Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction — Diagnosis & Treatment
Ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) occurs when one or both ducts that carry semen from the seminal vesicles and vas deferens into the urethra become blocked.This blockage prevents semen and sperm from being released during ejaculation, leading to low semen volume or azoospermia (no sperm in semen). In plain English:The sperm are being produced normally in […]
When to Self‑Pay — Decision Framework
Self-pay means you choose to pay directly for certain services instead of running them through insurance, usually because: It’s cheaper It’s faster It avoids restrictions It provides more control over cycle timing, labs, or clinic options Where it fits: IVF, ICSI, FET Medications Monitoring ultrasounds Labs (AMH, infectious disease testing, PGT prep) Donor cycles or […]
Own Eggs vs Donor Eggs — Decision Framework
Key Takeaways Age and egg quality — not AMH alone — determine whether own eggs are a viable option. Multiple failed IVF cycles with abnormal embryos are strong indicators to consider donor eggs. Donor eggs offer the highest predictability, especially for intended parents over 40 or those preparing for surrogacy. Emotional readiness is as important […]
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 […]
Anejaculation and Retrograde Ejaculation — Options
Anejaculation means no semen is released during orgasm.Retrograde ejaculation means semen goes backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the urethra. In both cases, sperm may still be produced normally in the testes — but they need to be retrieved differently for conception. These conditions affect delivery, not production.That means many men with anejaculation […]
When Friends and Family Don’t Get It
Key Takeaways Many friends and family members genuinely care but struggle to understand the emotional complexity of fertility treatment. Misunderstandings often come from lack of knowledge — not lack of love. Setting clear boundaries can protect your emotional health while keeping relationships intact. Communication scripts help you respond to unwanted advice or intrusive questions. You […]
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 […]
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 Nutrition — Insulin and Cycle Regularity
Key Takeaways PCOS is deeply connected to insulin resistance, which influences ovulation, weight, and hormone balance. Nutrition is one of the most powerful tools for managing PCOS without medication. Low-glycemic, balanced meals help stabilize insulin, reduce inflammation, and improve cycle regularity. Simple swaps—like whole grains instead of refined carbs—can create measurable changes within weeks. Consistency […]
