ABIMS Fertility & Andrology

EGG QUALITY IS IMPORTANT IF YOU WANT TO GET PREGNANT

For any woman to get pregnant, there are three things that must happen in her body; Aside from having the uterus, the womb that will carry the pregnancy, which is normal for all women; 1. She must have open fallopian tubes 2. She must have quality eggs and 3. The sperm must be good and must be able to pass through the mouth of the womb. Among these three processes, one needs to be adjusted and that is the quality of your eggs. If you go for a scan and it shows that you have eggs on both side of your fallopian tubes and you were told to have sex with your husband, doesn’t mean the sperm will fertilize the egg. The sperm will only fertilize the egg that is of good quality. To build the quality of your egg, you can take Fertilgain to boost the quality of your eggs and regulates your hormones. 

WHEN YOUR AMH VALUE IS ABOVE 3.5NG/ML AND YOU DON’T HAVE SIGNS AND SYMPTOM OF PCOS.

WHEN YOUR AMH VALUE IS ABOVE 3.5NG/ML AND YOU DON’T HAVE SIGNS AND SYMPTOM OF PCOS. Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a crucial marker used to assess a woman’s ovarian reserve in fertility evaluations. The typical reference range for AMH is approximately 1.0 to 3.5 ng/mL. Values below 1.0 ng/mL may indicate diminished ovarian reserve, while levels above 3.5 ng/mL can be suggestive of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). However, it’s important to note that not all women with elevated AMH levels present with the classical symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular menstrual cycles, acne, or anovulation. This condition is often referred to as “subclinical” or “silent PCOS”, where hormonal imbalance exists without obvious external signs. A high AMH level without symptoms may still affect egg quality and fertilization potential, potentially impacting conception outcomes. It is essential not to rely solely on regular menstruation or ovulation as indicators of reproductive health. If your AMH is above 3.5 ng/mL, or falls below 1.0 ng/mL, it is advisable to consult a fertility specialist for comprehensive evaluation and guidance on appropriate treatment or management strategies. 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF FALLOPIAN TUBES DAMAGE.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF FALLOPIAN TUBES DAMAGE. Fallopian tube damage is a significant factor in female infertility. Common types of tubal pathology include: 1. Tubal Blockage: Where the fallopian tube is not patent (i.e., not open), preventing the passage of sperm or egg. 2. Hydrosalpinx: A condition where the tube becomes swollen and fluid-filled due to chronic inflammation, often impairing fertility. 3. Fimbrial Adhesions: Adhesions or scarring at the fimbrial end of the tube (the finger-like projections that help capture the egg from the ovary), which can block egg pick-up and transport. If one fallopian tube is damaged or surgically removed commonly after an ectopic pregnancy the other may still function and allow for natural conception. However, if one tube has hydrosalpinx, the toxic fluid it contains may backflow into the uterus and impair implantation, thereby affecting both natural and assisted conception (including IVF). A potential intervention is hydrotubation or tubal flushing, which aims to restore tubal patency. However, this procedure carries no guarantee of success and outcomes remain uncertain. After three months of any tubal treatment, a follow-up Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is recommended to reassess tubal status. If the tubes remain blocked or hydrosalpinx persists, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be the most appropriate option for achieving pregnancy. 

WHEN THERE IS NO GOOD RESULT FROM THE TREATMENT OF SEMEN PROBLEM.

WHEN THERE IS NO GOOD RESULT FROM THE TREATMENT OF SEMEN PROBLEM. There are instances where men undergo treatment for abnormal semen parameters, yet see little or no improvement in their semen analysis. For example, the sperm count may remain persistently low between 2 million and 10 million per milliliter or may even decline further, despite ongoing medication or therapy. In some cases, hormonal profiles and scrotal ultrasound results appear normal, yet sperm count, motility, and morphology fail to improve. One often overlooked cause is a blockage or dysfunction in the epididymis, the coiled tube located at the back of the testicle where sperm is stored and matures. If this duct is obstructed or not functioning properly, sperm cannot pass through effectively, and medical treatments aimed at boosting sperm production may not yield results. In such cases, it is essential to consult a qualified fertility specialist or andrologist who can identify the underlying issue and recommend appropriate management options, which may include further diagnostic evaluation, surgical intervention, or assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF with ICSI. 

SEVERE LOW SPERM COUNT AND AZOOSPERMIA

SEVERE LOW SPERM COUNT AND AZOOSPERMIA If you have been diagnosed with azoospermia (complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate) or severe oligospermia (sperm count less than 5 million/ml), it’s important to understand that the chances of spontaneous recovery with medication alone are often limited. Be cautious of anyone claiming to have a guaranteed cure. There are two main types of azoospermia: 1. Obstructive Azoospermia This occurs when sperm production in the testicles is normal, but a blockage prevents the sperm from reaching the ejaculate. Common causes include obstructions in the epididymis, vas deferens, or ejaculatory ducts, and may present as an epididymal cyst. These cases are often challenging and require evaluation by a urologist or male fertility specialist for possible surgical correction or assisted reproductive options like sperm retrieval. 2. Non-Obstructive Azoospermia This form results from impaired or absent sperm production by the testicles. In such cases, a scrotal ultrasound and hormonal profile (e.g., FSH, LH, testosterone) are essential to assess testicular function. Possible causes include undescended testes (cryptorchidism) or testicular failure due to heat damage or developmental issues. If the testes did not properly descend during childhood and remained inside the body beyond puberty, heat exposure may have irreversibly damaged sperm-producing cells. A quick self-check: normally, both testicles should be present in the scrotal sac, located below the penis. During cold temperatures, the scrotum may contract, but the testes should not retract entirely into the body. If you suspect you have a sperm production issue or have been diagnosed with azoospermia or severe oligospermia, consult a fertility scientist. 

PRIAPISM WHEN GBOLA RISES AND FAILS TO COME DOWN

Priapism is a urological emergency characterized by a prolonged and often painful penile erection that persists for more than four hours and is unrelated to sexual stimulation. It may occur spontaneously or following sexual activity. This condition results from impaired blood outflow from the penis, causing blood to become trapped in the erectile tissues. If untreated, priapism can lead to tissue damage and long-term erectile dysfunction. Management typically involves aspiration of the trapped blood from the corpora cavernosa (erectile tissue) and/or administration of medications to constrict blood vessels and restore normal blood flow. Men who use sexual enhancement herbal drugs or unregulated aphrodisiacs to prolong erection are at increased risk for priapism and are strongly advised to avoid such substances. Additionally, individuals with sickle cell disease are more prone to priapism due to the abnormal shape and rigidity of their red blood cells, which can obstruct penile blood vessels. Prompt medical attention is essential to prevent permanent damage, consult a fertility scientists. 

ABUSE OF CLOMID/LETROZOLE CAN LEAD TO OVARIAN CYST.

It is important for women trying to conceive to understand that the inappropriate or unsupervised use of ovulation induction medications such as Clomid (clomiphene citrate) and Letrozole can lead to serious complications, including the development of ovarian cysts. In some cases, this has progressed to the extent of requiring surgical intervention. Clomid and Letrozole are both ovulation stimulating agents that should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified fertility specialist. These medications are not meant for casual or experimental use. While some individuals may conceive after using them, others may experience adverse effects, especially if their hormonal profile or ovarian reserve has not been properly evaluated beforehand. Clomid, in particular, can be more aggressive on the ovaries compared to Letrozole. However, neither should be taken without first assessing key fertility parameters such as hormonal balance, ovarian reserve, and the presence of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Using these drugs blindly can overstimulate the ovaries, causing multiple immature follicles to form and increasing the risk of cysts rather than healthy ovulation. It is also concerning to hear that some individuals have been advised to take Clomid and Letrozole simultaneously a practice that is not recommended and may pose a risk to ovarian health. In summary, women waiting on God for the fruit of the womb must seek professional medical evaluation and guidance before initiating any fertility treatment. The health of the ovaries should be protected through careful, informed, and personalized medical care.

Cryptic or Chemical Pregnancy. A fraudulent conception.

Some individuals falsely claim they can help women conceive, even offering to “select” the number of babies for a fee. Victims are given substances to use during intercourse and are later told they are pregnant, with strict warnings to avoid medical scans. These scammers provide false updates, charge for fake tests and herbs, and sometimes manipulate the woman’s body or mind to simulate pregnancy symptoms. In extreme cases, women are called in after nine months, sedated, and later shown a baby—falsely claiming they delivered without remembering labor. Advice to the public: Any center that prevents you from confirming a pregnancy through a certified scan or insists you must deliver only at their facility is fraudulent. Always seek care from licensed medical professionals. Do not fall for emotional manipulation or unverified treatments. Your reproductive health deserves credible, evidence-based care.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes.

For a woman to conceive naturally, at least one fallopian tube must be patent (open and functional). This is because fertilization, when the sperm meets the egg typically occurs within the fallopian tube. If both tubes are blocked, natural conception is not possible, as the sperm and egg cannot meet. Even in cases where assisted reproductive techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) are being considered, tubal patency is essential. One functional tube is required for IUI to be effective. “Patent” in this context means that the tube is unobstructed and allows for the free passage of the egg and sperm. Some women undergo hydrotubation or tubal flushing to attempt to reopen blocked tubes. However, it is important to understand that these procedures do not guarantee restored patency. Clinical experience shows that only a small percentage of women with tubal blockage benefit from these procedures. If conception does not occur within 2 to 3 months after hydrotubation or tubal flushing, it is advisable to repeat tubal patency testing to avoid unnecessary delays in achieving pregnancy. For women considering invitro fertilization (IVF), functional fallopian tubes are not required, as fertilization occurs outside the body in the laboratory. Therefore, women with bilateral tubal blockage may consider IVF as a more effective alternative. In summary, tubal evaluation is a crucial step in fertility assessment. If you have undergone a procedure to unblock your tubes and you are not achieving pregnancy, speak to a fertility scientists.

FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE SUCCESS RATE OF IVF.

Many patients ask about the success rate of IVF and expect a guaranteed positive result. However, several medical and biological factors influence IVF outcomes, and success is not automatic. Maternal age is a major determinant. Egg quality declines with age, especially after 35. For women aged 35–40 using their own eggs, the success rate ranges from 40%–50%. Even with donor eggs, the recipient’s age still affects fertility outcomes. Embryo quality is another vital factor. It depends on the genetic and structural integrity of the egg and sperm, whether from the couple or donors. High-grade embryos (Grade A or B) increase the likely hood of success but don’t guarantee implantation. Uterine receptivity is crucial. Even with excellent embryos, the uterus must be receptive for implantation. This is an area where clinical control is limited. Sometimes, a mock embryo transfer is used to assess uterine response. Another factor to considered by the clinic are: 1)Clinic specific patient selection process. This has to do with the rules, guideline or policies. 2)The quality of the sperm and egg should be considered. 3)The treatment method differs. All these can determine the success rate of both the patients and clinic.