AT WHAT POINT DOES IVF BECOME NECESSARY AMONG INFERTILE COUPLES?

Introduction

Infertility is a global problem and a public health concern in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa^. Infertility remains a common gynecological and social problem^.

It is a disease of reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse^.

SOME FACTS ABOUT INFERTILITY:

• 8-12% of couples worldwide are affected^.
• 6% and 10% in the United Kingdom and United States of America respectively.
• 30-40% In sub-Saharan Africa.
• 20-30% in Nigeria.

ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES

• This refers to all treatments or procedures that include the handling of human oocytes or embryos for the purpose of establishing a pregnancy. It could be any of the below procedures:
• Ivf :-     in vitro fertilization.
• Icsi :-   intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
• Imsi :-   intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection.
• Gift :- gamete intrafallopian transfer.
• Zift :- zygote intrafallopian transfer.
• Gamete/ embryo cryopreservation, oocyte/embryo donation.

What is IN VITRO FERTILIZATION?
It is a technique of letting fertilization of the male and female gametes occur outside the female body.

WHEN IS IVF NEEDED: It is needed when there are indications below:

Advice

Any couple with any of the above should consult fertility expert. You can also consult the site fertility specialist.

Summary

• IVF/ICSI/IMSI has revolutionalized the management of infertility.
• Although single ET has been advocated, DET OR 3ET increases pregnancy rate but with risk & complications of multiple pregnancy.
• USS guided ET improves pregnancy rate.
• Luteal support is beneficial but no clear cut recommendation on the best approach.