Experience Conceiving IVF Baby: MedPark IVF Center First Success
“At one point, I realized having a child would bestow the most profound meaning to our lives.”
Many couples, despite many years of marriage, do not have children. These could be due to physical health or mental readiness issues. However, some face infertility, requiring assisted reproductive technologies like IVF and ICSI to help fulfill their dream of having a child.
This issue of Patient Story unveils an absorbing and captivating narrative about Martha, a Spaniard who fell in love and married her Thai husband. Earlier this year (2024), she gave birth to baby Joanna, becoming the first couple to successfully conceive a baby via IVF at MedPark IVF Center, which had just opened its door in late 2023. But before the little one could settle into that warm and cozy embrace, both had to overcome various obstacles. What did they go through, and how did they feel? Let us follow along to find out.
Stress and Pressure from Trying to Conceive a Baby
Martha has been married and living in Thailand for about ten years. Around 3-4 years ago, she and her husband decided to have a baby to complete their family. However, they were unsuccessful and decided to give IUI (Intra-Uterine Insemination) a try at a clinic, but it did not work out.
“We tried to conceive a baby, but it was very challenging. I was extremely stressed and pressured. So, we decided to take a break to recover our bodies and minds. After about a year, we consulted with the doctor again,” Martha said.
Martha underwent prenatal health checks and genetic screening with Dr. Sornpin Armarttasn, an obstetrician specializing in maternal-fetal medicine. She was impressed by Dr. Sornpin’s advice and care and decided that if she successfully conceived, she would continue her prenatal care with her.
“Dr. Sornpin had suggested that we might need to explore infertility and consider IVF. I was interested but still had some concerns. Additionally, I had to travel abroad, so we did not pursue it immediately. After six months, we consult her again for advice on which IVF clinic to visit.”
For couples who fail to conceive after a period of no contraception, it might indicate infertility. They may need help from assisted reproductive technologies and specialist doctors to determine the root cause. As for Martha and her husband, they returned to consult with Dr. Sornpin at MedPark Hospital.
“Dr. Sornpin recommended consulting Dr Viwat at the newly opened MedPark IVF Center. I was lucky to speak with him; he offered superb advice and support. We opted for IVF, achieving success on our second try. The second I learned we were having a baby, I was overwhelmed with joy. I could not think of anything else; I just hugged her. That was my feeling at that moment,” her husband added.
The first IVF baby at MedPark IVF Center.
Dr Viwat Chinpilas, an OB-GYN specializing in reproductive endocrinology, announced the good news after confirming the successful implantation of the embryo. This embryo implantation was the first for the MedPark IVF Center. Though the couple was ecstatic, their broad smiles belied some concerns as pregnancy is a long journey, and they hoped everything would go without a hitch for the next nine months.
“We had many concerns because pregnancy was a novel experience. I tried to live as normally as possible but took more supplements. The doctor mentioned that I might experience nausea or fatigue. So, I tried to rest, stay calm, and not worry too much. I did not exercise during the first 3-4 months of pregnancy,” Martha shared.
Martha did not hesitate to continue her prenatal care with Dr. Sornpin as planned and decided to give birth at MedPark Hospital. Throughout her pregnancy, she attended regular prenatal check-ups and received advice on how to care for her baby and herself. She also shared some advice for other expectant mothers.
“It is important to stay tough, be patient, and not pressure yourself too much because it involves hormonal changes. Having someone nearby for support is advisable as our bodily reactions to these changes are uncertain. Do not let stress get the best of you, as there are factors beyond our control.”
Joanna, the Beloved Little One of the Family
Finally, the day came when the couple met their baby. Joanna was born, bringing immense joy to her parents. Dr. Vimonmas Promsaka Na Sakolnakorn, a pediatrician specializing in neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, closely monitored Joanna to ensure she was healthy and developing well.
“For me, family is the most important thing in life. We are a close-knit and warm family. Sometimes, in your early twenties, you don’t think about starting a family, but as time passes, you realize it’s something highly precious that you don’t want to miss in life. At one point, I realized that a child would bring the most profound meaning to our lives,”
“I want to tell soon-to-be fathers that women are much more emotionally sensitive than we are. You must empathize, lend substantial support, and never let up. That is the most important thing,” Martha’s husband said.
Watch this video to immerse in the touching story and witness the cuteness of baby Joanna.