In a lot of cases infertility is a trying time in a couple’s life together. It’s often filled with stress and frustration, which doctor appointments and trips to the fertility clinic seem to exacerbate. Still, it’s essential to go through the consultation and tests to pinpoint the cause of the infertility. Once that has been established, the couple may begin to explore infertility treatments and procedures, which each have their own benefits and risks. Delving into each treatment to determine which is right for them is well worth the research or that extra 15 or 30 minutes spent with the doctor.
Perhaps the most well-known fertility treatment is in vitro fertilization. Often called IVF for short, this procedure combines sperm and eggs to create embryos, which are later transferred to the woman’s uterus for implantation. The success rate of this procedure varies from couple to couple based on a myriad of factors including age. Women over 35 may not enjoy the same rate of success as women under 35, although it can vary.
One of the risks of IVF is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, which occurs when the use of injectable fertility medications used to stimulate egg production cause the ovaries to become enlarged. Ovarian cancer, problems with the egg retrieval, premature delivery, low birth weight and miscarriage are also possible complications of this procedure, among other possible risks.
Before trying IVF, many couples try intrauterine insemination, also called IUI or artificial insemination. This procedure involves the direct injection of sperm into the uterus where they may swim into the fallopian tubes to fertilize the egg. The benefit of this procedure is that it does not raise the risk of multiple pregnancies if fertility drugs are not taken, and it is substantially less expensive than IVF. Some couples choose to go through a few IUI sessions before trying IVF. Infection may occur with this procedure, but the risk is low.
Fertility medications carry their own risks, and if you take fertility medication along with a fertility procedure, make sure you inquire about the risks of the medication as well as the procedure. As mentioned, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a potential risk of fertility medication, as is multiple pregnancies. Multiple pregnancies are possible whenever more than one fertilized egg is transferred to the uterus, or if fertility drugs are taken to stimulate egg production. Know the risks of fertility medicines and procedures before you begin any treatment cycle.
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