Dr Richa Sharma, Dr Amit Basnotra
We are going through a very taxing and challenging situation and we are in same phase as if fighting some invisible, unpredictable and constantly changing enemy who as if challenging our existence as humans.
Each strata and age group pf people right now have own end number of problems as what will be the impact right now and in future with lots and lots of unsolved questions.
Via this article definitely our is not to add to your stress further but aim is to try guide and share our views of various queries couples have in their mind-who were planing for IVF or who have conceived in this COVID era
Various emergency guidelines have been issued by different scientific bodies at national and International level as what should be followed both by the patients and the health care workers based on their experience and others experiences
Infertility as such already stressful enough and to add to it this COVID happened but as doctors and patients we need to keep a close eye on the COVID-19 virus situation. We know that the fallout from this pandemic has been incredibly disruptive to so many lives across the globe, and we’re also acutely aware of the impact that the virus and associated shut-downs may have on your family building plans.
Definitely globally everyone advising what can be delayed should be done than risking own lifeand to new life.
Question is of Saving already existing life Vs Creating new life and risking it to a virus which almost no one knows clearly
In March 2020,various Recommendations Globally wee released pecifically for patients undergoing fertility treatments. These recommendations came as incredibly disappointing rather as a shock to many couples who were about to or amidst IVF treatment as Preparing for a treatment like IVF takes time, money, and a lot of emotional work – and having a cycle cancelled is simply heartbreaking but at end they truly are in best interest of humanity(Humans species)
Various queries which couples come across –
Can I start Infertility treatment ?
If you are planning to begin a stimulation cycle using oral or injectable medications, or starting an IUI, IVF retrieval or a frozen embryo transfer, its recommended that your cycle be postponed, with few exceptions like some life threatning conditions where may need to continue to provide individualized care.
What if I am under IVF treatment already ?
If you are planning an IVF transfer, the current recommendation is for all clinics to strongly consider cancelling or postponing both fresh and frozen embryo transfers until further notice.
What to do for An Upcoming Scheduled Procedure?
Better suspend all elective surgeries and non-urgent diagnostic procedures especially if it’s a high risk areas with more infected patients
What if I need to see doctor for my ailments or queries?
Clinics are being encouraged to minimize in-person interactions and instead utilize telehealth options (like conducting consults by phone or video chat).
For Patients Who Are Currently Pregnant
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) practice advisory very little is known about the effect of COVID-19 on pregnant women and infants, and it’s unclear if COVID-19 can cross the placenta. Since pregnant women are at greater risk of severe complications from similar respiratory infections, pregnant women are considered an “at-risk population” for COVID-19.
Should I plan pregnancy naturally and utilise this lockdown period ?
See this is very unpredictable virus so planing pregnany by any means should be delayed and if its there better take extra precautions as two lives will be at stake.
What can I do to reduce my risk of catching coronavirus?
The most important thing to do is to follow government guidance. For pregnant women and the rest of their households, this includes:
* Regular hand washing
* Use a tissue when you or anyone in your family coughs or sneezes, discard this and wash your hands
* Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus. These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough
* Avoid non-essential use of public transport when possible
* Work from home, where possible.
* Avoid large and small gatherings in public spaces, noting that pubs, restaurants, leisure centres and similar venues are currently shut as infections spread easily in closed spaces where people gather together.
* Avoid gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone, internet, and social media
* Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services
(Note- Source of information is Internet and various Guidelines. Also contact your doctor.)
(The authors are Senior IVF Consultant and Senior Gastroentrologist respectively)
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