"I waited 10 years to become a mother," Ms. Duong shared, cradling her two-month-old daughter on 20/8.
She had experienced two early miscarriages from natural pregnancies and unsuccessful artificial insemination. In 2016, an ectopic pregnancy resulted in the surgical removal of her left fallopian tube.
Dr. Phan Ngoc Quy at the Fertility Center of Tam Anh General Hospital (IVF Tam Anh) conducted various tests but couldn't determine the cause of Ms. Duong's recurrent miscarriages. Her karyotype was normal, and tests for Antiphospholipid Syndrome, a cause of miscarriage, were negative.
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Dr. Quy counseling a couple. Photo illustration: Hospital provided |
Dr. Quy noted that Ms. Duong still had one functioning fallopian tube and a normal uterus and ovarian function. The couple still had a chance of natural conception, so they continued trying. Six months later, another ectopic pregnancy led to the removal of her remaining fallopian tube, eliminating the possibility of natural conception.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) became the only option. Dr. Quy stabilized Ms. Duong's hormone levels for three months before starting a personalized ovarian stimulation protocol. They retrieved 38 eggs, which were fertilized with her husband's sperm, resulting in 4 day-5 embryos and 8 day-6 embryos.
A day-5 embryo was transferred into Ms. Duong's uterus, and she conceived on the first attempt. The remaining embryos were cryopreserved for future use. In early June, Ms. Duong delivered a healthy baby girl weighing 3.1 kg via Cesarean section.
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Ms. Duong's firstborn daughter shortly after birth. Photo: Hospital provided |
Fallopian tubes are where fertilization occurs and the fertilized egg travels to the uterus for implantation. According to Dr. Quy, 20% to 30% of infertility cases are related to fallopian tube abnormalities, such as inflammation, torsion, or blockage. Blockage prevents the fertilized egg from reaching the uterus, leading to ectopic pregnancies. Fluid buildup in the fallopian tubes can flow into the uterus, causing inflammation and hindering implantation, increasing the risk of miscarriage even with IVF.
Most fallopian tube diseases are asymptomatic, leading to late diagnosis. Many women undergo surgery or even tube removal, reducing their chances of natural pregnancy. To mitigate risks to fertility, women should maintain good hygiene, especially during menstruation, avoiding harsh antiseptic solutions; practice safe sex; and have regular gynecological checkups every six months for early detection and timely treatment.
Trinh Mai
