Fertility FAQs and Patient Resources
We recognize that questions often arise surrounding infertility, fertility treatments, and what to expect as one of our patients. Navigating the fertility treatment process can be complex, with many moving parts. While our dedicated coordinators and clinicians guide you every step of the way, we’ve also compiled a host of online resources and answers to frequently asked questions to help you find the information you’re looking for.
Search Our Patient Resources
FAQ
When should I see an infertility specialist?
If there is a known cause of infertility such as irregular menses, abnormal semen analysis, history of endometriosis, or blocked fallopian tubes, it is recommended to see an infertility specialist as pregnancy is desired. If a woman is less than 35 years of age and healthy, it is fine to wait 1 year before seeing a fertility specialist. If a woman is 35 years of age or older, it is recommended to see a fertility specialist after 6 months of trying. At the age of 40, it is appropriate to seek fertility consultation immediately.
Can stress cause infertility?
There is little evidence that stress can cause infertility. In rare situations, if a woman is under extreme physical or emotional stress, she can stop ovulating and stop having spontaneous menses, thus causing infertility.
How long does the IVF process take?
The IVF process typically takes about 4-6 weeks. There is a 1 week time period where frequent ultrasounds and the egg retrieval occur. The embryo transfer occurs 3-5 days after the egg retrieval.
How are egg donors found and selected?
Egg donors come to ICRM from all different backgrounds and walks of life. They apply to become an egg donor, undergoing a series of tests to ensure good reproductive health before they enter our donor database. While individuals choose to apply for and become egg donors for all kinds of reasons, we find that most commonly, our donors have a personal connection to infertility and an active desire to share their health and fertility to support other families. Learn more about the screening process and why people choose to become egg donors on this SART podcast episode featuring ICRM Dr. Cristin Slater.
Who do I call if I have a problem/question/run out of medication after hours?
If you have a problem, question, concern or run out of medications after hours, and it cannot wait until morning, please call (208) 489-6708 to speak with the answering service. The service will then page the nurse on call who will return your call as soon as possible. If your situation can wait until the following morning, please leave a voice mail at our office for the nurse.
Will you call me with lab results?
Same day lab results are generally not available until late in the afternoon. We will call you ONLY with abnormal results or if we want you to change your medication or dosage. If you do not receive a call from us, please continue with the same dosage.
Is there a specific time of day that my blood needs to be drawn?
All blood work MUST be drawn before 11:00am. We must be able to receive same day results to successfully manage your treatment.
What if I need blood drawn on a weekend?
An appointment will have to be made with a nurse during the day M-F or with the on-call nurse over the weekend.
What time do my ultrasounds need to be done?
All patients should have their ultrasounds performed in the morning. If we determine that a blood test needs to be done, we will be able to get same day results, which are important for the optimal success of your treatment. We ask that you please be on time for your appointment.
How long do I take birth control pills prior to starting my fertility injections in an IVF cycle?
It is important that you continue to take the active birth control pills (also known as cycle control pills) until the nurse instructs you to stop. If you finish the active pills in one pack, go right into the next pack of pills the following day. Do not take the inactive pills unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about the pills, please do not hesitate to call us.
Is there a problem if I begin bleeding while on birth control pills?
No. Occasionally, some patients may have breakthrough bleeding while on birth control pills. While breakthrough bleeding/spotting can be annoying for you, it is not a problem while you are in cycle. The pills are still having the desired effect of ovarian suppression (preventing cyst formation) even though the uterus may still bleed/spot. Please call us when you have bleeding so that we are aware of it.
What do I do if I run out of pills or other medications?
If you run out of birth control pills, please call the office and inform us of the type of pill you are taking and your pharmacy’s phone number. If you run out of other medications, you can call the pharmacy that filled your prescription to order refills. Please keep track of your medications so that you are able to obtain refills in a timely manner. Some pharmacies do not routinely stock some fertility medications and need time to order them.
What time do I take my medications?
PROGESTERONE SUPPOSITORIES: Placed in the vagina every NIGHT at bedtime. Be sure to remove packaging before inserting. If you are taking progesterone suppositories twice daily, place suppositories in the morning and at bedtime. You may need to wear a mini-pad for protection as discharge from the suppositories is common. Suppositories must be stored in the refrigerator (do not freeze).
FSH INJECTIONS: Should be administered the same time each day. There is not a set time for the injections.
CLOMID: Take by mouth in the morning.
HCG: We will instruct you as to the date and time to administer the injection.
What medication can I take while going through cycle?
You may take ONLY Tylenol or extra-strength Tylenol if needed. DO NOT TAKE Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin or Aleve. This can interfere with follicle development and implantation. You may also take Actifed, Sudafed, Tums, or plain Robitussin if needed for cold or allergy symptoms. Please call us before you take any other medications as they may have an adverse effect on your treatment. If you are currently on thyroid medication, glucophage or metformin, parlodel or bromocriptine, you must continue as directed throughout the cycle.
What do I do when I see blood in the syringe when giving an injection?
STOP AND WITHDRAW THE NEEDLE. DO NOT INJECT. You must change the needle and then you may inject into another site. The small amount of blood that may be in the syringe will not affect the medication.
What do I do when I start my period?
Always call the office of cycle day 1 (CD1). This is the day you begin regular flow. If you have spotting, please call us when regular flow begins. If your CD1 is on the weekend, please call first thing Monday morning for instruction. If you do not call with CD1, it is possible your treatment/cycle could be delayed or adversely affected.
When will my follicles be mature?
Your follicles are mature when you have two or more that are 18mm or greater. We will then give you further instructions.
How can I avoid adverse side effects from the antibiotics?
It is important to remember to take your Doxycycline a ½ hour after breakfast and dinner. Taking this antibiotic with food or on an empty stomach can cause an upset stomach. Doxycycline also makes you sensitive to sunlight, so use sunscreen and/or avoid being out in the sun to reduce the risk of sunburn.
If I’m transferring my embryos to ICRM what devices/media are accepted?
Devices: Vitriguard, Cryolock, Cryotech, and Cryotop
Vitrification/Thaw media: Irvine and Kitazato
