthood can be challenging, sometimes. However, there are some ways by which you can increase your fertility.

Quick fact

Caffeine intake by a woman can impact how long it takes for her to get pregnant.

Tips to boost your fertility

Following are some ways in which improve the chances of conceiving:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Healthy weight is an important factor that can help you with fertility where an overweight or underweight woman may find it difficult to conceive. Hormone regulation can get affected by weight which can impact the ovulation.
  • Know when you ovulate: You can keep the track of your ovulation (when your ovaries release an egg) which is the best time for conceiving. Provided you are having regular periods, it means you can try to conceive on days 8-19 after periods, while as in case of irregular cycles, you should use a calendar to track it.
  • Limit your alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can affect the ovulation in women along with affecting the production of hormones in men, leading to decreased chances of fertility. It is better to limit your alcohol intake.
  • Eat healthy foods: Eating healthy foods can help you obtain critical nutrients to maintain a healthy body. Your diet should comprise of variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, dairy foods etc. Besides, you should consume about 8-10 cups of water a day.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking is ascribed with fertility problems where it can effect ovaries. It is better to stay away from smoking, and increase your fertility.
  • Exercising: You don’t need to stress about your pregnancy where you can exercise daily to cope with the pressure.
  • Try for conceiving often: Try to have sex often, at least 3 times a week. There are more chances to conceive when you try continuously.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist who are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological needs, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best maternity hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

Why can’t I get pregnant again? What is secondary infertility?

What is secondary infertility?

Author – Motherhood Medical Team

Secondary infertility can be defined as the inability to carry a baby to full term after having a previous successful pregnancy without any fertility medication or IVF treatment. Secondary infertility is as common as primary infertility and can be traced to either partners or both. While one-third of the cases are found in men and one-third in women, the remaining are attributed to a combination of unknown factors.

Causes of secondary infertility in women:

  • Issues in the quality and quantity of eggs( limited supply or the inability to create new eggs after birth)
  • Issues with the fallopian tube (blockage due to pelvic infections)
  • Uterine problems (fibroids and more)
  • Scarring from endometriosis
  • PCOS(polycystic ovarian syndrome)
  • Breastfeeding ( often leads to a decrease in egg count)
  • Lifestyle changes and weight gain( diets and obesity)
  • Other ovulation issues
  • Surgical complications ( past pregnancy surgeries)

Causes of secondary infertility in men:

  • Reduced testosterone level(aging or injury in the genitals)
  • Testicular varicocele(vein enlargement in the scrotum)
  • Poor quality semen (semen quality declines after 40)
  • Prostate enlargement(hinders normal ejaculation)
  • Prostate removal(this causes semen to flow backward)
  • Late-onset hypogonadism(reduction in hormone secretion)
  • Use of commercial sexual lubricants toxic to the sperm
  • Exposure to certain chemicals

Signs of secondary infertility:

Couples can suspect secondary infertility when they have unprotected sex for about a year at the age of 35 without getting pregnant.

What can be done?

One can go for assisted reproductive techniques (ART) like Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and In vitro fertilization(IVF), while there are medications and surgeries for the same. Antioxidants and anti-aging supplements are also recommended.

Failure in treatment could take a toll on mental health. The patient feels several emotions ranging from anger, sadness, guilt, and loneliness. Feeling isolated is quite common in these patients.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist who are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological needs, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best delivery hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

What is IVF? How does it assist childless couples?

What is IVF?

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a process involving the combination of male sperm and female eggs in a special laboratory to generate an embryo(s). Various factors determine the success of IVF.

The factors may include:

  1. Usage of donor eggs/embryos
  2. Ovulatory dysfunction
  3. Dual infertility factors
  4. History of previous pregnancies or recurrent miscarriage
  5. Age factor
  6. Type of infertility (Fertility problem)
  7. Duration of fertility issues

is IVF treatment?

An IVF cycle typically consists of the steps given below:

  1. Medications to facilitate the growth of multiple eggs
  2. Retrieval of egg(s) from the ovaries
  3. Insemination of eggs using the sperm
  4. Culture of the resultant embryos
  5. Transfer of single or multiple embryos in the uterus
  6. Usage of hormones to nourish the uterine lining to facilitate healthy pregnancy

What is the IVF process? How is IVF done??˜

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or IVF treatment involves four main stages. IVF technology is a technology employed to help infertile women achieve fertility.?˜

  1. The first stage includes the woman taking injections towards the stimulation of her ovaries. The ovaries produce follicles. These follicles are the cysts in the ovaries filled with fluid. These fluid-filled cysts contain the egg. 
  2. Subsequently, a procedure carried out under anaesthesia removes eggs from the ovaries under the guidance of an ultrasound.
  3. The next stage involves fertilization of the egg and sperm in the laboratory under a controlled environment. 
  4. The embryos (Fertilized eggs) are subsequently transferred into the woman’s uterus to induce pregnancy.

What are the types of infertility issues IVF can treat?

A. Unexplained infertility

B. Poor or unhealthy quality of eggs

C. Low sperm count

D. Low motility of sperm

E. Problems with ovulation

F. Inability of sperm to pass through the cervical mucus or survive there

G. Issues with the uterus or fallopian tubes

H. Endometriosis

How does IVF work?

IVF shines out as one of the most popular forms of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). IVF functions by combining surgical procedures and medicines to facilitate the fertilization of an egg by the sperm. The fertilized egg subsequently implants in the uterus.?˜

What are the advantages of IVF?

IVF helps women with

A. Endometriosis:

Endometriosis involves the growth of some parts of the womb lining outside the womb. IVF offers relief from infertility caused by endometriosis. 

B. PCOS:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS is a condition involving irregular menstrual cycles caused by hormonal imbalance. IVF helps women with PCOS to conceive even when ovulation induction fails to address infertility. 

C. Unexplained Infertility:

1 in 6 couples suffers from unexplained infertility issues nowadays. The intervention of IVF may offer promise to couples grappling with unexplained infertility.

D. Premature ovarian failure:

Menopause and premature ovarian failure may complicate the outcomes of effective pregnancy. IVF intervention using donor eggs may bring relief to the couples.

E. Damaged Fallopian tubes:

Women with blocked or damaged fallopian tubes may grapple with infertility. IVF may help increase the chances of having a baby with their eggs.?˜

F. Male infertility:

Male infertility problems are growing lately due to various health issues. Natural conception may become a challenge for couples with male factor infertility. With the interventions using IVF, couples with male factor infertility may get some promise of conception.?˜?˜

G.?˜Patients with a low ovarian reserve or older patients:

IVF helps raise the chances of conception in patients with advanced age. Women with a low ovarian reserve may struggle with conception. IVF technology assesses the overall possibility and helps older women and women with low ovarian reserve.?˜

What are the features of IVF?

IVF technology is in use for a long time with a safe track record:

IVF processes have advanced ever since the birth of Louise Brown, the first IVF baby. IVF went ahead to emerge as the IVF technology creating safer and successful options. Most effective IVF cycles promote the usage of fewer drugs to minimize any side effects like Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). 

IVF facilitates an easy diagnosis of the fertilization problems:

Unexplained infertility may pose threat to the couple’s marital bliss. Unexplained infertility may imply miscellaneous issues. The problems as such may not become evident until someone experiments on the fertility issues. 

IVF allows effective usage of unutilized embryos:

Those who have embryos left for subsequent usage may allow others to use them to treat fertility issues. They may even save lives. These are the embryos that may facilitate various research projects. It may help other childless couples to attain parenthood. 

Embryos may be used to study inherited diseases:

IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) allows a conception safe from genetic disorders. They may be Huntington’s Disease, Muscular Dystrophy and Cystic Fibrosis. IVF allows proper examination of inheritable diseases and techniques to help prevent such health concerns. 

What determines the number of embryos being created or transferred?

Multiple factors are affecting the number of eggs to create or transfer. It may mainly depend on how many eggs are collected and maternal age. The rate of implantation may go on to diminish with the women ageing. It may facilitate the implantation of more eggs if a lady is older. More number of eggs transferred may lead to multiple pregnancies. It’s important to discuss with your IVF expert the number of embryos to implant.

Are there any precautions before IVF?

Yes. IVF doesn’t just intend to help you achieve pregnancy but a healthy pregnancy. Your obstetrician or IVF expert may ask you to change your lifestyle.

Diet:

You may have to change your diet. A few species of fish containing Mercury may affect the foetal nervous system. Shortly before, during and even after IVF, you may have to stay away from some fish species. They may be King Mackerel, Tilefish, Canned Tuna Fish, Shark and Swordfish. You may have to avoid a few other fish species as your IVF expert guides you. Your IVF expert may study your medical history and help you round off a proper dietary regimen.

Drugs:

Drugs are just meant to be avoided as the efforts towards conception are about to start. Recreational drugs may interfere with the ability to conceive or to carry the pregnancy to term. Some drugs like Marijuana may decrease sperm concentration and hinder the production of Testosterone. 

Caffeine:

The correlation between caffeine and its effects on fertility is under analysis. Caffeine may be linked to a decrease in the chances of conception. The cause-and-effect relationship between caffeine intake and conception is still to be confirmed. But studies show that women should limit the caffeine intake as they start trying for pregnancy. 

Smoking:

We are precisely aware of how smoking affects our health and the environment around us. Smoke in every form may be linked to an increase in the risk of complications. Men and women who smoke may lose their reproductive health. Studies have shown the harmful effects of smoking on foetal health in multiple ways. Parental dependence on tobacco in pregnancy and after pregnancy may raise the risk of paediatric cancers in kids. 

Alcohol:

We know how alcohol interferes with our overall health. It affects our physical and mental health. Alcohol intake can lead to poor reproductive health. Your obstetrician may advise you to avoid alcohol. Alcohol in pregnancy may create irreversible dangers. 

Medication use:

Non-fertility medications should be avoided as you start preparing for an IVF cycle. Your General physician deserves to know about your IVF cycle. You should start avoiding medications like Aspirin and those resembling Aspirin. Certain medications interfere with ovulation. 

How much does IVF treatment cost?

Motherhood has a dedicated team that oversees standard IVF protocols and helps couple achieve parenthood at reasonable rates.?˜

Book an Appointment Now!