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How Fertility Treatments Address Our Problems

Course / How Fertility Treatments Address Our Problems

Ovulation Induction

Ovulation induction is a fertility treatment designed to stimulate the ovaries to release one or more eggs during a menstrual cycle. Medications such as Clomiphene citrate, Letrozole, or injectable gonadotropins are commonly used. These drugs help women who have irregular cycles or anovulation (lack of ovulation) to increase the chances of conception, either naturally or in combination with other treatments like IUI. Regular monitoring via ultrasound and blood tests ensures safe and effective stimulation while minimizing the risk of multiple pregnancies.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI is a procedure where sperm is directly inserted into a woman’s uterus around the time of ovulation. This technique increases the likelihood that sperm will reach the egg, particularly useful in cases of mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, or cervical issues. IUI can be performed with the partner’s sperm or donor sperm and is often combined with ovulation induction to improve success rates. Timing and sperm quality are key factors influencing outcomes.

Donor Sperm

Donor sperm is an option for couples or individuals unable to conceive with the partner’s sperm due to low count, poor motility, genetic concerns, or absence of a male partner. Donor sperm can be used for IUI, IVF, or other assisted reproductive technologies. Reputable fertility clinics provide screened donors, with detailed medical, genetic, and sometimes personal information, to ensure the best chance of a healthy pregnancy.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF is a process where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and then transferred into the uterus. IVF is suitable for many infertility challenges, including blocked fallopian tubes, severe male factor infertility, or unexplained infertility. The process can use a couple’s own eggs and sperm, donor eggs, or donor embryos. IVF allows for additional techniques such as genetic testing, embryo freezing, or surrogacy, expanding options for individuals or couples seeking pregnancy.

Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy involves another person carrying a pregnancy using an embryo created from the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm. The surrogate has no genetic link to the child. This option is often considered when a person cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions, uterine issues, or repeated pregnancy loss. Gestational surrogacy requires careful medical, legal, and psychological preparation for both the surrogate and intended parents.

Donor Eggs

Egg donation is an option when a woman cannot conceive with her own eggs due to age, diminished ovarian reserve, or genetic concerns. Donor eggs are fertilized with sperm via IVF, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the intended mother’s uterus or a surrogate. Donor egg IVF has high success rates because donors are typically young and thoroughly screened for medical and genetic health. This approach allows individuals or couples to experience pregnancy even with compromised ovarian function.

Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are noncancerous growths in or on the uterus that can affect fertility, implantation, or pregnancy outcomes. Depending on size, location, and symptoms, fibroids may require medical management, minimally invasive surgery, or monitoring. Fibroids that distort the uterine cavity are most likely to impact conception and are often addressed before proceeding with fertility treatments such as IVF.

Action Items

  • Track ovulation and menstrual cycles to optimize timing for conception.

  • Discuss your fertility history and previous treatments with your doctor.

  • Consider all reproductive options, including IUI, IVF, and donor gametes.

  • Address uterine or hormonal issues that may affect fertility.

  • Ask your doctor about the best strategies for your specific situation.

Questions for your Doctor

  • Which fertility treatments are most appropriate for me and why?

  • Should I consider ovulation induction, IUI, or IVF first?

  • Are donor eggs or sperm options in my case?

  • How do uterine fibroids or other conditions impact my fertility?

  • What are the success rates, costs, and risks for each option?

Continued Learning

Next steps include :

  • Understanding the IVF process and its variations

  • Exploring genetic testing and embryo selection

  • Learning about gestational surrogacy protocols

  • Managing lifestyle factors to improve fertility outcomes