Understanding Fertility: From Preservation to Treatment

Fertility encompasses a wide range of areas including fertility preservation, genetic testing of embryos to prevent diseases, and family-building options for couples or individuals wishing to become parents.

If you've been attempting to conceive for six months to a year without success, it might be time to consult with a fertility specialist (or reproductive endocrinologist) about potential fertility treatments. While many immediately think of in vitro fertilization (IVF), there are several other and less costly methods available within the full realm of fertility treatments.

For the purposes of this article, we will explore fertility treatments for individuals with female reproductive organs and a sperm-providing partner who have not conceived naturally.

Modern fertility methods of egg fertilization and implantation include medication, surgery, or a combination of both. The most common fertility treatments include:

The best treatment option depends on factors like age, goals, and any underlying conditions you or your partner might have. Alternatives also include using donated eggs, sperm, embryos, or employing a gestational carrier or surrogate.

Getting Started

When starting out on your fertility journey, you’ll likely have an initial consultation with a reproductive endocrinologist (REI) or a member of the clinic’s care team.

A call with a care team member will result in a general, comprehensive overview of the clinical process; an initial consult with the specialist will kickstart your treatment process.

The initial step the REI will likely take is a comprehensive fertility assessment to identify the most effective treatment options for you. This evaluation generally includes: