There are a number of factors involved in determining if a patient is suitable for IVF treatment. Appropriate candidates often include couples who may experience: - Low sperm counts - Endometriosis - Problems with the uterus or fallopian tubes - Ovulation disorders - Sperm unable to penetrate or survive in the cervical mucus - Other health or unexplained reproductive issues The only way to know for sure if in vitro fertilization is right for you is to undergo a complete exam and consultation with Dr. Trolice and The IVF CenterSM staff.

According to national statistics from the Center for Disease Control, the average IVF success rates using one’s own eggs begins to drop around age thirty and dips rapidly in the mid 30s and early 40s, due to lower egg quantity and quality. At The IVF CenterSM, our success rates consistently beat the national average. In addition to age, success rates with IVF vary with respect to one’s height, weight, infertility diagnosis, sperm count, and reproductive history, such as the previous number of pregnancies, miscarriages and births.

The in vitro fertilization process can last anywhere from four to six weeks prior to egg retrieval. The embryo(s) will then be implanted between two to five days afterwards. Not all patients are successful on their first IVF attempt; in fact, it’s not uncommon for patients to go through multiple IVF cycles before finally becoming pregnant. Are there any restrictions while undergoing IVF? Yes. Your doctor will recommend that you adhere to the basic guidelines below during the IVF process and into your pregnancy. - Smoking: It’s recommended that both partners stop smoking at least three months before beginning an IVF cycle, and before ovulation induction begins. The effects of tobacco have been shown to be toxic and harmful to a woman’s eggs. - Drinking: Alcohol should be avoided at the outset of IVF treatment, until one’s pregnancy test, and if pregnant, until the birth of the child. - Medications: It’s important to inform your doctor if you’re taking any prescription or or over-the-counter medications. Some medicines can interfere with the prescribed fertility medication, or embryo transference, and others may not be safe to take before surgery. - Vigorous exercise: Intense physical activities like aerobics, weightlifting and running are prohibited during ovarian stimulation and until the results of one’s pregnancy are known. - Supplements: Herbal supplements are completely prohibited during the IVF process. What happens if I become pregnant? Once a pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll see your fertility doctor for continued blood testing, and eventually an ultrasound to confirm that the pregnancy is progressing smoothly. Once the fetus’ heartbeat has been verified, you’ll be referred to an obstetrician for the rest of your pregnancy.

Normally, patients are asked to wait for one or two full menstrual cycles before resuming another IVF cycle. Certain additional tests may be needed that could delay subsequent IVF cycles.