Infertility rates are steadily increasing across the globe, driven by factors such as shifting lifestyles, environmental pollution, genetic influences, and an increasingly individualistic mindset. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2025, nearly 10 million couples worldwide will face fertility challenges. In India, a 2023 study revealed a concerning trend: while primary infertility rates have slightly decreased to 57.33%, secondary infertility has surged, now affecting 42.66% of couples. With 10-15% of married couples experiencing fertility issues, urgent attention is required to address this growing public health concern.
Mariam (name changed), a 42-year-old woman from the United Arab Emirates, and her 39-year-old husband Omar (name changed), were no strangers to the emotional toll of infertility. After three unsuccessful IVF cycles, their hopes of starting a family seemed increasingly distant. With their challenges intensifying, they sought specialized care at Milann Fertility Center in Indiranagar, Bengaluru.
Under the guidance of Dr. R Suchindra, Senior Consultant in Reproductive Medicine at Milann, the couple underwent a thorough evaluation. Mariam’s advanced maternal age and reduced ovarian reserve—reflected by an antral follicle count of just 4—were identified as significant barriers to conception. Meanwhile, Omar was diagnosed with oligospermia and a high DNA fragmentation index (DFI), complicating the fertility picture further.
Given the complexity of their case, Dr. Suchindra recommended a tailored approach: IVF/ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) combined with Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies (PGT-A), a screening technique that helps identify chromosomal abnormalities in embryos. The objective was to increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy, particularly given Mariam’s reduced ovarian reserve.
Following this plan, Mariam underwent a carefully monitored IVF/ICSI stimulation cycle, which resulted in the retrieval of three mature oocytes. All three oocytes successfully developed into blastocysts, which were then subjected to PGT-A for chromosomal screening. The results revealed two chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos and one abnormal (aneuploid) embryo.
Dr. Suchindra explained, “Mariam then proceeded with a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) cycle. In this process, embryos that have been fertilized and frozen in previous cycles are thawed and transferred into the uterus at a time synchronized with the woman’s menstrual cycle to maximize the chances of pregnancy.” The couple opted to transfer one of the euploid embryos, increasing the chances of a viable pregnancy.
Fifteen days after the transfer, Mariam’s beta-hCG level was measured at 4280 mIU/ml, confirming a positive pregnancy. A subsequent early pregnancy scan revealed an intrauterine gestational sac. At 6 weeks and 2 days, a follow-up scan showed a gestational sac with a fetal pole and cardiac activity, confirming a viable pregnancy.
Reflecting on their journey, Mariam and Omar expressed their gratitude, saying, “Initially, we had lost all hope. But the doctor took the time to explain the entire process and encouraged us to give ourselves another chance. What truly made the difference was the personalized care we received.”
This case underscores the growing need for individualized fertility treatments, especially as infertility challenges become more complex. With advancements in reproductive medicine such as PGT-A and FET, many couples who previously faced long odds are finding renewed hope and success.
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