Assisted reproduction and fertility

As a guideline: if you are under 35 and have had a year of unprotected intercourse without pregnancy, or six months if you are 35 or older. Consult sooner if your cycles are irregular or you have endometriosis, a history of pelvic surgery or other known problems.

It starts with the medical history of both partners and an examination. It is usually completed with an ultrasound, hormone tests, a test to check that the fallopian tubes are open, and a semen analysis. The work-up and diagnosis are carried out at the clinic.

These are ultrasounds done at different points of the cycle to see how the ovarian follicles grow and to detect when ovulation occurs. They help guide the most fertile days. They are performed at the clinic.

It is a test of the semen. It reports the number, motility and shape of the sperm. It is a basic part of the fertility work-up and is always requested for the partner.

In insemination, prepared semen is placed in the uterus around ovulation. In in vitro fertilization (IVF), eggs are retrieved from the ovary, fertilized in the laboratory, and the embryos are transferred to the uterus. Which technique is appropriate depends on each couple.

The clinic carries out the work-up, diagnosis, cycle monitoring and control ultrasounds. Assisted reproduction treatments such as insemination, IVF, egg and sperm donation, fertility preservation and preimplantation genetic testing are performed in hospital centers. The clinic guides you at every step and coordinates the process.

It means freezing eggs so they can be used in the future. It can be useful if you want to postpone motherhood or if you are going to receive a treatment that may affect the ovaries. Whether and when it is appropriate is assessed during the visit.

It is the genetic analysis of embryos obtained in IVF before they are transferred to the uterus. It is considered in specific situations, such as known hereditary diseases, and is carried out in specialized centers.

Yes. A woman's fertility declines with age, more markedly after 35. That is why it is advisable to consult early if there are difficulties. Men's fertility is also affected by age, although less markedly.

Some habits help: not smoking, limiting alcohol, keeping a healthy weight, exercising in moderation and taking folic acid if you are trying to conceive. If there is a specific cause, targeted treatment is what makes the difference.