If you are diagnosed with infertility, you may still be able to have biological children. A fertility specialist conducts tests to determine options for conception and help you address any emotional health challenges. Here are things to do after you have been diagnosed with infertility:
In Vitro Fertilization
In Vitro fertilization (IVF) is the process of implanting a lab-grown embryo into a woman’s uterus for gestation. It involves planning multiple fertilization cycles and analyzing the quality of your partner’s sperm. This may help increase your chances of becoming pregnant and giving birth to a healthy baby after an infertility diagnosis.
IVF usually begins with fertility hormone injections, which help stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs. The eggs are then retrieved and fertilized in a lab. Professionals assess the quality of the embryo and conduct genetic testing to make sure it will be viable when returned to the uterus. The embryo is transferred to the uterus using a catheter, where it should implant in the uterine lining. After implantation, a fertility clinic monitors the early stages of pregnancy, and specialists may recommend lifestyle changes that will support infant growth and development.
Intrauterine Insemination
A fertility specialist tracks your ovulation cycle to properly time insemination. They will also provide hormonal medication and evaluate your cervical mucus to make sure your body is prepared to receive sperm for fertilization. Before intrauterine insemination, your partner’s sperm undergoes a sperm-washing, which separates the most viable sperm to increase the likelihood of fertilization.
For insemination, a specialist uses a catheter to place the sperm directly in the uterus. For single women, male infertility, or same-sex couples, fertility specialists may be able to assist you in selecting donor sperm. The procedure is minimally invasive, and most women return to work afterward. After implantation, specialists monitor your hormone levels to assess the viability of pregnancy.
Ovulation Induction
Fertility specialists can prescribe hormonal medication to stimulate egg production. The medication can be delivered via injection or as an oral tablet. After taking hormone medication, specialists monitor follicle growth and identify possible side effects. Bloodwork evaluations and scheduled ultrasounds also help determine whether hormone-based medications are working. Based on the test results, specialists can adjust the dosage and treat any ovulation disorders. Ovulation induction helps minimize the risks of other infertility treatments while managing ovulation cycle irregularities.
Surrogacy
A surrogate is a woman who carries a child to term for another couple. Fertility specialists assist you in screening eligible surrogates to match your expectations with the surrogate’s lifestyle. Specialists also help you navigate the legal documents of a surrogacy agreement, which often includes specifications for prenatal care. A lab-grown embryo will then be transferred to your selected surrogate via in vitro fertilization.
Overcoming Infertility
Hopeful parents experiencing infertility may also choose adoption, explore male infertility treatments, or seek treatment options for PCOS or endometriosis that may reduce fertility. Fertility clinics can conduct hormone testing or evaluate sperm to help determine the underlying cause of infertility. Contact a specialist today to help you on your journey to becoming a parent.
