Infertility an Increasing challenge for Dominican couples, Expert Says
Infertility is a growing concern for couples in teh Dominican Republic, frequently enough accompanied by significant emotional distress, according to Dr. José Espinal, a specialist in reproductive medicine. He described the journey to conception as “a process full of emotional anguish, because people do not understand why what should be natural is not achieved.”
Dr. Espinal discussed advancements in reproductive medicine within the country during a recent interview on the “55 Minutes” program with Julissa Céspedes, broadcast on CDN, Channel 37, at 10:00 pm, monday thru Friday. He highlighted that the Dominican Republic now possesses cutting-edge reproductive technologies comparable to those found in leading nations.
The country now offers a range of advanced procedures, including in vitro fertilization, intracitoplasmic sperm injection, intrauterine insemination, adn rejuvenation therapies for the ovaries, endometrium, and testes. Dr. Espinal stated thes treatments have enabled numerous couples to achieve their dream of parenthood.
He also detailed innovative solutions for specific infertility challenges, such as cases where a woman’s immune system rejects her partner’s sperm, leading to recurrent miscarriages. For these situations,a couple undergoes an immune study,and if rejection is confirmed,they receive lymphotherapy – a treatment utilizing the husband’s blood to create a vaccine and reduce the immune response. “We already have couples who,thanks to this procedure,have achieved triumphant pregnancies and healthy children,” Dr. Espinal confirmed.
Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Espinal strongly cautioned against surgical intervention for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), labeling it “a crime.” He emphasized that PCOS is a hormonal, not a surgical, issue. “It is a serious mistake to submit surgeries to these patients. The polycystic ovary is a hormonal disorder that should be treated with medications that induce ovulation. Surgery does not solve anything and, in fact, it can worsen the problem,” he stated.
Regarding the causes of infertility, dr. Espinal explained a roughly equal distribution of factors: 40% attributed to female issues, 40% to male issues, and 20% to factors affecting both partners. He stressed the importance of a complete approach to diagnosis and treatment.
While acknowledging the expense of fertility treatments, Dr. Espinal noted that costs in the Dominican Republic are significantly lower – up to a third – than those in the United States. He also pointed to procedures like the falopioscope, which can identify and address blocked fallopian tubes as an alternative to immediately pursuing in vitro fertilization.
Looking ahead, Dr. Espinal announced the reactivation of the Dominican Republic’s human reproduction society, now operating as a non-governmental institution (NGO). This organization aims to provide financial assistance to low-income couples seeking treatment and to regulate the practice of reproductive medicine within the country.
“Intrusionism is a real threat: people without planning are doing procedures without due academic quality,” Dr. Espinal warned. “We want to ensure that couples receive safe, ethical and professional care.” He indicated that discussions are underway with legislators and health authorities to establish regulations and protect patients.
