Is IVF an option for couples with male factor infertility?
- IVF can be a highly practical and effective option for couples with male factor infertility, depending on the nature of the male factor and any potential female-side factors. This is because the fertilization of the egg can be performed in the laboratory using sperm from the male partner or a sperm donor. With the advent of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), a major breakthrough in fertility technology, only one viable sperm is needed to effectively fertilize the egg.
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to improve my chances of success with IVF?
- There are several lifestyle changes that may improve a patient’s chances of success with IVF, most of which are aimed at improving your general health. These include reaching or maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and hard drugs, minimizing alcohol consumption, eating a healthy and balanced diet, getting sufficient quality sleep, and managing stress.
- Males in particular should refrain from excessive heat exposure to the testicles; this can include hot tubs, saunas, and even the seat warmer function in your car!
- Your clinician can discuss with you if there are any changes you may need to make to your medication or supplementation regimen.
How do I know if I need fertility treatment?
- There are several signs that may indicate a need for fertility treatment, including: irregular or absent menstrual periods, difficulty getting pregnant after one year of trying (if under 35) or after six months of trying (if 35 or older), and a history of miscarriages or fertility-related medical conditions. A fertility specialist can evaluate the patient’s specific circumstances and determine if fertility treatment is necessary.
How do I know I’ll be a good fit for IVF?
- A fertility specialist will evaluate the patient’s medical history and perform various tests to determine if IVF is an appropriate treatment option. Factors that may make a patient a good fit for IVF include age, the quality of the eggs and sperm, certain health conditions, and the underlying cause of infertility. By sharing some of this information with one of our clinicians, a Complimentary Consultation can give you a quick idea of whether you may be a good fit.
How long does the entire process take from start to finish?
- The length of the IVF process can vary greatly depending on the individual patient and their specific circumstances. It may take several months to a year or more to complete the process.
- As a rule of thumb, most procedures (Egg Retrieval, Embryo Transfer, IUI, PRP) and certain types of testing require one menstrual cycle (~1 month) to conduct, much of which is rest time during which other procedures cannot be performed simultaneously.
