Infertility

Finding the Answers to Infertility

For approximately 12-15% of infertile couples the basic infertility evaluation will fail to disclose the precise explanation for their infertility. Arriving at a diagnosis of “unexplained infertility” is particularly upsetting to couples who would understandably prefer to have a defined explanation for the delay in conception. Dr. Louis R. Manara stays up to date on the latest research and offers a number of treatment options in response to unexplained infertility. Patients who visit his New Jersey practice quickly see that an unexplained infertility diagnosis isn’t the end of the road. Dr. Manara and his team work hard to determine the root of infertility and allow all patients to have a family of their own.

If you have been discouraged by unexplained infertility, contact Dr. Manara’s New Jersey practice to learn more about the treatment options available to you.

Treatment of Unexplained Infertility

For patients who are struggling to conceive, it is important to realize that there is indeed an explanation for infertility but our currently available diagnostic testing may not be sensitive enough to identify the cause with certainty. For example, although we can easily determine if the fallopian tubes are open, we are unable to assure that there is no microscopic damage to the delicate cells that line the fallopian tubes. Subtle ovulatory disorders may be quite difficult to identify, requiring repetitive laboratory and ultrasound evaluations throughout the menstrual cycle. Researchers have looked carefully at how couples with unexplained infertility respond to treatments which are directed toward suspected but unproven causes of infertility. The findings have been quite encouraging with excellent success rates achieved through various treatments.

Ovulation Augmentation

Usually the first approach to treatment of a couple with unexplained infertility is through the use of ovulation stimulating medications, such as clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins (injectable pituitary hormones) in conjunction with timed placement of the husband’s sperm into the uterine cavity(intra-uterine insemination). This approach improves subtle ovulation disorders which may be affecting the chances of embryo implantation. A laboratory preparation which involves washing and filtration of the sperm, followed by placing the sperm in a targeted position within the reproductive tract also improves the fertilizing capabilities of the man’s sperm. . This relatively simple treatment has been shown to substantially improve the monthly prospects for success and should be attempted for at least three cycles before moving on to more aggressive therapy.

In-vitro Fertilization

If ovulation augmentation and intra-uterine insemination fail to achieve a successful pregnancy over approximately three treatment cycles, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is usually recommended. Numerous studies have shown that IVF is highly effective treatment for unexplained infertility. The removal of eggs from the ovaries with fertilization and early development outside of the body within the highly controlled environment within laboratory incubators overcomes such problems as undiagnosed endometriosis, tubal transport abnormalities, and occult male problems. Among patients with unexplained infertility, the most important determinant of success is the woman’s age, with women under 35 years of age doing best.

Learn More about Unexplained Infertility

Not being able to fully understand the causes of infertility can be frustrating for couples who are trying to grow their family. At the Center For Reproductive Medicine and Fertility we use a variety of treatments to help patients overcome unexplained infertility. Contact his New Jersey practice to schedule a consultation.