FAQs

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. It's a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where eggs are surgically removed from a woman's ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory dish. The resulting embryos are then transferred back into the woman's uterus to hopefully implant and result in a pregnancy.

ICSI is a procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to help with fertilization. It's an advanced step in the IVF process.

IUI is a fertility treatment which involves placing sperm directly in the uterus, monitoring the time of ovulation, which increases the chances of fertilization.

Yes, egg freezing is considered a very safe and established procedure. At Yashoda IVF Centre, we utilize advanced vitrification techniques and adhere to stringent safety protocols. Extensive research has shown no increased risk of birth defects or developmental issues in children born from frozen eggs compared to those conceived naturally. Our experienced team ensures your safety and well-being throughout the entire process.

Yes, surrogacy is legal in India, but with a lot of restrictions and regulations. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act of 2021 prohibits commercial surrogacy, meaning the surrogate mother cannot receive financial compensation beyond medical expenses.

It's a process where an elongated, flexible tubelike device with attached light and camera (a hysteroscope) is carefully inserted into the vagina and cervix in the uterus. This allows them to directly visualize the uterine lining on the screen.

Laser Assisted Hatching is an advanced laboratory technique used in IVF (in vitro fertilization) where a small hole is made in the outer shell (zona pellucida) of an embryo using a precise laser. This helps the embryo hatch and implant more easily into the uterus.

Day 3 transfer involves transferring embryos that have typically divided into 6-8 cells. Day 5 transfer, or blastocyst transfer, includes transferring embryos that have developed into a more advanced stage with hundreds of cells and distinct structures. Day 5 embryos have greater developmental potential in the lab.

Laparoscopy is performed under general anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Post-surgery, some discomfort, mild pain, or shoulder pain (due to the gas used) is common but manageable with medication. Overall, it's significantly less painful than open surgery due to smaller incisions.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining, and in rare instances, it may spread further. Unlike the uterine lining, this displaced tissue has no way to exit the body during menstruation, leading to inflammation, pain, and the formation of scar tissue.

PGT-A is generally considered a safe procedure for embryos when performed correctly by skilled embryologists. The biopsy involves removing a few cells from the outer layer (trophectoderm) of the blastocyst, which typically develops into the placenta, minimizing harm to the inner cell mass that forms the fetus. Studies have shown that babies born after PGT-A do not have an increased rate of birth defects.

It's a process where embryos are frozen and stored for later use, allowing couples to delay or postpone a pregnancy or address other family planning needs.

Home IVF kits are not a substitute for conventional IVF. They provide tools for at-home sample collection and preliminary analysis. The actual fertilization and embryo transfer still require a clinic visit.

Male infertility in a fertile female after one year or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. It can stem from issues with sperm production, sperm function, or the ability to deliver sperm effectively. This condition affects a significant number of couples worldwide seeking to conceive.

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child after one year or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a medical condition affecting both men and women equally and is a significant concern for many couples worldwide. It's important to understand that infertility is not a reflection of personal inadequacy or failure. There are two main types: Primary Infertility (couples who have never conceived) and Secondary Infertility (couples who have conceived before but cannot achieve another pregnancy).

Female infertility can be broadly categorized into two main types:

1. Primary Female Infertility: This refers to women who have never conceived despite having regular, unprotected intercourse for at least one year. It indicates an inability to establish a first pregnancy.

2. Secondary Female Infertility: This applies to women who have conceived at least once in the past but are now unable to achieve another pregnancy. This can arise even if previous pregnancies resulted in successful live births.

Both primary and secondary infertility can be emotionally challenging, and understanding the distinction can help guide diagnosis and treatment strategies. Female infertility presents a significant challenge for many individuals and couples aspiring to build a family.

Patients often want a breakdown of costs including consultations, medications, procedures, and follow-up.

IVF is an option for couples facing various infertility issues, such as blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, male factor infertility (low sperm count or motility), endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or when other fertility treatments have been unsuccessful.

It's commonly used for severe male infertility, low sperm count, or previous IVF failure.

IUI is usually recommended for couples dealing with unexplained infertility, mild male infertility, cervical problems, or couples opting donor sperm.

Eggs can be frozen indefinitely using vitrification. While some older guidelines or regulations might mention specific timeframes (e.g., 10 years), scientific evidence shows that vitrified eggs retain their quality for many years, with successful pregnancies reported from eggs frozen for over a decade. At Yashoda IVF Centre, we ensure long-term, safe egg storage for your peace of mind.

In India, surrogacy is primarily available to Indian married couples who have been married for at least five years and are unable to conceive naturally or through other assisted reproductive techniques.

Doctors often recommend it to investigate issues like unusual uterine bleeding (heavy periods, bleeding between cycles), explore causes of infertility or repeated miscarriages, remove polyps or fibroids within the uterus, locate or remove a displaced IUD, or assess the uterine cavity before or after other gynecological surgeries.

LAH is generally recommended for women of advanced maternal age (typically over 37-38 years), patients with previous failed IVF cycles, embryos with a thickened zona pellucida, frozen-thawed embryo transfers (FETs), embryos of poor quality, and patients with high follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels.

Studies have consistently shown that the success rates of Day 5 vs Day 3 transfer are generally higher, particularly in patients with a good prognosis and a sufficient number of good-quality embryos. Blastocyst transfer allows for better embryo selection and higher implantation potential due to improved synchronization with the uterine environment.

Recovery after laparoscopy is generally quick due to its minimally invasive nature. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, and full recovery typically occurs within one to two weeks. The exact timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure performed.

The exact causes of endometriosis isn't fully known, but several theories exist. Retrograde menstruation is a widely accepted theory where menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity during menstruation. Hormonal imbalance with high estrogen levels may also fuel the growth of endometrial implants. An impaired immune system might fail to recognize and eliminate endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus. Additionally, endometriosis has a potential genetic link and tends to run in families.

No, PGT-A does not guarantee a healthy baby. It primarily screens for numerical chromosome abnormalities (aneuploidy) and some structural rearrangements, which can increase the risk of miscarriage or genetic conditions like Down syndrome. However, PGT-A does not detect all genetic disorders caused by single gene mutations or other complex factors that can affect a child's health. Prenatal testing is still recommended to confirm the results and screen for other potential issues.

During an IVF cycle, eggs are retrieved, fertilized with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryos are then frozen using cryoprotectants, which help prevent ice crystal formation during freezing.

The availability of at-home IVF services may be geographically limited. Contact the provider to inquire about service areas outside of Thane and Mumbai. Options for remote consultations and medication delivery might exist.

Common causes include issues with sperm production (low count, poor motility, abnormal shape), blockages in the reproductive tract preventing sperm delivery, and hormonal imbalances affecting sperm development. Other contributing factors can be varicocele, infections, genetic disorders, and lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive alcohol. Identifying the specific cause is crucial for effective treatment.

The uterus plays an important role in implantation and carrying a pregnancy. Several uterine issues can contribute to female infertility:

1. Fibroids and Polyps: These non-cancerous growths in the uterine wall or cavity can disrupt embryo implantation or distort the uterine shape, affecting fertility.

2. Uterine Septum or Other Congenital Malformations: Abnormalities in the shape or structure of the uterus, present from birth, can hinder fertility and pregnancy continuation.

3. Asherman's Syndrome: Scar tissue (adhesions) inside the uterus, often resulting from surgery or infection, can prevent embryo implantation or cause recurrent miscarriages.

These uterine problems can be diagnosed through imaging tests and corrected through various treatment approaches. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving fertility outcomes and achieving successful pregnancy.

Common questions include potential side effects of medications, risks of multiple pregnancies, or complications during the process.

Generally, younger women have higher success rates. Research says- 32% for women under 35, 25% for women aged 35-37, 19% for women aged 38-39, 11% for women aged 40-42, 5% for women aged 43-44, 4% for women over 44 Other factors influencing success include the cause of infertility, embryo quality, the number of embryos transferred, and the clinic's experience and techniques.

Yes. ICSI is a part of IVF, but the sperm injection step is more precise and controlled.

Most people experience minor to no pain. Some may experience mild cramping similar to light period cramps during or after the process.

Pregnancy success rates with frozen eggs are very encouraging, especially when eggs are frozen at a younger age. While individual outcomes vary, leading clinics like Yashoda IVF Centre report high success rates, often comparable to fresh IVF cycles. Factors like the woman's age at freezing and the number of eggs frozen significantly influence the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Amongst all other infertility processes, the cost of surrogacy is comparatively lower than other countries. The costs are inclusive of the surrogate compensation, medical expenses, and legal fees. The surrogacy cost in India ranges anywhere between 15 to 25 lakhs.

Most women experience more discomfort than actual pain during a hysteroscopy. You might feel cramping or pressure, similar to menstrual cramps, as the uterus is gently expanded with fluid or gas for better viewing. Discuss unusual symptoms with your doctor for better guidance.

Yes, numerous studies and clinical observations suggest that LAH can lead to higher clinical pregnancy rates, especially in indicated patient populations. LAH allows the embryo to more readily interact and attach to the uterine lining, thereby increasing the chances of successful implantation.

Not all embryos will reach the blastocyst stage. This is a natural selection process where only the most robust and developmentally competent embryos are likely to reach the blastocyst stage in vitro. The extended culture period allows for this natural selection, identifying embryos with the highest developmental competence and implantation potential.

Yes, for many individuals, laparoscopy can significantly improve the chances of getting pregnant. By diagnosing and treating fertility-hindering conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, adhesions, or blocked fallopian tubes, it optimizes the reproductive system. This can lead to natural conception or enhance the success rates of other fertility treatments like IVF.

Symptoms of endometriosis vary widely in severity and presentation. Common signs include painful periods (dysmenorrhea), often more severe than typical menstrual cramps and worsening over time. Chronic pelvic pain persists in the lower abdomen and pelvis, unrelated to menstruation. Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) can be severe or moderate. Infertility may occur as endometriosis can damage fallopian tubes or ovaries. Some experience painful bowel movements or urination, especially during menstrual periods. Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) with unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding is also common.

PGT-A is not routinely recommended for all IVF patients, as its benefits depend on individual circumstances. It is often considered for women of advanced maternal age (35 or older), those with a history of recurrent miscarriages or repeated IVF failures, or couples with known chromosome abnormalities. While PGT-A can improve pregnancy and live birth rates in certain groups, it may not offer the same benefits to all IVF patients, and the decision should be made after careful consultation with a fertility specialist and genetic counselor.

Two main techniques are slow freezing and vitrification (flash freezing). Vitrification is a newer technology with higher embryo survival rates.

Medications for IVF are typically prescribed by a fertility specialist. Depending on the service, they may be delivered to your home, or you might need to pick them up from a pharmacy. Instructions for self-administration will be provided.

Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. A semen analysis is the primary diagnostic test, evaluating sperm count, motility, and morphology. Further investigations may include hormonal blood tests, genetic testing, and imaging studies of the reproductive organs to pinpoint the underlying cause of infertility.

IVF is a highly effective assisted reproductive technology procedure involving several steps: ovarian stimulation with medications to produce multiple mature eggs, egg retrieval through a minimally invasive ultrasound-guided procedure, fertilization in a laboratory by mixing eggs and sperm (or ICSI), embryo culture for a few days, and finally embryo transfer into the uterus. Success rates vary depending on factors including female age, egg/sperm quality, and underlying infertility causes. IVF is effective for blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, severe male factor infertility, ovulation disorders, and unexplained infertility.

The fallopian tubes are essential for the transport of the egg from the ovary to the uterus and for fertilization to occur. Issues affecting the tubes include:

1. Blocked Fallopian Tubes (Tubal Infertility): Blockages, often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or past surgeries, prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or the fertilized egg from reaching the uterus.

2. Hydrosalpinx: Fluid accumulation within a blocked fallopian tube can damage the tube and release substances harmful to embryo implantation.

3. Scarring or Adhesions: Scar tissue near the fallopian tubes can impede their function and the movement of the egg through the tubes.

These tubal issues are a common cause of female infertility and can be diagnosed through imaging and treated through surgery or assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.

Patients typically want a timeline from initial consultation through embryo transfer and pregnancy testing.

The cost of IVF can vary considerably depending on the country, the clinic, and the specific treatments required. In India, the average cost of one IVF cycle can range from ₹80,000 to ₹2,50,000 but this can increase with additional procedures like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), genetic testing (PGT), or using donor eggs or sperm. Some insurance plans may cover part of the infertility treatment costs, but coverage varies widely depending on location and the insurance policy.

ICSI is generally considered safe, with outcomes similar to traditional IVF.

Success varies upon age, fertility issues, and if fertility medications are suggested. For each cycle, success rates ranges from 10% to 20%.

A hysteroscopy is usually quite an elaborate process which is usually completed within 5 to 15 minutes. If any procedure, such as removing a polyp, is performed at the same time, the overall duration might be longer.

Yes, LAH is considered safe for the embryo. Compared to older methods of assisted hatching (such as chemical or mechanical methods), laser technology offers unparalleled precision and control, minimizing the risk of damage to the embryo. Extensive research has confirmed that LAH does not increase the risk of congenital abnormalities or affect the healthy development of the baby.

Blastocyst transfer, when done with single embryo selection, actually reduces the chances of twins. Modern fertility practices often recommend single blastocyst transfer to minimize the risk of multiple pregnancies and their associated complications. The transfer of a single high-quality blastocyst can achieve excellent pregnancy rates while reducing the risks associated with multiple gestations.

As of now, a definitive cure for endometriosis does not exist. The primary aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms such as pain and enhance fertility. Treatment typically involves medications, surgical intervention, or a combination of these approaches. While these treatments can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life, they work to control the condition rather than permanently cure it.

It allows couples to postpone or defer family planning, provides flexibility in family planning, and can lead to increased pregnancy rates.

Medications play a crucial role in addressing ovulatory disorders in female infertility treatment. These drugs aim to stimulate or regulate ovulation. Common hormonal medications include:

1. Clomiphene Citrate: An oral medication that stimulates the release of hormones needed for ovulation, commonly used as first-line treatment.

2. Letrozole: Another oral medication, often used for PCOS-related infertility, that can also stimulate ovulation.

3. Gonadotropins (FSH and LH): Injectable hormones that directly stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

4. Metformin: Often used in women with PCOS to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate ovulation.

5. Bromocriptine or Cabergoline: Used to treat hyperprolactinemia and restore normal ovulation.

These hormonal treatments are customized based on the underlying cause of infertility and the individual's response to therapy, often combined with monitoring and ultrasound to track follicle development.

This is a common concern for individuals or couples with fertility issues related to egg or sperm quality.

IVF involves several steps, including hormone stimulation and procedures like egg retrieval and embryo transfer, which can lead to side effects. Common side effects of fertility medications include: Bruising and soreness at the injection site, Hot flashes, Headaches, Nausea, Breast tenderness, Mood swings and fatigue, Abdominal bloating.

Fertilization rates are high, but pregnancy success depends on factors like age and egg quality.

You'll typically take a pregnancy test about two weeks later the procedure to determine if it was successful.

It's common to experience mild cramping and minimal vaginal spotting for a day or two. You might also experience some gas-related discomfort if gas was used during the procedure. Your doctor will likely advise you to refrain from using tampons and engaging in sexual intercourse for a short period. Most individuals can resume their normal daily activities either on the same day or by the following day.

While LAH can significantly improve the chances of successful implantation and pregnancy, it does not guarantee pregnancy. Individual results vary depending on various factors including age, overall reproductive health, egg quality, sperm quality, and the specific cause of infertility. LAH should be considered as one of several options to optimize IVF success rates.

The embryo transfer procedure is relatively simple and non-surgical. A thin, flexible catheter is used to gently deposit the selected blastocyst(s) into the uterine cavity under ultrasound guidance. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. The risks associated with blastocyst transfer are very low, including a small risk of uterine perforation or infection. Patients are usually advised to rest for a short period after the transfer.

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging due to its different symptoms that overlap with other conditions. A clinical evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, medical history, and family history. A pelvic exam may reveal abnormalities like cysts or tenderness. Ultrasound is used to visualize reproductive organs and detect cysts or other growths, though it cannot definitively diagnose endometriosis. MRI provides more detailed images than ultrasound and helps identify the extent of endometrial implants. Laparoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis where a small incision is made and a thin, lighted instrument is inserted to directly view pelvic organs and confirm the presence of endometrial implants. Biopsies can be taken for confirmation.

While generally safe, there are potential risks like damage to embryos during freezing, failure to get pregnant after thawing, and increased rates of medical issues in pregnancy.

Female infertility can result from various conditions affecting the reproductive system:

1. Ovulation Disorders: Infrequent, irregular, or absent ovulation caused by PCOS, hypothalamic dysfunction, premature ovarian insufficiency, or hormonal imbalances.

2. Fallopian Tube Damage or Blockage: Blocked or scarred fallopian tubes preventing egg and sperm from meeting, caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or previous surgeries.

3. Uterine Issues: Abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, congenital malformations, or adhesions that interfere with embryo implantation or increase miscarriage risk.

4. Endometriosis: Growth of uterine-like tissue outside the uterus affecting ovary, fallopian tube, and uterus function.

5. Cervical Factors: Cervical stenosis or inability to produce mucus that facilitates sperm transport.

6. Age-Related Factors: Decline in fertility after mid-30s due to decreased egg quantity and quality.

7. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, obesity, being underweight, and extreme exercise negatively affecting ovulation and fertility.

Regular ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary, is fundamental for conception. Ovulatory disorders are a common cause of female infertility:

1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal disorder is characterized by irregular periods, cysts on the ovaries, and often anovulation (lack of ovulation) or infrequent ovulation.

2. Hypothalamic Dysfunction: Problems with the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that regulates hormones, can disrupt the signals needed for ovulation. This can be caused by stress, weight changes, or excessive exercise.

3. Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): Also known as premature menopause, this occurs when the ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40, leading to decreased egg quality and quantity.

4. Hyperprolactinemia: High levels of the hormone prolactin can alter ovulation.

5. Diminished Ovarian Reserve: As women age, the number and quality of their eggs naturally decline, making conception more challenging.

These ovulatory disorders can be managed with hormonal medications to stimulate or regulate ovulation.

PCOD, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. It causes irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and cysts in the ovaries. PCOD can lead to fertility issues due to irregular ovulation and may require fertility treatment to conceive. PCOD's impact on fertility is crucial for those seeking assistance to overcome reproductive challenges.

The complete IVF cycle normally takes up to 4 to 6 weeks to complete. This includes the time from the start of ovarian stimulation until the pregnancy test. Every case is unique , so the time required too!

Male infertility often involves sperm-related issues and other reproductive factors:

1. Sperm Disorders (Most Common):
- Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): Fewer sperm than normal
- Absent Sperm (Azoospermia): Complete lack of sperm
- Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia): Sperm that don't swim effectively
- Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia): Sperm with abnormal shape

2. Testicular Issues: Varicocele (swollen veins), infections, undescended testicles, or testicular injury impairing sperm production.

3. Ejaculation Disorders: Retrograde ejaculation or premature ejaculation hindering fertilization.

4. Obstruction: Blockages in tubes carrying sperm (epididymis, vas deferens) preventing sperm release.

5. Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal hormone levels affecting sperm production.

6. Genetic Factors: Conditions like cystic fibrosis or Klinefelter syndrome causing infertility.

7. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, drug use, obesity, and toxin exposure negatively impacting sperm quality and production.

Surgical interventions can address structural issues contributing to female infertility:

1. Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat endometriosis, fibroids, adhesions, and tubal blockages. The procedure uses a thin, lighted scope inserted through a small incision to visualize and treat reproductive organs.

2. Hysteroscopy: A procedure where a thin, lighted scope is inserted into the uterus to diagnose and treat problems like polyps, fibroids, and adhesions within the uterine cavity. This allows for direct visualization and treatment of intrauterine problems.

3. Tubal Surgery: In some cases, surgery can repair damaged or blocked fallopian tubes, although IVF is often a more successful option for significant tubal issues.

These minimally invasive surgical procedures are often performed as outpatient procedures with faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. The choice of surgical approach depends on the specific problem identified and the individual patient's condition.

PCOD doesn't have a cure, but its symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, regular exercise, healthy diet and sometimes surgery. It's important for individuals with PCOD to consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and treatment options tailored to their specific needs.

Addressing infertility is crucial for several important reasons:

1. Reproductive Health and Well-being: Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system with significant physical and psychological impacts. Addressing it is integral to overall reproductive healthcare.

2. Emotional and Psychological Impact: Inability to conceive leads to considerable emotional distress including sadness, anger, frustration, guilt, inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. Treatment provides access to emotional support and solutions.

3. Relationship Strain: Infertility can strain a couple's relationship. Seeking solutions together strengthens bonds and improves communication.

4. Achieving Family-Building Goals: For many, having children is a deeply cherished life goal. Addressing infertility offers possibilities through various treatment options.

5. Making Informed Decisions: Understanding causes and available treatments empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive future.

6. Social and Cultural Factors: Many societies exert social pressure regarding having children. Addressing infertility helps individuals navigate social challenges and find support.

7. Preventing Further Complications: Some underlying causes may be linked to other health issues requiring medical attention. Addressing infertility can lead to diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Essentially, addressing infertility provides comprehensive care encompassing physical, emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) and IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) are two important assisted reproductive technologies that help women overcome various fertility challenges.

IUI involves placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into the woman's uterus around the time of ovulation. It is effective for mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or when ovulation has been induced with medication.

IVF is a more comprehensive treatment that involves retrieving eggs from the woman's ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory, and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. IVF is highly effective for various causes of female infertility including tubal factor, endometriosis, severe male factor, and unexplained infertility. The success of IVF depends on factors such as age, egg quality, and the cause of infertility.

Common medications for PCOD include birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles, metformin to improve insulin sensitivity, and anti-androgen medications to manage symptoms like excess hair growth (hirsutism) and acne. Your PCOD specialist may also prescribe fertility medications if you're trying to conceive.

The causes of infertility are diverse and can originate from either the male or female partner, or a combination of factors. In some cases, the cause of infertility remains unexplained even after thorough medical evaluation.

Common causes include:

- Ovulation disorders (PCOS, hormonal imbalances)
- Fallopian tube damage or blockage
- Uterine issues (fibroids, polyps, abnormalities)
- Endometriosis
- Cervical factors
- Age-related factors
- Sperm disorders (low count, poor motility, abnormal morphology)
- Testicular issues
- Ejaculation disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic factors
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, obesity, stress)

An evaluation by a fertility specialist can help identify the specific cause in your case.

PCOD can interfere with ovulation, which makes it harder for women to become pregnant. A PCOD-related hormonal imbalance or irregular menstrual cycle can impact the ovaries' ability to release eggs. Nonetheless, many PCOD-affected women are still able to become pregnant with the right care and lifestyle adjustments.

A range of fertility treatments are available to overcome infertility. The choice depends on the underlying cause, age, duration of infertility, and personal preferences:

1. Fertility Medications: Often the first line of treatment for ovulation disorders. Medications stimulate or regulate ovulation in women and improve sperm production in men.

2. Surgical Procedures: Correct structural problems such as:
- Repairing blocked fallopian tubes
- Removing fibroids or polyps
- Treating endometriosis
- Correcting varicoceles in men
- Retrieving sperm directly for use in assisted reproduction

3. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART): Medical procedures where eggs and sperm are handled outside the body, including:
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
- Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)
- Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)
- Use of Donor Eggs, Sperm, or Embryos
- Gestational Carrier/Surrogacy

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol and caffeine, managing stress, and other healthy habits can improve fertility outcomes.

Managing PCOD during pregnancy is crucial for maternal and foetal health. Consultation with experts ensures comprehensive care for PCOD and tailored treatment plans for women with PCOD during pregnancy. Women with PCOD have a slightly higher risk of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, so regular prenatal care is essential.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) and IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) are two of the most common fertility treatments:

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI):
IUI involves placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. This procedure aims to increase the number of sperm reaching the egg, improving fertilization chances. IUI is recommended for:
- Mild male factor infertility
- Unexplained infertility
- Cervical mucus issues

The procedure can be done with or without ovulation-stimulating medications. Success rates vary based on the underlying cause, woman's age, and use of fertility drugs.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
IVF is a more complex assisted reproductive procedure involving several steps:
1. Ovarian Stimulation: Fertility medications stimulate ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs
2. Egg Retrieval: Mature eggs are retrieved using minimally invasive ultrasound-guided procedure
3. Fertilization: Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory dish
4. Embryo Culture: Fertilized eggs develop in the laboratory for several days
5. Embryo Transfer: Healthiest embryos are transferred into the uterus
6. Pregnancy Test: Pregnancy is tested approximately two weeks after transfer

IVF is highly effective for blocked/damaged fallopian tubes, endometriosis, severe male factor infertility, ovulation disorders, and unexplained infertility. Success rates depend on age, egg/sperm quality, and underlying cause.