Dr. Brent Monseur MD, ScM

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technique where eggs are combined with sperm outside the body, then the resulting embryo or embryos are transferred into a uterus (called an embryo transfer). The process is performed at a fertility clinic and can help couples conceive if they are having trouble doing so, often after completing other, less invasive fertility interventions. IVF can also be an option for individuals without fertility issues, including single females, same-sex couples, and people with certain medical conditions such as cancer.

IVF can be performed using a female’s own eggs and her partner’s sperm, or with donor eggs or donor sperm. Embryos from IVF, whether donor embryos or embryos created from a female’s own eggs and partner’s sperm, may be transferred to either the intended parent’s uterus or into the uterus of a gestational carrier (colloquially referred to as a “surrogate”). Sometimes the term “IVF” is used to refer to the process of freezing eggs (oocyte cryopreservation) even if fertilization and creation of embryos does not take place.

As part of a reproductive treatment plan to assist in becoming pregnant, a physician may recommend medication to induce ovulation or to accompany timed intercourse, intrauterine insemination (IUI), therapeutic donor insemination (TDI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF). During treatment, a reproductive endocrinologist (RE) will most likely prescribe ovarian stimulation to maximize the number of eggs produced.

With regard to in vitro fertilization (IVF), potential success is highly dependent on being able to retrieve enough high-quality eggs that may subsequently go on to produce healthy embryos. Part of that process involves ovarian stimulation. In some cases, fertility doctors will suggest priming protocols. As patients seeking pregnancy review the various IVF protocols suggested, it is important to understand what priming protocol may be best for them. This includes knowing how these protocols can impact reproductive health, what the protocols are used for, what drugs will be required, and what the success rates are.

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition that is often associated with having a negative impact on a female’s ability to conceive. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, from unwanted hair growth to irregular menstrual cycles, and can be difficult to diagnose and treat.

Getting pregnant may seem like a straightforward matter, yet it is far from a simple process and has a number of steps that require just the right timing. Many factors contribute to whether or not an egg will get fertilized, develop into an embryo, and result in a live birth. Whether an individual is trying for pregnancy or thinks she may already be pregnant, understanding the fundamentals of conception can help when seeking medical advice to ensure optimal reproductive health.

Despite a commonly held perception, it is not always easy to get pregnant. Individuals can increase their chances of getting pregnant if they know when, how, and how often to have sex. There are also lifestyle tips and tricks that can be helpful in optimizing natural fertility, potentially leading to a positive pregnancy test and a viable birth. Most women who have been trying for only a few months to get pregnant should not be concerned if they have not yet conceived. However, after trying to get pregnant for a lengthier time (more than 6-12 months), it can be helpful to know what some of the indicators are that point towards consulting a health care professional who can provide medical advice regarding fertility issues.

Individuals who are transgender or transitioning face unique issues regarding fertility, family building, and fertility preservation. Still, transgender parenthood is fairly common. Of the respondents to the U.S. Transgender Population Health Survey, 19 percent of trans individuals were parents.ⁱ Below, learn about options for creating a family as a transgender person, fertility considerations for individuals undergoing gender transition, as well as pregnancy, the delivery process, and aspects of postpartum life for trans individuals.

Note: Some transgender individuals prefer to be identified only as men/male or women/female, dropping the term transgender. Others prefer the terms trans man or trans woman. This article will use trans or transgender terminology for clarity, while recognizing the differences in preferred language.

Conceiving through in vitro fertilization (IVF), or other assisted reproductive technology, is a multifaceted process that involves several steps. Once eggs have been retrieved, successfully fertilized, and the embryos have developed, the embryo transfer procedure is planned by the reproductive endocrinologist (REI, also called RE).

IVF embryo transfer processes vary depending on multiple factors, including whether fresh or frozen embryos are used and how many embryos are planned for transfer. Successful embryo implantation into the uterine cavity requires careful planning before the transfer procedure itself. It may also involve lifestyle adjustments for the female during the weeks immediately following the procedure.

A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a surgical procedure that removes tissue from the uterus. While it is used for a variety of reasons including diagnostic purposes, it is typically performed following a miscarriage, or for elective termination of a pregnancy. An understanding of what to expect before, during, and after a D&C is beneficial for navigating this procedure, as well as to learn about potential risks and alternative treatments.