Fertility Myths and Facts: Insights from a Reproductive Endocrinologist

Summary

In this article, we present insights from Dr. Serena H. Che, a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist, who answered various questions related to fertility on Twitter. She debunked some common myths and provided valuable information on fertility preservation, IVF, sperm count, and more.

The role of timing and frequency of intercourse in fertility
Impact of COVID-19 on fertility
Declining sperm count in men and fertility preservation for women
Artificial insemination and intrauterine insemination
Pregnancy tests and uterine transplants
Fertility coverage laws and IVF guidelines
Reciprocal IVF, egg freezing, and sperm donation
Conclusion

The role of timing and frequency of intercourse in fertility

Dr. Che advised that having sex twice a week is sufficient for conception, and it is a myth that precise timing or frequent intercourse increases fertility. However, she emphasized the importance of having sex during the fertile window, which is the five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation.

Impact of COVID-19 on fertility

Dr. Che recommended getting vaccinated against COVID-19, as the disease can have a negative impact on fertility. She also mentioned that the vaccine has not been shown to affect fertility negatively.

Declining sperm count in men and fertility preservation for women

The sperm count of men has been declining, and the reasons for this are not clear, but environmental toxins and lifestyle may be contributing factors. Freezing eggs is a way to preserve fertility for women who want to delay childbearing. Men also have a fertility clock, and the quality of sperm declines with age.

Artificial insemination and intrauterine insemination

Dr. Che clarified that “fissual insemination” is not a real term. Artificial insemination is a process of inserting sperm into a female’s body through means other than sexual intercourse. In fertility clinics, the sperm is washed to remove the semen, and only the sperm is used for insemination. This is done through a small syringe called an insemination catheter, which is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. This process is called intrauterine insemination (IUI).

Pregnancy tests and uterine transplants

Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in urine or blood. Uterine transplants are possible but are still experimental and require a team of specialists.

Fertility coverage laws and IVF guidelines

There are laws in some states that mandate fertility coverage, but the cost of IVF is still high in the United States compared to other countries. It is unclear if there is a law that puts a cap on the number of embryos doctors can implant during IVF. ASR recommends transferring only one embryo at a time as it is the healthiest type of pregnancy, and IVF has a higher identical twinning rate.

Reciprocal IVF, egg freezing, and sperm donation

Reciprocal IVF is a way for two women to conceive, where one gives the egg and the other carries the embryo. Egg freezing is becoming more common and is much better than it used to be due to the new technology of vitrification. Commercial sperm banks compensate donors well for sperm, but donors must undergo blood work and sign forms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Che’s insights provide valuable information on fertility and debunk common myths. Couples trying to conceive should focus on having sex during the fertile window, and women who want to delay childbearing can consider freezing their eggs. Artificial insemination and intrauterine insemination are effective options for couples struggling with fertility. Finally, fertility coverage laws and IVF guidelines vary by state, and couples should consult with a fertility specialist to determine the best course of action for their particular situation.