RESOURCES > FAQ > Infertility treatment

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How is infertility treated?
What is intrauterine insemination?
What is assisted reproductive technology?
What is in vitro fertilization?
What risks are associated with assisted reproductive technology?
What are fertility medications?
What risks are associated with using fertility medications?

How is infertility treated?

Treatment of infertility may depend on several factors, including:

• Age of the female
• Duration of infertility
• Contributing factors
• Treatment risks
• Cost of therapy

Infertility treatment consists of two main categories: restoring or bringing about fertility, intrauterine insemination (IUI), assisted reproductive technology (ART), and fertility medications.

To restore or bring about fertility, couples may be asked to:

• Have intercourse more often or on a scheduled basis
• Be treated for sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or problems with the reproductive organs
• Help determine when ovulation is occurring by measuring a woman’s basal body temperature and using home ovulation tests

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What is intrauterine insemination?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI), sometimes called artificial insemination, is a type of fertility treatment where sperm taken from a partner or donor is injected into a woman’s uterus at the time of ovulation to encourage fertilization. Some women may receive this treatment while also taking fertility medications to stimulate ovulation.

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What is assisted reproductive technology?

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) includes all infertility treatments that involve the handling of both sperm and eggs. In ART procedures, one or more fertilized eggs, or embryos, are transferred to a woman’s uterus to increase the chances of pregnancy. This procedure accounts for more than 70,000 babies born in the United States every year.

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What is in vitro fertilization?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of ART.

• In IVF, a woman receives fertility medications to stimulate the development of several eggs.
• After the eggs are developed, they are surgically removed from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm outside the body, in a lab.
• After fertilization has occurred, the embryos are transferred into the uterus.
• The woman may receive additional medication to help maintain her pregnancy.
• If IVF is not successful, a woman can talk with her doctor about other types of ART that may be suitable options.

The average cost of an IVF cycle in the United States is approximately $12,400. The procedure may need to be repeated if pregnancy does not occur, which would increase the cost of therapy. Health insurance may cover the cost of treatment. However, the level of coverage depends on where you live and the type of insurance you have.

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What risks are associated with assisted reproductive technology (ART)?

Multiple embryos are the most common complication of ART. The number of embryos kept and matured to birth is a decision made by the couple. There is also a risk of bleeding or infection with ART.

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What are fertility medications?

A doctor may prescribe medication therapy to treat infertility. Different types of fertility medications control hormone levels that can help regulate or induce ovulation. These medications may be administered orally, vaginally, or by injection. The usual cost of fertility medications can range up to $5,000 per treatment cycle.

Some fertility medications need to be prepared and self-injected at home. Refer to your medication&s prescribing information and manufacturer instructions for information about injection techniques. It is very important that you are confident in your ability to inject yourself with medication or that you can have someone give you the injections as directed by your doctor. If you are not comfortable giving or receiving your injectable medication, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. They might also be able to help answer any questions you might have about how to correctly prepare your medication.

Commonly used fertility medications include: Bravelle®, Cetrotide®, Clomid®, Crinone®, Endometrin®, Follistim AQ®, Ganirelix, Gonal-f®, Gonal-f® RFF, Lupron®, Luveris®, Menopur®, Novarel®, Ovidrel®, Pregnyl®, progesterone, Repronex®, and Serophene®. Your doctor will recommend medications that are right for you.

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What risks are associated with using fertility medications?

A common complication of medication treatment is the development of multiple embryos. Many medications are also associated with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which occurs when a woman’s ovaries are overstimulated. The ovaries may become enlarged and cause discomfort, and can lead to serious medical complications. Symptoms of OHSS include excessive fluid retention and severe abdominal discomfort.

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Information provided here does not constitute professional medical advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither Walgreen Co., its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. If you have a medical question, consult your medical professional.