Consanguinity Considerations
Consanguinity Considerations — how genetic risk changes when partners share biological ancestry, why expanded carrier screening becomes more important, and how this decision fits into your reproductive planning. It clarifies what consanguinity actually affects (recessive disease risk, panel selection, counseling) and how upstream decisions shape downstream results such as PGT-M needs, embryo testing plans, and pregnancy […]
Citizenship and Passports — US and International
How a newborn’s legal identity, citizenship, birth certificate, and passport are created after birth—and how these differ for: US intended parents International intended parents (EU, UK, Canada, Asia, Latin America, Middle East, etc.) Dual-nationality families Cases involving donors, single parents, or same-sex couples Upstream decisions—birth state, contract language, hospital records, parentage orders, and embassy requirements—determine […]
Polyp Removal Before IVF — When to Proceed
Key Takeaways Uterine polyps can significantly reduce implantation rates, and removal is often recommended before IVF. The ideal timing for polyp removal is generally in the cycle before stimulation or transfer. Hysteroscopic removal is a safe, quick procedure that restores a healthy uterine cavity. Not all polyps require immediate removal—size, location, symptoms, and IVF history […]
Supplements with Evidence — CoQ10, DHEA, Inositol
Key Takeaways CoQ10, DHEA, and Inositol are three supplements with strong clinical evidence for hormone health, fertility, energy, and metabolic support. CoQ10 improves mitochondrial function and egg quality, especially for women in their mid-30s and beyond. DHEA is a precursor hormone that supports adrenal function, libido, mood, and fertility in select cases. Inositol (especially myo-inositol) […]
Employer Benefits — Getting the Most From Coverage
Employer fertility benefits are financial supports offered through your workplace—sometimes through insurance and sometimes as standalone fertility reimbursement programs. These benefits can include: IVF, ICSI, PGT-A Egg freezing or embryo banking Donor sperm, donor eggs, or donor embryos Surrogacy reimbursement Medications Travel or lodging for treatment They matter because they can change your timeline, expand […]
Personalized FET Timing (Serum Progesterone) — Dual Guide
Key Takeaways Personalized FET timing uses serum progesterone levels to optimize embryo implantation Ensures the endometrium is fully receptive before transfer Reduces the risk of failed implantation and miscarriage Enhances success in gestational surrogacy cycles Supports tailored treatment plans for each patient Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is a critical step in IVF, and timing is […]
Partner Communication — Weekly Check‑Ins That Work
Key Takeaways Weekly check-ins prevent misunderstandings, reduce emotional overload, and strengthen teamwork during IVF or surrogacy. Structured communication reduces conflict and supports emotional resilience. Using a simple template—emotions, updates, needs, and next steps—keeps check-ins focused and productive. Check-ins work for couples going through treatments themselves or navigating the process with a surrogate. Good communication nurtures […]
Egg vs Embryo Freezing — Decision Framework
Key Takeaways Egg freezing preserves reproductive potential independently, while embryo freezing requires sperm and preserves a fertilized embryo. Embryo freezing generally has higher success rates, but egg freezing offers greater flexibility. Ideal choice depends on age, ovarian reserve, relationship status, financial planning, and long-term family goals. Both options are safe, widely available, and increasingly recommended […]
Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism — Levothyroxine Basics
Key Takeaways Hashimoto’s is the most common cause of hypothyroidism and can impact fertility and pregnancy. Levothyroxine is the standard, safe, and effective treatment for both hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s. Ideal TSH levels before pregnancy should be 1.0–2.5 mIU/L. Pregnant women and surrogates require frequent thyroid monitoring every 4–6 weeks. Treating hypothyroidism greatly improves chances of […]
Fertility Clinics Near Me — Seattle (WA)
Key Takeaways Seattle is home to advanced fertility centers known for innovation and technology-driven treatment. Clinics offer comprehensive services including IVF, IUI, egg freezing, donor programs and surrogacy support. Costs in Seattle fall around the national average but vary based on protocols and add-ons. Clinic selection should be based on success rates, lab quality, physician […]
