ANA and Other Autoantibodies — What to Do
Key Takeaways A positive ANA does not automatically mean disease—but it’s a key clue in fertility and pregnancy assessment. ANA and other autoantibodies can influence implantation, IVF success, and miscarriage risk. Treatment depends on symptoms, antibody levels, and associated conditions—not the ANA test alone. Many patients with positive ANA have normal, healthy pregnancies with the […]
Thin Lining — What Helps and What Doesn’t
Key Takeaways Thin lining (usually <7 mm) can reduce implantation rates, especially in FET cycles. Some interventions are backed by evidence—others are overused without proven benefit. Estrogen, blood flow optimization, and uterine-focused imaging are first-line strategies. PRP and stem cell therapies may help select patients but are not universal solutions. The underlying cause determines whether […]
Second Opinions — Imaging Review and Surgical Planning
Key Takeaways Second opinions prevent misdiagnosis and ensure treatment accuracy. Imaging reviews often reveal missed lesions or structural details critical to fertility. Proper surgical planning reduces risk, avoids unnecessary procedures, and improves outcomes. Patients benefit from multidisciplinary review—including radiology, reproductive endocrinology, and minimally invasive surgery experts. Clear imaging correlates directly with successful IVF, FET, hysteroscopy, […]
Deciding When to Use Frozen Eggs
This article explains Deciding When to Use Frozen Eggs within the Egg Freezing & Fertility Preservation pathway. We focus on practical choices that shape outcomes, budgets, emotions, and timelines—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. What It Is Deciding when to use your frozen eggs, in plain English: How to know when the […]
Clinic Comparison Scorecard — Weighted Factors
Key Takeaways A weighted scorecard helps intended parents and surrogates compare clinics objectively. Critical factors include success rates, medical expertise, transparency, patient experience, cost structure, compliance, and support. Weighting ensures that high-impact factors influence the final clinic score appropriately. A structured scoring tool prevents emotional or biased decision-making. Real-life case studies show how scorecards reduce […]
Bundled Packages — Pros, Cons, and Comparisons
A bundled package is a pre-set combination of services (e.g., retrieval + transfer + monitoring + meds + storage) purchased at one price. Some bundles reduce financial uncertainty, while others simply repackage the same care in a different billing format. Where it fits: When you want simplified billing or cost certainty When comparing self-pay, insurance, […]
Reducing Endocrine Disruptors — Simple Swaps
Key Takeaways Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) like BPA, phthalates, PFAS, and parabens can interfere with hormones involved in ovulation, sperm quality, implantation, and thyroid function. Small, consistent lifestyle changes can meaningfully reduce daily exposure. Swapping plastics, fragrances, canned foods, and conventional cosmetics can significantly cut intake of harmful chemicals. Reducing EDCs supports fertility, egg/sperm health, and […]
Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) — Diagnosis and Care
Key Takeaways APS is an autoimmune condition that increases blood-clot risk and can cause miscarriages, preeclampsia, and implantation issues. Diagnosis requires both clinical history and specific antibody testing performed twice, 12 weeks apart. Treatment often combines low-dose aspirin, heparin, and monitoring, which dramatically improves pregnancy outcomes. Surrogates and intended parents can succeed with APS when […]
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 […]
Switching Clinics — When and How
This article explains switching clinics — when and how within the Clinic Selection & Success Rates pathway. It focuses on choices that truly change outcomes, budgets, and timelines—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. What It Is Switching Clinics — When and How in plain English: understanding where switching fits in your fertility […]
