Gynaecologists Specialising in IVF
Gynaecologists are specialist doctors who have had extensive experience practising in the field of gynaecology before becoming fertility specialists. They deal with their patients with the utmost care and consideration as they know that fertility is a sensitive topic. One popular treatment method for couples having trouble conceiving is in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Gynaecologists help guide patients through their plan from the initial consultation to the first trimester.
Who should see a gynaecologist?
Those who are having trouble conceiving or have had recurrent miscarriages will benefit from seeing a gynaecologist. Gynaecologists will obtain a thorough medical history for their patients and request additional tests if necessary. This has to be done to determine which treatment method is best for the patient.
Different gynaecologists specialise in different areas of infertility. For instance, these specialisations include male infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) as well as problems of the ovaries, fallopian tubes or uterus. It is important to see a gynaecologist that specialises in the issues specific to you as a patient.
IVF as a mode of conceiving
Many couples have been able to conceive with IVF. This procedure may seem complicated and daunting at first; however, when you see a gynecologist, your mind will be put at ease. Your gynaecologist will give you all the details about this procedure and guide you through each step.
Basically, in IVF, an egg is taken from the woman's ovaries and sperm is taken from the male. The egg and sperm are artificially fertilised in a laboratory environment and the final embryo is transferred into the woman's uterus. This is a popular form of treatment for women who cannot conceive naturally due to damaged or blocked fallopian tubes.
Key steps in IVF are:
- Giving woman hormone medication to stimulate the growth of follicles in her ovary.
- Once the eggs have formed, these are retrieved under general anaesthesia via a non-invasive procedure.
- The eggs are artificially fertilised in a laboratory
- The embryo is transferred. Once a pregnancy is confirmed, the patient will then be referred to an obstetrician.
This can be a stressful process as couples attend multiple appointments and have to go through all the necessary steps. However, under the guidance of a gynaecologist, they will know exactly what's happening and be advised with regards to their diets, additional medications and procedures should the procedure not go to plan.
The success rates of IVF are increasing and more and more couples are opting for this option.