Vern Enciso And OB Answer Questions On PCOS, Infertility, And IVF

The road to parenthood can be different for each couple. Fertility and the journey to conception can be complex, especially for those facing challenges in getting pregnant.

Influencer and expecting mom Vern Enciso-Lim, has been open about her trying-to-conceive journey, sharing her experiences and insights in her vlogs. In a recent episode, she features her Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN), Dr. Maria Melinda Borja Chong (Dr. Mia), who helps answer common questions about conception. Together, they discuss fertility concerns and share practical advice for couples trying to conceive.

Vern and Dr.Mia Address Fertility Questions

Establishing a healthy lifestyle before conception

The first point Dr. Mia emphasizes is the importance of a healthy lifestyle when trying to conceive. She suggests that couples should:

• Quit smoking and drinking alcohol.
• Get adequate rest.
• Eat a balanced diet.

Couples can also take vitamins, minerals, or health supplements, though this should be approached with caution. Dr. Mia advises, “If they’re taking supplements that are in the gray area, I for one, let them stop. Because walang science, eh. So I still go for the safe side.”

This means that preparing for a pregnancy involves reviewing a patient’s medical history and addressing specific health concerns, such as weight management. Dr. Mia stresses that lifestyle changes should be done before conceiving to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

Understanding reproductive immune disorders and APAS

One complex issue that can affect fertility is a reproductive immune disorder known as Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APAS), which can lead to pregnancy complications, including miscarriage. Dr. Mia explains, “If your antibodies are very high, your autoantibodies are very high, that means there’s a possibility of your body rejecting the baby, kasi magfo-form siya ng immune complex.”

However, Dr. Mia notes that patients diagnosed with APAS can still get pregnant, provided that they undergo close supervision by an obstetrician. Treatments, such as heparin injections, may be necessary throughout the pregnancy to prevent the fetus from being rejected.

Identifying infertility and when to see an OB-GYN

A common question is when couples should consult a doctor about infertility. According to Dr. Mia, infertility is defined as “not getting pregnant despite having sexual contact that is unprotected.” For women in their 20s and 30s, she recommends seeking medical advice if they haven’t conceived after a year of trying. For those aged 35 and above, she suggests seeking help after six months of trying.

Possibility of conception after 40

Many women are concerned about their ability to conceive naturally after turning 40. Dr. Mia reassures that it is still possible, explaining, “If you have very good eggs, you menstruate regularly, you have a good lifestyle, [then] I don’t think [you will have] any problem with getting pregnant, even if you’re 40.”

IVF vs natural pregnancy management

In Vern’s case, IVF played a crucial role in her journey to motherhood. Dr. Mia discusses the differences between managing natural and IVF pregnancies, noting that IVF pregnancies often require more stringent monitoring due to the complexities involved. “Whether you’re an IVF or you’re in a natural pregnancy, I still consider them with utmost care,” she states.

For couples who can’t afford IVF

For couples unable to afford IVF, Dr. Mia suggests alternatives such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), and emphasizes that IVF is usually considered as the last resort after other methods have failed.

Dr. Mia further highlights the importance of timing and proximity for conception, especially for couples with lifestyle or work-related barriers. “So if the patient is having a hard time getting pregnant, you have to ask kasi if the husband, let’s say, is an OFW and comes home only like every 8 months. That’s very common that most obstetricians also fail to ask,” she shares.

She further explains, “You tell them, you know what, for you to be pregnant, the husband has to be here. You have to sleep under the same roof, under the same house… When you ovulate kasi, there’s a very narrow period. In 30 days, your ovulation is only in a few days a month.”

PCOS and its management

Dr. Mia also touches on PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome–a prevalent concern among women today. When asked if there is a cure for PCOS, she states, “Sadly, there is no absolute cure.” However, lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress, can significantly alleviate symptoms.

Vern herself shares that with Dr. Mia’s guidance, she managed her PCOS through lifestyle modifications. “You choose the right food…lifestyle pa rin,” Dr. Mia affirms, emphasizing that managing PCOS doesn’t have to be expensive.

Pregnancy anxiety: Spotting and bleeding

Spotting and light bleeding during pregnancy can be distressing. Dr. Mia clarifies that for a pregnancy to be considered normal, “dapat walang spotting, walang bleeding, walang pain or discomfort.” Any abnormal symptom should be promptly discussed with a healthcare professional.

Skincare during pregnancy

Another crucial topic for expecting mothers is skincare. Dr. Mia advises that women trying to get pregnant should avoid skincare products containing tretinoin, retinoic acid, and hydroquinone. These ingredients should also be avoided during pregnancy as they can cross the placenta and affect the baby. She stresses, “You can still be beautiful when you’re pregnant,” but it’s important to prioritize the baby’s safety.

Have faith and patience

For those still on their conception journey, Dr. Mia encourages having patience and faith. She advises couples to work closely with their OB-GYNs and to remember, “There is a divine boss sa taas. Siya ang nakakaalam kung when tayo pwede ma-pregnant, in His time, in His will.”

This underscores that while medical interventions can aid in the conception process, it’s essential to manage expectations, acknowledge the natural limitations of science, and maintain faith.

Watch the full vlog here:

Read here for everything you need to know about IVF.