Results for: Infertility

Researchers have identified a potential genetic link between gorillas’ small genitalia and infertility problems in male humans. Despite their impressive physiques, adult male gorillas have small penises and low sperm count. This is explained by their polygynous mating system, where dominant males monopolize females. Lacking sperm competition, gorillas’ sperm quality has not been subject to evolutionary pressure. The researchers examined gorilla genes that have undergone relaxed purifying selection, uncovering 578 genes that play a role in sperm production in fruit flies. By comparing these genes to data from infertile men, they found 109 genes that were more likely to have loss-of-function mutations in infertile men. These findings suggest a potential genetic basis for male infertility in humans, warranting further research to elucidate the specific roles of these genes.

A couple who were told they had a 5% chance of getting pregnant through IVF treatment on the NHS decided to travel abroad for treatment. Emma Haslam, 43, and her husband from North Yorkshire were told they were not eligible for IVF on the NHS due to Emma’s high BMI. The couple then decided to travel to the Czech Republic for treatment, where they ended up pregnant after years of fertility issues. Emma hopes to help others in their own fertility journeys by sharing her story and offering support through her business and podcast.

Women with infertility issues are getting pregnant while taking weight-loss medications Ozempic and Mounjaro, raising safety concerns during pregnancy. These GLP-1 drugs are mainly used to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and for obesity treatment, but their impact on pregnancy is still largely unknown. Despite encouraging stories, experts emphasize the need for more data on the drugs’ safety and long-term effects on pregnancy outcomes, particularly in women without diabetes. Researchers are conducting studies to understand the drugs’ potential role in treating PCOS, a leading cause of infertility, but companies have yet to systematically study their use for this condition.

National Infertility Awareness Week aims to foster understanding and shatter stigmas surrounding reproductive health. Dr. Carolina Sueldo, a board-certified OBGYN and fertility specialist, emphasizes the importance of this week in promoting education and open dialogue about infertility.

Infertility affects one in six Manitobans, and most people in the province likely know someone dealing with it. Dr. Stephanie Appleby, a specialist with Heartland Fertility, said difficulties with conception can have a big impact on general well-being, stress, and enjoyment of life. She encourages those unsure about their fertility to talk to their family doctor and to share their story. “Infertility is no one’s fault. This is a biological condition, and I think we have so many effective techniques for treatment these days,” she said. “Creating conversation can also create hope for others.” There is a stigma and embarrassment associated with infertility, “mainly due to the fact that we blame ourselves,” Appleby said. “We don’t want to talk about it. We don’t share it with friends and family members.” But she said sparking conversation can help locate necessary resources for those who want to conceive. “It’s really important for Manitobans to know that they’re not alone,” she said.

In the infertility community, toxic positivity reigns supreme, with empty promises of hope and miracles. For many, these words can be hurtful and unhelpful, as they fail to acknowledge the true pain and trauma of infertility. This article shares the author’s personal journey of undergoing IVF treatments, highlighting the emotional and physical toll it took on her. Despite multiple rounds of IVF, embryo transfers, and financial investment, she was unable to have a successful pregnancy, leaving her devastated and questioning the value of the hope she had been given. She calls for greater transparency and honesty in IVF conversations, recognizing that while it can be a gift for some, it can also be a source of pain and disappointment for others.

Gameto, a female-led biotechnology company focused on redefining women’s healthcare, has announced a partnership with Stacy Bendet, CEO, Founder, and Creative Director of alice + olivia, for an advocacy campaign during National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW) 2024. The collaboration aims to raise awareness and funds, highlighting the need to improve the patient experience for women seeking fertility care.