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A medical world first :
A new alternative for couples wanting to conceive although the male partner has undergone a vasectomy
Montreal, May 20, 2004 - The OVO Fertility Clinic announced today a world first: the successful outcome of a natural in vitro fertilization cycle (nIVF) using epididymal sperm. Last February, the 36-year-old patient, whose husband had undergone a vasectomy several years earlier, had the laboratory-fertilized embryo transferred to her uterus. This successful procedure was made possible by PESA (percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration), in which a needle was inserted into the testicles to retrieve a sperm sample. This new alternative for couples wanting to conceive although the male partner had already had a vasectomy has never been the subject of a scientific publication until now, despite the fact that thousands of in vitro fertilization cycles are performed worldwide every year.
« The success of this minimally invasive procedure is encouraging, � stated Dr. Jacques Kadoch, the couple's attending physician and the person who initiated the process that led to this world first. � The natural in vitro fertilization method originated with the first test-tube baby born in England 25 years ago, but the technique was gradually put aside in favour of stimulated in vitro fertilization (sIVF), which is based on artificially producing a number of eggs with the help of medication. The nIVF method benefits from new procedures that prevent premature ovulation and ensures a significant rate of success. This is tremendous news because the successful result of this procedure shows that it can be a simple therapeutic alternative for men who have had a vasectomy ».
The nIVF method used with this Montreal-area couple adapts to the woman's natural ovulation cycle. The egg, selected naturally during the cycle, is collected through a minimally invasive procedure, fertilized in the laboratory and then transferred into the uterus once it has become an embryo. This method is less invasive because it excludes drug-assisted ovary stimulation, eliminating potential side effects linked to such stimulation and nullifying the risk of multiple births, with the exception of identical twins.
« We made several attempts in various clinics in Quebec and the United States before we were successful in our efforts, and it was right here, close to home, that we found a team that met our expectations and that warmly supported us in our desire to be parents again, � said the future mother, who is due to give birth in November. � Our story enables other couples who are encountering fertility problems to have renewed hope in having their fondest wish come true ».
« The advantages of natural IVF are indisputable, and this method should be used more - as often as possible, in our view - although the sIVF method remains a very valid option for a lot of infertile couples, especially when the woman is near or over 40 years of age, � stated Dr. Louise Lapens�e, spokesperson for the OVO Clinic. � The nIVF embodies the principles that should be the guiding force for gynaecologists and every doctor that works in the assisted-reproduction field: use the least invasive medical procedures and minimize the health risks for patients while maximizing their chances to achieve their objective, which is to have a child ».
About OVO Fertility Clinic
The OVO Fertility Clinic, founded in July, 2003, by four medical specialists, some of whom have been working in this field of endeavour since the early days of IVF in Quebec, is the most recent fertility clinic to open in the Montreal area. The clinic provides a full range of reproduction-assistance services and is endowed with a team of specialists in urology and genetics. A distinguishing feature of the new clinic is its unique approach based on respect and meticulous follow-up and the utmost care in providing services to couples. Psychological assistance and personalized financial aid are available. Ever cognizant that the desire to have a child is a longing that is both fundamental and deeply rooted, the OVO Fertility Clinic staff consistently strives to maximize the chances of conception and ensure that it is personable and proficient in its approach.
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