728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Trouble Getting Pregnant › Navigating the Maze of Infertility

Navigating the Maze of Infertility

5 Steps to Fertility Success

Pages:  1  2  3  

Motility, viscosity, quantity, quality – the possible problems with sperm are a contributing factor in nearly half of all infertile couples' inability to conceive. "A lab experienced at doing semen analysis should evaluate the sperm," says Dr. Stangel. "The lab results should be interpreted by a urologist, andrologist or reproductive endocrinologist – each experienced with this type of study." Again, there are a number of lifestyle-related fixes for sperm issues, as well as several drug and hormone therapies available.

Step 4: The Structural Inspection
Along with the above studies, specialists move to the structure of both the male and female reproductive systems. Troubles in this area include blocked fallopian tubes, uterine malformations and even problems with the penile and seminal structures. "Most of the time, if there is a structural problem surgery is needed to correct these issues in order to achieve a pregnancy," Dr. Stangel says.

Step 5: Exploring the ARTs
In the event that the first 4 steps don't result in pregnancy, ART can help. From IVF, ZIFT, GIFT and TET procedures to promising new techniques for maturing eggs outside the womb and cryopreservation of human eggs, the ARTs are helping tens of thousands of couples each year to achieve a healthy, successful pregnancy. Originally designed for women with damaged fallopian tubes, ART is now used to address every conceivable fertility issue, with an average success rate of about 30 percent per attempt.

"While it can be overwhelming at times, with the right guidance, the maze of infertility can be a journey of hope and, ultimately, happiness for couples wishing to have a child," Dr. Stangel says.


Pages:  1  2  3  

Want to see more?

Comments

There are no comments for this article yet.Be the first to add a comment.

Post As:
Enter your comment below:
Title
Comment Text
CAPTCHA
Please note that any comments submitted become the property of Disney Family / iParenting and can be edited and posted at our discrection.