Infertility Treatment and Diagnosis in Turkey

Infertility Treatment in Turkey

Infertility is a condition observed in approximately 10-15% of the population. The inability of couples to have children negatively affects all areas of their lives.

What is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy within one year despite regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility is characterized as a disease marked by loss of function of the reproductive system.

Is Infertility Genetic?

Infertility can occur due to many different causes. In men, infertility most frequently occurs due to genetic problems such as chromosomal abnormalities. Men experiencing infertility issues have been found to typically carry an extra X chromosome or have regional losses on the Y chromosome.

Signs of Male Infertility

Signs of male infertility vary from person to person. The most common signs include erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction, painful swelling in the testes, and reduced semen volume. Additionally, the absence of pregnancy within one year despite unprotected sexual intercourse is also a sign of infertility.

Causes of Male Infertility

Male infertility can result from absence of sperm, abnormal sperm structure, low sperm count or motility, and obstruction of the ejaculatory ducts. Furthermore, undescended testis (cryptorchidism), varicocele, sexual dysfunction, and diabetes mellitus in men can also cause infertility.

Male Infertility Treatment in Turkey

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is frequently used in treating male infertility. Insemination is defined as the placement of a man's sperm into the uterus during the period of highest fertility. Insemination therapy may be considered in cases where sperm count is below normal or sperm motility is inadequate. Additionally, insemination therapy is used in cases where sexual intercourse is prevented due to premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction. Insemination therapy is a relatively easy-to-perform procedure, and minimal discomfort is generally reported during the procedure.

Signs of Female Infertility

Signs of female infertility vary from person to person. The most common signs include irregular menstruation (dysmenorrhea), absence of menstruation (amenorrhea), heavier and more abundant bleeding during menstrual periods, severe pain during menstruation, and milk discharge from the breast despite no pregnancy. Additionally, hormonal problems can lead to excessive weight gain (obesity) and abnormal hair growth.

Causes of Female Infertility

Female infertility can result from decreased ovarian reserve, blocked fallopian tubes, problems with egg production, and irregular menstrual cycles. Additionally, certain additional diseases in women can cause infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid diseases, pituitary tumors, and cancer are among these conditions. High caffeine intake, excessive weight gain, smoking, and alcohol consumption in women are also associated with infertility.

Female Infertility Treatment in Turkey

One of the frequently used methods in treating female infertility is in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF therapy includes hormone treatment aimed at increasing the number of eggs produced by women. Generally, hormone pairs that both promote egg development and prevent premature ovulation are used. Surgical treatment methods are also applied to women for infertility treatment. Endometriosis surgery, surgical removal of myomas within the uterus, surgical treatment of fallopian tube obstruction, and lysis of uterine adhesions are surgical methods used in infertility treatment.

Fertility Treatment Methods Applied in Turkey

The treatment method to be applied in infertility treatment varies depending on the problem experienced by the couple and their individual health status. The most frequently employed treatment methods are listed as follows:

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Based on the principle of fertilization of an egg with sperm outside the body in a laboratory environment and transfer of the resulting embryo to the uterus. It can be applied in many conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, male factor infertility, and unexplained infertility.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): The procedure of placing sperm directly into the uterus during the ovulation period. It is a less invasive method compared to IVF; it may be considered in mild male factor or unexplained infertility cases.

• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A type of IVF used in cases where sperm cannot fertilize the egg on its own. In this method, a single sperm cell is directly injected into the egg. It is generally applied in severe male factor infertility.

• Donor Sperm Insemination (DSI): A treatment method performed using donor sperm in cases of male factor infertility.

• Donor Egg Treatment (DEI): A treatment method using donor eggs in cases where the woman's ovarian reserve is insufficient (for example, premature ovarian failure).

• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): A genetic test performed on embryos before transfer to the uterus. It helps identify embryos that do not carry certain genetic diseases; it may be considered for couples with a family history of genetic disease.

In addition to these methods, other treatment options such as ovulation induction, laparoscopic surgery, and tubal microsurgery are also available. The appropriate treatment method is determined by the physician based on the cause of infertility and the couple's individual situation.

Stages of In Vitro Fertilization Treatment

In vitro fertilization therapy generally consists of the following stages:

• Ovulation induction: Stimulating the woman's ovaries to produce multiple eggs using hormones.
• Egg retrieval: Removing eggs from the ovaries through a minor surgical procedure.
• Fertilization: Fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory environment.
• Embryo culture: Developing fertilized embryos in the laboratory for several days.
• Embryo transfer: Placing one or more embryos into the woman's uterus.

Contributions of In Vitro Fertilization Treatment

In vitro fertilization is a treatment option that can be applied in many different conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, ovarian dysfunction, male factor infertility, and unexplained infertility. Some potential benefits of this treatment are summarized as follows:

• The ability to be used in treating infertility problems of different origins,
• Supporting the reduction of miscarriage and birth defect risks through the selection of embryos to be transferred to the uterus,
• The ability to freeze and preserve formed embryos for future use.

The success of treatment varies depending on many factors such as the couple's age, the cause of infertility, and individual health status, and pregnancy cannot be assured in every case.

Factors Affecting Infertility Treatment Costs in Turkey

The cost of infertility treatment varies depending on the treatment method to be applied, medications used, the number of tests required, and the treatment center. Generally, the costs of methods such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), intrauterine insemination (IUI), donor sperm/egg applications, and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) differ from each other. It is recommended to consult with the physician before starting treatment to obtain cost information specific to the individual situation. The need for multiple treatment cycles, embryo freezing, or frozen embryo transfer and other additional services may also affect the total cost.

Considerations When Selecting a Clinic and Doctor

Some points to consider when choosing a center and physician for infertility treatment are as follows:

• The physician and center having experience with the type of infertility being addressed,
• The center having the necessary licenses and accreditations,
• Transparent and clear information being provided regarding treatment costs,
• The center being conveniently located in terms of accessibility,
• There being no language communication issues.

Before making a decision, it would be beneficial to consult with different centers and obtain detailed information about the physician's experience and the treatment process. After making a choice, it is important to follow the physician's guidance and adhere to the treatment process.

Steps to Follow in the In Vitro Fertilization Process

Before starting in vitro fertilization treatment and throughout the process, the following steps are generally followed:

• Conducting an initial consultation with the center and physician to evaluate the infertility history and treatment options,
• Performing tests such as blood work, semen analysis, and imaging to assess fertility and general health status,
• Creating a personalized treatment plan based on test results,
• Initiating treatment; the in vitro fertilization process typically lasts several weeks,
• Regularly following physician instructions throughout the process.

Bed Rest After In Vitro Fertilization Treatment

A period of rest following embryo transfer may be recommended to support the embryo's implantation process to the uterine wall. This rest period is typically limited to 24-48 hours following embryo transfer. During this period, the goal is for the body to rest, reduce physical tension, and keep stress under control. However, it is noted that light movements such as gentle stretching or short walks rather than prolonged immobility may be beneficial in supporting blood circulation. Since the duration and quality of rest may vary from person to person, it is important to follow physician recommendations on this matter.

Weekly Symptoms in Pregnancy Following In Vitro Fertilization

In the pregnancy process following in vitro fertilization treatment, many signs similar to natural pregnancy can be observed:

• First weeks: Breast tenderness, fatigue, and mild cramping may occur. In some women, increased smell sensitivity, sensitivity to certain foods or odors, nausea, and morning sickness may also develop.

• Second trimester: Increased energy levels and decreased nausea are frequently observed. Abdominal bloating may become more pronounced, and fetal movements may be felt. Depending on hormonal changes, skin changes such as acne or darkening of the nipples may occur.

• Third trimester: Along with rapid fetal growth, complaints such as back pain, ankle swelling, and increased urination frequency become common. Braxton Hicks contractions in preparation for labor may be observed. As the due date approaches, a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region may increase.

These symptoms vary from person to person; any unusual symptoms should prompt consultation with a physician.

Stem Cell Infertility Treatment in Turkey

In cases where infertility is due to insufficient ovarian reserve, stem cell therapy is among the newer approaches being explored to support ovarian reserve. In this method, stem cells are first obtained from the patient and cultured in a laboratory environment. The cultured stem cells are then reintroduced to the patient. This approach is intended to support the egg reserve; outcomes may vary from person to person, and it is recommended to consult your physician for individual evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors affect the cost of infertility treatment?

Treatment cost varies depending on the selected treatment method (IVF, IUI, ICSI, donor sperm/egg, PGT, etc.), medications used, and the number of tests and cycles required. Exact cost information should be shared by the physician following individual evaluation.

What is the success rate of in vitro fertilization treatment?

The success of in vitro fertilization varies depending on many factors such as the couple's age, the cause of infertility, and general health status. Generally, it is known that success rates are relatively higher in younger age groups and lower in advanced age. The treatment cannot ensure pregnancy in every case.