Frequently Asked Questions

Infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after 12 months of trying. If you are over 35 years old, this time is reduced to 6 months. It is very important to see a specialist for a complete fertility workup and diagnosis.

No. Both men and women are affected by infertility

Conditions affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus can contribute to female infertility. An infertility specialist can help you with tests and an evaluation to help with a treatment course. Examples of these conditions could include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a leading cause of female infertility. PCOS is a hormone imbalance problem that interferes with normal ovulation.
• Diminished ovarian reserve occurs when the ability of the ovary to produce eggs is reduced. This can be caused by congenital, medical, surgical, unexplained causes, or age.
• Menopause is a decline in ovarian function that usually occurs around age 50.
• Endometriosis is a condition in which the type of tissue that forms in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is found outside the uterus. Endometriosis occurs in about one in every 10 women of reproductive age and most often diagnosed in women in their 30’s and 40’s.

Infertility in men can be caused by different factors and is typically evaluated by a semen analysis. Male infertility is due to no (azoospermia) or low (ogliospermia) sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices and other factors can play a role in causing male infertility. An abnormal semen analysis may not necessarily mean that you are infertile, but rather helps to determine how these factors are contributing to infertility.

For a variety of reasons, many women have been waiting until their 30s to begin their families. Even though women today seem to be healthier and taking better care of themselves, improved health in later life does not offset the natural age–related decline in fertility. It is important to understand that fertility declines as a woman ages. This is because there is a normal decrease in the number of eggs that remain in a woman’s ovaries. This decline is normal, and may take place much sooner than most women expect.

Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute holds free monthly informational seminars. You can sign up for one of our upcoming seminars, or contact our office to schedule a consultation appointment. Our number is (808) 946-2226 or email us at info@pacificinvitro.com. You can also send us a secure email.

At your initial consultation visit, each partner’s medical records are reviewed. The female partner is given a physical examination and ultrasound exam, and the male partner will have a semen analysis done (unless frozen or donor sperm is being used). Using this information, we will assess your individual situation and recommend the best treatment plan for you. You will also meet with our financial coordinator, who will go over the estimated fees associated with your individualized IVF treatment plan.

The number of appointments you have will vary to your individual response to the medications. On average, you will have 6-9 appointments, including the egg retrieval procedure.

Although there is usually an egg from most mature follicles, some of the follicles may contain immature eggs or post mature eggs which may seem to be empty follicles.

No, not generally. The egg retrieval usually takes between 30-45 minutes, depending on how many follicles are present. IV sedation is administered by an anesthesiologist, so you will not be awake during the process. There may be some slight cramping after the procedure.