Fertility
Empowering Women's Health
Fertility
"IVF and ICSI bring hope to those facing fertility challenges, combining cutting-edge science with compassionate care. My priority as a specialist is to provide tailored treatments and unwavering support, helping patients achieve their dream of parenthood with confidence and optimism."
Patient Information
IVF and ICSI Success Rates in Australia
What is IVF?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment where eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the uterus to achieve pregnancy. IVF is commonly used for couples experiencing infertility due to factors such as ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, or unexplained infertility.
What is ICSI?
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a specialized form of IVF. It involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg to assist fertilization. ICSI is often recommended for couples with male infertility issues, such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape.
How successful are IVF and ICSI in Australia?
Success rates for IVF and ICSI depend on several factors, including the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of eggs and sperm. In Australia:
In Australia, the success rates of IVF and ICSI vary significantly with age:
– Women under 30: The live birth rate per embryo transfer is approximately 43-48% for IVF and ICSI combined.
– Women aged 35-37: The success rate drops to around 32-40% per embryo transfer.
– Women aged 40-42: The live birth rate is much lower, at about 13-22% per embryo transfer.
– Women over 44: The success rate is minimal, at 2-5% per embryo transfer.
These rates highlight the impact of age on fertility outcomes.
ICSI success rates are similar to those of standard IVF, as the primary difference lies in the fertilization process. ICSI is particularly effective for overcoming male infertility issues.
What factors influence success rates?
– Age: Younger women generally have higher success rates due to better egg quality.
– Cause of infertility: Certain conditions, such as male infertility, may benefit more from ICSI.
– Clinic expertise: Success rates can vary between clinics, so choosing a reputable clinic is important.
What do Australian guidelines recommend?
The Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) and other national guidelines emphasize:
– Evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs.
– Transparent communication about success rates and potential risks.
– Avoiding unnecessary interventions.
Are there risks associated with IVF and ICSI?
Both procedures are generally safe, but risks may include:
– Multiple pregnancies (if more than one embryo is transferred).
– Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) due to hormonal medications.
– Rarely, complications from egg retrieval or embryo transfer.
When should I seek fertility treatment?
You should consult a fertility specialist if:
– You have been trying to conceive for over 12 months (or 6 months if over 35 years old).
– You have known medical conditions affecting fertility, such as PCOS or endometriosis.
– You experience irregular periods or other symptoms of infertility.
"Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in Australia represents an advanced method that improves fertility success by evaluating embryos for genetic disorders and chromosomal irregularities. Backed by national protocols and sophisticated technology, PGT provides hope for individuals and couples aspiring to create healthy families. As a specialist, my commitment lies in delivering accurate, evidence-based care alongside empathetic support, enabling patients to make well-informed choices and confidently navigate their reproductive paths."
Patient Information
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
What is preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)?
PGT is a procedure used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to test embryos for genetic conditions or chromosomal abnormalities before implantation. It helps identify embryos with the best chance of developing into a healthy pregnancy.
What types of PGT are available?
There are three main types of PGT:
1. PGT-A (Aneuploidy): Screens for chromosomal abnormalities that can lead to miscarriage or conditions like Down syndrome.
2. PGT-M (Monogenic Disorders): Tests for specific genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease.
3. PGT-SR (Structural Rearrangements): Detects chromosomal structural issues, such as translocations, that may affect embryo viability.
Who can benefit from PGT?
PGT may be recommended for:
– Couples with a history of genetic conditions.
– Women over 35, who have a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
– Couples with recurrent miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.
– Individuals with chromosomal rearrangements.
How is PGT performed?
PGT involves:
1. IVF Cycle: Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory to create embryos.
2. Embryo Biopsy: A few cells are taken from each embryo for testing.
3. Genetic Analysis: The cells are analyzed for genetic or chromosomal issues.
4. Embryo Selection: Healthy embryos are selected for transfer to the uterus.
What are the benefits of PGT?
– Reduces the risk of passing on genetic conditions.
– Improves the chances of a successful pregnancy.
– Minimizes the risk of miscarriage.
Are there limitations or risks?
– PGT does not guarantee pregnancy or eliminate all risks.
– The procedure adds cost and complexity to IVF.
– Embryo biopsy is generally safe but carries a small risk of damage to the embryo.
What do Australian guidelines recommend?
The Reproductive Technology Council in Australia emphasizes:
– PGT should be offered to couples at high risk of genetic conditions or recurrent pregnancy loss.
– Clinics must adhere to strict ethical and regulatory standards.
– Genetic counseling is essential to help couples understand the benefits, risks, and limitations of PGT.
When should I consider PGT?
You should discuss PGT with your healthcare provider if:
– You have a family history of genetic conditions.
– You have experienced recurrent miscarriages or failed IVF cycles.
– You are concerned about chromosomal abnormalities due to age or other factors.
"Opting for egg freezing is a powerful choice for women aiming to preserve their fertility, providing flexibility and reassurance when considering future plans. As a specialist in the field, I am passionate about offering empathetic support and cutting- edge care during this profoundly personal experience. My practice ensures that women are well-informed, encouraged, and self-assured in their choices, enabling them to take charge of their reproductive health with hope and understanding."
Patient information
Egg Freezing
What is Egg Freezing?
Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a process where a woman’s eggs are retrieved, frozen, and stored for future use. It is a fertility preservation option for women who wish to delay pregnancy due to personal, medical, or professional reasons.
Why do women choose egg freezing?
Women may opt for egg freezing for various reasons, including:
– Delaying pregnancy while pursuing career or personal goals.
– Preserving fertility before undergoing medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, that may affect ovarian function.
– Managing age-related fertility decline.
What is the process of egg freezing?
The process involves:
1. Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
2. Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected through a minor surgical procedure.
3. Freezing and Storage: The eggs are frozen using a technique called vitrification and stored in a specialized facility.
What are the success rates of egg freezing?
Success rates depend on factors such as the woman’s age at the time of freezing and the number of eggs retrieved. In Australia:
– Women under 35 have higher chances of success due to better egg quality.
– On average, 14 eggs are needed to achieve an 80% chance of having a baby for women under 35.
What are the costs of egg freezing in Australia?
Egg freezing is not covered by Medicare for elective (non-medical) reasons. Costs varies from clinic to clinic, with additional fees for storage and future use.
What do Australian guidelines recommend?
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) and other national guidelines emphasize:
– Egg freezing is most effective for women under 35.
– Comprehensive counseling to ensure realistic expectations about success rates and costs.
– Ethical considerations and adherence to regulatory standards.
Are there risks associated with egg freezing?
Egg freezing is generally safe, but risks may include:
– Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) due to hormonal medications.
– Complications from egg retrieval, such as bleeding or infection.
– Emotional and financial stress associated with the process.
When should I consider egg freezing?
You should discuss egg freezing with a fertility specialist if:
– You are concerned about age-related fertility decline.
– You are undergoing medical treatments that may affect fertility.
– You wish to preserve fertility for personal or professional reasons.