Can extracorporeal drugs cause cancer?

The association of IVF drugs with cancer risk is a major concern for women enrolled in these programs. But the plethora of bibliographic reports collected from credible scientific studies and published in reputable medical journals worldwide are reassuring and do not confirm this concern.

Is infertility only a female problem?

Of course not. In about a third of cases, infertility is due to the woman (female factor), while in a third of cases, it is due to the man (male factor). The remaining one-third is due to both (both men and women) or even to unknown factors.

What increases the risk of male infertility?

The quantity and quality of a man's sperm can be affected by his health and lifestyle. Some factors that can reduce the quantity and / or quality of sperm are: the alcohol drugs environmental toxins, including pesticides and lead smoking health problems medicines radiotherapy and chemotherapy the age

What is the success rate of IVF?

Success rates vary at each IVF Center. Very important factors are also the age of the woman, the levels of her hormones and of course the sperm of the husband. Rates generally range from 45% or slightly higher for women up to 35 years old.

When is a couple considered to be infertile?

Infertility is defined as the failure to conceive after one year (or 6 months, if it is a woman over 35) with normal, regular sexual intercourse. In other words, when a year passes without the woman becoming pregnant, the couple should consult their doctor to determine the cause of the pregnancy and then treat it. We must all, however, be aware and not forget that the age factor is the most critical for female fertility and that the individualized approach of each couple is the "golden key" that solves the problem.

How many times can a woman undergo IVF treatment?

The number of treatment cycles a woman can undergo is not specified. It is certain that in our country there are high level obstetricians-gynecologists and organized infertility treatment centers, which offer impeccable medical services at this level. If there are correct indications (eg ovaries that respond to stimulation therapy, good quality endometrium, etc.) the success rate -especially with the use of newer techniques and biotechnological drugs, which show increased bioactivity compared to conventional drugs from urine- totals approximately 65%-70% after 4 cycles of treatment.

Can I keep my eggs/ semen?

At the Center for Reproductive Medicine of Dr. Traianos we offer egg / sperm cryopreservation services for those who have a personal or medical reason and need this service. We use the most modern vitrification technique in the freezing of sperm and eggs.

Is the egg collection painful?

The collection of eggs takes 10-15 minutes, it is not painful, it is done under intoxication and after the end of the process you return to your activities.

I've already had a baby, but now I'm trying to get pregnant again. Can I have my partner in the midst of a problem?

In general, experts agree that the fact that a couple has already had a child can be considered evidence that there is no infertility problem in the first place. It is like a small test that has been done and proves that they "succeeded" at least once. On the other hand, we need to know that in the meantime things may have changed and a problem may have arisen (eg the man may have had some inflammation that affects the quality of his sperm or has mediated something that affects female fertility: an inflammation, a gynecological surgery, an abortion, etc.). In any case, if a reasonable period of time (one year) passes and a couple can not achieve a pregnancy, then he should with the help of his doctor investigate if there has been a problem that causes infertility.

Center for Reproductive and Fetal Medicine

IVF SCHEDULE

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex and multi-layered process that helps many couples to have a child. It is important for couples considering this method to understand the timeline and the various phases of the process. Below is the IVF process from start to finish.

Initial Assessment and Preparation (2-4 Weeks)

Medical Assessment

– First meeting with the specialist: Discussion of the medical history and planning of the necessary tests.

– Blood tests and ultrasounds: Evaluation of ovarian function and sperm.

Preparation and Counseling

– Diet and healthy habits: Diet and lifestyle advice.

– Counseling support: Psychological support for the preparation of the couple.

Ovarian Stimulation (10-14 Days)

Administration of Hormones

– Hormonal therapy: Injection of gonadotropins to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

– Follow-up with ultrasounds and blood tests: Follow-up of follicle development.

Ovulation Planning

– Injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Administration of the injection when the follicles are ready for egg maturation.

Grain Collection (1 Day)

Collection Process

– Egg retrieval: The procedure is performed under an intoxicated state and the eggs are collected from the ovaries with the help of ultrasound guidance.

Recovery and Evaluation

– Egg retrieval: Eggs are collected and assessed for quality.

– Semen collection: On the same day, the man's sperm is collected.

Fertilization and Embryo Cultivation (3-5 Days)

Fertilization of Ovaries

– Classic IVF or ICSI: The sperm is placed with the eggs (IVF) or injected directly into the eggs (ICSI).

Embryo Cultivation

– Embryo development: Fertilized eggs are cultured in a laboratory for 3-5 days until they reach the blastocyst stage.

Embryo Transfer (1 Day)

Embryo Transfer

– Selection of the best embryos: The embryos are evaluated and the best ones are selected for transfer to the uterus.

– Embryo transfer: The procedure is painless and takes a few minutes, without anesthesia.

Waiting and Pregnancy Control (2 Weeks)

Waiting Period

– 12-14 day waiting period: The couple waits to see if the embryo has implanted in the uterus.

Pregnancy test

– Pregnancy test: A blood test is done to confirm pregnancy.

If the Pregnancy Is Successful

Monitoring

– Continuous monitoring: The doctor monitors the pregnancy with regular ultrasounds and blood tests.

If Pregnancy Is Not Successful

– Review and planning: Discussion with the doctor about next steps and possible process improvements.

Conclusion

The IVF process is complex and requires patience and attention at every step. From the initial assessment and preparation to the embryo transfer and waiting for the pregnancy test, each phase is critical to the success of the endeavour. For more information and personalized advice, do not hesitate to contact our practice. We are here to support you every step of the way and help you achieve your dream of becoming parents.

Center for Reproductive and Fetal Medicine

Effective doctor-patient communication is vital to providing high-quality health care. Any communication regarding your medical profile (getting results, instructions, answering questions, concerns) will be done directly with the doctor. This means no midwife or secretary will interrupt your conversations. Instead, if you call with any concerns, they will be there right away to address your needs. Contact us by calling 694 649 8771 or by completing the relevant Contact Form.