FAQ
Non IVF Questions
Will I see the doctor in every visit?
Yes, we believe that close patient-physician interaction is essential for optimal result and will make every effort to ensure that our patients have access to the physician in every visit. Drs. Le and Haas themselves perform sonogram and insemination most of the time, with the nurses assisting only occasionally.
When should I seek treatment for infertility?
If you are less than 35 years old and have tried unsuccessfully for one year to conceive despite having regular cycles, you should see your OBGYN for evaluation. If you are a woman of 35 years or older, however, you should seek help after 6 months of trying and request to see a reproductive endocrinologist in order to save time. Regardless of age, you should see a physician right away if your periods are irregular (cycles shorter than 25 days or longer than 35 days), if you know that your tubes are abnormal, or if your male partner has a sperm problem.
How does the natural fertility rate change with time?
The woman is most fertile between age 20 and 30, when she has at best a 25% chance to conceive every cycle. At age 35, her chance to conceive becomes 15-20% per cycle, and drops quickly afterward so that by age 40, her rate of conceiving is only 10% or less. The reason behind these low rates is the tendency of human eggs to be abnormal, even when the woman is young. Studies have shown that up to 50% of human eggs are abnormal during the twenties, and about to 80% of the eggs are abnormal when the woman reaches age 38. Abnormal eggs do not fertilize or lead to abnormal embryos that do not implant, thus the low rates of natural pregnancy.
What success rates can be expected of treatments?
Ovulation induction with clomiphene or letrozole can give up to 15-20% pregnancy rate per cycle in the best age group, while the injectable fertility drugs give about 20-25% pregnancy rate per cycle. IVF treatment can give up to 60% pregnancy rate in women younger than 35.
What’s the effect of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine on my fertility?
Cigarette smoking has been strongly shown to adversely affect the quality of the egg, the fertilization process, and the implantation rate. Tobacco is a potent reproductive toxin and must be avoided. The effect of alcohol and caffeine on female fertility is less clear. It is advisable to avoid hard liquor, to limit wine consumption to one glass a day, and to avoid alcohol completely once pregnancy occurs. The evidences regarding caffeine are conflicting; however, it may be wise to limit caffeine consumption to a maximum of 2 cups a day.
Are hot baths bad for reproduction?
Yes, sperm production is adversely affected by high temperature. It is a good idea to avoid hot tubs, sauna, and to wear loose pants and underwear. Pregnant women should also avoid taking hot baths during the first 5 months. High body temperature has been linked to spinal abnormality in the fetus.
