Senior embryologist Dr Gurpreet Kaur Nagi says IVF or in-vitro fertilisation is “a medical procedure which involves collection of eggs from a woman's ovaries" which are to be "fertilised with sperm in a laboratory dish. This creates embryos that are then carefully placed back into the woman's womb to grow into a baby."
World IVF Day is observed every year on July 25 to commemorate the birth of the first test tube baby – Louise Brown – who was born on this day in 1978 through the in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) technique. This day celebrates the hope and joy that IVF has brought to millions of couples facing infertility challenges globally.
Also known as World Embryologist Day, it serves as a reminder of the groundbreaking advancements in fertility treatments – giving hope to those longing for parenthood. It raises awareness about infertility issues, encourages open conversations and reduces the stigma around seeking fertility assistance.
Before IVF, many couples struggled with infertility and had limited options to have children. In 1978, Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe achieved a milestone by successfully helping a woman give birth to the world’s first test tube baby. Till date, IVF remains one of the most effective and widely used assisted reproductive technologies.
Talking about the technique, Dr Gurpreet Kaur Nagi, senior embryologist at Baby Joy IVF, Delhi, said, “IVF or in-vitro fertilisation is a medical procedure which involves collection of eggs from a woman’s ovaries to be fertilised with sperm in a laboratory dish. This creates embryos that are then carefully placed back into the woman’s womb to grow into a baby.”
Dr Nagi added that it helps couples with blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count and other fertility issues. “The process involves hormone medications to stimulate egg production, and the embryos are closely monitored for quality before being transferred.”
However, she noted that it is essential to understand emotional and physical aspects before considering IVF as an option. Consulting a fertility specialist can provide valuable guidance throughout the journey.
Despite the growing popularity of the technique, there is a lot of confusing information to sift through when considering IVF. Numerous misconceptions have arisen – suggesting that it leads to severe health problems and has a harmful impact on the body. Hence, it is imperative
to dispel these myths surrounding this assisted reproductive technology. So, we turned to Dr Nagi to bust some myths around IVF.
Consulting a fertility specialist can provide valuable guidance throughout the journey. (Source: Freepik)
Myth: IVF is only for female infertility
Fact: IVF can be used for both male and female infertility. It is true that IVF is often associated with female infertility, but it is also used when male factors affect fertility, such as low sperm count or motility. In some cases, both partners may have fertility challenges and IVF can be a viable option to achieve pregnancy.
Myth: IVF should only be done after trying naturally for many years or after other treatments of infertility have failed
Fact: While many couples do try natural conception and other fertility treatments before considering IVF, there is no specific timeline for when to begin IVF. It is essential to consult a fertility specialist early on, especially if there are known fertility issues or if the couple is older. IVF can be a suitable option at various stages of the infertility journey.
Myth: IVF is risky and unsafe
Fact: IVF is a well-established and safe medical procedure. Like any medical treatment, it may carry some risks, but serious complications are rare. Fertility specialists work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients throughout the IVF process.
Myth: IVF is painful
Fact: IVF is generally not a painful procedure. While some women may experience mild discomfort during the egg retrieval process, it is usually done under sedation or anaesthesia. The subsequent embryo transfer is a relatively painless procedure similar to a pap smear. Most women tolerate IVF well without significant pain.
Myth: IVF is a long treatment
Fact: While IVF involves several steps, including fertility medications, egg retrieval, fertilisation and embryo transfer, the overall process is not excessively long. It typically takes a few weeks and some clinics offer a “fast-track” approach for selected patients– shortening the timeline.
Myth: Complete rest is required after IVF
Fact: While some rest and reduced physical activity is advised for a short period after embryo transfer, complete bed rest is not necessary. Light activities and maintaining a normal routine are generally encouraged to reduce stress. However, each person’s situation may be different, and it is essential to follow the specific guidelines given by the fertility specialist.
Dr Nagi concluded that IVF is suitable for various individuals and couples facing specific challenges in conceiving a baby naturally, including couples with infertility, women with tubal damage or blockage, age-related infertility or unexplained infertility.
“Ultimately, IVF provides hope and an opportunity for parenthood to those struggling with fertility challenges – making it a widely used and successful assisted reproductive technology,” she said.
No comments:
Post a Comment