The cycle is set in motion with the release of an egg from the ovaries, which is made possible by the action of ovarian follicles. These follicles are first stimulated by the brain’s pituitary gland, which releases a hormone, thus initiating the cycle. For women experiencing difficulties with this process, seeking Female Infertility Treatment in Bangalore at trusted clinics like Aspire Fertility can help address underlying issues and guide them through the right treatment options.
During the course of the menstrual cycle, various hormones are produced to facilitate the process with Oestrogen (supports follicle growth) and Progesterone (to make the uterus ideal for pregnancy) being the most notable of the lot.
Following ovulation, the sperm cells and egg meet in the fallopian tube, with one of the sperm cells accepted by the egg. Fertilisation is said to have occurred when the sperm cell penetrates the outer layer of the egg. This fertilised egg then continues its journey to the uterus and once the egg implants itself into the lining of the uterus, pregnancy is said to have occurred. If however, the egg isn’t properly fertilised or if the embryo fails to develop, the lining of the uterus is shed as a menstrual period about 14 days after ovulation.
Female Infertility fundamentally refers to the inability to conceive offsprings. In more specific terms, it is the inability to achieve pregnancy by a couple of reproductive age after one whole year of unprotected sexual activity. Primary Infertility is a term used to define infertility in a couple who are yet to have their first child. Secondary Infertility is the failure to conceive after a previous pregnancy. However infertility is not the end of the road, for options like IVF treatment can always lead to a successful pregnancy and it is wise to consult a doctor and understand the options available in every case.
Statistics suggest that roughly one in three cases of infertility can be explained by female causes. These causes may be physical, hormonal or simply age-related. Once the exact cause of infertility has been determined, the doctor will be able to make recommendations on the course of treatment that needs to be adopted.
- Physical Causes: The fertilized egg or sperm can be prevented from reaching the other in the Fallopian tube if the cells lining the tube have been damaged. The risk of an ectopic pregnancy – where the fertilized egg is implanted in the fallopian tube – is consequently higher in such cases. Fallopian tube damage can occur after suffering from pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis or after pelvic surgery. Once the cause and the extent of damage have been assessed, the necessity of IVF treatment can be decided upon or other options can be explored.
- Hormonal: Another common cause of infertility in women, ovulatory disorders can be seen in the form of irregular or absent periods. This phenomenon, known as amenorrhoea, is most commonly associated with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) and can be treated through weight loss and medication. It is important to note that treating PCOS is a must, regardless of its link to fertility, given it could increase the risk of suffering from diabetes or heart disease. PCOS is mostly evident in increased growth of facial and body hair, acne as well as obesity.
- Age: Even though concrete reasons haven’t been discovered, it is certain that age has an effect on fertility in women. As they cross the age of 35, women are found to be more easily prone to miscarriages than younger women. A possible explanation for the same would be the deterioration of the genetic and chromosome make-up of the eggs and embryos. There is, however, no reason to lose hope as good fertility treatment can make a huge difference to one’s chances of pregnancy.
Diet can play a part in affecting a woman’s fertility and chances of pregnancy. Studies have shown that consuming low-fat dairy products more than twice a day face an 85% risk of suffering from ovulatory infertility, wherein infertility is caused by a failure to ovulate. An iron-rich diet, on the other hand, can go a long way in lowering the chances of ovulatory infertility. Beans, lentils, eggs, spinach, whole grains and fortified cereals can all be consumed, supplemented by foods rich in Vitamin C, like bell peppers, berries and citrus fruits to enhance iron absorption. It is also recommended to avoid trans-fat and add foods containing monounsaturated fat to the diet. Avocados, nuts, whole milk and olive oil or sunflower oil are safe bets in this regard. In fact, it has been found that women who consume at least one serving of whole milk per day reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility by more than 50%, as opposed to women who don’t. Calcium – rich foods need to be consumed while replacing animal-based protein with vegetable-based protein can improve fertility vastly by helping maintain a healthy weight without compromising on nutrition requirements. Leaving the usual suspects for the conclusion, nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine all need to be avoided at all costs.
MBBS, MS (OBG), FIRM ( Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine ), Embryology Certification as Clinical Embryologist
Dr. Ashwini G. B. holds her MBBS from JJMMC Davangere, MS in Gynaecology from KMC Manipal in the year 2006 where she was Gold medalist & Best Outgoing Student of the Batch. She received her ESHRE (European Society of Human Reproduction & Embryology) Certification as a Clinical Embryologist in 2021. She carries over 21 years of experience and her special interests include PCOS, Embryo Testing (invasive and non-invasive) and Embryo Implantation.
MBBS.DGO – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Consultant
Dr. Vanajakshi is an experienced Fertility Specialist with over 15+ years of experience in Gynaecology and infertility treatment. She received her MBBS from AIMS, Mandya in 1998 passing out as a Gold Medalist in Microbiology. She pursued her MRCOG in 2004 and received her DGO in Obstetrics & Gynaecology in 2014 from Vydehi Institute of Medical Science & Research Center followed by the Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGHUS), Bangalore. Dr. Vanajakshi’s specialties include Infertility Treatment and High-Risk Pregnancies. Outside of work she enjoys reading, gardening, playing chess and volunteering in community services.
1. Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine and treat conditions inside the uterus. It helps diagnose issues like polyps, fibroids, adhesions, and septum, improving fertility and IVF outcomes. The procedure allows precise treatment with quick recovery and minimal discomfort.
2. SSG (Sonosalpingography)
SSG is a simple, non-invasive procedure used to assess whether the fallopian tubes are open. A saline solution is passed into the uterus while ultrasound tracks its flow. It helps identify tubal blocks or abnormalities that may affect natural conception or IVF planning.
3. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy)
PRP involves using a patient’s own platelet-rich plasma to improve endometrial thickness or support ovarian function. This procedure enhances tissue healing and regeneration, offering better implantation potential for women with thin endometrium or poor ovarian response.
4. Myomectomy
Myomectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus. It helps relieve symptoms such as heavy bleeding and improves fertility by restoring a healthy uterine environment for implantation and pregnancy.
5. Polypectomy
Polypectomy is the removal of endometrial polyps from the uterus using a minimally invasive approach. Removing polyps improves chances of natural conception and IVF success by creating a clear and receptive uterine lining for embryo implantation.
6. Septal Resection
Septal resection removes a uterine septum—an internal wall that can cause miscarriages or implantation failures. By correcting this congenital condition, the procedure enhances uterine shape and significantly improves pregnancy outcomes.
7. Endometriosis Surgery
Endometriosis surgery involves removing endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus, which can cause pain and infertility. Clearing these lesions improves ovarian function, reduces inflammation, and increases the chances of natural or assisted conception.
