Male Autoimmunity — Less Discussed, Still Relevant
Key Takeaways Autoimmune disorders in men are underdiagnosed and frequently overlooked in fertility evaluations. Autoimmunity can impair sperm motility, morphology, mitochondrial function, and DNA integrity. Antisperm antibodies are rare but real — and not always clinically meaningful. Systemic autoimmune diseases (Hashimoto’s, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus) can affect sperm through inflammation rather than hormonal disruption. Treatments […]
Fertility Clinics Near Me — Phoenix (AZ)
Key Takeaways Phoenix offers a wide range of fertility clinics providing IVF, IUI, egg freezing, donor programs, and surrogacy coordination. Success rates vary by clinic—always review SART/CDC data while considering your age and diagnosis. Choosing the “best” clinic depends on care quality, pricing transparency, lab technology, and patient-centered support. Top clinics in Phoenix specialize in […]
Negotiating with Providers — Scripts and Timing
Line-item discipline means knowing every individual charge before it appears, verifying it with your clinic, insurer, and pharmacy—and confirming what triggers billing at each step. Where it fits: IVF, ICSI, PGT, donor cycles, surrogacy, FET Medication-heavy protocols Out-of-network clinics or multiple clinics Pre-authorizations, deductible resets, or employer benefits navigation What it changes: Reduces unexpected charges […]
Endometritis — Diagnosis and Treatment Basics
Key Takeaways Endometritis (especially chronic endometritis) can significantly reduce implantation and IVF success. The most accurate test is CD138 immunohistochemistry with culture or molecular PCR. Symptoms are often absent—most cases are diagnosed due to IVF failures. Treatment is typically antibiotics for 10–14 days, with a repeat biopsy to confirm cure. Treating endometritis can dramatically improve […]
Banking Strategy — How Many Retrievals to Plan
Key Takeaways A smart banking strategy avoids running out of embryos mid-journey — especially for surrogacy or future siblings. The number of retrievals you need depends on age, ovarian reserve, PGT-A goals, and preferred family size. Older age groups usually require more retrievals to generate at least one euploid embryo. Planning upfront saves time, cost, […]
Avoiding Surprise Bills — Line‑Item Discipline
Line-item discipline means knowing every individual charge before it appears, verifying it with your clinic, insurer, and pharmacy—and confirming what triggers billing at each step. Where it fits: IVF, ICSI, PGT, donor cycles, surrogacy, FET Medication-heavy protocols Out-of-network clinics or multiple clinics Pre-authorizations, deductible resets, or employer benefits navigation What it changes: Reduces unexpected charges […]
Glossary — Common Terms in Uterine Factor
Key Takeaways Understanding uterine factor terminology empowers patients to actively participate in treatment decisions. Key terms include structural, functional, and procedural concepts relevant to fertility. Correct interpretation of uterine conditions improves outcomes in IVF, FET, and surgical interventions. Knowledge of terms helps patients ask informed questions and understand reports. This glossary serves as a foundation […]
Cervical Factors — When Access Is the Issue
Key Takeaways Cervical factor infertility occurs when sperm or embryos cannot easily pass through the cervical canal. Causes include stenosis, scarring, infections, dryness, abnormal mucus, and anatomical variations. IUI often bypasses cervical barriers entirely. For IVF/FET, a “mock transfer” helps ensure the cervix allows smooth catheter access. Most cervical issues are treatable with minimally invasive […]
Age and Egg Quality — What Changes and When
Key Takeaways Egg quality declines predictably with age — but how fast varies from person to person. AMH, AFC, and FSH do not measure egg quality; they measure ovarian reserve. Chromosomal abnormalities rise significantly after age 35, especially after 38–40. Early testing prevents rushed decisions and expands available paths (IVF, donor eggs, surrogacy). Egg quantity […]
PCOS and Thyroid Cross‑Talk — Metabolic Basics
Key Takeaways PCOS and thyroid dysfunction frequently co-exist because both are rooted in metabolic and hormonal regulation. Thyroid hormones influence ovulation, insulin sensitivity, and endometrial development — all critical for fertility. Even “borderline” thyroid abnormalities (such as mildly elevated TSH) can impact PCOS treatment outcomes. Hashimoto’s increases miscarriage risk, especially when untreated. Managing insulin resistance […]
