It has been estimated that as many as ten percent of couples in reproductive age have been affected by infertility issues. So, if you suffer from infertility you are not alone.
The cause of infertility can be either in a man or in a woman, and they are equally common. In a third of the cases the cause is in both partners or it is unknown. Normally, if both parties of a couple are healthy, the success rate in getting pregnant during one ovulation cycle is approximately 25 %.
When it comes to women, age is one crucial factor that affects her ability to get pregnant. Other causes include, ovulation issues, blockage in fallopian tubes, unexpected reactions in the cervix, and some other reasons without clear explanation. When the cause is clear, a proper treatment can be determined.
In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is one infertility treatment option. However, this method should be used only if any other method has not been successful. IVF technology has developed over the years, and the success rates have increased along with it.
The first baby through IVF technology was born in July 25, 1978. Since then more than 4 million babies have been delivered using this revolutionary technique. The IVF success rates vary, but in average it is approximately 30% after the first cycle and increase to 50% after the second cycle.
Getting pregnant using IVF requires stimulating the female with hormones that stimulate the production of eggs. Monitoring the ovulatory cysts the eggs will be retrieved before they leave the ovary. The eggs are then mixed with the partners sperm obtained the same day.
The conception occurs in a special dish in the laboratory. The goal is to create one, or more, embryos before implanting them into the uterus. Often, hormonal treatment continues after the procedure in order to increase the chances of success.
The IVF success rates are dependent on the reason for the infertility, the age of the female and the center where it is performed. According to data published by the CDC a pregnancy was achieved on thirty two percent of all cycles. Live births occurred on average in 26% of the cycles.
Data published by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine the average cost of IVF is around $12,500. It depends on geographical area, medications required for the procedure, the number of cycles and the amount of insurance that may cover the procedure.
If you are considering IVF you should carefully evaluate the center that may perform the procedure. Factors to consider include the pregnancy ratio per transfer, the pregnancy rate per transfer, the live birth rate, the availability for storage and involvement in programs as research or other.
Article source: http://ezinearticles.com/6562892
|
|
