Struggling with fertility can be an emotionally and physically challenging journey. Thankfully, advances in medical science now offer a range of treatments designed to support those experiencing difficulties with conception. Whether due to hormonal imbalances, structural issues or unexplained infertility, there are effective solutions available.
Ovulation Induction Therapy
This treatment uses medications such as clomifene citrate or letrozole to stimulate ovulation in women with irregular or absent cycles. It encourages the ovaries to release eggs more regularly. Monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds helps track the response, improving the chances of conception with timed intercourse or insemination.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation time. It increases the number of sperm reaching the fallopian tubes, enhancing fertilisation chances. Often used in cases of unexplained infertility, mild male factor issues or cervical mucus problems, this procedure is simple and minimally invasive.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
IVF combines eggs and sperm in a laboratory to create embryos, which are then transferred into the uterus. It is used in cases of tubal blockage, endometriosis, unexplained infertility or when other treatments have failed. IVF requires hormonal stimulation, egg retrieval and careful embryo monitoring for successful implantation.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
ICSI is a specialised form of IVF used when male infertility is significant. A single sperm is directly injected into an egg to aid fertilisation. This method bypasses natural barriers and is helpful when sperm count or motility is low. The resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus.
Hormonal Therapy for Men
Low testosterone or other hormonal imbalances can impair sperm production. Hormonal therapies aim to restore balance using medications such as gonadotrophins or anti-oestrogens. These treatments improve sperm quality and quantity over time, offering a non-invasive approach for men with hormonal-related fertility problems.
Surgical Treatments for Blockages
Conditions like blocked fallopian tubes in women or obstructed sperm ducts in men may require surgery. Laparoscopic procedures can open fallopian tubes, while vasectomy reversals or varicocele repairs improve male fertility. These surgical options restore natural function and may eliminate the need for more advanced reproductive techniques.
Donor Eggs or Sperm
When egg or sperm quality is significantly compromised, using donor gametes becomes an option. Donor sperm or eggs are screened for health and genetic conditions. This option supports same-sex couples, single individuals, or those with poor reproductive cells. Donor-assisted reproduction can be paired with IUI or IVF.
Fertility Preservation Treatments
People facing medical treatments such as chemotherapy can preserve fertility through egg, sperm or embryo freezing. These options allow future attempts at conception when natural fertility may be compromised. Preservation is also helpful for those delaying parenthood for personal or medical reasons and want to maintain reproductive potential.
Luteal Phase Support
After procedures like IVF, hormonal support may be given to help maintain a thick and receptive uterine lining. Progesterone is commonly used during the luteal phase to increase implantation chances. This support improves the environment for embryo development and is continued until pregnancy is confirmed.
Assisted Hatching
In some IVF cases, especially for older women or repeated IVF failures, assisted hatching may be used. This technique creates a small opening in the outer shell of the embryo to help it implant in the uterus. It is performed under a microscope and may increase pregnancy rates.
Conclusion
Medical treatments for fertility issues have come a long way, offering hope, clarity and personalised paths to parenthood. From medications and IUI to IVF and donor options, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Understanding these choices can empower you to ask the right questions and find the support you need.
