Addressing the Multifaceted Challenges of Infertility

IVF is revolutionising the hopes of parents with fertility issues. State-of-the-art laboratories, experienced embryologists, and adherence to international quality standards ensure high success rates. Dr Durga G Rao, Co-founder, and Medical Director, Oasis Fertility reveals more about how IVF clinics can address multifaceted challenges related to fertility

What are India-specific challenges and resolutions when it comes to fertility issues?

India faces unique challenges in addressing fertility issues due to a complex interplay of socio-cultural, economic, and healthcare factors. Early marriages, a preference for male children, and the stigma surrounding infertility hinder progress, while economic disparities limit access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas, and the high cost of fertility treatments remains a significant barrier.

Additionally, a shortage of trained fertility specialists and advanced reproductive technologies in many regions exacerbates the problem, with environmental factors such as pollution and unhealthy lifestyles contributing as well.

Comprehensive solutions are needed, including educational initiatives to raise awareness about reproductive health, culturally sensitive healthcare approaches, and psychological support for affected couples. Legal and policy frameworks should protect the rights of those seeking treatments, while increased funding for research and public-private partnerships can enhance the availability and quality of fertility treatments. Training programmes for healthcare professionals, community engagement to reduce stigma and the inclusion of fertility treatments in health insurance plans are also essential to address these multifaceted challenges.

How is IVF bringing hope to parents with fertility issues?

IVF is revolutionising the hopes of parents with fertility issues by offering advanced reproductive technologies that significantly enhance the chances of conception.

Across the industry, IVF clinics are addressing the multifaceted challenges of infertility through a comprehensive range of services, including IVF, ICSI, fertility preservation, and treatments for conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids. State-of-the-art laboratories, experienced embryologists, and adherence to international quality standards ensure high success rates. Additionally, the integration of advanced technologies such as AI and ML improves prediction models

and treatment outcomes. Industry-wide awareness campaigns, free consultations, and specialised centres for male infertility are bridging gaps in access and education, making parenthood a tangible reality for millions of couples worldwide. 

What is the success rate of IVF technology, and what precautions would you recommend to a patient undergoing IVF?

The success rate of IVF varies based on factors such as the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of gametes and embryos. Generally, success rates are around 45-50 per cent for women under 35, 35 per cent for those between 35 and 37, and 25-10 per cent for

women over 38. To maximise your chances of success, it’s important to choose a high-quality clinic, thoroughly understand the IVF process, and follow your physician’s instructions meticulously, including medication schedules and appointment timings. 

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction, is also crucial. Additionally, consider undergoing counselling to manage the emotional challenges and plan your finances carefully to cover the costs of treatment.

Being well-prepared physically, emotionally, and financially will help you navigate the IVF journey more effectively.

What is CAPA-IVM, and how does it improve the process of in vitro maturation of eggs in fertility treatments? 

CAPA-IVM, or Capacitation In Vitro Maturation, represents a significant advancement in fertility treatments, particularly in the process of in vitro maturation (IVM) of eggs.

Traditional IVF methods often require extensive hormonal stimulation to mature eggs before retrieval, which can be cumbersome, time-consuming, and costly and may carry risks for certain patients. CAPA-IVM simplifies this by reducing the number of hormonal injections needed, making it a safer and more patient-friendly option. This approach is especially beneficial for women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), resistant ovary syndrome, oocyte maturation problems, or those at risk of complications from hormone stimulation. By minimizing the treatment burden and potential side effects, CAPA-IVM not only enhances patient comfort but also makes the process more cost-effective and accessible. This innovation in egg maturation thereby improves the overall efficiency and safety of fertiliy treatments, offering a viable alternative for those who might otherwise be unable to pursue traditional IVF.

How are automation and artificial intelligence being integrated into IVF procedures, and what impact are they having on the success rates and the efficiency of fertility treatments?

Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly being integrated into In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedures, bringing about substantial improvements in both the success rates and efficiency of fertility treatments. AI enhances the accuracy of data analysis and decision-making, enabling embryologists to predict treatment

outcomes more reliably and tailor interventions to individual patient needs. For instance, AI can assist in determining the optimal time for embryo transfer by assessing the receptivity of the endometrium, thereby increasing the chances of successful implantation. Additionally, AI is employed in preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), where it helps select embryos with the best potential by analyzing chromosomal normality, thus improving the sensitivity and accuracy of embryo selection.

Moreover, automation is transforming the IVF landscape by reducing manual errors and increasing procedural efficiency. Automated systems, such as the Electronic Witnessing System (EWS), ensure sample tracking and prevent mismatches, which enhances the reliability of the process. 

Microfluidics technology, which mimics the female reproductive system, is also being used to improve sperm selection, further contributing to the success of IVF. 

Although AI and automation cannot replace the expertise of skilled embryologists, they significantly streamline the process, reduce treatment time, and lower costs, making IVF more accessible. These technological advancements are reshaping fertility treatments, offering more personalised, efficient, and successful outcomes for patients.