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How long should one wait before starting IVF?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

We are planning to have a baby, but I am experiencing a low sex drive and currently have sex only twice a month. I am also dealing with fatigue, stress, and low energy, which may be partly due to standing for almost ten hours a day because of my job. After our routine check-up, we have decided to proceed with IVF (in vitro fertilization). The doctor advised me to undergo a semen analysis and referred me to a urologist, but I am unsure of the reason behind this referral. Can you please explain why this is necessary and what tests are typically performed? I have been taking testosterone shots for the past two months due to low testosterone levels, with a total testosterone level of 225.2 ng/dL and a free testosterone direct level of 5.9 ng/dL.

Could you please review my semen report and provide some recommendations?

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have reviewed the sent reports (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity). Please specify the months you are planning to have a baby. All parameters are normal except for two issues. Your serum testosterone levels are low, and the semen analysis indicates a low sperm count of 5 million per mL, whereas it should be more than 50 million per mL. Additionally, sperm motility is also reduced. These findings suggest that your testes may not be functioning properly, leading to low testosterone levels and abnormal sperm parameters, which can affect conception.

It is important to determine the cause of the low sperm count and testosterone levels. You should consult a urologist for a physical examination to help identify any issues with your testes. I recommend getting an ultrasound of the scrotum with color Doppler to assess the size of the testes and check for any conditions like varicocele. Additionally, you should undergo blood tests for serum FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and serum LH (luteinizing hormone) to determine whether you have primary or secondary testicular failure.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

We got married three years ago and did not plan anything initially. We started trying to have a baby about six months ago. I am currently taking testosterone shots. How can I increase my sperm count?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Before proceeding with extensive evaluation and treatment, you should try for six months. We can wait up to a year before considering invasive treatments. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular attempts. I recommend starting with a basic evaluation and waiting for some time. In the meantime, you can take medications to help improve your sperm count. If we cannot determine the cause of your low sperm count, you may consider ART (assisted reproductive technology). In ART, healthy sperm are collected from your semen or testes and injected into your partner. ART is typically performed by a gynecologist and usually requires two to three cycles; it is not a one-month procedure.

For now, I suggest you undergo basic tests and evaluations and begin with medical management. Consider taking supplements three times daily. Consult your doctor soon and follow the prescribed treatment.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

After following your recommendations, I completed all the basic tests and consulted my doctor regularly. I am attaching the reports for your review. My urologist informed me that my testicles and prostate are fine. He suggested that I take Clomifene 50 mg once a day for 25 days. I followed this regimen for a month and then visited my endocrinologist, who ordered additional blood tests. There has been some improvement in my testosterone levels, LH (luteinizing hormone), and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). We are continuing to try for kids as usual.

My urologist also recommended that I should take a fertility supplement. Should I wait for some time before proceeding with IVF (in vitro fertilization)? What are your recommendations based on my reports?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the reports (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity), and they appear to be favorable. You are responding well to the treatment and are making good progress. You can try to conceive naturally for the next four to six months before considering IVF (in vitro fertilization). At this time, no additional tests are required. However, you should repeat the semen analysis in a month. Please continue taking the prescribed medications as directed.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I have a few questions to ask you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Please go ahead and ask your questions, and attach your reports.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I had a semen analysis done a month ago, and I am attaching the results. My urologist instructed me to take Clomifene 50 mg once a day for 25 days, followed by a five-day break. I have now been taking it for five months. The reports show improvement compared to the initial ones, but my sperm morphology remains low. We have been having frequent intercourse for the past two months, but my partner has not conceived yet. What steps can I take to improve sperm morphology? Should I continue taking Clomifene until conception occurs? Does sperm morphology significantly impact infertility? What other options are available?

Please help.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the semen report (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity), and it shows significant improvement compared to the initial one. Your sperm morphology has also improved slightly. You should continue taking Clomifene and thyroxine. Incorporate antioxidants into your diet and consider taking supplements. Remember, only one healthy sperm is needed for conception. While your sperm count is normal, the morphology is still somewhat low, but it is not at zero. Continue with your medications and maintain hope.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byDr. Hemalatha

Published At January 7, 2017
Reviewed AtAugust 29, 2024

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