Insurance

Infertility Centers are a great option if you have been diligently trying to get pregnant without much luck. As you can imagine, working hard to have a baby at this stage can be an emotional and expensive experience. In order to help you, here is a brief list of what to look for if you decide to move down this path to conception.

1. Do Some Online Research. Get a clear picture in your head of what the perfect Center will be for you. This will help you get a good feeling in your "gut" when you have found the right Center.

2. Check Insurance Coverage. Infertility treatments can be expensive. Many insurance plans exclude a major portion of coverage for infertility. It is important to seek out a clinic that is very knowledgeable of insurance coverage and has a staff that is well trained in collection procedures. This will assure that you receive maximum coverage for your available insurance.

3. Analyze Technology. Make sure the Center is using advanced technology that has a proven success rate. Implanting embryos can fairly easy but in 10% of the cases targeting the placement of the embryos can be quite challenging due to the shape and size of the uterus. Find out what type of ultrasound is being used. Four-dimensional is state of the art ultrasound that can generate 3-D images in real time. Studies show that this technology does slightly increase pregnancy rates.

4. Make sure the clinic is well-staffed. The Infertility Center should be staffed with Reproductive Endocrinologists, Embryologists, Sonagraphers and Nurses. Pay close attention to the Lab Staff. These are the people that handle your eggs, sperm and embryos. You need to be as assured of their capabilities as you are of the physicians.

5. Analyze the Infertility Center's Track Record. Many Centers tout great records of success. Be sure to compare their success with other Centers you are researching. Most importantly, be sure the Doctors and lab staff, that were responsible for the results, still work there. You also want to be sure that their track record is a good representation of patients in your age group. Results can be skewed favorably if the Center's patients are primarily in their 20s versus a clinic whose patients are primarily in their late 30s early 40s. As you review the track record, make sure that the Center is qualified to treat your specific diagnosis of infertility.

6. Know the Center's rate of multiple births. It may be a good idea to stay away from Centers that have a high rate of twins or triplets. These Centers may show high success rates but they may also be implanting more embryos per patient than suggested guidelines. Not only can this produce a high rate of multiple births, but it can also lead to complications for both mother and child.

7. Compare Costs. Costs for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can be as high as $35,000 per attempt but it has become a very competitive market and prices do vary. Be sure to get a written estimate of all costs including medicines, testing and special circumstances.

There have been many advancements in IVF and Infertility Centers are becoming quite popular. Following these tips should help you find a great Center that is right for you. It will be well worth the time and effort you put in as you work toward your goal of getting pregnant.