Treatment FAQ

what does fertility treatment involve

by Prof. Gregg Klocko Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Fertility treatment typically refers to medications that stimulate egg or sperm production, or procedures that involve the handling of eggs, sperm, or embryos. However, treating infertility goes beyond fertility treatments.Apr 20, 2020

Medication

Apr 20, 2020 · Fertility treatment typically refers to medications that stimulate egg or sperm production, or procedures that involve the handling of eggs, sperm, or embryos. However, treating infertility goes beyond fertility treatments.

Procedures

Fertility treatment typically refers to medications that stimulate egg or sperm production, or procedures that involve the handling of eggs, sperm or embryos. In Nova Vita Clinic we offer a wide range of modern fertility treatment methods. For example hormone therapy ( ovulation induction ), intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm …

Self-care

Jan 12, 2019 · First steps in fertility treatment: artificial insemination Artificial insemination is the simplest of the techniques used to assist with conception. It consists of depositing a semen sample, which has been prepared in advance in the laboratory, inside the woman’s uterus.

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At your first appointment, your fertility doctor will go through your history and review any previous investigations. You will be advised about any further investigations that are required, and a review appointment is generally made for about 4-6 weeks later. Your review appointments provide the opportunity to discuss the investigation results and if applicable, factors that may be …

What is the right time to start fertility treatments?

It is particularly effective for: Women who have been unable to conceive because of absent or blocked fallopian tubes Women experiencing endometriosis Men with …

What are the pros and cons of fertility treatments?

IVF stands for in vitro fertilization. It’s one of the more widely known types of assisted reproductive technology (ART). IVF works by using a combination of medicines and surgical procedures to help sperm fertilize an egg, and help the fertilized egg implant in your uterus.

What to expect during fertility treatment?

IVF treatment typically takes about 6-8 weeks from the first appointment and includes the following stages: Suppressing the woman’s natural cycle – the menstrual cycle is suppressed with medication; this is called ‘down regulation’. Boosting egg production – different medication is then used to encourage the ovaries to produce more eggs than usual.

What are the different types of fertility treatment?

Once your natural cycle is suppressed, you take a fertility hormone called follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). FSH increases the number of eggs your ovaries produce. This means more eggs can be collected and fertilised. With more fertilised eggs, the clinic has a greater choice of embryos to use in your treatment.

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What are the steps for fertility treatment?

What to Expect During Fertility TreatmentInitial Consultation. ... Preparation for Treatment. ... Medication and Monitoring. ... Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation. ... Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) ... In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)Apr 22, 2021

What happens when you start fertility treatment?

The stimulation phase begins on Day 1. In a natural monthly cycle, your ovaries would normally produce one egg. With an IVF cycle, you'll take medication for eight to 14 days to encourage the follicles in your ovaries (where the eggs grow) to produce more eggs.

What are the 3 main types of fertility treatments?

This overview of the most common fertility treatments available, including IUI and IVF, will help you understand your options and decide on next steps.Artificial insemination (AI) and intrauterine insemination (IUI)In vitro fertilization (IVF)Natural cycle IVF.Donor eggs.Surrogacy.Egg freezing.Fertility drugs.Mar 31, 2021

How long does it take to get pregnant with fertility treatments?

How long does this whole process take? If your fertility treatment involves intrauterine insemination (IUI), typically the process takes about two weeks. During these two weeks, your ovaries will be stimulated to produce follicles, ovulation will occur and thereafter an insemination is performed.

Is fertility treatment painful?

Fertility Medications Patients may experience some discomfort as the injection is being administered. The level of this pain depends on how comfortable the patient is with needles and shots. The IVF medications are associated with a range of side effects, one of which is abdominal cramping.Mar 5, 2021

What are the chances of getting pregnant with fertility treatment?

Fertility DrugsSuccess Rates: Success rates vary, but 40 to 45 percent of women who take the pills and ovulate might get pregnant. ... Pros: Fertility drugs are typically the first choice in fertility treatment because of their low cost and relative convenience.More items...•Jul 21, 2021

Can you go from infertile to fertile?

Infertility is quite common, affecting about 15 percent of couples, according to the National Library of Medicine. Fortunately, infertility can sometimes be reversed and women can go on to have babies. In fact, conventional medical therapies can reverse infertility in 85 to 90 percent of all cases.Dec 12, 2017

How often do fertility treatments work?

Most couples will require a few cycles of IVF treatment to achieve pregnancy. One large study found that the odds for pregnancy success after three cycles are between 34 and 42 percent.Apr 20, 2020

How long do fertility treatments last?

One full cycle of IVF takes about three weeks. Sometimes these steps are split into different parts and the process can take longer.Sep 10, 2021

What doctor can help with infertility?

Depending on your age and personal health history, your doctor may recommend a medical evaluation. A gynecologist, urologist or family doctor can help determine whether there's a problem that requires a specialist or clinic that treats infertility problems.

What to do before infertility testing?

Before infertility testing, your doctor or clinic works to understand your sexual habits and may make recommendations to improve your chances of getting pregnant. In some infertile couples, no specific cause is found (unexplained infertility). Infertility evaluation can be expensive, and sometimes involves uncomfortable procedures.

Why is it so hard to cope with infertility?

Coping with infertility can be extremely difficult because there are so many unknowns. The journey can take an emotional toll on a couple. Taking these steps can help you cope:

What is the test for sperm?

A lab analyzes your semen specimen. In some cases, urine may be tested for the presence of sperm. Hormone testing. You may have a blood test to determine your level of testosterone and other male hormones. Genetic testing. Genetic testing may be done to determine whether there's a genetic defect causing infertility.

What is an HSG test?

Hysterosalpingography, or HSG, is an X-ray test to outline the internal shape of the uterus and show whether the fallopian tubes are blocked.

What is the reproductive tract?

The reproductive tract must allow an egg to pass into the fallopian tubes and join with sperm for fertilization. The fertilized egg must travel to the uterus and implant in the lining. Tests for female infertility try to find out if any of these processes are impaired.

What are the complications of infertility?

The most common complication of infertility treatment is a multiple pregnancy — twins, triplets or more. Generally, the greater the number of fetuses, the higher the risk of premature labor and delivery, as well as problems during pregnancy such as gestational diabetes.

What is the purpose of IVF?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. During IVF, mature eggs are collected (retrieved) from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then the fertilized egg (embryo) or eggs (embryos) are transferred to a uterus.

How are eggs removed during in vitro fertilization?

During in vitro fertilization, eggs are removed from mature follicles within an ovary (A). An egg is fertilized by injecting a single sperm into the egg or mixing the egg with sperm in a petri dish (B). The fertilized egg (embryo) is transferred into the uterus (C).

Why do I have to have multiple eggs during IVF?

If you're using your own eggs during IVF, at the start of a cycle you'll begin treatment with synthetic hormones to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs — rather than the single egg that normally develops each month. Multiple eggs are needed because some eggs won't fertilize or develop normally after fertilization.

What is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology?

IVF is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology. The procedure can be done using your own eggs and your partner's sperm. Or IVF may involve eggs, sperm or embryos from a known or anonymous donor. In some cases, a gestational carrier — a woman who has an embryo implanted in her uterus — might be used.

How many cells are in an embryo after fertilization?

Three days after fertilization, a normally developing embryo will contain about six to 10 cells. By the fifth or sixth day, the fertilized egg is known as a blastocyst — a rapidly dividing ball of cells. The inner group of cells will become the embryo. The outer group will become the cells that nourish and protect it.

Can IVF cause multiple pregnancy?

If more than one embryo is transferred to your uterus, IVF can result in a pregnancy with more than one fetus (multiple pregnancy). Your doctor can help you understand how IVF works, the potential risks and whether this method of treating infertility is right for you.

Can fibroids interfere with implantation?

Fibroids can interfere with implantation of the fertilized egg. Previous tubal sterilization or removal. If you've had tubal ligation — a type of sterilization in which your fallopian tubes are cut or blocked to permanently prevent pregnancy — and want to conceive, IVF may be an alternative to tubal ligation reversal.

What is the procedure of in vitro fertilization?

In vitro fertilisation is the technique which would be the next step in assisted reproduction when artificial insemination has been unsuccessful, or frequently as a first step where it is more appropriate. IVF is the laboratory-based union of the egg and sperm – in vitro – to obtain fertilised embryos and transfer them to the uterus. The process starts with stimulating the ovaries to produce more than the single oocyte they would normally do each month and collecting them. They are then fertilised in vitro, the most viable of the embryos are selected and one of them is placed directly into the patient’s uterus. IVF is frequently the recommended fertility treatment for PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

What is PGD in IVF?

PGD is the diagnosis of genetic and chromosomal alterations in embryos before they are implanted, in order to screen them out and ensure that any babies subsequently born are free of hereditary diseases. This technique is carried out via IVF with sperm microinjection through ICSI. See the video on our IVI YouTube channel for more about PGD.

What is egg donation?

Egg donation is the process whereby a woman with fertility problems receives donated eggs to get pregnant. It may be recommended as the appropriate fertility treatment for couples who have already been through an unsuccessful cycle of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) using their own spermatozoa and oocytes. In this procedure, the oocytes from the donor will be combined with spermatozoa from the male partner to produce embryos using the well-established technique of IVF; these are transferred to the recipient in order to achieve the longed-for pregnancy. As such, egg donation makes the miracle of childbirth possible for women who would not be able to have children any other way.

What is the purpose of the Embryoscope?

The EmbryoScope is an incubator for the embryos which allows real-time viewing of the embryo’s cell division. This technique increases the likelihood of the IVF treatment resulting in a successful pregnancy since it bypasses the step of removing the embryos from the incubator to check on their progress.

What is MACS in assisted reproduction?

MACS is a technique which allows the spermatozoa with the soundest characteristics to be selected for use in assisted reproduction treatments . This technique removes spermatozoa which are not viable and selects the most promising ones, thus increasing the chances of pregnancy.

What is cell free DNA test?

These cell-free foetal DNA tests are the most complete non-invasive prenatal tests that exist. Their purpose is to check for chromosome changes in the foetus, and they are recommended for all women who want to screen for the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus without putting their pregnancy at risk.

What is compatibility test?

The Compatibility Genetic Test is an innovative technique that makes it possible to reduce the chances of patients passing on genetic anomalies to any children they may have. Currently there are around 7,000 diseases known to be caused by abnormalities in specific genes, and 1 in every 100 babies born presents one of these diseases. Even though genetic diseases cannot be cured, they can be screened out using the CGT 547 testing technique.

What Does IVF Involve?

IVF generally involves stimulating the ovaries with fertility medications in order to generate multiple follicles that each contains an egg. The eggs are then retrieved from the ovaries prior to ovulation, using an ultrasound machine and a needle while the woman is comfortably sedated.

Why Choose RMA at Jefferson for IVF?

IVF is a coordinated, multistep treatment method that requires physician judgment, high precision and efficiency at every stage. Our fertility experts use the latest techniques to increase a couple's chance of having a healthy baby.

Schedule an Appointment with a Fertility Expert

To schedule an appointment with one of our fertility specialists, please call 215-922-1556.

What is the purpose of in vitro fertilization?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) helps with fertilization, embryo development, and implantation, so you can get pregnant .

How does IVF work?

IVF works by using a combination of medicines and surgical procedures to help sperm fertilize an egg, and help the fertilized egg implant in your uterus. First, you take medication that makes several of your eggs mature and ready for fertilization. Then the doctor takes the eggs out of your body and mixes them with sperm in a lab, ...

How many rounds of IVF do I need to get pregnant?

It sometimes works on the first try, but many people need more than 1 round of IVF to get pregnant. IVF definitely increases your chances of pregnancy if you’re having fertility problems, but there’s no guarantee — everyone’s body is different and IVF won’t work for everyone.

How long does it take for an embryo to be put in the uterus?

About 3-5 days after the egg retrieval, 1 or more embryos are put into your uterus (this is called embryo transfer). The doctor slides a thin tube through your cervix into your uterus, and inserts the embryo directly into your uterus through the tube. Pregnancy happens if any of the embryos attach to the lining of your uterus.

How long after embryo transfer can you go back to normal?

You can go back to your normal activities the next day. You may also take pills or get daily shots of a hormone called progesterone for the first 8-10 weeks after the embryo transfer. The hormones make it easier for the embryo to survive in your uterus.

Can IVF cause anxiety?

IVF can also be difficult emotionally, both for the person having the procedures and for their partner and/or family. Many people doing IVF treatments struggle with depression and anxiety throughout the process.

How long does it take for an egg to be fertilised?

The collected eggs are mixed with your partner's or the donor's sperm in a laboratory. After 16 to 20 hours , they're checked to see if any have been fertilised. In some cases, each egg may need to be injected individually with a single sperm. This is called intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection or ICSI.

How long does it take for a woman to get a follicle stimulating hormone?

This is another daily injection you give yourself, usually for about 10 to 12 days. FSH increases the number of eggs your ovaries produce. This means more eggs can be collected and fertilised.

How to stop menstrual cycle?

Step 1: suppressing the natural menstrual cycle. You're given a medication that will suppress your natural menstrual cycle. This can make the medicines used in the next stage of treatment more effective. This medication is given either as a daily injection that you'll be taught to give yourself, or as a nasal spray.

How long before eggs are collected can you have a final hormone injection?

You'll have vaginal ultrasound scans to monitor your ovaries and, in some cases, blood tests. About 34 to 38 hours before your eggs are due to be collected, you'll have a final hormone injection that helps your eggs to mature.

How are embryos transferred into the womb?

A few days after the eggs are collected, the embryos are transferred into the womb. This is done using a thin tube called a catheter that's passed into the vagina. This procedure is simpler than egg collection and similar to having a cervical screening test, so you won't normally need to be sedated.

How long does it take for an embryo to grow?

The fertilised eggs (embryos) continue to grow in the laboratory for up to 6 days before being transferred into the womb. The best 1 or 2 embryos will be chosen for transfer. After egg collection, you'll be given hormone medicines to help prepare the lining of the womb to receive the embryo.

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Diagnosis

Treatment

Clinical Trials

Coping and Support

Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
Treatment depends on various factors such as underlying cause, couple's age and health. Various assisted conception techniques are available.
Medication

Hormone therapy: Improves sperm count

Clomiphene citrate


Ovarian stimulator: To regulate ovulation.

Clomiphene

Procedures

Varicocelectomy: If necessary, surgical repair of any sperm blockages.

In-vitro fertilization (IVF): The sperm and egg are fertilised in a test tube in the lab and the embryo is inserted into the womb for further development. IVF is suitable for many infertility issues and is most commonly recommended method.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): Inserting the sperms inside the womb for further fertilization.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): Matured healthy single sperm is directly injected into an egg.

Self-care

Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

  • Try relaxing techniques together
  • Try intercourse within a week after menstruation

Specialist to consult

Andrologist
Specializes in dealing with problems related to the male reproductive system and urological problems that are unique to men.
Endocrinologist
Specializes in the function and disorders of the endocrine system of the body.
Gynecologist
Specializes in the health of the female reproductive systems and breasts.

Preparing For Your Appointment

Overview

  • Infertility treatment depends on: 1. What's causing the infertility 2. How long you've been infertile 3. Your age and your partner's age 4. Personal preferences Some causes of infertility can't be corrected. In cases where spontaneous pregnancy doesn't happen, couples can often still achieve a pregnancy through use of assisted reproductive technolo...
See more on mayoclinic.org

Why It's Done

  • Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
See more on mayoclinic.org

Risks

  • Coping with infertility can be extremely difficult because there are so many unknowns. The journey can take an emotional toll on a couple. Taking these steps can help you cope: 1. Be prepared.The uncertainty of infertility testing and treatments can be difficult and stressful. Ask your doctor to explain the steps, and prepare for each one. 2. Set limits.Decide before starting tr…
See more on mayoclinic.org

How You Prepare

  • Depending on your age and personal health history, your doctor may recommend a medical evaluation. A gynecologist, urologist or family doctor can help determine whether there's a problem that requires a specialist or clinic that treats infertility problems. In some cases, both you and your partner may require a comprehensive infertility evaluation.
See more on mayoclinic.org

What You Can Expect

  • In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. During IVF, mature eggs are collected (retrieved) from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. Then the fertilized egg (embryo) or eggs (embryos) are transferred to a uterus. One full cy...
See more on mayoclinic.org

Results

  • In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a treatment for infertility or genetic problems. If IVF is performed to treat infertility, you and your partner might be able to try less-invasive treatment options before attempting IVF, including fertility drugs to increase production of eggs or intrauterine insemination — a procedure in which sperm are placed directly in the uterus near the time of ovulation. Somet…
See more on mayoclinic.org

Clinical Trials

  • Risks of IVFinclude: 1. Multiple births. IVFincreases the risk of multiple births if more than one embryo is transferred to your uterus. A pregnancy with multiple fetuses carries a higher risk of early labor and low birth weight than pregnancy with a single fetus does. 2. Premature delivery and low birth weight. Research suggests that IVFslightly increases the risk that the baby will be …
See more on mayoclinic.org

The Mayo Clinic Experience and Patient Stories

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology provide information online about U.S. clinics' individual pregnancy and live birth rates. A clinic's success rate depends on many factors. These include patients' ages and medical issues, as well as the clinic's treatment population and treatment approaches. Ask for detailed informati…
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