The Lifeline Hospital Kochi

The intricate dance of hormones is fundamental to female fertility. When this delicate balance is disrupted, conception can become challenging. Understanding the culprits behind these hormonal shifts is the first step towards effective solutions. The Symphony of Reproductive Hormones: Several hormones orchestrate the female reproductive system: Estrogen: Builds the uterine lining and governs female characteristics. Progesterone: Prepares the uterus for pregnancy and maintains it. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Stimulates follicle growth in the ovaries. LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Triggers ovulation. Thyroid Hormones: Regulate metabolism, impacting reproductive function. Prolactin: Stimulates milk production, but excess can hinder ovulation. Androgens (like testosterone): While present in small amounts, excess can disrupt ovulation. Common Causes of Hormonal Imbalance and Infertility: PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): A leading cause, characterized by excess androgens, irregul...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is a common cause of female infertility. In fact, PCOS is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility, which is infertility due to a lack of ovulation. How does PCOS affect fertility? PCOS can affect fertility in several ways. One way is by disrupting ovulation. Women with PCOS may not ovulate regularly, or they may not ovulate at all. This can make it difficult to get pregnant. PCOS can also affect fertility by causing problems with the eggs. Women with PCOS may have eggs that are not as healthy as they should be. This can make it more difficult to get pregnant and can also increase the risk of miscarriage. In addition, PCOS can affect the lining of the uterus, which is where the fertilized egg implants. Women with PCOS may have a lining that is not as receptive to implantation. This can make it more difficult to get pregnant and can also increase the risk of miscarriage. What are t...

Tubal infertility, or blocked fallopian tubes, is a significant cause of infertility in women. These tubes are essential for conception, providing the pathway for the egg and sperm to meet. When they’re blocked, pregnancy becomes difficult or impossible. It’s estimated that blocked fallopian tubes contribute to 20–30% of female infertility cases. Several factors can cause this blockage: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), often caused by STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea, is a major culprit. Endometriosis, a condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, can also lead to blockages. Previous surgeries, including those for ectopic pregnancies or appendicitis, can sometimes cause adhesions that obstruct the tubes. A history of ectopic pregnancy itself can also damage the fallopian tubes. Diagnosis typically involves a hysterosalpingogram (HSG), an X-ray using dye to visualize the uterus and tubes. Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery, might also be used. Treatment opti...

Fetal medicine   is a specialized branch of obstetrics that focuses on the health and well-being of the unborn baby. It encompasses a wide range of services, from routine prenatal screenings to advanced diagnostic procedures and treatments for fetal conditions. With advancements in technology and medical expertise, fetal medicine has made significant strides in improving outcomes for both mothers and their babies. What does a fetal medicine specialist do? Fetal medicine specialists, also known as perinatologists, are obstetricians with additional training in high-risk pregnancies and fetal conditions. They possess in-depth knowledge of: Prenatal diagnosis: Utilizing advanced imaging techniques like ultrasounds, fetal echocardiography, and genetic testing to detect abnormalities and assess fetal health. Management of high-risk pregnancies: Caring for women with pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension, or those who develop complications during pregnancy such as ...

  In-vitro fertilization (IVF) has transformed reproductive medicine, offering hope to many facing infertility. Understanding the factors that contribute to successful  IVF treatment  can be empowering for those considering this option. What is IVF? IVF is a multi-stage process: Ovarian Stimulation:  Hormones stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Egg Retrieval:  Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries through a minimally invasive procedure. Fertilization:  Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory. Embryo Culture:  Fertilized eggs (embryos) are monitored in a controlled environment. Embryo Transfer:  One or more embryos are placed into the uterus. Pregnancy Test:  A test is performed about two weeks after the transfer. Key Factors for IVF Success: Several factors influence IVF outcomes: Woman’s Age:  Age is a primary factor, with success rates declining, especially after 35. Cause of Infertility:  The underlying cause imp...

  Fetal medicine , also known as maternal-fetal medicine or perinatology, is a specialized branch of medicine focused on the health and well-being of the fetus during pregnancy. It addresses potential health issues that may arise before birth, offering diagnosis, monitoring, and in some cases, treatment within the womb. This field plays a crucial role in improving pregnancy outcomes and ensuring a healthy start for newborns. Why is Fetal Medicine Important? While most pregnancies progress without complications, some fetuses may face developmental or health challenges. Fetal medicine specialists are trained to identify and manage these issues, which can include: Congenital anomalies:  These are birth defects present at birth, affecting various organs and systems. Genetic disorders:  Conditions caused by abnormalities in genes or chromosomes. Growth restrictions:  When the fetus doesn’t grow at the expected rate. Multiple gestations:  Pregnancies with twins, tripl...