Latest news with #NationalInfertilityAwarenessWeek
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
A one-hour mouth swab may make IVF more successful—here's what hopeful parents should know
For many families, IVF is a journey filled with unknowns—and often, heartbreak. The physical toll, the emotional rollercoaster, and the financial cost can be overwhelming. But new research from Sweden offers a glimmer of hope, introducing a simple tool that could make this process more effective—and a little gentler. A recent study from Lund University has found that a quick, non-invasive mouth swab could help doctors personalize hormone treatments for IVF, potentially boosting success rates by up to 38%. That could mean 110 more babies born for every 1,000 women treated—offering not just data, but dreams made real. IVF, or in vitro fertilization, involves stimulating the ovaries to produce eggs, which are then retrieved, fertilized, and implanted into the uterus. It sounds straightforward—but anyone who has walked this road knows how complex it really is. One of the biggest challenges? Finding the right hormone treatment for each woman's unique biology. Hormone treatments are used to help eggs mature before retrieval. But not all women respond the same way. And when the hormones aren't the right fit, the chances of a successful pregnancy drop, and side effects rise. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, while IVF births are on the rise in the U.S.—with more than 95,000 babies born via IVF in 2023—up to 75% of IVF cycles still end in failure. That's a staggering statistic, and one that researchers have been working to change. The Lund University study looked at the genetic data of 1,466 women undergoing IVF at Skåne University Hospital in Malmö, Sweden. They discovered that a woman's genes can actually predict how well she'll respond to different hormone treatments. One gene in particular—the FSHR gene, which plays a key role in egg maturation—was found to influence outcomes. Women with a certain variation in this gene did better with biological hormones, while those without it had better results with synthetic ones. This led researchers to create a test: a simple mouth swab that analyzes these genetic markers and gives a clear result in just one hour. The test uses colors—pink or yellow—to indicate the most suitable hormone treatment. Related: This woman's reaction to her friend's pregnancy reveal sheds light on the hidden grief of infertility For families struggling with infertility, this development could be life-changing. Matching treatment to genetics helped increase IVF success by 38%. That's not just a number—it's more babies, more happy endings, and fewer cycles of emotional and physical strain. 'Our hope is that this will reduce the risk of suffering for women, increase the number of successful treatments and cut costs for taxpayers,' said Yvonne Lundberg Giwercman, CEO of the company developing the test. Related: Why we need National Infertility Awareness Week more than ever If you're considering IVF—or supporting someone who is—this new swab test might be a key part of the journey in the near future. It's expected to be available by 2026, and could become a standard part of IVF preparation, helping doctors offer more tailored and compassionate care. It's a step forward that doesn't just bring new science—it brings new hope. And for every parent holding on to the dream of a child, that hope means everything.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Southern California Cities Honor Reproductive Partners Medical Group During National Infertility Awareness Week
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., April 25, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Reproductive Partners Medical Group (RPMG), a leading fertility clinic in Southern California and proud member of the Ivy Fertility network, has been honored with two city proclamations, from Beverly Hills and Westminster, recognizing National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW). This recognition shines a spotlight on the impact of infertility and the need for increased awareness, support, and equitable access to fertility care. National Infertility Awareness Week, observed annually in April, aims to reduce stigma and foster understanding around a deeply personal and often isolating health condition that affects 1 in 8 couples in the United States. "Whether it is you, your spouse, your sister, your cousin, or your best friend, it is likely that someone you know is struggling with infertility," said Dr. Carrie Wambach, fertility specialist and Director of Third Party at Reproductive Partners Medical Group. "It is often a painful journey and one that can leave a woman feeling very defeated and alone. Thank you for honoring this journey by dedicating a month to infertility. We hope that highlighting infertility will bring about more access to care, education to all, and support for anyone suffering." With multiple locations across Southern California, including Beverly Hills, Torrance, Westminster and Irvine, RPMG provides inclusive, cutting-edge fertility care through a compassionate and personalized approach. Their teams support a diverse patient population, including LGBTQIA+ families, single parents, cancer survivors, and those pursuing fertility preservation. "National Infertility Awareness Week is not just about recognizing a diagnosis—it's about recognizing the dreams, struggles, and resilience of millions of individuals and families," said Christina Westbrook, Chief Operating Officer of RPMG. "At RPMG, we are committed to ensuring those dreams are met with expertise, dignity, and hope." As part of Ivy Fertility, a globally recognized network of fertility clinics known for pioneering IVF innovation, delivering exceptional success rates, and providing culturally competent care, RPMG is proud to lead with expertise and empathy. Together they continue to lead with both science and heart—empowering patients to navigate their reproductive journeys with confidence. For more information about Reproductive Partners Medical Group and its services, visit About Reproductive Partners Medical Group RPMG is a nationally recognized fertility clinic providing advanced, evidence-based fertility treatments including IVF, IUI, fertility preservation, and third-party reproduction services. With expert physicians, on-site embryology labs, and expert care teams, RPMG offers a uniquely integrated experience for individuals and couples of all backgrounds—including LGBTQ+ patients, single parents, and those navigating complex reproductive diagnoses. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit: About Ivy Fertility Ivy Fertility is globally recognized as pioneers and innovators in the field of advanced reproductive technologies, in-vitro fertilization, third-party reproduction, andrology, and fertility research. The Ivy Fertility network includes Dallas IVF, Fertility Associates of Memphis, Fertility Centers of Orange County, Idaho Fertility Center, IVF Fertility Center, Los Angeles Reproductive Center, Nevada Center for Reproductive Medicine, Nevada Fertility Center, Northern California Fertility Medical Center, NOVA IVF, Pacific Northwest Fertility, Reproductive Partners Medical Group, San Diego Fertility Center, Utah Fertility Center, and Virginia Fertility & IVF. By developing new procedures, achieving scientific breakthroughs, and teaching the latest techniques, Ivy Fertility upholds its commitment to successful outcomes and continually contributes to the development of the entire fertility community. The Ivy team is passionate about its family-building mission and works tirelessly each day to help patients become parents. View source version on Contacts Constance RapsonChief Growth Officer, Ivy Fertilityconstance@ Sara ZuboffMarketing Managerszuboff@ 310-855-2229 Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
25-04-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
Southern California Cities Honor Reproductive Partners Medical Group During National Infertility Awareness Week
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Reproductive Partners Medical Group (RPMG), a leading fertility clinic in Southern California and proud member of the Ivy Fertility network, has been honored with two city proclamations, from Beverly Hills and Westminster, recognizing National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW). This recognition shines a spotlight on the impact of infertility and the need for increased awareness, support, and equitable access to fertility care. Whether it is you, your spouse, your sister, your cousin, or your best friend, it is likely that someone you know is struggling with infertility. National Infertility Awareness Week, observed annually in April, aims to reduce stigma and foster understanding around a deeply personal and often isolating health condition that affects 1 in 8 couples in the United States. 'Whether it is you, your spouse, your sister, your cousin, or your best friend, it is likely that someone you know is struggling with infertility,' said Dr. Carrie Wambach, fertility specialist and Director of Third Party at Reproductive Partners Medical Group. 'It is often a painful journey and one that can leave a woman feeling very defeated and alone. Thank you for honoring this journey by dedicating a month to infertility. We hope that highlighting infertility will bring about more access to care, education to all, and support for anyone suffering.' With multiple locations across Southern California, including Beverly Hills, Torrance, Westminster and Irvine, RPMG provides inclusive, cutting-edge fertility care through a compassionate and personalized approach. Their teams support a diverse patient population, including LGBTQIA+ families, single parents, cancer survivors, and those pursuing fertility preservation. 'National Infertility Awareness Week is not just about recognizing a diagnosis—it's about recognizing the dreams, struggles, and resilience of millions of individuals and families,' said Christina Westbrook, Chief Operating Officer of RPMG. 'At RPMG, we are committed to ensuring those dreams are met with expertise, dignity, and hope.' As part of Ivy Fertility, a globally recognized network of fertility clinics known for pioneering IVF innovation, delivering exceptional success rates, and providing culturally competent care, RPMG is proud to lead with expertise and empathy. Together they continue to lead with both science and heart—empowering patients to navigate their reproductive journeys with confidence. For more information about Reproductive Partners Medical Group and its services, visit About Reproductive Partners Medical Group RPMG is a nationally recognized fertility clinic providing advanced, evidence-based fertility treatments including IVF, IUI, fertility preservation, and third-party reproduction services. With expert physicians, on-site embryology labs, and expert care teams, RPMG offers a uniquely integrated experience for individuals and couples of all backgrounds—including LGBTQ+ patients, single parents, and those navigating complex reproductive diagnoses. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit: About Ivy Fertility Ivy Fertility is globally recognized as pioneers and innovators in the field of advanced reproductive technologies, in-vitro fertilization, third-party reproduction, andrology, and fertility research. The Ivy Fertility network includes Dallas IVF, Fertility Associates of Memphis, Fertility Centers of Orange County, Idaho Fertility Center, IVF Fertility Center, Los Angeles Reproductive Center, Nevada Center for Reproductive Medicine, Nevada Fertility Center, Northern California Fertility Medical Center, NOVA IVF, Pacific Northwest Fertility, Reproductive Partners Medical Group, San Diego Fertility Center, Utah Fertility Center, and Virginia Fertility & IVF. By developing new procedures, achieving scientific breakthroughs, and teaching the latest techniques, Ivy Fertility upholds its commitment to successful outcomes and continually contributes to the development of the entire fertility community. The Ivy team is passionate about its family-building mission and works tirelessly each day to help patients become parents.
Time of India
25-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Steroids, Sperm Count Decline, and Stigma: India Faces Silent Male Infertility Crisis
New Delhi: Male infertility is quietly escalating into a public health crisis in India, yet remains among the most under-discussed medical conditions in the country. With traditional masculinity still tied to physical strength and social expectations, the subject of male reproductive health is too often buried under layers of stigma, misinformation, and silence. Startling data reveal that only 25 per cent of Indian men meet normal semen parameters—meaning 75 percent face issues related to semen volume, sperm count, motility, or morphology. Male-factor infertility accounts for nearly 40–50 percent of all infertility cases in India, supported by studies from the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and National Medical Journal of India. These findings emphasise the critical need for a shift in focus towards male infertility, as it is a significant contributor to the overall infertility rates in the country. This concern takes on added urgency as the country observes National Infertility Awareness Week , aiming to shed light on the challenges of infertility and the importance of inclusive reproductive health conversations. 'The conversation around infertility still centers heavily on women. We urgently need a shift toward inclusivity and science-backed awareness,' says Dr. Prachi Benara, Senior Consultant and Centre Head at Birla Fertility & IVF. "One of the most alarming contributors to declining sperm health is the unregulated use of anabolic steroids and gym supplements. In the race for rapid muscle gains and social media-worthy physiques, many young men are unknowingly compromising their fertility," Dr. Benara added. Even a few months of steroid use can bring sperm count down to zero. 'Most over-the-counter supplements in India don't disclose their ingredients properly. Many men fall prey to quack advice or misguided gym trainers,' she warns. Worse, some men unknowingly take testosterone injections, which can shut down natural sperm production. Beyond supplements, several other lifestyle factors are contributing to the decline: tobacco use, poor diet, high BMI, sedentary work, and increased age. While women face a biological clock, men experience a more gradual reproductive decline called andropause. Studies show sperm quality begins to significantly deteriorate after the age of 40—a challenge for many urban men delaying parenthood. Data Deficit and Diagnostic Gaps Despite the growing threat, India lacks comprehensive data on steroid-linked infertility. Most men don't disclose supplement use unless directly asked, making it difficult to trace the root cause of fertility issues. However, experts believe early testing—especially semen analysis—is crucial. Clinicians assess four key parameters: volume, count, motility, and morphology. Ideally, a sample should have more than 1 ml of semen, over 16 million sperm/ml, 40 percent motility, and a morphology score above four percent. Yet, only 1 in 4 Indian men meets these benchmarks. The good news: recovery is possible. If steroid use is discontinued within a year, many men show significant improvement in sperm quality within six months, she stated. Another hidden aspect of male infertility is the issue of non-consummation of marriage, often due to psychological conditions like vaginismus or erectile dysfunction. 'Up to 90 percent of such cases improve with conversation and counseling alone,' Dr. Benara adds. At Birla Fertility, initial consultations last up to an hour and prioritize mental health and emotional well-being before recommending diagnostics or IVF. 'Many couples don't need IVF right away. What they need first is someone to listen—without judgment,' she says. With India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dipping to 1.99—below the replacement level—the implications of untreated infertility loom large. However, the rise of technology and affordability is bringing hope. Today, an IVF cycle costs ₹1.7–1.75 lakh, down from ₹2.5–3 lakh, and EMI options are widely available. Some employers have even started including IVF in insurance plans. Advanced technologies like AI-assisted lab procedures and microfluidics are enhancing outcomes. While CRISPR and genome editing are not yet used in Indian IVF, DNA-quality assessments are emerging as the next frontier. The Road Ahead: Replace Silence with Science India is at a crossroads. Without proactive steps, the socio-economic fallout of untreated infertility could mirror aging societies like Japan and South Korea. Between the ages of 35 and 50—coincidentally peak career years—many Indians are also at peak fertility risk. Without proactive steps, the socio-economic fallout of untreated infertility could mirror aging societies like Japan and South Korea. Between the ages of 35 and 50—coincidentally peak career years—many Indians are also at peak fertility risk. 'This conversation needs to evolve—from one filled with fear and shame to one grounded in empathy, education, and empowerment,' says Dr. Benara. The stigma must end. Science must speak. And the silence around male infertility must finally be broken.
Scotsman
24-04-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Experts call for better fertility education as study reveals fertility knowledge gap
Fertility rate is predicted to fall 24% below replacement rate by 2045 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... New research from TFP Fertility reveals almost seven in 10 women aged 25-40 feel uninformed about their fertility health. Fertility experts say greater awareness and education are needed to support informed family planning across the UK. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The study, conducted ahead of National Infertility Awareness Week (April 20th – 26th) by TFP Fertility, has uncovered a fertility knowledge gap among women aged 25-40, which could lead to a decline in fertility rates over the next five years. Fertility rate is predicted to fall 24% below replacement rate by 2045 Over two thirds of women (67%) in this age group have reported not having access to clear or accessible fertility information. With only one in 25 women confident that they are very well informed about their fertility health. Regardless of age or income, this lack of knowledge is universal, but when we look at Gen Z women more specifically, 73% say they lack knowledge and understanding of egg freezing. What's more, 43% say they don't see an urgent need to consider options like egg freezing, highlighting a growing need for open and proactive conversations about reproductive health. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad When it comes to fertility solutions, it becomes clear that knowledge around solutions is surface level only with just 17.6% of Gen Z's believing they understand fertility preservation and would consider further fertility treatment like IVF if needed. Awareness and education of fertility solutions such as egg freezing amongst women comes primarily from celebrity news and one in four women turn to social media over their peers to inform themselves. The news is increasingly alarming, with the Office for National Statistics reporting UK fertility rates are currently below the 'replacement' rate, the level needed for a population to replace itself. The ONS principal projection assumes the UK Total Fertility Rate (TFR) will fall to 1.41 children in 2027 – down from 1.49 1. This is further enhanced, with ONS projecting fertility rate is expected to fall to 24% below the necessary replacement rate by 2045. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Dr James Hopkisson, UK Medical Director at TFP Fertility, says societal shifts are influencing how and when people start thinking about children. Dr Hopkisson said: 'Many Gen Z women are living at home longer, working differently and delaying long-term commitments. That affects when, or if, they decide to have children. 'We're seeing more women and couples in their mid to late 30s only just beginning to ask about fertility. Often, that's the first time they hear how their age affects their chances of conceiving, which means by the time they come to look at their fertility options, its often when they are both anxious and uncertain what the future holds. 'Fertility education in the UK tends to focus on how not to get pregnant. Few are taught about the biological window for conception or the emotional and physical demands of assisted fertility treatments later in life. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It's time to change the narrative around fertility health. To do that we need to provide more access to education and open up more opportunities for conversation around topics like fertility preservation, helping women feel empowered and positive towards their fertility health, meaning they can make the most informed decisions, not rushed ones. "Regional trends show a north-south divide, with a rise in patients in the South of England opting for egg freezing. Between 2022 and 2024, TFP Simply Fertility, Essex, saw a 60% increase, while TFP Thames Valley Fertility, Maidenhead, experienced a 50% rise. This growth may be due to greater access to health care, with some workplace private healthcare now offering egg freezing as a benefit. 'With the average age of first-time motherhood now over 30 in the UK and fertility rates continuing to fall, future family planning needs to start sooner and with better support regardless of their employment or location. 'This year's National Infertility Awareness Week is a timely reminder to reflect on how we approach fertility education and support.'
