Fertility Preservation: Your Guide to Freezing Eggs and Sperm

Having a baby or planning for one might be one of the most important decisions in your life. But there are times when you are simply not ready! Imagine if you could press pause on something like that until you were absolutely ready. Fertility preservation lets you do just that! It is all about freezing eggs or sperm so that you can have the option to start a family in the future. In this blog, we’ll take a simple look at fertility preservation, its benefits, and how the best IUI clinics in Kolkata can help you make the right choices.

Fertility Preservation: An Intro

For women fertility preservation involves saving your eggs and when it comes to men, it involves saving the sperm by freezing them. This process allows people to start a family later in life, whenever they are ready. It is a common choice for people facing certain health challenges, planning a late pregnancy or even for those who are just not ready to start a family as of yet.

At a top fertility clinic in Kolkata, experts can guide you through the entire process, making it easy to understand and more comfortable to undergo.

How Does Freezing Work?

Freezing eggs and sperm involves two different processes. Let’s understand each in simple terms.

Freezing Eggs

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a method where eggs are harvested from a woman’s ovaries and then frozen to be used later. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

• Step 1: Hormone Injections: Women receive hormone injections for about 10–14 days to stimulate their ovaries. This makes the ovaries produce more eggs than usual.

• Step 2: Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are ready, doctors retrieve them through a minor procedure using a thin needle.

• Step 3: Freezing: The eggs are frozen after this with the help of a process called vitrification. This prevents any sort of ice crystals from forming and thereby damaging the eggs.

Freezing Sperm

Freezing sperm is a much simpler process. Here’s how it works:

• Step 1: Sperm Collection: Men provide a sperm sample, usually through masturbation.

• Step 2: Freezing: The sperm is then frozen and stored in a special solution that keeps it safe until it’s needed. Unlike eggs, sperm can be frozen easily and used at any time later.

Fertility Preservation and Fertility Treatments

Fertility preservation is often used alongside fertility treatments like IUI and IVF. Here’s a simple breakdown of these treatments:

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

In IUI, sperm is collected and then placed directly into the woman’s uterus. It’s a relatively simple procedure, often done at the best IUI clinics in Kolkata. The success rate of IUI depends on several factors, such as the woman’s age and health, but it generally ranges from 10–20% per cycle.

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)

IVF is a more advanced treatment that involves fertilising eggs with sperm outside the body and then implanting the fertilised embryo back into the uterus. This procedure is quite popular at any top IUI clinic in Kolkata, especially for couples struggling with infertility.

By freezing eggs or sperm in advance, people undergoing these treatments can have additional chances at pregnancy in the future.

Choosing the Right Fertility Clinic in Kolkata

If you’re considering fertility preservation, it’s important to find a reliable and experienced fertility clinic in Kolkata. Here are a few tips:

• Expert Doctors: Look for clinics that have experienced fertility specialists. This is important to ensure you receive the best advice and treatment.

• Modern Facilities: The best clinics have the latest technology to handle the delicate process of freezing eggs or sperm.

• Supportive Environment: Fertility treatments can be a big decision, so it’s crucial to choose a clinic that offers emotional support along with medical care.

Get in touch with us for the best IVF treatment in Kolkata

Fertility preservation, whether it’s freezing eggs or sperm, is like having a safety net for your future family plans. Life is full of surprises, and it’s comforting to know that there are options to preserve your fertility for whenever you’re ready to start a family.

If you’re thinking about fertility preservation, visiting a fertility clinic in Kolkata is a good first step. The experts can answer all your questions, explain the process, and help you make an informed choice. Plus, you’ll have the reassurance of knowing you’re in good hands.

Remember, whether it’s egg freezing or sperm freezing, it’s all about giving yourself the freedom and flexibility to plan your future on your terms. Take your time, talk to the experts, and choose what’s right for you.

Understanding the Concept of Infertility: Causes for Men and Women

Infertility affects a lot of people worldwide each year and people in Kolkata are no exception! It can be a confusing and emotional journey especially when you have no idea about the root cause. Understanding why infertility happens can help you take the right steps and find the right help. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of infertility in both men and women, and make sure you know where to get the best infertility treatments for men and women available at some of the best fertility clinics in Kolkata.

A Short Intro to Infertility

Infertility is when a couple has been trying to conceive for at least a year but has met with no success. For women over 35, doctors often look into infertility after six months of trying. Infertility does not always mean that a couple can never have a baby. It just means that there is some issue or rather some underlying cause that is affecting their ability to conceive naturally.

Common Causes of Infertility in Women

Women face various conditions that can make it difficult to get pregnant.

There might be some problems with ovulation!

Ovulation is the process whereby an egg is released from the ovaries. If this does not happen regularly or correctly, it becomes difficult to conceive. Studies have been conducted worldwide and they all suggest that ovulation might be the at the root of around 25% of female infertility cases. The most common reasons include:

  • • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS: A hormonal imbalance that affects ovulation. Women with PCOS might have irregular periods, which can make predicting ovulation challenging.
  • • Hormonal Imbalances: Issues with hormones like estrogen or progesterone can disrupt ovulation.
  • • Premature Ovarian Failure (POF): This happens when the ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40, leading to fewer eggs being released.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

The ovaries and the uterus are connected with what is known as the fallopian tubes. In case these tubes are blocked or damaged the sperm and egg will not be able to meet. Causes of blocked tubes include:

  • • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID: An infection that can cause scarring or blockages in the tubes.
  • • Endometriosis: This is basically a condition where the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it thereby leading to painful periods and possible blockages.

Common Causes of Infertility in Men

For men, the most common causes of infertility revolve around issues with sperm.

Low Sperm Count

One of the main causes of male infertility is a low sperm count. A healthy sperm count should be over 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. If the count is lower, the chances of fertilizing an egg naturally are reduced.

Poor Sperm Movement or Motility

Sperm need to swim efficiently to reach the egg. If they don’t move well, this can hinder fertilization. Poor motility can be due to health conditions, infections, or lifestyle factors.

Abnormal Sperm Shape or Morphology

The shape of sperm matters too! If sperm are abnormally shaped, they might have trouble penetrating the egg. Problems with morphology can arise due to genetic issues or exposure to harmful chemicals.

Blockages in the Reproductive System

Sometimes, blockages in the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles can prevent sperm from reaching the semen. These blockages can be caused by infections, injuries, or genetic problems.

Finding the Right Infertility Doctor in Kolkata

When seeking help, it’s essential to find a doctor you trust. Look for an infertility doctor in Kolkata who has experience and a good track record. Some of the best fertility clinics for women in Kolkata offer a range of treatments and support. Here’s how you can find the right doctor:

  • • Check Reviews and Ratings: Online reviews can provide insights into a doctor’s experience and patient satisfaction.
  • • Ask About Specialisation: Make sure the doctor specialises in treating both male and female infertility.
  • • Do Not Hesitate to Ask Questions: Remember that clear communication is always the key. Ask questions about the doctor’s approach, treatments available, and success rates.

Get in touch with us for the best infertility treatment in Kolkata!

Infertility can be a challenging journey, but understanding the causes and knowing the treatment options can make a big difference. Whether it’s issues with ovulation in women, low sperm count in men, or other health factors, there are effective treatments available. Consulting an experienced infertility doctor in Kolkata at a trusted clinic is the first step toward finding the right solution.

If you or your partner are struggling to conceive, don’t lose hope. With the help of advanced infertility treatments for men and women, and supportive fertility clinics for women in Kolkata, many couples can achieve their dream of starting a family. Remember, you’re not alone, and the right guidance and care can make all the difference.

Ovulation Disorders Impact Fertility and The Chances of Getting Pregnant

Ovulation occurs if the ovary releases an egg and sends it to the fallopian tube for sperm fertilisation. However, when any condition interferes with the ovulation process, it can prevent the woman from getting pregnant. In fact, ovulation problems are one of the top causes of female infertility. If you are having a challenging time getting pregnant, then IRM can support your journey by diagnosing the underlying problem. You will be screened for ovulation disorders, and if any abnormalities are found, then a fertility expert can help you with the right treatment.

Normal Ovulation

The ovaries have thousands of fluid-filled follicles, and each of them holds a premature egg. Every month, when one egg matures, the follicle releases the egg and sends it to the fallopian tube. While this brief summary might sound simple, the process is complex, needs perfect timing, and is tightly controlled by multiple hormones. The brain releases hormones that control the reproduction process. The hormones affect the ovaries and your reproductive organs. Any issue that interrupts hormonal communication and affects hormone levels leads to ovulation disorders and infertility.

Ovulation Disorders

Any hormone that interrupts the maturation of an egg and its release during the monthly menstrual cycle causes ‘ovulation disorder’. While there are many causes of ovulatory dysfunction, the major ones are:

  • • PCOS: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is caused by hormonal imbalance and is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. PCOS is regarded as one of the leading causes of female infertility.
  • • Hypothalamic Dysfunction: FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) that are produced by the pituitary gland are responsible for stimulating the monthly ovulation cycle. Both mental and physical stress, sudden weight gain and loss, and low body weight can result in hormonal imbalance, resulting in ovulation disorder.
  • • Premature Ovarian Failure: This condition is also known as primary ovarian insufficiency and can be a premature loss of eggs from the ovaries or even an autoimmune issue. This can be the result of a medical therapy like chemotherapy or a genetic condition. In such instances, the ovary does not produce eggs, and the oestrogen levels get lowered before age 40.
  • • Excess Prolactin: This condition is called hyperprolactinemia, where the pituitary glands produce excess prolactin that results in reduced oestrogen production, resulting in fertility problems. This occurs during the fallout of taking medications for another condition.

Diagnosing and Treating Ovulation Disorders

If you are not able to conceive naturally, then a visit to a fertility specialist is highly recommended. Our team of specialists usually suggests the following:

  • • Over-the-counter test kit to analyse if the LH hormone production is at an accepted level
  • • Blood tests to check prolactin and progesterone levels
  • • Ovarian reserve testing is used to determine the quality and quantity of eggs. Women over 35 have a depleted quantity of eggs.
  • • Hormone testing is used to check the levels of ovulatory hormones, along with pituitary and thyroid hormones that control the reproductive process.
  • • At times, we suggest genetic testing or laparoscopy to detect abnormalities.

The treatment for ovulation disorders depends on the cause, and while medication is the first choice, if the fertility drugs are unable to produce the desired result, then the team of fertility experts suggests IVF treatment to the couple for getting pregnant.

IRM: We Have Helped Thousands Of Couples Enjoy The Bliss Of Parenthood

At IRM, we help treat ovulation disorders by undertaking a wholesome approach. Our team advises medication for regulating the menstrual cycle or offers IVF treatment along with lifestyle management programmes to manage the disorder. We tailor your treatment plan depending on the cause of the ovarian disorder. Connect with our team of fertility experts to learn more and get an effective, customised treatment plan.