Fertility Treatments

Although most couples can conceive a child without any problem, it is estimated that between 10% and 15% will experience fertility problems. Fortunately, due to advances in modern medical technology there are now a variety of choices available to couples who are having difficulty conceiving. In some instances, medications or minor surgery can be used to correct the problem. For other couples with more complex fertility problems, the use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) are required.

Traditional Fertility Options

In many instances, traditional fertility treatments can solve reproductive problems. These treatments may be as simple as medications to treat an infection, hormone therapy, or a minor surgical procedure.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) were first successfully used in the latter part of the 1970's. Since that time, literally thousands of babies are born each year as a result of various ART procedures. Although the original procedure, in vitro fertilization (IVF), remains the most commonly used method, there are several other ART procedures including: gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) and zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) which are also performed regularly.

Each procedure has its own distinct advantages and criteria. The physician will choose which procedure will best meet the specific needs of each patient. An example of conditions for each type of procedure include:

	IVF	GIFT	ZIFT
Women with at least one unobstructed fallopian tube
Women over 40 with unobstructed fallopian tubes
Women with severe tubal damage
Healthy sperm
Male infertility
Unexplained infertility