Helping couples tackle fertility issues
NURUL AISYAH MOHD NOR
While there are many factors that lead to delayed parenthood such as lifestyle changes, late marriage and economic status, particularly due to the lack of financial stability brought on by the pandemic - there are also new and improved technology that can increase couples’ chances of getting pregnant.
Those concerned with ageing can opt for various solutions to address fertility issues, one of which is In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
Wanting to help couples tackle fertility issues, Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) has launched its new Sunway Fertility Centre recently.
Located next to the Women and Children Center, the centre, spearheaded by Dr Farah Leong Rahman and Dr Ashley Chung Soo Bae is built with a variety of facilities, including consultation and counseling rooms, operation theatre, treatment rooms, and more.
Those concerned with ageing can opt for various solutions to address fertility issues, one of which is In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
“IVF may be an option if you and your partner has fallopian tubes blockage, previous tubal sterilization or damage, endometriosis, ovulation disorder, impaired sperm function or production, male sterilization, unexplained fertility, genetic disorder or as fertility preservation for cancer condition," said Dr Ashley in a press release.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) and Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) are two screening techniques that are legally required for IVF to be successful.
PGT-A is used to assess the health of an embryo, whereas IMSI is utilized to find tiny defects in the sperm head and inject normal looking sperm into the oocytes.
Women have impeccable power, because the difficulties women would confront during IVF are not to be taken lightly, Dr Ashley strongly advises patients to get a clinical examination.
“Some women might successfully begin a pregnancy after a cycle of IVF, while others might need to try a few cycles before they begin parenthood,” Dr Ashley added.
MALE FERTILITY
Male fertility is another aspect of fertility that needs more awareness. The topic is not generally brought up due to the stigma associated with it, particularly in Asian cultures where male virility is valued.
As parenthood is a journey undertaken by a couple, more awareness needs to be raised on the issue of male infertility, which has seen an increase in cases both locally and globally.
“There is no doubt that more awareness has to be raised about this issue and that lifestyle and environmental factors do play a role as smoking cigarettes or marijuana, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity and hormonal treatment can lead to suboptimal sperm parameters.
“There are various causes of male infertility. Some causes are congenital or hereditary; meaning that the problem has occurred since birth.
"Others are acquired such as surgery, trauma, infection, testicular problems, underlying medical disorders or certain medications. Each treatment option differs depending on the underlying cause," said Dr Farah.
To check if one has suboptimal sperms, a simple sperm test can be carried out to gather information on sperm count, motility and shape. Further investigations such as hormonal blood tests are done if necessary, depending on sperm parameters.
Fertility treatments such as IVF can be a consideration for couples to conceive and also ensure a safe, healthy pregnancy and child
