Frequently asked questions about fertility and assisted reproduction (IX)

As you already know, we have been participating for some time in the online chat of the Málaga newspaper La Opinión. It is a section called “Ask a Specialist,” where we make Dr. Álvarez, our medical director, available to you.

From this, we thought to create a space adapted to this activity on our blog — a section where we gather frequently asked questions about fertility and assisted reproduction that many couples and single women ask us in the chat.

Want to know some of the questions we’ve received this month? Keep reading!

I’m 41 years old, with endometriosis and thrombophilia. I was told I might need IVF or egg donation to get pregnant. Which would be more effective?

At 41, the ongoing pregnancy rate with IVF using own eggs is 20-30%. The same rate with egg donation rises to over 80-90% cumulative pregnancy rate.

The final decision depends, in any case, on the patient and the guidance and results of the fertility center where she wishes to be treated.

Is there anything I can do to improve egg quality?

It’s always important to maintain healthy habits. Avoid overweight, smoking, alcohol consumption, etc. Above all, control factors that may negatively affect fertility.

And, of course, the most important thing is not to delay trying for pregnancy, as age greatly influences the chances of becoming a mother.

I’m trying to get pregnant, but my period hasn’t come for months. Do I need to have my period to get pregnant?

The answer depends on age and the cause of the absent period. If the problem is menopause, IVF with egg donation does not require a period to perform the treatment.

It’s necessary to study the cause of the delayed period to apply appropriate treatment.

We are a healthy couple trying to have children. Could psychological factors be a problem?

Before blaming psychological factors, it’s necessary to evaluate all aspects that may influence the absence of pregnancy.

There is a condition called “infertility of unknown cause,” where both members of the couple are healthy, yet assisted reproduction treatment is still needed to achieve pregnancy.

How much does age affect fertility?

Age mainly affects the quality and number of oocytes (ovarian reserve) in women. This is especially noticeable after age 38.

In men, fertility is more affected from around 45-50 years, reflected in a decrease in semen quality.

All of this results in a lower probability of pregnancy.

What environmental factors can affect fertility in men and women?

Direct factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use… can affect fertility. Regarding environmental pollution, the use of pesticides and some plastics could also be associated with fertility problems.

What is the most effective method to get pregnant?

If there is no age problem and everything is normal, the best option is a healthy lifestyle with sexual intercourse two to three times a week at least.

However, when talking about fertility and assisted reproduction techniques like artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization, the most effective and efficient method depends on the diagnosis and the age of the couple.

What is the recommended fertility treatment for a woman about to turn 45 and a man who had a vasectomy?

The best alternative is IVF with egg donation (ovodonation), obtaining sperm through testicular biopsy.

Is it normal for embryos to move on the day of transfer?

What is seen on the ultrasound during a transfer is not the embryo, but the drop of culture medium where it is located.

From transfer until implantation occurs, it is normal for the embryo to “move” or shift until it begins the adhesion process to the maternal endometrium.

How many IVF cycles are recommended?

This depends on the age and diagnosis of each couple, as well as their expectations when indicating IVF treatment.

I’m 34 and have been trying to get pregnant for months. Sex has become mechanical and frustrating. Could this mood affect pregnancy?

In principle, mood does not directly affect the possibility of pregnancy.

However, if after one year of unprotected intercourse pregnancy is not achieved, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist or reproductive specialist for evaluation.

For women over 38, this consultation is recommended after six months of trying without success.

I’m 37 and want to be a mother, but I’m unsure if it’s still advisable due to my age. Would pregnancy be risky?

At 37, if the woman is healthy, pregnancy is not considered high risk.

However, waiting longer reduces the chance of pregnancy and increases risks, especially after 38-40 years.

I’m a man and had a vasectomy. Do I still have a chance to be a father?

The most efficient option is IVF with sperm obtained by testicular biopsy.

This is a low-risk, outpatient procedure.

After a miscarriage, I had a curettage. When should I expect my next period? Once it arrives, can I try to get pregnant right away?

Usually, the period returns 2-3 weeks after. This depends on the woman’s menstrual cycles and when pregnancy hormones return to normal.

Strictly speaking, pregnancy can occur once ovarian function recovers.

What does it mean if menstrual blood is brown sometimes?

Generally, the appearance of the period is not pathologic. If this “unusual” bleeding pattern persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, a gynecologic evaluation is necessary.

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