In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Getting Started with IVF;
Your IVF Cycle at Carolina Conceptions

Before starting your IVF cycle, Dr. Meyer or Dr.Couchman may recommend a Day 2,3 or 4 FSH , Estradiol or AMH (antimullerian hormone) to evaluate your ovarian functioning, screening labs and an evaluation of your uterine cavity(HSG or saline ultrasound). All of these tests should be performed within 6 months of your IVF cycle start. You will attend an IVF orientation class where we will review each of the procedures you will undergo, including egg retrieval and embryo transfer; as well as other laboratory techniques which you may require such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI), assisted hatching(AH) extended blastocyst culture, embryo freezing, or preimplantation diagnosis(PGD) However the main goal of the class is for the nurses to instruct you on the use of the medication used in IVF.

After registering as an IVF patient, please download a consent form (197k pdf) that you and your partner will need to read and sign. Bring this consent to your orientation class at which time the consents will be completed and witnessed by a member of our staff. If you have any question, please do NOT sign the consents prior to your arrival. Also, prior to your class you will complete a questionnaire pertaining to your IVF.

IVF Screening tests include::

• IVF screening (female) including blood work, PAP smear, and physical examination
• Ovarian reserve testing(see above)
• Uterine lining evaluation(Hydrosonogram of the uterus) cycle day 5-12
• Uterine-mock embryo transfer
• IVF screening (male) including blood work and semen analysis in our IVF laboratory

During this preparatory time, you will also be required to arrange financial counseling by contacting our IVF Financial Counselor to discuss any questions or issues regarding insurance or finances. If your benefits do not cover IVF services, you must also arrange a meeting with her or another member of our staff to review costs and other payment options. All such arrangements must be approved and completed prior to your IVF orientation class.

Following the completion of these steps, we will then assign you the specific injectable medication treatment plan which has been selected for you, and review each phase of it with you, including instruction regarding injection technique, dosage and timing.

Lastly, before your procedures, a final office consultation with your physician is an option should you want to review important aspects of your care—for example, any issues raised in the consent forms, the possible need for intracytoplasmic sperm injection(ICSI), the number of embryos planned for the transfer and whether or not to freeze the embryos.

If you have any questions or concerns, please bring the to our attention promptly. Remember, we are here to make every attempt to help you succeed.

Revised 2-23-07mm