October 2024

Infertility is a topic filled with misunderstandings and myths, which can confuse and stress those trying to have a baby. It is important to know the truth about infertility for anyone facing difficulties on their path to parenthood.   In this blog, we’ll look at some common myths about infertility, share the real facts, and raise awareness about what infertility really means. Infertility Myths Explained Infertility can be classified into two types: primary infertility, where a couple has never conceived, and secondary infertility, where they have had at least one child but are now struggling to conceive again. Myth 1: Infertility is a Woman’s Problem Many people think infertility only affects women, but it affects both men and women. Studies show one-third of cases are caused by women, another third by men, and the rest are a combined causes or unexplained. Thus both the couples must get evaluated for fertility problems and not the wife alone. Hence, couples can work together and communicate to navigate their journey better. Myth 2: You Can’t Get Pregnant If You’ve Already Had Children Many think that if a woman has had children before, she won’t face problems in future pregnancies.   This isn’t true! Age, health issues, and lifestyle can affect fertility over time. Remember, past successes don’t guarantee future ones! Myth 3: Stress Causes Infertility Many think stress directly causes infertility, but that’s not true. While it can impact hormones, it’s not the main reason for infertility.   Emotional challenges are common, so taking care of mental health is important. Techniques like mindfulness can help support your fertility journey. Myth 4: Age Doesn’t Matter for Fertility Some think age doesn’t affect fertility, but that’s not true. After 35, women’s egg quality declines, making it harder to conceive and increasing miscarriage risks. Knowing this helps in making better family planning choices. Myth 5 : Lifestyle Choices Don’t Affect Fertility It’s a myth that lifestyle doesn’t matter for fertility! Eating well, staying active, and avoiding bad habits can really help both men and women boost their chances of having a baby. Let’s make healthier choices and empower each other! Myth 6: Wait to Try After Stopping Birth Control Some think you should wait months after stopping birth control to conceive, but that’s not always true! Many women can get pregnant soon after they stop, as soon as their cycles return. It’s best to talk to a healthcare provider for advice tailored to you! Factors Affecting Fertility Medical Conditions Conditions like PCOS and endometriosis can significantly impact fertility. Male factor infertility, such as low sperm count, also plays a crucial role. Environmental Factors Pollution, chemicals, and unhealthy lifestyle choices can negatively impact fertility. Being aware of these factors can help you make informed decisions. Genetics and Family History Genetics can influence fertility issues, so knowing your family history can provide valuable insights. Common Symptoms of Infertility Signs to Look For Recognizing the signs of infertility can help individuals know when to seek help. Common symptoms include: Irregular menstrual cycles Changes in libido Hormonal imbalances When to Seek Help If you’ve been trying to conceive for a year without success (or six months if you’re over 35), it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Early intervention can make a significant difference in addressing infertility challenges. Supporting Each Other Through Infertility Open Communication Open communication between partners is essential during this challenging time. Sharing feelings, fears, and experiences can strengthen your relationship and provide mutual support. Seeking Professional Help Both partners should think about getting professional help, like counseling, support groups, or advice from fertility specialists. This kind of support can give you useful tips and help you handle the emotional and physical challenges of infertility. Going through infertility can be tough, but knowing the facts can help reduce stress and confusion. By clearing up common myths and understanding the real issues, couples can feel more informed and supported on their journey to parenthood. Getting help from doctors, making healthy choices, and talking openly with each other can make the experience better. Remember, you’re not alone, and there’s support for you at every step. Dr. Sharmistha Sarkar MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), MCh(Reproductive Medicine and Surgery),  CMC, Vellore

In vitro fertilization (IVF) can be a beacon of hope for many couples facing fertility challenges. However, the journey is not without its risks, including the concern of miscarriage. Understanding how to prevent miscarriage during IVF pregnancy is crucial for expectant parents. In this blog, Dr. Sharmistha Sarkar shares essential tips and strategies to help you navigate this important phase and reduce the risks associated with IVF pregnancies. Understanding the Risks Before discussing how to prevent miscarriage, it’s important to understand what can lead to it during IVF pregnancies. The risk of miscarriage can be affected by factors like a woman’s age, health problems, and the quality of the embryos. Women over 35 may have a higher risk of miscarriage, so being aware of these factors and taking steps to stay healthy is very important. 1. Choose a Reputable Fertility Clinic The first step to preventing miscarriage during IVF is to choose a good fertility clinic. Look into the clinic’s success rates, read reviews from other patients, and talk to experienced doctors. A clinic with a strong reputation can offer better care and increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy. 2. Focus on Your Health Before IVF Before starting your IVF journey, it’s important to take care of your health. Here’s how: Eat Well: Make sure to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This will help you feel better overall. Exercise Regularly: Stay active with moderate exercise to keep a healthy weight. This can help improve your chances of getting pregnant. Avoid Harmful Substances: Stay away from alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, as they can hurt your fertility and health during pregnancy. Manage Stress: Use techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress and keep a positive mindset. 3. Monitor Hormonal Levels Hormonal balance is very important for a successful IVF pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about checking your hormone levels, especially progesterone and estrogen, which are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Some women may need hormone supplements, so be sure to discuss this with your healthcare provider. 4. Regular Prenatal Check-ups After you get pregnant through IVF, it’s important to go to regular check-ups with your doctor. These visits help your doctor keep an eye on your pregnancy, spot any problems early, and provide the care you need. Catching issues early can really improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy. 5. Take Recommended Supplements Your doctor might suggest some supplements to help with your IVF pregnancy. Folic acid is very important because it helps prevent certain birth defects. You may also need other vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements. 6. Stay Hydrated Proper hydration is vital during pregnancy. Drinking enough water helps support healthy circulation, digestion, and nutrient absorption.  Try to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water each day, and adjust this based on how active you are and the weather. 7. Limit Physical Stress While moderate exercise is good for you, it is important to avoid intense activities that can put too much stress on your body. Talk to your doctor about safe exercise options during your IVF pregnancy, and stay away from heavy lifting or intense workouts. 8. Be Aware of Your Body Listen to your body and tell your doctor right away if you notice any unusual symptoms. If you have severe cramping, heavy bleeding, or intense back pain, you should seek medical help quickly. Your health and safety are the top priority during this time. 9. Avoid Environmental Toxins Try to limit exposure to harmful substances that can affect your pregnancy. This means avoiding strong chemicals in cleaning products, pesticides, and some beauty products. Whenever you can, choose natural alternatives. 10. Prepare for Emotional Challenges The emotional side of an IVF pregnancy can be very important. Worries about miscarriage can cause anxiety and stress. It is good to talk openly with your partner and doctor. You might also think about joining support groups or getting counselling to help with your feelings. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are people who can help you. 11. Follow Doctor’s Advice on Bed Rest Bed rest might not be needed for everyone, but some doctors may suggest it depending on your situation. Always listen to your doctor’s advice about how much rest and activity you should have. Preventing miscarriage during IVF takes a well-rounded approach that focuses on both your physical and emotional health. By choosing a good clinic, living a healthy lifestyle, keeping track of your hormone levels, and paying attention to your body, you can lower the risks linked to IVF pregnancies.  Dr. Sharmistha Sarkar stresses the importance of getting good care and talking openly with your doctors throughout your journey. Remember, every pregnancy is different, so make sure to adjust your plan to meet your needs. With the right support and information, you can improve your chances of a healthy and successful IVF pregnancy. Dr. Sharmistha Sarkar MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), MCh(Reproductive Medicine and Surgery),  CMC, Vellore