Infertility impacts approximately one in six individuals worldwide, as per a report from the World Health Organization (WHO). In the UAE, the prevalence of secondary infertility is notably high, prompting many couples to consider in vitro fertilisation (IVF) as a means to build a family. However, specialists emphasize the importance of exploring less invasive and more cost-effective treatment options to alleviate emotional and financial burdens before resorting to IVF. Cassie Destino, the founder of IVF Support UAE, advocates that IVF should not be the first choice for all fertility problems and recommends exploring various interventions such as dietary adjustments, medication, and acupuncture to facilitate conception without IVF.
Dr. Peter Nawar, a Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Medcare, stated that "Most individuals with PCOS can achieve pregnancy through a combination of lifestyle modifications and fertility medications. While some may require IVF, many can conceive using less technologically advanced fertility treatments."
Natural conception remains a possibility for women with endometriosis, a condition where uterine-like cells develop outside the uterus. Dr. Nawar noted, "It is estimated that 60-70% of those with endometriosis can conceive naturally."
IVF is a medical procedure that assists individuals in conceiving by fertilizing an egg outside the body and implanting the resulting embryo into the woman's uterus. The process involves several stages, including stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving these eggs, fertilizing them in a laboratory, and then transferring the embryos back into the uterus.
If couples choose to pursue IVF, it is essential to ensure they fully understand their condition and the available options. Destino recommended, "I always suggest that patients consult with several doctors and clinics to find a practitioner they are comfortable with, as they will need to trust their doctor fully once treatment begins."
Conditions such as PCOS, PCOD, and endometriosis are known to impact fertility. Destino explained, "Each of these conditions affects fertility differently. At its core, infertility is an endocrine disorder. When a woman's hormones or anatomy are not functioning correctly, it leads to imbalances that make conception challenging."
Dr. Nawar highlighted the significance of fertility testing to identify the root cause of the fertility problem. "Start with fertility testing to pinpoint the origin of the issue and to determine when IVF should be considered. IVF might not be the initial solution. Other treatments like intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be more affordable and less complex for those who are eligible."
One common misconception among couples is that IVF ensures pregnancy, according to Destino. "Although IVF significantly boosts the chances of having a baby, there is no guarantee it will succeed," she said. "It typically takes an average of three IVF cycles to bring home a baby." This misunderstanding can result in disappointment if the initial attempts fail.
Another misconception is that IVF is exclusively for female infertility. Dr. Nawar clarified, "IVF can address both male and female infertility. In some instances, both partners may face fertility issues, and IVF can be a viable option to achieve pregnancy."
These misconceptions can greatly influence individuals or couples contemplating IVF. Destino observed, "People are often taken aback by the numerous steps and variables involved when they anticipated a straightforward process." This can lead to undue anxiety and hesitation, potentially delaying beneficial treatment.
Despite the growing acceptance of IVF and fertility treatments, there remains a stigma attached to them, according to Destino. "There is a perception that infertility is a failure," she said. "Some people think they are meant to procreate, and if they can't, it's because they've done something wrong." Openly discussing infertility can help diminish this stigma and foster a more supportive environment for those undergoing IVF.
