Frequently Asked Questions

What is infertility?

Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system, which results in a couple's inability to reproduce a child. Usually, a couple is considered to be infertile when they have been unsuccessful in getting pregnant after a year of unprotected intercourse. There are many factors that may play a role in infertility - ovulation disorder, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, cervical mucus defects, the sperm's inability to fertilize an egg due to low count or morphology, uterine scar tissue, vaginal and uterine cysts to name a few. Sometimes a simple surgical procedure can be preformed to help correct the diagnosis.

What are the different fertility treatment options?

Through the use of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technologies) there are several options available to couple whom wish to proceed. IUI and IVF are the more common procedures that are performed today in the United States. It is important to have a complete set of diagnostic testing first in order to determine the best cause of action for you and your partner.

How difficult is it to go through infertility treatment?

Nearly one in seven couples in the United States will face infertility issues during their union. It is not an easy process to go through considering the emotional, physical, and financial stress that can and will occur. You and your partner will need to look at the process of correcting the situation as a 100% joint venture.

Is In Vitro Fertilization Expensive?

Yes, an IVF procedure can be quite expensive. Each patient is closely monitored throughout the entire process necessitating the use of highly sophisticated laboratory equipment and is constantly consulted by qualified physicians and health care professionals. The average cost of an IVF cycle in the United States is $7,950 not including medications.

Does In Vitro Fertilization Work?

Yes! Since 1981, when IVF was first performed in the United States through 1998 the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and its affiliate, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), have counted more than 91,000 births of babies conceived through IVF. And due the highly successful triumphs in modern medicine and technology, it has further jumped through the end of 1999 to more than 177,000 babies.

Will Insurance Cover My Infertility Treatment?

Currently, there are a few states that are required by law to offer some kind infertility coverage. For the state of California, the law requires certain insurers to offer coverage for infertility diagnosis and treatment. That means group health insurers covering hospital, medical or surgical expenses must let employers know infertility coverage is available. However, the law does not require those insurers to provide the coverage; nor does it force employers to include it in their employee insurance plans.

The law specifically exempts insurers from having to provide IVF coverage. Also, the law does not require religious organizations to offer coverage for any treatment that conflicts with their religious and ethical beliefs.