Miscarriage Risk and Autoimmunity — Honest Numbers
Key Takeaways Autoimmune issues increase miscarriage risk only in specific conditions — not all immune markers are harmful. The strongest evidence exists for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), which raises miscarriage risk significantly. Thyroid antibodies can modestly elevate risk, but most cases lead to healthy pregnancies with proper management. ANA, NK cells, and many popular immune tests […]
Cost Predictability — Refund and Assurance Programs
These programs package multiple IVF cycles into one upfront fee and offer either: A refund if you don’t take home a baby, or Assurance (guaranteed cycles or services) until a defined outcome is reached. They exist to remove financial uncertainty, protect patients from multiple unplanned payments, and align costs with results—not attempts.Upstream decisions like diagnosis […]
Storage Fee Calculator — Eggs, Embryos, Sperm
Key Takeaways Storage fees vary by region, technology, and clinic but usually fall between $300–$1,200 per year. Embryos often cost slightly more to store due to stricter regulations and monitoring. Long-term storage packages (3–10 years) often provide significant discounts. Choosing the right facility affects safety, access, and long-term flexibility. Planning ahead helps intended parents reduce […]
COCs and Pre‑op Preparation — Practical Uses
Key Takeaways COCs (combined oral contraceptives) are frequently used before IVF, hysteroscopy, and laparoscopic surgeries for cycle regulation and planning. They help suppress ovarian activity, reduce cyst formation, and optimize lining control. Pre-operative COC use allows clinics to schedule procedures more predictably. COCs improve safety for some patients by reducing bleeding, stabilizing hormones, and minimizing […]
Radiation and Shielding — Practical Issues
Key Takeaways Radiation exposure to the ovaries or testes can significantly reduce future fertility—shielding strategies can sharply lower the risk. Even “low-dose scatter radiation” can impact egg or sperm quality depending on treatment field and age. Proactive planning—shielding, ovarian transposition, sperm banking, and embryo/egg freezing—should be completed before radiation begins. Oncology and fertility teams must […]
Pain vs Fertility — Different Problems, Different Plans
Key Takeaways Pelvic pain and infertility can be related, but they are not always caused by the same condition. Treating pain does not automatically improve fertility—and vice-versa. Endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, and ovulatory disorders may present differently. IVF may bypass some fertility barriers but does not resolve pain. A customized evaluation helps determine whether you need […]
Tax Documentation — What to Save and How to File
This is the system of tracking, storing, and organizing all fertility-related expenses so you can: Claim eligible deductions File correctly for the IRS or your country’s tax authority Support applications for employer reimbursement and insurance benefits Keep clean records for escrow audits and legal compliance It matters because the way you document expenses upstream influences […]
Immunology ‘Add‑Ons’ — Evidence vs Hype
Key Takeaways Most immunology “add-ons” are not universally proven and should be used only with clear medical indications. NK cell tests, Intralipids, IVIG, LIT, and steroids can be beneficial only in rare, specific cases. The majority of patients and surrogates do not need immune therapy for successful pregnancy outcomes. Evidence remains mixed, and many treatments […]
Second‑Child Planning — Banking Now vs Later
Key Takeaways Banking embryos now can secure future family‑building options with more certainty. Waiting to bank later may risk fewer viable embryos due to age‑related fertility decline. Effective planning blends medical, emotional, and financial considerations. Strategic embryo banking is a growing trend for second children within surrogacy paths. Deciding whether to bank embryos now or […]
Pennsylvania Surrogacy Contracts: Legal Protection for Parents and Surrogates
A secure and transparent surrogacy journey begins with a strong contract. Pennsylvania Surrogacy Contracts are designed to protect both intended parents and surrogates, ensuring every detail is clarified before the medical process starts. Pennsylvania is one of the most supportive states for Gestational Surrogacy, making it easier for families to build trust, stability, and legal […]
