Fertility
If you need help getting pregnant, our fertility services may be the next step. We offer comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans—along with understanding, compassion and hope. Our success ranks us above the national average for pregnancy rates in couples seeking reproductive health care.
Meet our Fertility Providers
Fertility Treatments & Procedures We Provide
Ultrasounds and lab testing during treatment cycles
Mid-cycle ultrasounds are done to evaluate the ovaries and follicles. These are especially important during fertility treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication and make adjustments.
Abnormalities in ovaries and the uterus
Baseline ultrasounds are done early in the menstrual cycle to evaluate the ovaries, uterus and uterine lining as part of a fertility evaluation.
Checking for tubal patency
To better understand the cause of infertility, an X-ray study can be done to check for blockage—or patency (openness)—in the fallopian tubes.
Oral and injectable ovulation induction medications
Oral medicines are used to trigger the body to produce the hormone that stimulates egg growth called follicle stimulating hormone. Once the follicle has reached maturity, an injection of a pregnancy hormone is given to induce ovulation.
Insemination
Insemination is carefully timed with ovulation. It is done here in the office and can improve the chances of conception. A semen sample is collected at home and the concentrated sample of sperm is instilled in the uterus using a tiny tube called a catheter.
In Vitro Fertilization
Sometimes in vitro fertilization (IVF) is needed to get pregnant. In IVF, the eggs are retrieved from the female’s ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory outside of the body. The fertilized egg, or embryo, is transferred to a woman’s uterus.
- We work closely with some of the largest in vitro fertilization (IVF) centers in the Twin Cities and can offer access to high technology specialty care.
- All IVF procedures are performed at the centers.
- Our specialists work in tandem with the provider at the IVF center handling day-to-day treatments, including medications, lab tests and ultrasounds. That way, women can stay close to home for the majority of their treatment.
Fertility FAQs
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When should a woman seek fertility services?
Many women believe they have to try conceiving for at least 12 months before they seek help. Although conception can take a year for women who have a regular period and ovulation, we are happy to see you sooner than that. We encourage women with irregular periods or other signs or symptoms of infertility to see us anytime.
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When should older women seek fertility services?
Women who are over the age of 35 should check in with us after six months of trying to conceive.
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What about men experiencing fertility problems?
Like women, men also experience fertility problems. Your partner will need to be evaluated for male infertility. We encourage you to make the first appointment together.
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How common are fertility problems?
Infertility occurs in 15-20% of all couples. So it’s more common than people realize. You are not alone.
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Do you treat emotional issues associated with fertility?
Fertility can be very challenging emotionally for couples. Common reactions are grief, depression, anger, frustration and loss of self-confidence. After these initial feelings pass, couples may feel anxious, depressed or alone. These emotions are understandable. Let us know. We can help couples better manage these feelings and symptoms.
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What are the first steps taken in the fertility program?
The first step is a physical exam and evaluating both partners for fertility problems.
Females receive lab tests for a variety of hormones that promote pregnancy, including follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen and progesterone.
The male partner’s sperm is tested for abnormalities that may prevent conception. Once we understand what is causing infertility, we develop an individualized treatment plan.
All treatment cycles are closely monitored with ultrasounds and lab testing and include same day results and face-to-face meetings with your practitioner.
Couples can expect 2-3 visits per month during treatment.
About Surrogacy
Our obstetricians are dedicated to helping people build families. We are honored to care for surrogates who are carrying a baby for a couple or individual. If you are considering this path, all of our obstetricians offer prenatal, labor, delivery and postpartum care for surrogate mothers.
The relationship between the surrogate, hopeful parents and obstetrician sets the tone for a positive journey. Find out more in this blog from one of our obstetricians dispelling the myths surrounding surrogacy.
