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The journey to parenthood is unique for each couple, and an accurate diagnosis is the essential first step. At Ingenes, we understand that every detail counts on the path to having a baby at home. The Importance of an Accurate Medical Diagnosis An accurate medical diagnosis is essential to chart a clear path in fertility treatment. Correctly identifying the causes of infertility not only makes it easier to select the most appropriate treatment but also gives couples a deeper understanding of their situation. This is crucial to managing emotions and expectations during this process. The Five Pillars of Fertility The Importance of a Timely Diagnosis A timely and accurate diagnosis can be the difference between years of unsuccessful treatments and a successful path to motherhood. At Ingenes, 90% of our patients arrive after having gone through exhausting experiences, both physically and emotionally. Therefore, our focus is on avoiding the loss of valuable time and providing fast and accurate diagnoses. Technology and Expertise at Ingenes We have cutting-edge technology and a team of highly trained specialists in various areas of assisted reproduction. This allows us to offer a clear diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan from the first consultation. Understanding and Managing Infertility Understanding the causes of infertility and the details of treatment helps couples better manage the situation. At Ingenes, we strive to provide not only medical advice but also emotional support, so that each couple feels safe and understood at every stage of the process. At Ingenes, your dream of having your baby at home is our priority. We understand that the path to fertility can be complicated, but with an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, we are here to help you turn that dream into reality. If you are looking to have a baby at home and want to better understand your fertility situation, visit Ingenes. Our experts are ready to guide you every step of your journey. Contact us today to start your path to parenthood.

The seminal tract is the path that sperm take from the testes to the outside. If an infection occurs at any point along this route, the inflamed areas can damage semen quality and make it harder for the egg to be fertilized. The good news is that most of these infections respond very well to antibiotics. If semen quality remains low after treatment, in vitro fertilization with ICSI is usually the best option to achieve pregnancy. What are seminal infections and how do they affect your fertility? Seminal infections arise when bacteria, fungi, or viruses reach the prostate, seminal vesicles, epididymis, or vas deferens. This can cause: Obstruction of seminal flow, causing azoospermia (absence of sperm) or oligozoospermia (fewer than 15 million/mL). Reduced sperm motility (asthenozoospermia). Abnormal sperm morphology (teratozoospermia). Increased sperm DNA fragmentation, making implantation more difficult. Production of antibodies against sperm. Possible transmission of the infection to your partner. What are the symptoms? They are often silent and only detected through a fertility study, but sometimes they present with: Changes in semen color or consistency. Irritation, itching, or burning when urinating. Urethral discharge. Discomfort in the perineal or testicular area. Avoid self-medication. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop sexual activity and consult an assisted reproduction specialist. Why do they occur? The most common causes are sexually transmitted bacteria (Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae) or intestinal flora (such as Escherichia coli or Enterococcus faecalis). The risk is higher with unprotected sex or multiple partners. Factors that increase the likelihood: Poor genital hygiene. Invasive urological procedures. Weakened immune system. How is it diagnosed? The specialist usually: Takes your medical history and performs a physical exam. Performs a urine culture and semen culture with antibiotic sensitivity. Orders molecular tests (PCR). Analyzes the semen with a semen analysis and DNA fragmentation test. With this information, a personalized treatment plan is designed and follow-up studies are performed to confirm that the infection has cleared. Treatment and options for achieving pregnancy Initial treatment is usually oral antibiotics for 7–14 days. It is essential that both you and your partner complete the course and maintain sexual abstinence during the medication period. Once the infection is eradicated, sperm quality is reassessed. If problems persist (concentration < 15 M/mL, motility < 40%, or high fragmentation), IVF+ICSI or additional tests in our fertility laboratory are considered. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Do they always cause infertility? No. Many are detected and treated in time, restoring semen quality. However, if inflammation becomes chronic, it can cause scarring and blockages, leading to persistent oligozoospermia or asthenozoospermia. Consult as soon as you notice any symptoms. 2. Can I infect my partner during treatment? Yes, which is why both partners should be treated simultaneously. Abstinence and condom use after therapy help prevent reinfection. 3. How does DNA fragmentation affect things? If it exceeds 30%, it can hinder natural fertilization and increase the risk of miscarriage. In those cases, ICSI along with prior antioxidant supplements is recommended. 4. Can they be prevented? With safe sexual practices (condom use), good genital hygiene, and regular check-ups if you have risk factors. A healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, exercise, no smoking) also strengthens your immune system. Sources National Library of Medicine. (2023). Male reproductive system infections. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov World Health Organization. (2021). WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen (6th ed.). Geneva: WHO Press. Dohle, G. R., Diemer, T., Kopa, Z. (2019). EAU Guidelines on Male Infertility. European Urology, 76(4), 616–628. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eururo.2019.08.029 Esteves, S. C., Agarwal, A. (2020). Role of oxidative stress in male infertility. Clinics, 75, e1909. https://doi.org/10.6061/clinics/2020/e1909 Remember that each case is unique. If you are looking to start a family, do not hesitate to consult an assisted reproduction specialist: we are here to support you every step of the way.

At Ingenes we know very well the concerns of couples seeking their first child. We understand the stress and frustration when suspecting there may be some degree of infertility. Today we address especially couples who have been trying for more than 12 months without success, with particular attention to the male factor. Male infertility is rarely acknowledged. Thinking about it generates discomfort, anger, disbelief, and sometimes depression; as if you weren’t “man enough.” The truth is these problems are more common than you think and yet remain hidden. Accepting the possibility of a male issue is difficult. If you’ve been trying for 12 months without success, timing and diagnosis are key: an early finding usually leads to better results. Main male causes of infertility Many factors are involved in achieving a pregnancy. If any fail, infertility can occur. In approximately 50% of cases, there is a male component, since half of the embryo’s genetic material comes from the sperm source. Sperm production and function disorders Anejaculation (absence of ejaculation) Asthenozoospermia (low motility) Azoospermia (absence of sperm) Teratozoospermia (abnormal morphology) Varicocele (dilated veins in the scrotum) Seminal infections (e.g., prostatitis) Other conditions affecting fertility Diabetes mellitus (affects nerves and blood flow) Erectile dysfunction (impedes ejaculation) Vasectomy (surgical sterilization) At Ingenes we have cutting-edge technology to address these conditions and offer comprehensive emotional support, essential for treatment success. The first step is to schedule a consultation to diagnose and treat the root cause. Do not self-medicate: always see an assisted reproduction specialist before taking any medication. Influence of emotional health on male infertility Stress, anxiety, and depression alter hormones that regulate sperm production. A supportive environment lowers cortisol and balances testosterone, improving sperm parameters. Learn more about emotional support in assisted reproduction treatments. Creating a support network strengthens couples to face the process together, fostering hope and resilience. Frequently Asked Questions on the Emotional Process in Male Infertility 1. Why acknowledge infertility emotionally? Understanding the emotional impact helps address guilt, shame, or frustration before they become chronic anxiety or depression. This improves treatment adherence and increases reproductive success rates. Also, addressing these feelings with a psychologist or in a support group reinforces couple communication, creating an environment of mutual understanding. 2. What coping strategies help manage stress? Cognitive-behavioral therapy teaches relaxation techniques and the restructuring of negative thoughts. Regular exercise, meditation, and yoga reduce cortisol and boost mood. Participating in support groups or couples therapy allows you to express emotions and share experiences with others in similar situations. 3. How to talk to your partner without causing conflict? Choose a calm moment, express your feelings using “I” statements, and validate their emotions. Avoid accusations and comparisons with other couples. Seeking joint guidance from a specialist provides a neutral space to raise questions and develop a collaborative action plan. 4. When should you seek psychological help? If sadness, anxiety, or irritability persist for more than two weeks, affect your daily life or your relationship, it’s time to consult a mental health professional. A psychologist specializing in reproductive health will evaluate your case and recommend individual or couples therapy to maintain your emotional balance during treatment. Sources American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Male Infertility: Practice Committee Opinion. Fertility and Sterility. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.01.027 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Infertility FAQs. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/infertility/index.htm National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Male Infertility. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/male-infertility MedlinePlus. (2024). Infertility. https://medlineplus.gov/infertility.html Remember that your path to parenthood can be consolidated with professional support. You are not alone: consult an assisted fertilization specialist to guide and accompany you every step of the way.

To assess your ovarian reserve, it is essential to consult a reproductive specialist. They will order a transvaginal ultrasound and hormonal tests to measure the quantity and quality of your eggs, and then create a personalized plan to help you achieve the dream of becoming a mother or father. Below you will find clear information about what ovarian reserve is and how it affects your fertility. What is ovarian reserve and what is it for? Ovarian reserve is the number of eggs available in your ovaries throughout your reproductive life. We are born with between 1,000,000 and 2,000,000 follicles, which decrease to 300,000–500,000 by the time we reach puberty. Each month, dozens of follicles are recruited, but only one ovulates. The best time in terms of egg quantity and quality is from ages 16 to 30, although it remains reasonably high between 31 and 34. After age 35, reserve declines more noticeably, and after 40 both quantity and quality decrease until menopause, which in Mexico usually occurs around age 48. How does ovarian reserve influence your fertility? Fertility is the ability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected intercourse. According to the World Health Organization, more than 180 million people worldwide face infertility. One of the most common causes is low ovarian reserve, because it reduces the likelihood of finding a viable egg each cycle. If you want to learn more about infertility factors and ovarian reserve, visit our article “Infertility Factors: Understanding the Ovarian Reserve.” What factors reduce ovarian reserve besides age? Besides age, other factors can affect your ovarian reserve: Smoking Genetic disorders Immunological problems Cancer treatments (radiation, chemotherapy) Endometriosis For example, a 28-year-old woman with endometriosis may have the same reserve as a 40-year-old and face greater challenges conceiving. Symptoms of low ovarian reserve Some signs of low ovarian reserve include shorter or irregular cycles and low cervical mucus production. If it progresses to premature ovarian failure, menopause-like symptoms may appear: Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) Hot flashes and night sweats Insomnia Vaginal dryness Decreased libido Pain during intercourse Irritability and frequent mood swings Thyroid problems If you notice any of these symptoms, avoid self-medicating and see a Reproductive Medicine specialist to evaluate your reserve and learn the best options for you. What can your menstrual cycles tell you about your ovarian reserve? A normal menstrual cycle lasts 21 to 35 days, with bleeding for 2 to 7 days and a volume of 20–80 mL (2–5 sanitary pads per day). Changes in duration or quantity may indicate a hormonal imbalance affecting your ovarian reserve. How is ovarian reserve measured? The specialist usually performs: Medical history and physical examination. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol levels on day 3 of the cycle. Transvaginal ultrasound to count antral follicles. A normal count is 15–20 follicles; fewer than 6 indicates low reserve. How to become a mother or father with low ovarian reserve? If you are diagnosed with low reserve and want to have a baby, assisted reproduction techniques like in vitro fertilization with controlled ovarian stimulation are available. After stimulation, eggs are retrieved under light anesthesia to obtain as many as possible. If your own eggs are not viable, egg donation may be considered. Before making any decisions, always consult a Reproductive Medicine specialist to receive safe, personalized guidance. For more details, visit What is low ovarian reserve? Frequently asked questions about ovarian reserve 1. Does ovarian reserve determine my future fertility? Ovarian reserve indicates how many eggs remain, not their quality. A higher follicle count increases the chances of a viable egg each cycle, although age affects genetic quality. Both variables are key. A low count does not prevent pregnancy but may require assisted reproduction techniques to improve the odds. 2. Can I improve my ovarian reserve with lifestyle changes? Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and a balanced diet help preserve ovarian function. While they do not stop aging, they reduce external factors that accelerate reserve loss. Managing chronic diseases and planning cancer treatments under medical supervision also has a positive impact. 3. How often should I evaluate my ovarian reserve? There is no fixed schedule; annual evaluation is recommended if you plan a near-term pregnancy. Near age 35 or with risk factors, the specialist may suggest more frequent tests. In fertility treatments, the medical team adjusts monitoring based on your response. 4. Do hormonal contraceptives affect my ovarian reserve? Hormonal contraceptives do not permanently reduce reserve; they only inhibit ovulation while in use. After discontinuation, ovarian function and menstruation resume, although it may take weeks to stabilize. If you plan a pregnancy, discuss with your gynecologist to determine the best time to stop them and evaluate your reserve. Sources consulted ACOG. (2020). Practice Bulletin No. 234: Management of Anovulatory Bleeding. Obstetrics & Gynecology. Broekmans, F. J., et al. (2006). The antral follicle count: practical recommendations for better standardization. Human Reproduction, 21(3), 666–671. MedlinePlus. (2021). Infertility. https://medlineplus.gov/infertility.html WHO. (2019). Infertility. https://www.who.int/health-topics/infertility#tab=tab_1 We send you all our support on this journey. Remember that every case is unique: always consult an assisted reproduction specialist for the best guidance.

Donation is an act of generosity in which men and women voluntarily give up their gametes (eggs and sperm) to be used to help patients with infertility, who want above all to have a baby. On average, 1 in 6 Mexican couples has some infertility condition and, for some of them, using donor gametes is the only option to start a family. The donation of gametes is based on a confidential contract between the donors and the authorized center, therefore, both the data of the donors and the recipients and those of the children that could result from this procedure, remain under the strictest anonymity. There are several reasons why someone may decide to become a gamete donor. For many donors, the main one is the satisfaction of helping another person with infertility suffer from realizing their dream of having a baby. Although the donation process requires commitment, knowing that their participation helped bring a highly desired child into the world is very rewarding for donors. While sperm donation is a relatively simple process in which donors do not need any medical treatment, egg donation requires the donor to take medications that stimulate her egg production. However, if it is carried out in a specialized center, the donation of gametes does not represent any risk to the health or fertility of the donors, who must be between 18 and 32 years old and be willing to begin various medical and psychological tests, as well as to a detailed survey about your background, lifestyle, and family medical history. Recently, a team of researchers from the New Jersey Association for Reproductive Medicine and Robert Wood Johnson University studied a group of 75 donors and reported that they felt “happy and proud” one year after the donation. The donation of gametes is based on a confidential contract between the donors and the authorized center, so both the data of the donors and the recipients and those of the children that could result from this procedure remain under the strictest anonymity. For more information about the donation process, visit the sections: Requirements to be a Donor and Frequently Asked Questions about Donors.