Infertility

Infertility is a relatively common condition affecting approximately 10% of couples of reproductive age. The incidence of infertility seems to be increasing as more couples are seeking treatment because of heightened awareness of the condition.

Infertility used to be considered a "female" problem but now we know that almost all infertile couples will have

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization, IVF, have enabled thousands of otherwise infertile couples to have genetically related children.

"In vitro" literally translated means "fertilization outside of the body" which is where fertilization occurs in an IVF cycle.

IVF consists of many stages and is performed by a highly trained team of professionals including our physicians, embryologists, nurses, and associated staff members.

a male infertility component. This finding means that the male must always have a complete fertility workup before beginning female therapies.

There are many causes of infertility that are all discussed in detail throughout our Web site. Quite often, there are two or more factors contributing to a couple's infertility.

The causes of infertility are broken down into categories based upon the "organ system" that is effected.

Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologists, Infertility specialists undergo years of advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. After completion of an accredited residency program in Obstetrics and Gynecology, fertility specialists must undergo at least two years of additional training at a university with a Fellowship program in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.

Advanced training is under the tutelage of thought leaders in the field of reproductive medicine. Fertility specialists gain vast experience conducting IVF and IUI cycles, performing delicate microsurgical techniques, diagnosing and treating complex conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and many others
.

The female will receive follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) to cause the development of multiple follicles, each of which contains an egg. As these follicles mature estrogen levels increase. FSH products include Follistim, Gonal-F, Bravelle, Menopur, and Repronex. The first "FSH containing product" introduced in the United States was Pergonal, an equal mixture of FSH and luteinizing hormone.

FSH therapy is individualized for each patient based upon standard IVF protocols. Fertility specialists monitor IVF patients stimulation cycles with transvaginal ultrasound evaluations, estradiol levels, and direct patient examinations.