Female Fertility And Reproduction

Female fertility refers to a woman’s ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term, while this can take place without help, it is common for prospective parents to run into complications. Approximately 1 in 6 couples in Ireland encounter challenges related to fertility.

What Affects Female Fertility?

Numerous factors can affect female fertility, such as

  • Age
  • Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome
  • Fibroids
  • Ovulation issues which can be caused by PCOS, obesity or low body weight, thyroid dysfunction, premature ovarian failure or low ovarian reserves.
  • Endometriosis – a condition where tissue, similar to the lining of the womb (the endometrium), grows in other places outside the womb.
  • Salpingitis

The Impact of Age on Fertility

Age has a serious impact on fertility, and is the leading cause of infertility in women.

Women are most fertile during their late teens and early 20s. The ability to become pregnant starts to decrease by the age of thirty. By the age of 45, natural conception is significantly harder due to the decline in the number and quality of eggs.

A possible way around this is going down the route of Egg Freezing or Frozen Embryo Transfer.

A Closer Look At Female Fertility

Types of Infertility

Two types of infertility exist.

They are as follows:

  • Primary infertility – the state in which you have never gotten pregnant and are having difficulty doing so.
  • Secondary infertility – the inability to conceive after one or more previous pregnancies, including miscarriages.

Do not hesitate to get in touch if you are worried about infertility.

Uterine fibroids have a variety of effects on fertility. They may have an impact on the meeting of sperm and egg, the ability of an embryo to implant, the continuation of a pregnancy, and the development and positioning of the offspring.

Not all women experience symptoms. Typical symptoms include:

  • heavy or extended menstruations
  • bleeding in between menstruations
  • discomfort and/or heaviness in the abdomen
  • Pelvic discomfort
  • back discomfort in the lower back
  • signs of the bladder, include frequent urination or trouble emptying the bladder
  • Constipation and prolonged straining during bowel motions are examples of bowel symptoms

Additionally, women with fibroids may encounter:

  • Unable to conceive
  • Obstetrical complications
  • discomfort during sexual activity

Talk to one of our fertility specialists if you have any questions regarding Fibroids.

Endometriosis causes tissue that resembles the lining of the womb to begin growing elsewhere. For instance, the fallopian tubes, stomach lining, and ovaries.

It is a chronic illness that might affect individuals differently. Some ladies can carry on with their regular lives, while it can significantly affect other people’s quality of life. 

An increased chance of infertility, or trouble becoming pregnant, is linked to endometriosis.

Among the most typical symptoms of endometriosis are:

  • Period pain that prevents you from going about your daily duties or keeps you from going to social gatherings
  • pelvic pain that persists throughout the month even when you are not menstruating, such as in the middle of your cycle
  • heavy bleeding throughout your menstrual cycle, which could require frequent tampon or pad use or bleed through your clothing
  • pain that comes on or after having sex
  • pain that gets worse when you urinate or defecate
  • feeling ill, constipated, experiencing diarrhoea; or seeing blood in your pee when you’re on your period
  • having trouble becoming pregnant

PCOS is a common condition that may impact your:

  • Hormones
  • Menstuaration
  • Fertility

Roughly 1 in 5 women who are of childbearing age are affected by PCOS, and for those affected, it is common for problems to arise during pregnancy. However, there are steps you may take to lower the possibility of problems.

Symptoms often occur before your mid-twenties. Common symptoms include:

  • irregular, light, or nonexistent menstruation
  • difficulties conceiving
  • excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
  • weight gain
  • greasy skin or acne
  • thinning hair and hair loss on the head

PCOS cannot be cured. However, there are numerous treatments available. Get in touch for more information.

Natural Cycle & Ovulation Calculator

The timing of sexual intercourse is crucial for successful conception. Engaging in intercourse 24-48 hours before ovulation offers the highest likelihood of pregnancy, as this period corresponds to peak fertility in women. Our online ovulation calculator, tailored to the length of your menstrual cycle, can pinpoint the optimal time for conception.

Try it out now.

What Treatments Are Available?

There are numerous fertility treatments available, the treatments chosen are based on an individual’s needs after a thorough evaluation is undertaken. 

Understanding Infertility

Female Fertility Tests

Fertility Treatments

Embark on your journey to parenthood by delving into our fertility treatments page, offering a detailed guide to the options available for family-building and reproductive assistance.

fertility tests

Fertility Tests

Uncover the path to parenthood by exploring our fertility tests page, providing valuable insights for both men and women on reproductive health and family planning.

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Frequently Asked Question

Q1: How Do I Schedule an Initial Consultation?

A: To schedule an initial consultation, please contact our clinic directly via phone, email, or through our appointment request form. You may also ask your general practitioner or healthcare provider for a referral.

A: We offer a range of fertility services, including but not limited to IVF, IUI, egg freezing, and donor programs. Our experienced team will guide you through the available options based on your individual needs.

A: Infertility can result from various factors. If you’ve been actively trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you’re over 35) without success, or if you have known fertility issues, it’s advisable to seek consultation. Both partners should undergo initial assessments to determine the cause.

A: The process varies based on the chosen treatment, but generally involves an initial consultation, diagnostic testing, personalized treatment planning, and, if needed, assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF or IUI. Our team will guide you through each step.

A: Our team can discuss available financing options, and we recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand coverage details.

As of 2023, patients may avail of publicly funded IVF, IUI, or ICSI treatments through the HSE if they meet the eligibility criteria. 

A: Success rates can vary based on individual circumstances. During your consultation, we will provide you with personalized information based on your medical history and the specific treatment plan.

A: We welcome both couples and single individuals seeking fertility assistance. Our team provides support and guidance to individuals with diverse family-building goals.

A: Fertility treatments can be emotionally challenging, and the physical aspects vary. Our team is committed to providing compassionate care and support throughout your fertility journey.

A: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can positively impact fertility. Our team will provide guidance on factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress management to optimize your chances of conception.

A: Patient confidentiality is a top priority. We adhere to strict privacy standards, and all information shared with our clinic is kept confidential.

ICSI

We Offer High Success Rates!

With both frozen and fresh embryo transfer options available, we tailor our approach to suit each individual’s needs, maximising the chances of conception. Find our more about how our dedicated team of experts utilizes cutting-edge technology and personalised care to achieve outstanding results.

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