LUF syndrome (luteinised unruptured follicle syndrome) is a relatively rare condition that can significantly affect female fertility. Despite its lesser-known status, it plays a crucial role in some cases of unexplained infertility, making its understanding vital for those wishing to conceive.

Around the middle of the menstrual cycle, ovulation occurs – the process of releasing a mature egg from its follicle. This mature follicle, known as a Graafian follicle, ruptures to release the egg, which can then be fertilized. In LUF syndrome, the follicle undergoes luteinization, which means it begins to produce progesterone as if ovulation had occurred. However, the follicle does not rupture and the egg remains trapped inside. Thus, ovulation is ineffective despite the hormonal signs that indicate it has occurred.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

The exact causes of LUF syndrome are not fully understood. However, several factors are believed to contribute to its occurrence:

• Certain medications, especially those used in the treatment of infertility, can increase the risk of LUF syndrome.
• Conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are associated with a higher risk of developing LUF.
• Psychological stress can affect hormonal balance and contribute to the syndrome.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

LUF syndrome often goes undiagnosed because it does not present specific symptoms distinguishable from other fertility problems. Women with LUF usually have regular menstrual cycles and show signs of ovulation on hormone tests (including home tests). The key difference, however, is the absence of an egg in the fallopian tube at the time of presumed ovulation.

Diagnosing LUF syndrome can be challenging. It usually involves a combination of ultrasound monitoring of the ovaries and blood tests to check hormone levels. Suspicion is the retention of high FSH levels after ovulation. Ultrasound is used to track the development of the follicle and to determine if the follicle has ruptured. Sometimes laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, is used for a more definitive diagnosis, especially in cases where other diagnostic methods do not provide clear answers.

TREATMENT

Treatment of LUF syndrome can be complex and varies according to individual circumstances. One common approach involves the use of medications that stimulate ovulation, such as clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins. These drugs aim to stimulate the release of the egg from the follicle. In some cases, an injection (trigger shot) with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is administered to accelerate the final maturation and rupture of the follicle.

For women who do not respond to medication, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be recommended. IVF bypasses the need to rupture a follicle by retrieving the egg directly from the ovary.

LUF syndrome, although not widely known, is an important factor in some cases of infertility. Early diagnosis and appropriate intervention can improve the chances of conception, offering hope to many women struggling with infertility. As awareness grows, so does the potential for better outcomes for those struggling with the condition

WHAT CAN I DO TO BOOST MY FERTILITY?

Infertility has become a major problem that more than 10% of couples face. Besides help from fertility specialists, there are a few natural ways that may increase your chances of getting pregnant.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST

Studies show that breakfast improves hormonal balance in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

For women with normal weight and PCOS, eating most of their daily calories at breakfast reduces insulin levels by 8% and testosterone levels by 50%. High levels of these hormones interfere with regular ovulation.

However, it is important to note that the increase in the amount of breakfast should be at the expense of other meals. Otherwise, you risk gaining extra pounds, which are among the “enemies” of fertility.

LIMIT SIMPLE CARBS

Unfortunately, your favorite pastries and sweets will have to be replaced by healthier options such as fresh fruit and wholegrain alternatives. Low carb diets have been linked to improved insulin sensitivity, lowered testosterone levels and weight optimization. These effects lead to more regular ovulation, which means a greater chance of natural pregnancy.

STAY ACTIVE

Sedentary lifestyle has negative effects on the whole body, including the reproductive system. Studies show that every extra hour of exercise per week (walking, gym, cycling, etc.) reduces the risk of infertility by 5%.

Of course, any activity should be tailored to your health. If you have never played sports or suffer from chronic diseases, you should work with experts (doctors, personal trainers) to create the best regimen for your needs. Remember, too much exercise can backfire and reduce fertility.

DON’T FORGET TO RELAX

As your stress levels increase, your chances of getting pregnant decrease. Hard work and too long working hours can increase the time it will take you to get pregnant. This is probably due to the hormonal changes that occur when you feel stressed.

In fact, stress, anxiety and depression affect many women who visit assisted reproduction specialists. Support through consultation with a mental health specialist can reduce levels of anxiety and depression, which increases your chances of getting pregnant. New Life Clinic has a psychologist who has experience working with couples with reproductive problems.

We remind you that if you are trying for a 1-year-old baby (6 months in women over 35) and you are still unsuccessful, it is time to visit a reproductive specialist.

POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS)

PREPARING FOR YOUR FIRST BABY – WHAT DO YOU NEED?

It’s no secret that raising a child could be expensive. When the time for shopping for your first baby comes, many future parents  panic and forget some essentials or make unnecessary purchases.

THINK IN ADVANCE

The “pink for a girl and a blue for a boy” rule came into existence in late 20th century. Before then people believed blue was a gentler color and therefore more suitable for girls. And before that things were even simpler – young children wore the same white dress-like garments.

It looks seems that this old trend is back because nowadays more and more parents choose baby items in more neutral colors. From the room to the clothes and the stroller – white, gray and creamy prevail, while brighter colors are just an accent. This might sound a tad boring but at least everything would be suitable for both boys and girls, which is quite practical.

QUALITY INSTEAD OF EXPENSIVE LABELS

Kids don’t really care about fashion, they just want to feel comfortable. Many designer brands offer baby clothes and accessories. The problem is that babies grow up fast and constantly need something new that inevitably affects the family budget. So here are some tips on how to shop smarter:

1. Choose natural fabrics (cotton, linen, bamboo, merino wool). One exception are blankets can be made of microfiber or fleece, which are ideal for winter.
2. Think in advance and buy clothes and diapers in different sizes. You will be surprised how fast your babies grow.
3. Don’t be shy about asking your fellow moms if they have some unused baby clothes. There is a good chance they will be filled with brand new things that are no longer needed.

THE ESSENTIALS

Whether you are planning on throwing a baby shower or not, your relatives and friends will want to buy your baby a gift. It is your decision whether you’d like sentimental or practical gifts – it may be best to have both. Nowadays, most online stores allow you to make a wishlist or a registry. This way instead of wondering, your friends will know exactly what you need.

If you would like to get the essentials for the first weeks of a newborn’s life, we have prepared a relatively short list:

1. Furniture: bed, car seat, stroller, bathtub ;
2. Everyday items: diapers (different sizes), bottles, pacifiers, breast pump (optional), breast milk containers, thermometer, high quality baby cosmetics (soap, moisturizer and a cream for diaper rash), gentle detergent, wet wipes, nasal aspirator;
3. Textile: fitted sheets, soft cotton or bamboo towels, cotton or fleece blankets, bodysuits, pants, blouses and T-shirts, cardigans, gloves, hats, socks, snowsuit for winter babies.

We would like to find out what your tips for your future parents are. And for everyone expecting their first baby – it’s normal to feel unprepared, but we’re sure you’ll do an amazing job!

Many people view in vitro fertilization as almost as stressful as any other major life event, such as the loss of a loved one or divorce. This is why consulting with a psychotherapist can be extremely helpful at this difficult time in your life.

PSYCHOTHERAPIST VS PSYCHIATRIST  – WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

The topic of mental health remains a taboo. Many believe that the work of psychotherapists is focused on serious psychiatric illnesses (such as schizophrenia). In fact, psychiatrists, who are medical doctors, treat such people.

In many Western countries, seeing a psychotherapist is just as normal as going to the gym. This is due to the fact that psychotherapy focuses on ordinary people and their usual mental health problems.

It is wrong to think that psychotherapists help their clients by prescribing medications. In fact, most psychotherapists are not even medical professionals and help clients through verbal communication and role play. Therefore, their aim is preventing severe mental health issues.

PSYCHOTHERAPY AND IVF

Each patient experiences stress differently based on his or her own personality and life experience. It is quite possible that emotions during an IVF cycle can lead to anxiety, depression and even tension in the relationship with your partner.

There are many ways to deal with the emotional stress that do not require professional help. Sometimes they may be insufficient, which may negatively affect your fertility treatment (for example, severe depression leading to stopping your treatment).

Studies show that the first in vitro fertilization cycle, especially 10-14 day wait between your embryo transfer and pregnancy test, is the most stressful. This period is associated with confusion and fear of a possible negative result. At this point, a psychotherapist can help you cope with your emotions through different techniques.

It is important that your psychotherapist has experience with couples going through fertility treatment. New Life clinic has a psychologist who will provide you with the support you need in difficult times.