If you are having difficulty conceiving a child, a series of fertility treatments can improve your chances of having a baby.

Some of today’s most common infertility procedures include ovulation injections, fallopian tube scar removal, hormone therapy and the administration of fertility medication. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is another option; it is one of the most innovative methods for managing infertility, and makes use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to increase the chances that you will conceive. 

Factors Related to Infertility

The inability to become pregnant can take its toll on couples who are trying to conceive, and even some of today’s most advanced fertility treatments do not guarantee results. However, there are some key reasons why a woman may become infertile, including: Being over the age of 40

• Stress
• Producing poor-quality eggs
• Genetics
• Premature menopause
• Endometriosis
• Poor health
• Anorexia
• Alcohol or drug use and abuse

Types of Fertility Treatments

In vitro fertilization (IVF) – this innovative procedure involves harvesting the egg and sperm to create an artificial embryo.   These embryos can then be injected into the uterus to begin the conception process.

Ovulation injections – also known as ovulation induction treatments, these injections are designed to improve hormonal balance in the female so that ovulation can occur.  Ovulation drug therapy includes injectable gonadotropins, GnRH pump, Clomid and bromocriptine.

Fallopian tube surgery – scarring in the fallopian tubes may reduce the chances of getting pregnant, but surgery can help remove the scarred tissues and restore damaged tissues.

Fertility medication – fertility medication for men is designed to boost sperm counts, while medications for women may involve increasing various hormones to boost ovulation.  Unfortunately, fertility medications often result in unwanted side effects including skin problems and weight gain.

Egg donation – for women are experiencing ovarian failure, egg donation is often the last resort. Egg donor clinics allow couples to receive an anonymously-donated egg  and coordinate the fertility cycle to improve the rate of conception. Most donor programs involve a personal matching with the donor, social evaluation, psychological testing, signing of a legal contract and coordinating treatment with the IVF cycle. Program fees range from $6,000- $10,000+ depending on the location of the treatment center.

Infertilty Treatments and IVF Costs

In vitro fertilization (IVF) can cost upward of $12,000 per treatment cycle, and most couples need a series of cycles to achieve results.  Since infertility treatments are considered an elective procedure, you may need to obtain patient financing to manage costs. Other infertility treatments can range between $4,000 - $8,000+ depending on the number of sessions needed and the location of the treatment center. It’s important to remember that IVF and other fertility treatments are not always successful, and most couples will need to try a variety of fertility methods to achieve results.

Finding an Infertility Doctor or IVF Specialist

An infertility doctor can help you get started on a treatment plan that helps you improve your fertility rate. Find an infertility doctor in your area to set up a consultation and review different options that can help you manage problems related to infertility.