Often infertility can be the result of treatable conditions or lifestyle issues. Listed below are some health issues that, if managed effectively, would result in conception.
Because fibroids can grow back, those women planning to become pregnant in the future must try to conceive as early as possible after the myomectomy procedure. However, following surgery, Dr Turner will advise you to wait for 4 to 6 months until the uterus heals.
Before undergoing any infertility treatment, Dr Turner may recommend a hysterosalpingogram and an X-ray test to check the uterus and fallopian tubes.
The incisions made in the uterine wall of the uterus to remove fibroids may cause placental problems, and improper functioning of the uterus during labour may need a caesarean delivery.
In rare cases, a hysterectomy may be needed if the uterus has grown too large with fibroids.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder and one of the common causes of infertility among women.
It is characterised by an ovulation dysfunction or impedance to the normal growth and release of eggs from the ovaries. It is commonly seen in women of childbearing age and is rare after menopause.
The hormonal imbalance results in enlarged ovaries containing several small cysts (fluid-filled sacs less than or equal to 8mm in diameter).
The exact cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome is unknown. However, several factors, including genetics, have been implicated in playing a role in developing PCOS.
Women with a family history of polycystic ovarian syndrome are at a higher risk of developing this condition.
Researchers have also found an association between excessive insulin production and the development of PCOS. Insulin hormone regulates blood sugar levels, and any disorder affecting the insulin mechanism may result in excessive insulin secretion, which triggers androgen secretion from the ovaries.
Low-grade inflammation, in response to ingestion of certain foods, may lead to the release of substances that can cause insulin resistance and cholesterol accumulation in the blood vessels or atherosclerosis.
Clinical studies have demonstrated the presence of low-grade inflammation in women with PCOS. Excessive exposure to the male hormone during the foetal period may disrupt the function of normal genes and increase the risk of insulin resistance and low-grade inflammation for the foetus later in life.
The symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome vary from person to person and depend upon the nature and severity of the condition.
Some symptoms of PCOS include
In some patients, black or dark brown patches are seen around the skin of the neck, arm, breasts or thighs. Patients often experience anxiety or depression.
The diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome is based on the medical history along with a physical and pelvic examination and blood test to evaluate the patient's condition and help identify the underlying cause. Test conducted could include:
The treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome is based on the symptoms and individual concerns such as infertility, irregular menstrual cycle, acne or obesity.
Both medications and surgical treatment can be used for the management of PCOS. Infertility may be treated by fertility therapy with ovulation-inducing drugs.
In patients not responding to clomiphene and metformin, gonadotropins, namely, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can be administered by injection.
Patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome frequently develop other serious medical conditions such as
These patients are also at risk of anxiety or depression.
The treatment of cancer may pose temporary or permanent fertility problems in both men and women. The effects may be immediate or show up much later in life.
Various factors, such as the type of cancer, treatment and age, determine the chances of infertility following treatment.
Any cancer therapy would involve one or more of the three general techniques:
The higher the dose of chemo and radiation therapy, and the older the patient, the greater its effect on fertility.
Cancer therapy can damage the endocrine glands (glands that release hormones essential for puberty and fertility.
The options for women may include:
Fertility-preserving procedures may vary for each individual and each condition. You can discuss with Dr Turner in detail before you decide.
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