“I hope every woman out there who wants to be a mother and is suffering with infertility, will explore all the options and know that if you choose the science route, it is okay.” ~ Cindy Margolis, actress and model
Infertility is an ugly word for many people, especially for those who are hoping to start a family. Yet, it is an undeniable fact that many of us are settling down later than before, at a time when our fertility is usually on a downturn. Thus, an increasing number among us are having problems conceiving a child despite our best efforts.
It may be due to some issues with the woman’s reproductive ability, but it may also be due to the man’s. Sometimes, it could be due to both partners. Nonetheless, nobody is at fault here; often, it may just be because our biology has not caught up with the changes in our lifestyles, and we aren’t as fertile as we used to be by the time we are ready to start a family.
Research and technology have evolved over time to allow those of us having problems conceiving on our own to still have a baby with the help of modern, science-based miracles. Therefore, we can still hold our hopes afloat. However, like with most things in life, having the right attitude and knowledge can make a significant difference between success and disappointment.
This month, consultant gynaecologist and fertility specialist Dr Agilan Arjunan shares some useful advice for those of us who are ready to embark on a journey with a fertility specialist to make our dreams come true.
FIRST, LET’S RECAP WHAT IVF IS.
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a series of procedures that help overcome a couple’s problems in conceiving.
Actual details of the procedure may vary as the technology improves over time, but the basic principles are as follow:
The woman is induced to produce a number of mature eggs, and these eggs are collected by the fertility specialist.
The fertility specialist extracts the man’s sperm.
The best sperm and eggs are chosen, and the eggs are then fertilized by the sperm in a laboratory.
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