Jessica Iskandar and her husband embark on their third pregnancy using the test tube baby programme.
At 36, Jessica opted for IVF with PGT-A to ensure a healthy baby.
Jessica Iskandar Chooses IVF for Third Pregnancy
Jessica Iskandar and her husband Vincent Verhaag are embarking on their third pregnancy via the test tube baby programme. This decision highlights the growing acceptance and advancement of IVF in Asia. The couple chose Morula IVF Surabaya National Hospital for its renowned expertise in reproductive health. Their choice reflects a broader trend towards advanced medical solutions for fertility issues.
Importance of IVF and PGT-A
IVF involves fertilising an egg outside the body and implanting the embryo into the uterus. When combined with Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A), it offers a higher chance of a successful pregnancy. For Jessica, 36 years old, PGT-A is particularly crucial. This advanced genetic screening detects chromosomal abnormalities in embryos before implantation. By selecting chromosomally normal embryos, the likelihood of genetic disorders is significantly reduced.
Step-by-Step IVF Process
- Ovarian Stimulation: Hormonal injections stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Blood tests and ultrasounds monitor this step.
- Egg Retrieval: Mature eggs are surgically extracted from the ovaries. This minor procedure is performed under sedation using ultrasound guidance.
- Fertilisation: The retrieved eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory setting. This can involve conventional insemination or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
- Embryo Culture: Fertilised eggs develop into embryos over a few days. Embryologists monitor their growth to identify the healthiest embryos.
- PGT-A Screening: On the third to fifth day of development, a few cells are biopsied from each embryo. PGT-A screens for aneuploidy, which involves abnormal chromosome numbers.
- Embryo Transfer: Healthy embryos are selected for transfer into the uterus. This procedure involves placing the embryo using a thin catheter.
- Pregnancy Testing: After about two weeks, a blood test confirms if the embryo has implanted successfully and pregnancy is achieved.
Benefits and Misconceptions of the Test Tube Baby Programme
The test tube baby programme with PGT-A offers numerous benefits, especially for older women or those with genetic disorder histories. It significantly enhances the chances of a successful pregnancy by ensuring only healthy embryos are implanted. This method reduces the risk of miscarriage and increases the probability of delivering a healthy baby.
Despite its advantages, the test tube baby programme is often surrounded by misconceptions. One common myth is that the test tube baby programme guarantees immediate success. In reality, the success rate varies depending on factors like the woman’s age and embryo quality. While PGT-A improves the chances, it does not guarantee success.
Another misconception concerns the ethical implications of the test tube baby programme and genetic testing. Some people worry about the manipulation of embryos and potential for “designer babies.” However, strict ethical guidelines govern the test tube baby programme, ensuring they are conducted responsibly and ethically.
Jessica’s Public Influence
Jessica Iskandar’s public disclosure of her journey through the test tube baby programme has normalised fertility treatments in Asia. By sharing her experience, she highlights the struggles many couples face with infertility. Her openness encourages other couples to explore the test tube baby programme without stigma or hesitation. It also emphasises the importance of focusing on a healthy pregnancy over gender selection or non-medical preferences.
Jessica and Vincent’s decision to prioritise a healthy baby over gender selection reflects a responsible approach. This stance is particularly important in regions where gender selection has been contentious.
The Role of Morula IVF Surabaya National Hospital
The couple’s choice of Morula IVF Surabaya National Hospital is notable. The team, including Dr Benediktus Arifin, Dr Andra Kusuma Putra, and Dr Raudlatul Hikmah, provides comprehensive support throughout the test tube baby programme process. Their expertise ensures couples receive personalised care tailored to their specific needs. This care includes initial consultations, fertility assessments, embryo transfer, and pregnancy confirmation.
Future of the Test Tube Baby Programme in Asia
The success of high-profile cases like Jessica Iskandar’s is likely to increase acceptance and demand for the test tube baby programme across Asia. As technology advances and medical infrastructure improves, the test tube baby programme will become more accessible and affordable. This will offer a lifeline to many aspiring parents. Public figures who openly discuss their fertility struggles and successes play a crucial role in this shift. They help reduce the stigma associated with infertility and fertility treatments.
Subsequently, in the future, we can expect more advancements in test tube baby programme technology. This includes improved embryo screening methods, personalised hormonal treatments, and enhanced embryo culture techniques. These innovations will increase the success rates of the test tube baby programme and make the process more efficient and less stressful.
Embracing Modern Fertility Solutions
Jessica Iskandar and Vincent Verhaag’s IVF journey underscores the transformative potential of the test tube baby programme. IVF, especially with PGT-A, offers a promising solution for couples facing fertility challenges. By choosing this path, Jessica and Vincent aspire to expand their family and inspire others. As public awareness grows and medical advancements continue, the test tube baby programme will play a crucial role in shaping reproductive health in Asia. Jessica and Vincent’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating that with the right support and technology, the dream of parenthood can become a reality.
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