By IANSlife
September 17, 2023 (IANSlife) Even though more women in India have access to infertility treatment services and experts, dealing with infertility continues as one of the most difficult issues women face. Infertility is described by the WHO as "a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse."
Dr. Shobha Gupta, Medical Director and Infertility specialist from Mother’s Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi and Vrindavan explains that “Women believe that having periods is a natural procedure for which they were born, regardless of whether they are regular or not. They begin to experience stress when they are unable to conceive. They don't interact with others or conduct independent research, which undoubtedly has an impact on their bodies. The mechanisms of reproduction heavily rely on hormones. They decide when to release an egg, how it grows, the timing of menstrual cycles, etc. The two hormones that are essential to these processes are oestrogen and progesterone. Therefore, infertility may happen if the levels of these hormones dramatically rise or fall.”
The most obvious indication of hormonal changes is acne. This is not comparable to a sporadic pimple. Along with the T zone, the cheeks, jawline, and bottom portion of the face are also affected. “In addition, when you receive any type of fertility treatment, it is typical to have skin redness, dryness, flaky skin, pigmentation, or melasma. While the well-known glow of pregnancy is one benefit, some women also have skin issues as a result of the medicines used to trigger ovulation during their infertility treatment journey. However, the surge of hormones recommended during a reproductive cycle can also cause some undesirable side effects in addition to the glow,” explained Dr. Shobha Gupta.
Let’s explore what exact skin conditions you face while undergoing fertility treatment explaining Dr. Sandeep Babbar, Medical Director and Dermatologist from Revyve Skin, Hair and Nail Clinic, Faridabad:
How to treat it?
If at all possible, attempt to control any current skin issues before beginning IVF. This is my best advice. If the skin issue is moderate or severe, you might need to see your dermatologist because prescription medication can be needed.
Dr. Sandeep Babbar uses chemical peels, hydroquinone-based bleaching creams, and Cosmelan peels to treat patients' persistent acne once fertility treatments or pregnancies are over and skincare restrictions are no longer required. "Chemical peels can help increase skin cell turnover and treat facial discoloration," he claims. Treatments for skin discolouration brought on by hormonal aftereffects include retinols, a substance that should not be used while pregnant, and vitamin C serum, a potent antioxidant for the skin.
Please follow below tips by Dr. Sandeep Babbar:
“Treatment for infertility can have a variety of consequences on the body, including the skin. It is truly a transformational experience. Retinoids, Hydroquinone, and salicylic acid are some items that should be avoided during your pregnancy journey. Consult with your fertility doctor before beginning any skin care regimen” insists Dr. Shobha Gupta.
Among the usual changes people may feel throughout infertility treatments include hormonal shifts, skin sensitivity, hyperpigmentation, dryness, and itching. "At the end of the day, each person's skin is unique, and their effects may differ as well." The best way to develop a safe, healthy, and practical strategy that meets your unique circumstances is to speak with your doctor. For individualised counselling and support throughout the IVF procedure, I strongly advise speaking with medical professionals.” concluded Dr. Sandeep Babbar.
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