InfertilityInfertility Specialists

Not being able to get pregnant, or not being able to carry a pregnancy to term is very difficult for most couples. There is the physical, psychological and financial stress of infertility testing and treatments. HMOs may or may not pay for infertility testing or treatment. There is the stress on the couples' relationship as they undergo testing and face the disappointment of not getting pregnant.

We consider a couple to be infertile if they have been unable to achieve pregnancy in 12 months of having sex without using any birth control. This is a fairly common problem; about 14% of couples in the United States are considered infertile.

Infertility in the woman may be caused by any of the following…

  • hormone problems which prevent ovulation or prevent implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus
  • physical problems such as scarring of the tubes due to pelvic infections or endometriosis
  • genetic problems such as Turner's syndrome
  • congenital abnormalities of the uterus or cervix
  • being overweight which can prevent normal ovulation
  • abnormalities in the cervical mucus
  • production of antibodies which attack the sperm
  • smoking, alcohol or marijuana use
  • thyroid disease, diabetes, or tumors of the pituitary gland

 The following tests may be done to aid in diagnosis and treatment…

  • basal body temperature or ovulation predictor kits to see if the woman is ovulating
  • semen analysis to determine if the male partner is producing normal sperm
  • post coital test to evaluate whether the sperm are able to move through the cervical mucus
  • hysterosalpingogram to see if the woman's tubes are open
  • progesterone test to see if a woman is ovulating
  • endometrial biopsy to determine if the uterus has responded to the hormonal effects of ovulation

We know this is an overwhelming and stressful time for you. Please don't hesitate to come to us with your questions and concerns. Our goal is a healthy pregnancy for you.