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Live better with your desire for a child

PROCREATION: A COMPLEX PROCESS

What is more essential for a couple than to have a child? Sometimes, an unfulfilled desire…

Fertility varies from one to another and depends on sexual activity: The probability of pregnancy during a menstrual cycle is low, in the range of 20-25% (1). Fertilization, as a prelude to pregnancy, is in fact a complex physiological process that is regulated by multiple factors, including hormonal ones.

 

REFERENCE

(1) – BEH, INVS, N°7-8-9 du 21 février 2012

Fertility

Fertalization in short

 

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Fertilization is the outcome of the encounter between an ovum and a sperm cell, two reproductive human cells. The most favourable moment to this encounter is before the 13th day of a 28-day cycle, which means at ovulation.

Ovulation: The ovum (egg) develops in the ovary inside the “follicle” then released toward the fallopian tube. This process is carried out under the control of brain hormones (FSH and LH); which are themselves influenced by hormones that are secreted by ovaries.

The “encounter”: It happens within the tube, where sperm cells swim up after their release in the vagina. Sperm cells must be in a sufficient large number, mobile and find a favourable milieu in the cervix, notably the mucus; which quality depends on cerebral and ovarian hormones (estrogens and hCG).

Fertilization itself: Only one of these sperm cells will fertilize the egg. An egg-cell is therefore created, it predetermines the embryo. This cell starts dividing and begins its descents towards the vagina.

Implantation: The future embryo reaches the uterus. It implants within the endometrial which is pre-prepared by ovarian hormone stimulation (estrogens then progesterone).

Every step of this process is crucial and any disruption compromises the future pregnancy.

Faq

1. In case of problems conceiving, is it possible to discuss it with the treating physician?

Of course it is, he/she is the first contact, especially when not followed by a gynaecologist. The general practitioner is perfectly qualified to confirm the infertility of a couple after a thorough interview, and if necessary, simple tests: Temperature curve, hormonal determination, ultrasound for women, sperm count for men.
Depending on the outcome, he/she may refer to a specialized gynaecologist in the fertility field.

2. Where is IVF performed?

IVF, as any other assisted reproductive technology (ART), is performed at an authorized center, with accredited medical and technical equipment. These centers may be located in hospitals or clinics.

3. What exactly is the syndrome of polycystic ovaries?

It’s a rather frequent hormonal abnormality, affecting 10% of women. It is responsible for the absence of ovulation and an irregular cycle. It also occurs with an overweight or obesity, acne, excessive hair growth...
Causes are not precisely known, however, when a couple wants to have children, ovarian stimulation generally helps regaining ovulation.

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Dernière mise à jour le : 06/08/2015