Fertility - Learn About IVF, Egg Freezing, And More.

What are the common causes of infertility?

Infertility can result from female factor causes, male factor causes, or a combination of both. In approximately 15% to 20% of cases, the underlying cause remains unexplained.

Common female factors include ovulatory disorders (such as polycystic ovary syndrome), structural blockages in the fallopian tubes, endometriosis, and age-related declines in egg quantity and quality. Male factors frequently involve reduced sperm count, impaired sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, or structural obstructions preventing normal sperm delivery.

What is In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and how does the process work?

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproductive procedure where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilised by sperm in a laboratory set-up. The key stages typically include:

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal medications are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
2. Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected via a minor, ultrasound-guided transvaginal procedure under sedation.
3. Fertilisation & Culture: Eggs are combined with prepared sperm in the laboratory and monitored as they develop into embryos.
4. Embryo Transfer: One or more selected embryos are gently placed into the uterus to establish a pregnancy. Remaining viable embryos may be cryopreserved.

What is Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation), and who should consider it?

Egg Freezing, or oocyte cryopreservation, is a technique used to preserve a woman’s reproductive potential. The process involves ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, followed by flash-freezing (vitrification) of unfertilised eggs for storage.

It may be considered for medical reasons (such as prior to undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy that could impact fertility) or for social/elective reasons to preserve eggs at a younger age when egg quality and quantity are statistically higher. Regulatory frameworks and age limits for social egg freezing vary depending on the jurisdiction.

What lifestyle changes can help support fertility in men and women?

Adopting general health-promoting habits can support overall reproductive wellness:

• Maintain a balanced diet: Consume whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods and refined sugars.
• Manage body weight: Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) supports hormonal balance and regular ovulatory cycles.
• Limit alcohol and avoid smoking: Tobacco use and excess alcohol consumption negatively affect both egg quality and sperm parameters.
• Manage stress levels: Chronic stress can disrupt endocrine function; moderate exercise, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can support general well-being.

What initial diagnostic tests are performed during a fertility assessment?

A standard fertility evaluation for a couple typically involves tests for both partners:

• For Women: Pelvic ultrasound scan (to assess the uterus and ovarian reserve), hormonal blood tests (including Anti-Müllerian Hormone or AMH, FSH, LH, and thyroid function), and tubal patency tests (such as a hysterosalpingogram or HSG).
• For Men: Semen analysis to evaluate sperm volume, count, motility (movement), and morphology (structure).