Dr. Neeti Chhabra Gupta, (Program Director & Consultant Fertility)
1. How long should we try to conceive before we see a doctor?
It’s generally recommended to seek medical advice if you’ve been actively trying to conceive for 12 months without success, especially if you’re under 35. If you’re 35 or older, it’s advisable to see a doctor after trying for 6 months.
2. Does age impact a woman’s fertility?
Yes, age can significantly impact a woman’s fertility. Fertility declines with age, especially after 35, due to a decrease in the quantity and quality of eggs.
3. What kind of fertility testing should we undergo?
Fertility testing may include hormone testing, ovarian reserve testing, imaging tests (such as ultrasound), and semen analysis for men. Your doctor will determine which tests are appropriate based on your medical history and individual circumstances.
4. My husband has a low sperm count and we are not ready for adoption. Are there therapies to help treat him?
Yes, there are therapies available to help treat male infertility, including medications, lifestyle changes, and assisted reproductive techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
5. I am 40 years old, am I too old to have a baby?
While fertility declines with age, many women in their 40s are still able to conceive with the help of fertility treatments. It’s important to discuss your individual situation with a fertility specialist.
6. Can I get acupuncture during my infertility treatment?
Acupuncture is a complementary therapy that some people find helpful during infertility treatment. It’s generally safe to use alongside conventional treatments, but be sure to discuss it with your doctor first.
7. What lifestyle changes would I need to undergo before I start IVF?
Lifestyle changes may include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress. Your doctor will provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history.
8. What is the process of IVF?
IVF involves ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization of the eggs in the laboratory, embryo culture, and embryo transfer into the uterus.
9. How is IVF different from ICSI?
IVF involves mixing sperm and eggs in a laboratory dish for fertilization to occur naturally, while ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg to achieve fertilization.
10. Will my daily routine get disturbed if I undergo IVF? I am a working woman.
While IVF treatment may require frequent monitoring appointments, many women are able to continue working during treatment with minimal disruption to their daily routine.
11. I live overseas and my husband and I are visiting Jalandhar soon. I will stay for 2 – 3 months but my husband has only come for 2 weeks. Can I still undergo IVF with this schedule?
It’s possible to undergo IVF treatment with a flexible schedule, but it’s important to discuss your specific situation with a fertility clinic in Jalandhar to determine the feasibility of treatment during your visit.
12. Is egg retrieval a painful process?
Egg retrieval is performed under sedation or anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. Some women experience mild discomfort or cramping afterward, which typically resolves within a few days.
13. How does the embryo transfer happen?
During embryo transfer, one or more embryos are transferred into the uterus using a thin catheter. The procedure is usually quick and painless, similar to a Pap smear.
14. Can I travel after my embryo transfer?
It’s generally safe to travel after embryo transfer, but it’s best to avoid strenuous activities and long flights. Your doctor may provide specific recommendations based on your individual situation.
15. How soon can I find out whether I am pregnant or not?
You can usually take a pregnancy test about 10-14 days after embryo transfer to determine if you’re pregnant. Some clinics may also perform a blood test to measure pregnancy hormones.
16. Is an IVF pregnancy different from a normal pregnancy?
IVF pregnancies are generally similar to naturally conceived pregnancies once established. However, there may be some increased risks associated with IVF, such as multiple pregnancies or preterm birth, which will be monitored by your healthcare provider.