What do fertility procedures involve?
Choosing the correct type of contraceptive can protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevent unplanned pregnancy. Dr Kalonji will guide you through different contraceptive methods and advise on the best birth control to suit your lifestyle.
What do fertility procedures involve?
Egg and embryo freezing
Egg freezing is the retrieval of half (10 out of 20) of the total number of eggs produced. The eggs are retrieved and then flash-frozen and stored for later use. When ready to give birth, the eggs are left to thaw, fertilised and then implanted into the uterus. Embryos can also be frozen after fertilisation and used at a later stage.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF)
For IVF, sperm fertilises the egg in a petri dish. After this, the fertilised embryos are implanted into the uterus. IVF is a good option for those experiencing issues with ovulation or those with severe blockages in the fallopian tubes.
Artificial insemination (AI)
Artificial insemination is a way of implanting sperm from a spouse or donor into the reproductive tract at the time of ovulation to help you get pregnant. There is no need for fertility drugs when ovulating as per schedule. However, when issues arise with ovulation, fertility drugs can help boost your chances of a pregnancy.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) makes use of a fine catheter to implant sperm into the uterus near the fallopian tubes for a better chance of sperm making contact with the egg.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy is a system whereby another woman (surrogate) carries the embryo for the couple. The parents’ chromosomes are transferred to the baby, but the surrogate has no genetic ties. The father's sperm fertilises the mother's egg in the laboratory (In vitro fertilisation), but instead of the mother carrying the fertilised egg, the surrogate bears this responsibility.
Fertility drugs
Fertility drugs are taken from the onset of IVF. Clomid and Femara are oral medications (fertility drugs) that stimulate poorly functioning ovaries. These drugs work by suppressing the secretion of oestrogen and therefore increase the release of hormones that rise during ovulation. Alternatively, gonadotropins (hormone shots) are taken to trigger ovulation.
How do I know I qualify for fertility care?
At a fertility testing consultation, you may be asked questions regarding your health, chronic illnesses and medications you are currently on. First, your OB-GYN will order a blood test to check your anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels. The AMH is a hormone that eggs release. With age, your AMH levels will decline. The test for AMH is required, especially from 35 years of age or if otherwise indicated.
Blood tests to check for fertility include measuring the follicle-stimulating hormone levels (FSH). FSH levels increase as the egg count declines. After measuring your hormones, or before, your OB-GYN will conduct a thorough pelvic exam and carry out an ultrasound to inspect your uterus and ovaries. From the results of these tests, he will be able to tell you whether you are a good candidate for fertility care.
