Dr. Cao Tuan Anh, from the Reproductive Support Center at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi and Tam Anh Cau Giay Clinic, stated that Ngan simultaneously faced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which causes ovulation disorder, and hyperprolactinemia. This hormonal disorder inhibits gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), directly reducing the secretion of FSH and LH – two hormones essential for ovarian development.

Additionally, Ngan's left fallopian tube was completely blocked and slightly dilated, while the right fallopian tube was only partially patent. This combination of an endocrine disorder, preventing ovulation, and physical damage, obstructing the path of sperm and embryos, rendered her ability to conceive naturally almost zero.

An IVF doctor at Tam Anh Hospital preparing for embryo transfer. *Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Fallopian tube recanalization surgery has a low success rate and can easily lead to scarring in patients with PCOS. Therefore, Dr. Tuan Anh immediately recommended in vitro fertilization (IVF) for Ngan and her husband. This approach aimed to capitalize on the quality of her oocytes at age 24, before her medical conditions could worsen and increase the risk of diminished ovarian reserve.

The medical team controlled Ngan's prolactin levels to stabilize her endocrine environment and optimize embryo creation for conception. She received an individualized ovarian stimulation regimen with minimal dosage to mitigate ovarian hyperstimulation. This process retrieved 21 oocytes, immediately transferred to a sterile ISO 5 laboratory for IVF and culture, resulting in 7 day-5 embryos.

After preparing her uterine lining to a standard thickness, the doctor decided to transfer a single embryo into the uterus. Ngan became pregnant immediately.

In the final weeks of pregnancy, an ultrasound revealed Ngan had velamentous cord insertion, a complication where the risk of fetal death due to vasa previa (ruptured blood vessels) could exceed 50%, Dr. Tuan Anh stated. Consequently, the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center team decided to perform an elective C-section. Ngan's son was born healthy, weighing 2,7 kg.

Dr. Tuan Anh recommends that couples undergo pre-marital reproductive health check-ups to detect any abnormalities early and facilitate timely treatment for conception. Similarly, couples who do not conceive after one year of marriage should seek comprehensive examinations and prompt intervention if they are facing multiple medical conditions.

By Hoa Le

*Name of character has been changed