According to recent statistics, nearly 15% of couples in the United States are simply not able to conceive. The Mayo Clinic defines infertility as the inability to become pregnant after six months to a year of having unprotected sex. If after this time, a couple has not met with a successful pregnancy, intervention becomes necessary. In many instances, the news is very good, and with proper medication and fertility treatment, many couples go on to fulfill their dream of becoming parents.
Interestingly, since entering into the mainstream as a procedure, IVF (In vitro Fertilization) is done for every one out of 100 women, which translates into millions of couples utilizing this procedure to assist them in becoming pregnant. However, there are some considerations when IVF is concerned, and it may not be right for all candidates, or all couples.
In Vitro Fertilization and Age
IVF has a greater success rate with women that are younger than age 35, but that is not to say that women over age 35 should consider other options. If a candidate is over age 35 the chances are that the eggs that are being produced are less viable and the use of donor eggs are suggested. Donor eggs used with IVR have an extremely high success rate. Most recently, a new technology has arisen that will allow physicians to screen and only utilize those embryos that are viable. This also reduces the number of eggs that would be needed for a procedure, and thus would lower the overall costs.
Preexisting Conditions and Fertility Treatments
Infertility options for conception, which include IVF, will be more successful if the candidate is clear of fibroid tumors, has a normal hormone level, whose uterine environment is conducive to conception, and whose ovarian functions are normal. IVF is most frequently sought out by those women who have had a tubal ligation. With IVF the procedure takes place without the benefit or incorporation of the fallopian tubes.
IVF for Women with Fertility Disorders
Many women have been told that they could no longer conceive or have children due to endometriosis or due to chronic polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). With the combination of fertility drugs, women who have either of these fertility disorders can become pregnant.
Male Infertility and IVF
What if the partner with the infertility issue is male? IVF is still a viable option since an intracytoplasmic sperm injection can be performed, allowing a couple to achieve their dream of having a baby of their own. This is particularly useful for men who have a very low sperm count.
What’s Involved with In Vitro Fertilization?
Lastly, consider that aside from the physical aspects of this incredible journey to parenthood, there will also be emotional and financial aspects to be considered. Carefully weighing the desire for a child with the couple’s health and ability to stay the course during the various procedures is of primary consideration, especially when it comes to infertility treatment options and costs. There are many fertility methods to get pregnant, and IVF is but one of them. Fully exploring all of the options allows a couple to make one of the most important decisions of their lives, and one of the most rewarding.