If you have been having trouble conceiving, there are many infertility treatments available that may be able to help you. When selecting a method, it is important to consider such matters as the cause of the infertility, among other things. However, infertility treatments are not one-size-fits-all; the best treatment for you will depend on your unique situation.

Surgery

If a physical problem such as scarring or blockages is causing infertility, surgery may be the best way to rectify the problem. Common surgical procedures include laparoscopy, which reconstructs the reproductive organs, and hysteroscopy, which fixes blocked tubes and removes tumors, polyps and scars.

Fertility Drugs

Fertility drugs work by releasing hormones that stimulate ovulation and induce the uterus to prepare for egg implantation. Fertility drugs are often the first option tried by infertile couples, since they are relatively simple, non-invasive and easy to use.

Intrauterine Insemination

This method involves using a catheter to directly inject the sperm into the woman’s uterus. This is one of the most common infertility treatments. Depending on your situation, we may also recommend fertility drugs in conjunction with the procedure.

Intrauterine insemination is a simple procedure that can be done in the comfort of our office. The number of attempts it may take varies from patient to patient. This treatment is particularly useful if the man has a low sperm count and/or a high proportion of defective or slow-moving sperm.

In Vitro Fertilization

During in vitro fertilization (IVF), a doctor will extract the eggs and sperm from the couple and try to induce fertilization. If it is successful, we then implant one or two embryos into the woman’s uterus and store the rest. IVF is particularly useful if both partners are infertile and/or the woman has damaged fallopian tubes. To increase the chance of success, IVF is typically performed after taking fertility drugs.

Donor Eggs

This method involves using eggs donated by a third party. This method can be used if both partners are infertile or if one is carrying a genetic disorder. Donor eggs might also be used if the woman is older, has damaged ovaries or has undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Donor eggs involve IVF; the partner’s sperm will be used to fertilize the donor egg and then implant the embryo in the woman’s uterus.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a variation of IVF in which the doctor selects a healthy-looking sperm from the man’s semen and uses a microscopic needle to inject it into the egg. If an embryo develops, the doctor implants it in the woman’s uterus. This is a beneficial technique for men who have very low sperm counts and/or a lot of defective sperm.

Learn More About Infertility Treatments

Infertility is a frustrating issue, especially for those who have been trying to conceive for months or years. However, you don’t have to accept it. If you would like to tackle your issues with infertility, the medical professionals at South Lake OB/GYN can help. We provide expert medical care by listening to your concerns and developing a treatment plan personalized for your needs. To learn more about how infertility treatments can help you, schedule a consultation at our office in Clermont.