One of the questions we are most commonly asked by our patients during consultations is “Is infertility hereditary?” Our Los Angeles, CA fertility specialists answer this and other questions honestly and openly, in straightforward, plain language. We want our patients to be fully informed at all times about their fertility and how their bodies function so that they can make the most confident decisions possible about their treatment.

If you would like to learn more about your fertility treatment options, please schedule your initial consultation at Pacific Fertility Center today.

Genetic Factors behind Infertility

Infertility can often be attributed to genetic factors. Examples of genetic factors include:

• Inherited chromosome abnormalities: Inherited chromosome abnormalities include deletion, in which a piece of a chromosome is missing; inversion, in which the chromosome is upside down; mutation, in which there is a change in the gene’s DNA sequence; aneuploidy, in which there are too many or too few chromosomes; and translocation, in which pieces of a chromosome are attached to the incorrect chromosome.
• Inherited genetic diseases: Although relatively rare, infertility can be caused by an inherited genetic disease caused by abnormal genes or mutations. Single-gene abnormalities generally point to families with histories of genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis and Tay Sachs, both fatal diseases. Fortunately, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis can often be used to prevent the passage of such single-gene disorders when used in conjunction with IVF. In males, mutations in the cystic fibrosis gene can result in congenital absence of the vas deferens, which will affect sperm flow.
• Chromosomal disorders that affect sperm production: There are also chromosomal disorders that specifically affect sperm production, including Klinefelter’s syndrome and Y chromosome deletions.
• Endometriosis and early menopause: If other women in your family have had difficulty achieving successful pregnancy due to endometriosis or early menopause, there is an increased chance that you will have difficulty achieving successful pregnancy for these reasons, too.

It is rare that infertility can be attributed solely to genetic factors. In most cases, there are multiple causes of infertility. The more of these causes that can be identified and addressed, the more likely that infertility treatment will be effective. Fortunately, infertility treatment has come a long way throughout the years and continues to progress. Even genetic factors can now often be overcome with proper treatment protocols.

Learn More about Whether Infertility Is Hereditary

If you would like to learn more about the genetic factors that influence infertility, or you wish to schedule a consultation with one of our highly esteemed fertility specialists, please contact Pacific Fertility Center today. We would be pleased to help you in any way that we can.

The post Is Infertility Hereditary? appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

There are many possible causes of infertility. One common issue for infertility in women concerns ovulation. At Pacific Fertility Center, our team of fertility doctors offers the most advanced treatments to help women overcome ovulation problems and infertility.

If you live in or around Los Angeles, CA and would like to learn more about fertility treatments, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.

Understanding Ovulation

In the simplest terms, ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovaries. Ovulation is regulated by hormones within the body. When the hormones are properly balanced, ovulation will occur around the 14^th day of a woman’s menstrual cycle.

For some women, hormonal imbalances and other conditions can interfere with ovulation. This can cause irregular periods and make it difficult to become pregnant. Fertility treatment can help balance hormones and address ovulation problems, making it possible for many women with ovulation issues conceive.

Let’s take a closer look at some common ovulation problems that can cause infertility.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common ovulation problem. PCOS is described as a hormonal imbalance that can affect ovarian function. Women with PCOS may have enlarged ovaries covered with tiny cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs.

Women with PCOS may experience the following symptoms:

• Irregular or no periods
• Irregular bleeding
• Irregular or no ovulation
• High blood pressure
• Thinning hair
• Excessive hair growth on the face or body
• Oily skin
• Acne
• Weight gain

High Stress Levels

For some women, the stress of trying to conceive can actually interfere with their ability to get pregnant. Stress can significantly impact how the hypothalamus, the gland in the brain responsible for regulating the hormones needed for ovulation, functions.

When stress levels are high enough to impact the hypothalamus, ovulation may be delayed or not occur at all.

Diabetes

Diabetes impacts how the body processes sugar, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Not all women with diabetes experience ovulation problems, but some have irregular periods and irregular ovulation, especially when diabetes is not well controlled.

Obesity

Obesity, defined as having a body mass index of 30 or higher, is believed to be linked to ovulation problems.

Being overweight can interfere with the body’s regulation of hormones, causing hormonal imbalances and other abnormalities with hormones. This in turn can impact ovulation, causing some obese women not to ovulate.

Obesity is also linked to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). While it is not certain if obesity causes PCOS, it has been observed that women who are overweight are more likely to suffer from PCOS. Women who are both obese and have PCOS may face greater ovulation problems and infertility issues as a result.

Ovulation Induction Can Help Overcome Ovulation Problems

Many ovulation problems are a result of hormonal imbalances. Fortunately, there are fertility medications and treatments, specifically ovulation induction, available to balance hormonal levels and encourage proper ovulation.

With ovulation induction, medications may be given orally or through injections. The medications include gonadotropins or clomiphene citrate, which simulate the body’s natural hormones that stimulate ovulation.

While for some women, ovulation induction may be enough to overcome infertility, others may need additional treatments, such as in vitro fertilization.

Learn More about Fertility Treatments

If you have irregular periods or ovulation problems and have had difficulty becoming pregnant, fertility treatment may be right for you. For more information about your treatment options, please call (310) 586-3459 to schedule a consultation.

The post Ovulation Problems and Infertility appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

Here, our team at Pacific Fertility Center in Los Angeles, CA offers five tips for tracking ovulation so you can improve your chances for conception.

Number One: Know Your Cycle

Being familiar with your menstrual cycle is essential for those wanting to increase their chances of pregnancy. In addition to knowing how regular you are, you should know how long your cycle typically lasts.

For example, do you menstruate every 28 days without fail? Or are there some months that differ? Women with regular menstrual cycles can usually track ovulation fairly easily. If you have an irregular cycle, there are still ways to optimize your fertility.

Number Two: Check Your Basal Body Temperature

When you are ovulating, your basal body temperature goes up. As the window of fertility begins, your temperature will start to climb.

If you are trying to become pregnant, we recommend taking your body temperature daily so you can determine your baseline. When you see that your temperature is going up, it means you are ovulating.

Number Three: Use Ovulation Tests

Similar to home pregnancy tests, ovulation tests involve assessing your urine for hormones. If your hormone levels are high, it indicates that you are about to ovulate. Most ovulation assessment kits come with seven tests. This allows you to see your hormone levels rise each day, indicating that you are reaching the peak of fertility.

Number Four: Assess Your Discharge

Believe it or not, vaginal discharge can tell you a lot about ovulation. When your body enters the window of fertility, the mucous will become thin and stretchy, not unlike the consistency of egg whites.

This is actually the body’s natural way to promote pregnancy. It occurs because the sperm can more easily reach the egg. In contrast, when you are not ovulating, your vaginal discharge will typically be thicker.

Number Five: Be Aware of Abdominal Discomfort

Have you ever been going about your day when you feel a twinge of pain on one side of your abdomen? Did you know that approximately 20 percent of women know they are ovulating because of this temporary discomfort?

If you are trying to become pregnant, try being more aware of this painful twinge, and determine whether it happens at the same time every month. If so, it could be a good indicator that you are ovulating.

Benefits of Tracking Your Ovulation

In addition to increasing your chances for fertility, there are plenty of other reasons to track your ovulation. For example, doing so can:

• Keep your general health in check. Tracking ovulation can help individuals take note of any irregularities. When detected at an early stage, these issues are often easier to treat.
• Help you know when to schedule certain activities. Ovulation brings about significant hormone changes. Some women tend to feel differently, perhaps more tired or more irritable, during these times. If this sounds familiar, tracking your ovulation can help you determine when to schedule things like family vacations or business meetings.
• Help you gain a greater understanding of your own body. Having a grasp on the functions and cycles of your body can help you avoid unnecessary stress.

Contact Us for More Information

Tracking your ovulation is helpful for a number of reasons, particularly if you are trying to conceive. For more information, schedule a consultation at our practice.

The post Tips for Tracking Ovulation appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

The massive spread of the novel coronavirus has changed the dynamics of everything familiar to us and we are left with no option but to improvise however and wherever we can.

Prior to the pandemic, couples and individuals routinely traveled from across the globe in huge numbers to the US in the hopes of getting state-of-the-art fertility treatment. The US with its top-notch healthcare system and unparalleled end-to-end patient care facilities has been a go-to destination for millions of patients seeking fertility treatments from all corners of the world.

Boasting decades of pioneering research in the field, the US has come a long way since 1934 when Pincus and Enzmann reported the first successful mammal birth (in rabbits) via in-vitro fertilization in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, USA.

Being a paragon in the field of assisted reproductive technology, the US has also been consistently transparent in its disclosure of IVF success rates and the wide range of alternative options available. California, in particular, has been leading the fertility revolution for quite some time now with some of the busiest and most distinguished medical clinics catering to individuals seeking fertility services. Being the tech mecca of the world, California’s IVF labs and fertility specialists are eons ahead of other regions in terms of medical technique and expertise.

IVF in the “New Normal”

However, amidst a heightened sense of uncertainty led by the Coronavirus outbreak, people are finding it extremely hard to adjust to the “new normal”. With border restrictions limiting international travel, there are millions of people out there thinking they might have to pause their IVF cycle abroad, or postpone their cryopreservation plans for that matter.

For anyone who’s even remotely familiar to the nuances of fertility treatments, it’s no surprise that planning a baby through assisted reproductive technology is mostly not in your control. In fact it’s oodles of science, love, experimentation, and superior medical prowess all working together, to bring the gift of life to a couple/individual.

With so many variables already at play, especially with fertility treatments abroad, it’s understandable that COVID-19 might have put a damper on your IVF plans. However, the good news is that as restrictions gradually ease down world-over, and as people learn to navigate this new reality, most fertility clinics in the US have re-opened following strict safety SOP’s and guidelines.

How to Prepare for a Safe Journey:

If your travel plans to the US for fertility treatment have been affected by the coronavirus outbreak, read through the following tips to ensure a safe journey to the IVF destination of your choice:

Research:

• Utilize this time for due diligence and make sure you research all available options. Talk to health experts in the field including reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists and other fertility specialists to help you make the best possible decision in terms of procedure and clinic selection.

Preliminary tests:

• Fertility treatments normally require a range of preliminary testing. Inquire about tests required by your Ob/Gyn and see if any of those can be done beforehand.

Network and Communicate:

• The internet is a treasure trove of fertility coaches and bloggers with hyper-active communities, sharing parenthood wisdom and authentic patient experiences. Take this time to reach out and participate in these dialogues to come up with the best possible options for your treatment.

Contact your airline:

• If you are scheduled to fly for your treatment, get in touch with your airline company well in advance of your departure date to inquire about their seating policy in light of current social distancing measures. Many airlines are trying to follow an empty middle-seat policy however, it’s important to check beforehand to ensure a safe and stress-free journey.

Over-prepare:

• Once you’ve made your mind up, take all the necessary precautions during your travel such as, social distancing (keeping at least 6 feet distance from everyone around you), wearing a face covering, sanitizing surfaces you’ll be frequently coming in contact with during your flight and avoiding touching your face.

Relax and have faith:

• Lastly, it’s important to remember, that owing to the novelty of COVID-19 a lot of the news surrounding the virus is hearsay and not backed by research. For instance, there’s no factual evidence behind the assumption that pregnant women are more likely to contract the disease, or that they are at a higher risk for illness.

It’s important to do ample research and thorough fact-checking instead of falling prey to false assumptions. However, once you are prepared and convinced, you can rest assured that medical facilities that have re-opened are going to great lengths to take precautionary measures for safeguarding the well-being of their patients.

About the Author: Patriot Conceptions

Patriot Conceptions is a veteran-owned surrogacy agency dedicated to exuding honor, integrity, and selfless service. We are committed to providing exceptional care to all surrogates and families.

Patriot Conceptions assists people from around the world with their journey to becoming parents through surrogacy. We provide unsurpassed, comprehensive, and unique surrogacy and consultant programs. Patriot Conceptions differs from other agencies because we emphasize customizing experiences by tailoring our services to the individual needs of our clients and surrogate mothers. Surrogacy is a wonderful option to choose when creating a family. With Patriot Conceptions behind you, we guarantee that your journey to parenthood will be extraordinary.

For details about our mission and services visit: https://www.patriotconceptions.com/

The post Safe Travel for IVF During COVID-19 appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a constantly-evolving situation affecting the United States and the international community. We want our patients to feel confident that we are closely monitoring all developments and adhering to recommendations from the Center of Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), and local and state health agencies. We understand that our patients may have questions about how this affects their treatments, how we are helping to minimize the spread of the disease, and how our operations may change during this unique time. We are committed to the health and safety of our patients and staff. Rest assured, we are also committed to providing services to our patients so that they can safely continue their fertility journey.

We have been actively monitoring all developments related to COVID-19 in the Los Angeles area. As always, our top priority is the health and safety of our patients and staff. We have implemented recommendations from the CDC, the state and local Departments of Health, ASRM, and our own experienced clinical and laboratory team.

If you or anyone in your household is currently exhibiting flu-like symptoms (cold, fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath), please seek treatment from your primary care provider. If you have difficulty breathing, please go to the nearest Emergency Department.

Please be advised that all patients entering Pacific Fertility Center will be screened related to current health, travel history, and COVID-19 exposure. If you are already experiencing flu-like symptoms or have recently traveled to a high risk country and you are currently in treatment or are scheduled to come in for an appointment or procedure, we ask that you call our office immediately to discuss your options.

We want you to know that we are still treating patients, and we are also offering telemedicine appointments for all consults that do not require an in-office exam. Preparing for treatment during the best of times can take 4-6 weeks, and we are committed to helping our patients through this prep-period so as to not delay treatment any longer than necessary.

What does this mean for existing Patients?

We encourage you to reach out to your care team to schedule an appointment. We can work with you to determine your pre-treatment options and build a timeline for next steps.

What does this mean for new patients?

PFCLA remains open to new patients during the Shelter-in-Place order. Our physicians and clinical care team are dedicated to helping our patients continue to prepare for their fertility treatments during this time. We will conduct new patient consults via telephone or video conferencing. We will resume regular office visits when we are able to, in accordance with local and state guidelines.

Why would I start my fertility treatment remotely? 

Many patients do not realize that it can take several weeks to prepare for a treatment cycle even during ideal conditions. Most of the consults and testing required can be accomplished safely from your home. Our care team is online and ready to assist you every step of the way.

What about ultrasound, semen analysis, and bloodwork? 

Your clinical team will work with you to choose the best option for blood work and diagnostic testing.

• We offer a targeted ultrasound with one of our doctors.*
• We offer semen analysis.*
• We can order hormone testing:
  • 1. You can take a quick trip to one of our offices or go to a lab draw location near your home.
  • 2. For patients interested in genetic testing, we can connect you with a specialist.

What other appointments do I need? 

After testing is complete, your physician will set up an additional virtual consult to review your personalized treatment plan. Your care team, including our clinical and financial coordinators, will set up time to walk you through the details of your care plan and assist you with understanding the financial impact, including how to best utilize your fertility benefits. We have Genetic Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapist referrals available for remote consults. Complimentary genetic counseling is available to couples who are doing cycle treatment.

We are currently initiating a safe and controlled re-start of all treatment cycles. Patients undergoing the following cycle types may be able to begin treatment at the onset of their next menses:

• IVF for Embryo Creation (Freeze All, PGT-A)
• Egg Freezing
• Oocyte Thaw for Embryo Creation
• Frozen Donor Egg for Embryo Creation

To protect the safety of our patients and staff, we are observing many social distancing measures onsite. As such, we have implemented a gradual re-start of treatment cycles to regulate the number of individuals onsite each day.

Many patients who experienced cycle disruption due to COVID-19 have already spoken with our Clinical Coordinator team to discuss cycle start timing. If you have not yet spoken to your Coordinator, and if you wish to initiate one of the above cycle types within the next two (2) months, please contact us at 310-209-7700. Our team will review your protocol, medications, and pre-cycle checklist. You will also speak with a clinical team member to assess your current health and identify any final updates required for your pre-cycle checklist.

Moving forward, we request that all patients call the office on Day 1 of their menses. Please contact your Care Team directly or call our office at the number 310-919-2669.

Our physician leadership team meets regularly to evaluate the safe start of all cycle types. This timeline may be subject to change based on conditions and recommendations from ASRM, ACOG and the CDC.

Onsite Safety Protocol Updates

We have made extensive changes to our safety protocols to ensure that our patients and staff remain safe while receiving treatment at PFCLA. Additionally, before undergoing treatment, patients must sign a consent form regarding the risks associated with Covid-19.

The most noticeable changes to our facility are:

• Face Masks: We require that all of our patients please wear face protection at all times while visiting our clinic. We also recommend wearing face protection on your travel to and from the clinic (cloth masks are acceptable). If you are given a mask at PFCLA, please use this mask for all future visits.

• Screening upon Entry: To protect our patients, our staff, and our current (and future!) families, every individual entering the clinic will be required to pass a temperature screening, and will be screened for COVID-19 related symptoms and risk factors. We regret the necessity of this intrusion upon your time. Patients undergoing procedures will be tested for COVID-19 in advance.

• Guest Policy: In observance of social distancing and to minimize the number of individuals onsite, only the scheduled patient will be admitted to the facility. All patients entering the clinic must do so without any visitors present. Children are not permitted onsite. We apologize for any inconvenience, however we are committed to protecting the safety of our patients and staff by limiting the number of individuals in our space.

The Dream Promotion

Turn your dream into a plan. PFCLA has crafted the Dream Promo to help intended parents take a step towards their dreams of a family. From now through June 30, 2020 the Dream Promo provides discounted pricing on IVF, embryo freezing and egg freezing for savings between $3,000 – $21,000. Initial consults are $200, which is credited to your deposit when you move forward with treatment. 

Please note that our policies and procedures are subject to change. We are constantly reevaluating our protocols as the COVID-19 situation develops.

The post Patient Update – COVID-19 appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

In regards to surrogacy, there are two primary options: traditional and gestational. We discuss the key differences regarding traditional vs. gestational surrogacy so that patients can choose a treatment path that best suits their unique needs and desires.

Traditional Surrogacy

When a couple opts for traditional surrogacy, they choose to have their surrogate act as both the carrier and the egg donor, meaning that she is the genetic mother to the child.

Traditional surrogacy offers many benefits. Most notably, there are fewer medical procedures required when the surrogate uses her own eggs. While IVF may sometimes be required, traditional surrogacy can often be completed via intrauterine insemination, or IUI. IUI is a less complicated procedure, which can further benefit our Glendale patients by reducing the medical risks of surrogacy, and lowering the cost of treatment.

Traditional surrogacy also has some drawbacks that must be considered. For many, it is much more difficult emotionally when the surrogate is both the carrier and the egg donor. It can be more difficult for the surrogate to give up a child that is genetically hers, and the parents may be especially stressed about the bond created between the surrogate and child.

Because of potential complications, some states do not even allow traditional surrogacy, and in those that do, it can be more difficult to find a surrogate who is willing to undergo traditional surrogacy rather than gestational surrogacy.

Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy differs from traditional surrogacy in that the carrier has no genetic link to the child. The intended mother’s eggs (or donor eggs) will be fertilized via in vitro fertilization, or IVF, and embryos will be transferred to the surrogate mother.

The greatest drawback of gestational surrogacy is that it involves multiple medical procedures. IVF requires procedures such as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and embryo implantation. This increases both the risk and cost of treatment, though many of our San Fernando Valley patients have success with gestational surrogacy.

Most of the benefits of gestational surrogacy relate to the emotional aspects of treatment. Many people find it easier to undergo surrogacy knowing that there is no genetic link between the child and carrier. This simplifies things emotionally and legally, which tends to make it easier to find a willing surrogate in a timely manner.

Which Is Right for Me?

Choosing between traditional and gestational surrogacy can be difficult. To better weigh the pros and cons of each method, patients should consider these questions:

• Are my partner or I able to be the egg donor for my surrogate?
• Am I comfortable with my baby being carried by its biological mother?
• What kind of relationship do I want with my surrogate?
• Will my budget accommodate the cost of gestational surrogacy?
• Does my state allow for traditional surrogacy?

Contact Us

The fertility specialists at Pacific Fertility Center would be happy to answer any further questions you may have regarding your surrogacy options. To speak with one of our doctors, send us a message at your earliest convenience, or call (818) 952-0328 to schedule a personal consultation. We serve patients in Los Angeles, Glendale, and San Fernando Valley.

The post Traditional vs. Gestational Surrogacy appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

If a woman has experienced three miscarriages, it is time to consider testing to determine what is causing the losses. At Pacific Fertility Center, our doctors offer our Los Angeles, CA, Glendale, CA, and San Fernando Valley, CA, patients a range of recurrent miscarriage tests to find out what is causing pregnancy loss so that we can recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can provide our fertility doctors with a lot of valuable information when it comes to determining the cause of recurrent miscarriage for our patients. Blood tests can test levels of proteins, progesterone, and thyroid hormones that all play a role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Other diseases and medical conditions that can be diagnosed through blood testing include pelvic inflammatory disease, antiphospholipid syndrome, and sexually transmitted diseases, all of which increase the risk of a miscarriage.

Genetic Screening

The majority of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities. Most abnormalities are simply the result of chance. However, in some instances, the mother or father has genetic variations that cause the sperm or egg to have the wrong number of chromosomes. If a woman has suffered recurrent miscarriage, it is worth performing genetic screening to determine if any genetic variations are present.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the structures and organs of the body. A transvaginal ultrasound is often performed when testing for the cause of recurrent miscarriage. A transvaginal ultrasound allows our doctors to evaluate the uterus and look for polyps, fibroids, uterine growths, and ovarian or endometrial problems that could be leading to pregnancy loss.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

A hysterosalpingogram, or HSG, is another test that allows us to evaluate the uterus and female reproductive system to look for issues that could be causing recurrent miscarriage. During this test, we inject a dye into the uterus and perform an x-ray that provides images of the uterus and fallopian tubes. This test can diagnose a misshapen uterus. It is also able to determine if the fallopian tubes are open, or if there are conditions that are causing a blockage.

Hysteroscopy

If an HSG detects fibroids, polyps, or other abnormalities, a hysteroscopy may be scheduled. During this test, a thin telescope is inserted into the uterus. This provides our doctors with a more accurate image of the patient’s reproductive system. In many cases, small problems may even be repaired during the procedure.

Endometrial Biopsy

One of the last tests that we may consider for our patients is an endometrial biopsy. This test can be performed in conjunction with a hysteroscopy. We will remove a small sample of endometrial tissues and test it for irregularities that could make the uterus incapable of supporting a pregnancy.

Contact Us

At Pacific Fertility Center, our doctors offer a comprehensive range of fertility treatments that can assist women who have experienced recurrent miscarriage. Send us a message at your earliest convenience to learn more about our fertility services, or call (818) 952-0328 to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Los Angeles, Glendale, and San Fernando Valley.

The post Recurrent Miscarriage Tests appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

JOIN US on JANUARY 25, 2020 AT 10:00 AM FOR A VERY SPECIAL EVENT. – THE GAY MAN’S PATH TO BECOMING A PARENT

At Pacific Fertility Center, we believe that becoming a parent is a right. For the gay couple, that path can be far more complex due to medical, legal, and financial concerns. We want to help take the mystery and anxiety that gay intended parents often face.

We want to help you take control of this process by better understanding the issues you will face, the decisions you will need to make, and how our process can help you avoid any pitfalls or problems.

We are proud to invite you to our newest free fertility seminar called the GAY MAN’S PATH TO BECOMING A PARENT.  If you have been considering becoming a parent this is a must-see event.

To become parents, gay men must deal with medical, legal, financial and surrogacy issues. Our program will address these critical elements and allow you the opportunity to tour our state-of-the-art facility.

The program will be presented by Vicken Sepilian, Infertility Specialist & Reproductive Endocrinologist located in Glendale, CA & Westwood (Los Angeles), CA.

• Voted a “Top Doctor” by peer physicians in Pasadena Magazine 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, & 2015
• Voted one of Southern California’s “Super Doctors” in Los Angeles Magazine, 2013, 2014, & 2015
• Patients’ Choice Award Recipient 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, & 2014
• Named one of “America’s Top Ob-Gyns,”  by the Consumers’ Research Council of America, 2009 & 2010

Our program is for the gay man who wants to better understand his rights and the path to biological parenthood through modern fertility treatments.

Come join us for brunch and to meet Dr. Sepilian.  Experts will be available to discuss the legal process, insurance and escrow, and an overview of costs and timelines. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and schedule a private consultation.

The first 15 couples will also receive vouchers worth $450 to cover the cost of the initial private consultation and sperm evaluations.

Register Now

The post Roadmap to Fatherhood for Gay Men appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

Understand it is normal to feel sad and even angry that you and your partner are experiencing fertility issues. It is important to acknowledge those feels and elicit the support of your partner to help get through this month.  Allow yourself to feel the sadness and frustration.

While this will pass, here are some strategies that will help minimize the stress and sadness you may be feeling.

1) Make a Plan

It is inevitable that you will run into new parents, pregnant couples, and kids of all ages during the holiday.  Before you find yourself face-to-face, plan how you will react to the situation.

Avoidance

For some, it will invariably involve avoidance.  One of the go-to strategies many of us have when it comes to a difficult or unpleasant situation. If that works for you, do not be ashamed. It is a matter of mental health. Here are some tips that will help you navigate those encounters. For some potential encounters, you can simply say “no”, and don’t go. Where you are obligated to attend plan on arriving late and leaving early. Or maybe, just hold an adult-only party

Encounter Management

Plan ahead on how you will respond to those questions that invariably come from Aunt Emma.  (Doesn’t everyone have an Aunt Emma?). You know the questions:

When are, you going to make me an aunt?

Are you ever going to have a family?

Or my personal favorite: Is your husband shooting blanks?

The only thing certain about the holidays is those questions will come. Think up a few clever quips that will both confuse Aunt Emma and stop the questions. For example, when asked

“When are you going to have a baby”? Your reply can be:  “We been trying for a dog, but are not having any success”

Or

 “That’s a rather personal question, don’t you think? Anyway, how’s your new job, how much do you make again?”

Make Peace

Alternative, maybe you are that special person who simply loves playing with children. If this helps, you are in luck as undoubtedly you will find nieces, nephews, and even cousins you did not know existed to hold and play with.

2) Develop a Support System

You do not need to face the holidays alone. It is time to find an elicit the support of your friends and family. 

Partner

First, talk to your partner. While they do not express their sadness the same as you, it does not mean that they are not affected. Talk to them about your feelings, the encounters that are likely to bother you the most. Develop strategies on how you will work together if they do occur. For example, maybe your partner can simply speak up and change the subject. Maybe your partner can ask to speak to you privately to remove you from the encounter.

Friends

Fill your time with friends who might be more sympathetic. Make plans with other couples or single friends who are simply not at the stage of their life where they are looking to start a family. It is highly unlikely they will ask or care when you are starting one.

Family

Most likely you cannot avoid family events. If you suspect a particular family member is likely to confront you at an event, take charge of the encounter. Call or meet up with them before the family gets together.  Let them know this is a very sensitive subject and ask them for their help. You will be amazed at how effective Aunt Emma can be in deflecting questions that may be asked. More importantly, you can go to the event confident that Aunt Emma will not be lying in wait for you.

3) Take care of Yourself

It is much easier to deal with the stress of infertility around the holidays if you are well-rested and are eating healthy. “Fatigue makes cowards of us all” (Vince Lombardi) is absolutely true. Make sure you get plenty of sleep.

Plan enough events throughout the month that you always have something to look forward to attending. If all you do is fret about the infertility concerns it will begin to consume you.

4) Make More Plans

We often feel better when we are taking positive action to correct whatever is bothering us. If infertility has given you the holiday blues, do not wait until 2020 before you take positive steps. 

Once you begin this process, you may find your outlook improves. Taking concrete steps will help ease that sadness. After all, you have a plan to address your fertility struggles.

If you would like to discuss your options and begin the process, please click on the link below to set an appointment with one of our fertility specialists.

Now is the time to ensure that your future holidays will be ones that you can celebrate with your own family.

The post Coping with the Infertility Blues during the Holidays appeared first on Pacific Fertility Center.

A number of women who come to our practice experience infertility as a result of blocked fallopian tubes. Getting pregnant in such situations can be near impossible, and potentially dangerous. Let’s take a moment to consider why this condition occurs and how IVF can help.

About Fallopian Tube Obstruction

A fallopian tube blockage refers to cases in which one or both fallopian tubes are obstructed in some manner. When this happens, sperm cannot reach a viable egg waiting to be fertilized.

If sperm does manage to reach the egg, the egg will usually not be able to leave the fallopian tube and implant in the uterus as it naturally would. Should this happen, the egg could implant in the fallopian tube resulting in an ectopic pregnancy, which is potentially life-threatening.

Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

There are numerous causes of fallopian tube blockage. Some of these include:

• Endometriosis – When a woman has endometriosis, the tissue that normally forms within the uterus develops outside the uterus. This can cause cysts and scar tissue to form around the fallopian tubes.
• Fibroids – Fibroids are noncancerous growths that could develop within the fallopian tubes, causing obstructions.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease – Infections of the pelvis could cause scar tissue that leads to obstruction of the fallopian tubes.
• Prior Ectopic Pregnancy – If you have had a past ectopic pregnancy, it could lead to damage and blockage of the fallopian tubes.
• Prior Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery – Surgical procedures can potentially lead to the formation of scar tissue that negatively impacts the fallopian tubes.
• Certain Sexually Transmitted Diseases – STDs such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammation, scar tissue, and obstruction of fallopian tubes.
• Tubal Ligation – A form of permanent birth control, some women have their tubes tied in order to prevent pregnancy.

Why IVF May Be a Good Option

If you suffer from tubal blockage, IVF allows fertility specialists to circumvent the fallopian tubes. This means women can still become pregnant despite issues that they may face.

What Happens During IVF?

During IVF, viable eggs are retrieved from a woman’s body. These eggs are fertilized in a lab setting. When ready, the resulting embryos are transferred to a woman’s uterus to implant and be carried to term.

How Successful Is IVF?

It can vary from patient to patient. According to WebMD, the pregnancy rate for all IVF cycles is somewhere around 27.3 percent. That said, women under 35 typically experience higher rates of success, which is common given the normal nature of fertility.

Is IVF Right for Me?

The best way to find out if IVF is ideal for your needs is to schedule a consultation at our practice. We can discuss the infertility struggles you’ve faced and evaluate your candidacy for fertility treatment.

Learn More About Your Fertility Treatment Options

If you live in the San Fernando Valley and would like to learn more about IVF treatment and if it’s ideal for you, be sure to contact our team of fertility specialists. Pacific Fertility Center can be reached in Los Angeles at (310) 853-1440 and in Glendale at (818) 952-0328.

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