Infertility Is Not The End, But The Beginning
An infertility diagnosis can seem like the end for those trying to start or grow a family. This is a common condition impacting millions of couples in the US, with many giving up hope. However, thanks to the many medical and scientific advancements in reproductive health, there are ways to boost the chances of pregnancy. Infertility can often mean the start of a new journey that requires strategies like fertility medication. Using the right fertility treatment can increase pregnancy rates and bring joy to individuals or couples seeking parenthood.
Understanding fertility medication
Fertility medications are drugs that seek to increase or emulate the function of hormones responsible for reproduction. In many infertility cases, there is an underlying challenge that can be addressed with these drugs. Fertility medications are prescription drugs, usually taken via injection, orally, or using special patches. A fertility doctor or other specialist will recommend specific drugs in set doses to improve reproductive function. Common examples include clomiphene citrate, gonadotropins, and aromatase inhibitors.
How can fertility medication boost your odds?
Fertility medication can mimic natural hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that stimulate and release eggs. These gonadotropin medicines make ovulation more efficient, especially for women with ovulation challenges. Fertility drugs can also improve the quality of eggs, helpful for a diminished ovarian reserve, or increases the number of eggs released. Men can also benefit from specific fertility drugs with some improving sperm quality and quantity.
Combining medication with ART
Sometimes, the goal of fertility medication is not only to increase hormones but to facilitate other assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in improving pregnancy rates. The most popular examples, intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF), require medication at specific stages to support the process. With IVF, for instance, fertility medication helps produce sufficient eggs for extraction. The mature eggs are then combined with a sperm sample to create embryos. Additional medications facilitate stages like stopping ovulation or preparing the uterus for implantation.
Important considerations with fertility medication
The goal of any drug is to increase pregnancy rates. However, all potential patients must understand the limitations that come with treatment. For instance, age plays a significant role in treatment, especially in women, as natural fertility declines over time. While fertility medication can help with ovulation challenges, the medication is not enough for conditions like blocked fallopian tubes. The specific medication, dosage, and adherence also influence success rates. With any treatment, there is a risk of side effects, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple births. As fertility drugs are not a one-size-fits-all approach, speak with a fertility specialist to diagnose, treat, and adjust medication.
Give your chances a boost
Infertility is a challenging issue, leaving many individuals or couples searching for answers. Fertility drugs are a significant first step to improving the hormones necessary for pregnancy. Through a customized plan, often including strategies like IVF, there is a chance to start or grow a family. Fertility treatment is not without risk. However, getting the proper support from a specialist clinic can make the process as smooth as possible.
