General Fertility FAQ

At Boston IVF, we understand that navigating the world of fertility and family building can feel overwhelming, whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or are already undergoing treatment. Our mission is to provide you with personalized care, compassion, and expertise every step of the way. To guide you, we’ve compiled answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) covering the topics that prospective and current patients most often inquire about.

What is Unexplained Infertility?
Unexplained infertility occurs when standard fertility tests return normal results, but conception still does not happen. While this can feel frustrating, it’s a common diagnosis, affecting 10-20% of those trying to conceive. The good news is that this diagnosis suggests many key factors are functioning well, such as:

✓ Normal ovarian reserve (the number of eggs an individual with ovaries has).

✓ Healthy sperm parameters.

✓ Proper functioning of the fallopian tubes and uterus.

✓ Treatment for unexplained infertility often includes fertility medications paired with intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to improve the chances of conception.

What Treatment Options Are Available at Boston IVF?
We offer a comprehensive range of fertility treatments, including:

✓ Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A straightforward procedure where sperm is placed directly into the uterus to increase fertilization chances.

✓ In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Retrieval of eggs, fertilization in a lab, and transfer of embryos to the uterus.

✓ Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): Screening embryos created through IVF for chromosomal abnormalities, improving pregnancy success rates.

✓ Egg Freezing: A way to preserve fertility for future family building.

✓ Fertility Preservation for Cancer Patients: Options to safeguard fertility before treatments that may affect reproductive health.

What Are the Success Rates for IVF and Other Treatments?
Success rates vary based on age, fertility history, and overall health. Scheduling a consultation allows for an individualized assessment of your likelihood of success with different treatments.

What Fertility Tests Should I Expect During the Initial Evaluation?
An initial evaluation may include:

✓ Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Test: Measures ovarian reserve.

✓ Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: Assesses the body’s effort to stimulate egg development.

✓ Antral Follicle Count (AFC): Uses ultrasound to estimate the number of follicles in the ovaries.

✓ Semen Analysis: Evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology.

These tests provide a comprehensive overview to guide treatment decisions.

What Supplements Are Recommended for Fertility?
Commonly recommended supplements include:

✓ Prenatal Vitamins: Containing folate or folic acid, essential for preconception health.

✓ Vitamin D: Particularly beneficial for those in areas with limited sunlight, such as New England.

✓ CoQ10: Sometimes suggested for improving egg quality.

Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplements.

Does Progesterone Play a Role in Fertility Treatments?
Progesterone supports the uterine lining and early pregnancy during fertility treatments. It’s often used in IVF cycles or frozen embryo transfers, and occasionally in other cases with specific indications.

What is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), and Who Should Consider It?
PGT tests embryos for chromosomal abnormalities during IVF. It’s often recommended for those with recurrent miscarriages, older maternal age, or known genetic conditions. PGT can improve success rates by selecting the healthiest embryos for transfer.

How Does Lifestyle Impact Fertility?
Lifestyle choices significantly affect fertility health. Recommendations include:

✓ Healthy weight management: Both underweight and overweight individuals may face challenges.

✓ Regular exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.

✓ Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Both can harm fertility for all genders.

✓ Stress reduction: Practices like yoga, meditation, or acupuncture can help.

✓ Individuals with PCOS may benefit from tailored dietary changes and supplements like myo-inositol to regulate cycles.

Is Acupuncture Beneficial for Fertility?
Acupuncture is a popular complementary therapy for fertility. It’s believed to improve blood flow to reproductive organs and reduce stress. While evidence on its effect on pregnancy rates is mixed, many find it a valuable part of their care routine.

What Support Resources Are Available at Boston IVF?
Boston IVF offers a holistic approach to fertility care. Patients in Massachusetts can access our Wellness Center, while those at other locations can speak with their care team about local and national resources. Building a strong support network is vital for managing the emotional challenges of fertility treatment.

We are here to support you every step of the way with expertise, compassion, and care. Let us guide you on your journey toward building the family you dream of.