Improving your fertility and the advancements in treating infertility
Written in association with:Mr Ahmed Ismail, a fertility specialist, explains how couples hoping to conceive can check and improve their fertility. He also gives us some insight into the latest advancements available in treating infertility.
How can I check my fertility?
For men, the first step in assessing fertility is to do a semen analysis to check whether they are able to produce good, fertile sperm. For women, we would check their ovulation, their anatomy and whether there are any blockages in the fallopian tubes at all. We also check whether or not their uterus is amenable to carrying a developing embryo and then baby. Once each party has been checked, we can make an assessment of their ability to sustain a pregnancy together, and whether or not they will require medical assistance.
What are some ways to increase fertility?
Health, both physical and mental, is key to improving chances of conceiving, provided there are no other medical reasons to prevent pregnancy. For example, a healthy diet, cessation of smoking, reduced alcohol intake and a stress-free relationship are good ways to improve your fertility as a couple. Any other health problems with either the man or the woman should be dealt with as soon as possible.
In terms of sexual activity, in order to increase the chances of conception, partners should be having sexual intercourse, on average, 3 to 4 times a week. My advice is to avoid the allure of timing your sexual activity to be in line with ovulation – I believe this to be too clinical an approach, which can increase stress and anxiety which could delay pregnancy.
What are the latest discoveries in the treatment of infertility?
One of the more recent areas of intrigue within infertility treatment is the immunological approach which looks at assessing whether immunological factors are causing problems between a couple being able to conceive. Another innovation is looking at how antioxidants and their incorporation can improve the quantity and quality of a man’s sperm. In my clinic, I am able to give men and women a unique supplement of antioxidants and vitamins intravenously to improve sperm quality and egg quality respectively. These supplements are given in a purely complimentary capacity to improve fertility.
If you have any concerns about your fertility, make an appointment with an expert.
