What is IVF?

As you may know, IVF is an assisted reproductive technique for couples unable to conceive naturally. It involves collecting reproductive cells from the prospective mum and dad, facilitating fertilisation in a laboratory, and then implanting the fertilised egg into the woman’s uterus.

How is IVF Performed?

Eggs are collected from the mum, and sperm from the dad. These cells are brought together in a lab to achieve fertilisation. The fertilised eggs develop into embryos, which are then implanted into the woman’s uterus. Once implanted, the pregnancy proceeds similarly to a natural conception.

Stages of IVF Treatment

1. Information and Evaluation: The process starts with training and assessment. GPs provide prospective parents with comprehensive information about the procedures, treatment plan, medications, and other relevant details. Additionally, necessary tests are conducted to ensure the suitability and readiness for the treatment process.
2. Stimulation and Formation of Eggs: Medications are administered to stimulate egg development in the woman’s ovaries, a process typically completed within 10-12 days. Regular visits to the GP are essential to monitor progress and ensure optimal results.
3. Egg Retrieval: Once enough mature eggs are identified, a trigger shot is given, followed by egg retrieval after 36 hours. This procedure, performed under anaesthesia, takes 15-30 minutes.
4. Fertilisation: Eggs and sperm are fertilised in a lab, and the best-quality embryos are selected for transfer.
5. Embryo Transfer: Selected embryos are placed into the woman’s uterus. This procedure doesn’t require anaesthesia and takes about 5-10 minutes. The prospective mother rests for a few hours post-procedure.

Eligibility for IVF Treatment

IVF is suitable for individuals who have:

• Not conceived after 1 year of unprotected intercourse
• Diagnosed infertility
• Pelvic pain, endometriosis, or recurrent miscarriages
• Issues with sperm quality and mobility
• Genetic diseases hindering pregnancy
• Advanced age (35+)

Individuals with hormone issues, those in menopause, women who have had their uterus surgically removed, and men with no sperm production are not eligible.

Factors Affecting IVF Success

• Advanced age
• Excess weight
• Immune system issues
• Uterus and fallopian tube problems
• Diminished ovarian reserve
• Alcohol and tobacco use
• Excessive stress
• Poor nutrition

Age Limit for IVF

Women with a good ovarian reserve can undergo IVF up to age 45. However, success rates decrease significantly after age 35 due to the decline in egg quantity and quality.

Tips for Successful Treatment

• Follow the GP’s advice and take prescribed medications regularly.
• Drink about 2 litres of water daily, especially after egg retrieval.
• Maintain sexual abstinence for 2-3 days before egg retrieval.
• Avoid any medication without the GP’s recommendation.
• Eat a balanced, fibrous diet.
• Quit alcohol and tobacco use, and avoid cigarette smoke.

IVF treatment can be a crucial method for couples unable to conceive naturally. By conducting thorough research on IVF options, choosing the right centre, and following medical guidance, couples can increase their chances of a successful pregnancy and approach the journey with confidence and reduced stress.

Have a healthy day!

Couples planning to have a baby often hear many things about the ovulation period during this process. The importance of this period is significant for both maintaining women’s health and achieving pregnancy. This is because the time slot when fertilisation can occur is quite short, and in cases where this slot is missed, one may need to wait for the next month.

So, what are the most frequently asked questions about the ovulation period that closely concern couples who want to have a baby? Let’s examine them together.

What Does Ovulation and Ovulation Period Mean?

Ovulation refers to the expulsion of at least one mature egg cell from the ovaries, one of the organs of the female reproductive system, each month. The time interval when this event occurs is called the ovulation period.

The ovaries, located on both sides of the pelvic region, are flat spherical structures about the size of a walnut. When the hypothalamus in the brain stimulates the pituitary gland, two hormones called LH (Luteinising hormone) and FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) are secreted. These hormones stimulate an ovary each month to promote the maturation of an egg cell and its release from the fallopian tubes.

If the mature cell encounters a sperm cell in the fallopian tubes and fertilisation occurs, pregnancy occurs when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine wall. However, the lifespan of the mature cell after it is expelled from the ovaries is only about 24 hours. Therefore, the interval of time when ovulation occurs is of great importance for pregnancy.

When is the Ovulation Period and How is it Calculated?

In the fallopian tubes of a woman with a healthy reproductive system, a mature egg cell undergoes a maturation phase every month.

Ovulation occurs between two menstrual bleedings. In women with regular menstrual cycles, menstruation occurs every 28 days. Generally, ovulation occurs in the middle of this 28-day cycle. In other words, when you count 14 days from the first day of your period, the next ovulation time is determined. If you menstruate every 30 days, it is assumed that ovulation will occur around the 16th day.

How is the Timing of Ovulation Determined?

One of the top questions concerning the ovulation period is how to find the timing of ovulation for couples planning pregnancy.

To increase the chances of pregnancy, it is important to monitor ovulation timing closely. A woman may estimate when she will ovulate by observing her body and correctly interpreting certain signs. If you cannot determine your ovulation date based on these signs, there are other methods you can use. Ovulation prediction tests are among the first methods to consider.

Ovulation timing can be determined by the following methods:

• Ovulation test
• Ovulation symptoms
• Ultrasonography 

What are the Signs of Ovulation?

Some changes that occur in your body as ovulation approaches are signs of this period and can give you an idea of when ovulation will occur. So what are the signs of the ovulation period?

• Changes in the Cervix

Before ovulation, the cervix is dry, firm, and low. As this period approaches, it becomes soft, slippery, and high.

• Breast Sensitivity

An increase in progesterone hormone levels can cause swelling and tenderness in the breasts and is one of the signs.

• Increase in Body Temperature

For 2-3 days after ovulation, there is an increase in body temperature of about 0.5-1.0 degrees.

• Abdominal Pain and Cramps

Mild pain may occur as the egg cell matures and is expelled from the fallopian tubes. This can help you understand that ovulation is starting.

• Vaginal Discharge

If the discharge that reappears after menstruation is clear, mucus-like, and slippery, it may indicate ovulation.

How is an Ovulation Test Done?

If you are planning pregnancy and cannot determine your ovulation time by following the signs, you can perform an ovulation test at home using special urine kits.

The rise in the LH hormone in the urine can be used to determine the time of ovulation. If you apply the test every morning at the same time and with your second urine, and if double lines appear, it indicates that the LH hormone in your urine has increased and ovulation will occur approximately 24 hours later.

How Long Does Ovulation Last?

The maturation of the female reproductive cell and its expulsion from the fallopian tubes begin between the 14th and 16th days of the average menstrual cycle. The period when ovulation occurs is about 24 hours after the follicle is expelled. However, considering the lifespan of sperm in the female body, this period is the time interval around 2-3 days before and 1-2 days after ovulation when the chances of pregnancy are high.

What is an Ovulation Calendar?

The occurrence of fertilisation is proportional to the factor of chance. Because the probability of the egg cell meeting sperm while it is alive is only 1 day. Therefore, couples who have not been able to achieve pregnancy for a certain period can use an ovulation calendar to determine the days when the chances of fertilisation are highest.

By calculating when ovulation occurs and determining the days when fertilisation is most likely, a calendar can be kept every month. The starting and ending times of this period can be determined by the previous menstrual cycle date or tests to identify the days of highest fertility.

How Often Should Sexual Intercourse Occur During this Period?

To increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and fertilisation, having sexual intercourse every other day during the ovulation period will increase the chance of pregnancy. Having intercourse once in two days during the 5-6 day period, including 2-3 days before and 2-3 days after ovulation, is considered sufficient.

Is it Necessary to Have Intercourse During the Ovulation Period to Become Pregnant?

It is possible to get pregnant without timing intercourse with ovulation. Although it is stated that the moment of ovulation is 14 days after the first day of your period, this time can vary even in women with regular menstruation. This indicates that pregnancy can occur at other times as well. Moreover, while the lifespan of a mature egg is 24 hours, a sperm cell can remain alive in the body for up to 72 hours. Having intercourse a few days before or after this period can also result in pregnancy.

Can Ovulation Tracking be Used as a Birth Control Method?

Some couples use the ovulation calendar as a method of family planning as the days when ovulation does not occur are the times when the chance of pregnancy is lowest. However, this method is not definitive and reliable and does not provide 100% protection. The timing of ovulation can vary from woman to woman, and there may be a few days of variation.

Consequently, using the ovulation period as a birth control method is not correct, as conception can still occur on days you believe are safe.

Does Long Periods of Contraception Prevent Pregnancy?

Long periods of contraception use, such as the prolonged use of birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs), do not prevent pregnancy permanently. These methods are reversible, and fertility typically returns once the contraceptive method is discontinued. However, the time it takes for fertility to return can vary from person to person, and it may take a few weeks to several months for some individuals to regain their normal menstrual cycles and fertility.Any chemicals or chemical-based products used in your sexual life can be harmful to your ovaries and the sperm, and ultimately obstruct pregnancy. Quitting these chemicals and going through the healing process is the first step to getting pregnant. If you’re considering becoming pregnant after using contraception for an extended period, consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on the best approach to discontinue your chosen method and optimize your chances of conception.

Do Alcohol and Tobacco Products Prevent Pregnancy?

Alcohol and tobacco products can potentially hinder the chances of getting pregnant. Both alcohol and smoking can have adverse effects on fertility for both men and women. Excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt hormone levels and affect the quality of sperm in men, while in women, it can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and decreased egg quality. Smoking, on the other hand, is associated with lower fertility rates in both genders, as it can damage reproductive organs and reduce the chances of successful conception. To maximize fertility, it’s advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking if you’re trying to get pregnant or planning to start a family. In other words, both parents should be healthy in order to get pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy.

Does Excess Weight Prevent Pregnancy?

Excess weight can potentially hinder fertility. Being overweight or obese can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation problems, which can make it more difficult to conceive. Additionally, excess body fat can impact the quality and quantity of eggs produced and may also affect the effectiveness of fertility treatments. It’s essential to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise, as achieving a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) can significantly improve your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance on managing weight and fertility. The process of getting pregnant begins with taking the right steps by distancing yourself from factors that disrupt your overall quality of life.

Does is a Steady Sexual Life Important?

Maintaining a steady and consistent sexual life is crucial for increasing the chances of getting pregnant. Regular sexual activity, particularly during the fertile window of a woman’s menstrual cycle, enhances the likelihood of successful conception. Tracking ovulation, which typically occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, can help identify the most fertile days. However, it’s essential not to put too much pressure on timing and enjoy a healthy, intimate relationship with your partner to reduce stress, which can impact fertility. Effective communication and a supportive, loving partnership can contribute to a successful journey toward pregnancy. Having sexual intercourse at least three times a week will significantly increase your chances of getting pregnant. If this number is increased during menstruation, a woman without any adverse conditions has a 25% chance of getting pregnant during this period. After intercourse, it is recommended for females to lay down on their backs for a while in order for the sperm to progress further with the help of gravity.

What Dietary Choices can Enhance Fertility?

Having a balanced and healthy diet is crucial for getting pregnant. There is a lot of information about pregnancy nutrition spread around, some are scientifically proven and some are just false. Focus on a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients such as folate, iron, and antioxidants, found in foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, and colorful fruits and vegetables. Incorporate whole grains and healthy fats while reducing processed foods and excessive sugar intake. Adequate hydration is essential, so drink plenty of water, and limit caffeine and alcohol consumption. Consult a doctor or nutritionist to find out which diet suits best to you best, considering the physical needs of both you and your partner. If both of the future parents are all-in on a good diet, a healthy pregnancy becomes a huge possibility. 

To sum up, getting pregnant involves a combination of factors, and while there is no guaranteed method, there are several steps you can take to improve your chances of conceiving. If you’ve been trying to conceive for a year without success (or six months if you’re over 35), please take a look at our article regarding in-vitro fertilization and consult a healthcare provider for a fertility evaluation to explore potential issues and discuss fertility treatments or interventions if necessary. Remember, the journey to parenthood can vary greatly from person to person, so stay patient, positive, and informed throughout the process.

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Have a nice and healthy day!