Cystic fibrosis refers to an inherited condition that affects the gland responsible for making mucus and sweat. If each parent carries one gene for the disease, the children may be born with it too. Many Women discover that they are carriers when they become, or are trying to become pregnant.
Cystic Fibrosis and Fertility
Women who are carrier of cystic fibrosis do not experience any infertility issues due to this condition. However, some men who are carriers, have a specific type of infertility. This is caused due to a missing duct, called the vas defers, which transports sperm from testicles into the penis. Men with such a condition have the option of surgically recovering their sperm. It can then be implanted into their partner through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
In ICSI, a single sperm is injected into an egg. In case fertilization happens, the embryo is implanted into the woman’s uterus, through in vitro fertilization. It is important to remember that even if both partners are carriers, you can still have healthy children.
Symptoms and Treatment
Many people with cystic fibrosis have no noticeable symptoms. Some carriers may experience mild symptoms, including:
- Respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and sinusitis
- Pancreatitis
Although there is no known cure for cystic fibrosis, lifestyle choices, treatments and medications can help you lead an easier life, despite the challenges you face.
Treatment
As cystic fibrosis mainly affects the respiratory system and digestive tract, there may be several symptoms. They may change over time and fluctuate in severity. Proactive treatment and monitoring by your doctor may help ease symptoms and avoid fertility problems. Some of the things that you must focus on, when you’re undergoing treatment, include:
- Maintaining proper nutrition
- Preventing or treating intestinal blockages
- Eliminating mucus from lungs
- Preventing infection.
Doctors often prescribe medications which may include:
- Antibiotics to help prevent and treat infection, primarily in the lungs
- Oral pancreatic enzymes to aid digestion
- Mucus-thinning drugs to support loosing and removal of mucus from the lungs through coughing
Your doctor may also suggest the use of bronchodilators, which help keep airways open, and physical therapy for chest. People with severe symptoms are often recommended to undergo surgery, which may include nasal polyp removal, bowel blockage surgery, or lung transplant.
If you or your partner are affected by cystic fibrosis, know that you can still become parents with the right precautions and treatment. Talk to our experts at KIMS Cuddles to know in detail.
*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.
