Blog Archive

For LGBTQ+ individuals and couples dreaming of starting a family, the journey to parenthood can be both exciting and daunting. Advances in reproductive technology and more inclusive legal frameworks have significantly expanded the options available. However, navigating the complex world of fertility planning requires careful consideration and preparation. Here's a...

Preconception planning is a crucial phase for any couple or individual considering fertility treatments. It's about preparing your body, mind, and life for the journey ahead—increasing your chances of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby. Here are key steps to take during this vital preparation period. 1. Schedule a...

In today's world, the traditional path to motherhood—finding a partner, getting married, and then having children—is just one of many routes that women can take. As societal norms evolve, more women are embracing their independence and making empowered decisions about when and how they want to start a family. If...

When you're trying to conceive, it feels like every decision you make could impact your chances of pregnancy. While it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, there are specific things you should avoid to increase your fertility and improve your chances of conception. Here are ten crucial things to steer...

Before taking any fertility supplements, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist. They can assess your specific situation, perform necessary tests, and provide personalized advice based on your needs. While some supplements are commonly suggested for fertility, their efficacy varies, and individual...

Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, can offer several benefits during pregnancy. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the development of the baby's brain and eyes, and they provide other health benefits for both the mother and the baby. Here are some potential benefits of fish oil during pregnancy:Brain...

Infertility can affect both men and women. If you're a man seeking guidance on infertility, here are some key points to consider:Consult a Fertility Specialist:If you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success for a significant period (usually a year or more), it's advisable to consult a...

Flying during pregnancy is generally considered safe for most women, but there are certain factors and precautions to keep in mind. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider before making any travel plans, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or specific medical conditions. Here are some general guidelines...

Preparing for in vitro fertilization (IVF) involves both physical and emotional aspects. Here are some general steps to help you prepare for IVF:   Consult with a Fertility Specialist: Schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist. They will assess your medical history, conduct necessary tests, and discuss...

There are several fertility myths that circulate, and it's important to distinguish between misinformation and accurate information. Here are some common fertility myths: Myth: Fertility Issues Only Affect Women: Fact: Both men and women can experience fertility issues. It's essential to consider both partners when exploring the reasons for difficulty...

After an IVF procedure is performed, the Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is a procedure that allows embryos from a previous IVF cycle to be implanted to help the couple achieve the goal of pregnancy.  In this blog we will explore what a Frozen Embryo Transfer is, how it works and...

In vitro fertilization has revolutionized fertility treatments offering hope to couples who desire to concieve.  One component of IVF that emerged as a game changer is Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT).  Learn why Preimplantation Genetic Testing is an important step in the IVF process and how it can benefit you. What...

For many couples struggling with infertily, In vitro fertilization (IVF) offers a ray of hope in their journey to parenthood. IVF has come a long way since its inception in the 1980's and as of today most states have several IVF programs to choose from. Since you have options, it...

The first human birth credited to in vitro fertilization (IVF) occurred in 1978. IVF has since become a highly effective solution for couples struggling with infertility.  INVOcell® is a revolutionary type of infertility treatment that simplifies the IVF process by using the mother’s body rather than a lab to fertilize...

 Infertility is a deeply challenging and emotionally charged issue that affects numerous individuals and couples across the United States. Our award-winning team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, is focused on your overall health, emotional well-being, and success in helping you achieve your goal...

The goal at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is to provide the highest quality infertility services available in a welcoming and stress-free environment that respects your individual needs.   Our team, led by award-winning Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, is proud of its high success rate, since each triumph means we’ve helped...

Reproductive Endocrinologist Deborah Smith, MD, and our fertility specialists at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center in Parker and Englewood, Colorado, have more than 25 years of experience diagnosing and treating infertility. Their medical expertise is complemented by the most advanced technology available and genuine compassion for people struggling to accomplish their...

Dr. Deborah Smith and her team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center have a mission to make dreams come true for people struggling to have children. Nationally recognized for use of the most advanced fertility treatments available and higher-than-average success rate, we’re also passionate about patient-first care. Read what our experts...

Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center are committed to helping you achieve your goal of becoming a parent, whether that’s now or sometime in the distant future. Dr. Smith explains the basics of egg freezing (cryopreservation), who might want to take advantage of...

Dr. Deborah Smith and our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center are well-known for our medical expertise and commitment to personalized care for couples experiencing infertility. Read why INVOcell® meets Dr. Smith’s rigorous standards as an effective fertility treatment that simplifies the process but offers the same high success rate...

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, allows you to delay pregnancy while providing eggs are available when the time is right. Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our Rocky Mountain Fertility Center team are well-known for providing the most advanced infertility studies and treatments available. We’re proud of our excellent success rate and always...

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex process and one of the most effective, thus the most frequently recommended, forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART). But it’s not the only option for people struggling with infertility. Our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, is recognized nationally for...

Advances in technology and technique combined with medical expertise have increased the overall success rate of fertility treatments.  But it’s also true that ancient remedies like acupuncture and other complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies can positively affect your efforts to become pregnant. Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith leads an...

If you’re struggling to become pregnant, you already realize that fertility is more complex than most people recognize. For instance, your body relies on a balance of specific nutrients and hormones to produce healthy, active sperm or viable eggs.  Micronutrients also spur the production of naturally occurring hormones that contribute...

Egg freezing uses advanced technology to freeze and store your eggs when they’re the most viable. It’s one of the many revolutionary services Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our team offer at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center. Read more about egg freezing and why it’s gaining in popularity. Why would...

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine estimates that up to half of women struggling with infertility have endometriosis. Fortunately, treatments that reduce the pain and excessive menstrual bleeding associated with endometriosis can also help restore fertility. Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our award-winning team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center in Parker and Englewood, Colorado, are...

Our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Infertility Specialist and Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, provides state-of-the-art infertility services in a welcoming, patient-focused environment. Thanks to our top-level providers, advanced technology, and commitment to your overall health and well-being, our fertility success rates are among the highest in...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects about 30% of women struggling with irregular periods. Along with changes in your appearance, including excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, weight gain, and difficulty losing weight, PCOS causes hormonal shifts that make it difficult to become pregnant. Our Rocky Mountain Fertility Center team, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah...

Our Rocky Mountain Fertility Center team, led by Infertility Specialist and Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, provides state-of-the-art infertility services in a welcoming, patient-focused environment. We also focus on providing education that helps you make informed decisions about your health and parenting dreams. Read these facts about recurrent pregnancy loss...

Our Rocky Mountain Fertility Center team, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, excels at identifying and assisting you in overcoming the challenges of infertility. Our mission includes increasing your understanding of infertility and the treatments that help you achieve your dreams. Learn the basics about uterine fibroids and how...

Our nationally recognized team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, offers outstanding personalized infertility treatment to people seeking to achieve their dream of becoming parents. Read what this group of highly trained specialists wants you to know about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), your risk factors, and the treatments that can...

Our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, combines the most advanced medical technology with the skills of top-level fertility specialists to help you realize your parenting dreams. We’re also committed to providing personalized patient-focused care, including the information you need to make informed decisions about fertility...

Reproductive Endocrinologist Deborah Smith, MD, and our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center enjoy national recognition for their success at helping people achieve their dream of becoming parents. They accomplish this by combining extensive medical skill and cutting-edge technology with compassionate, patient-focused care that helps eliminate the confusion and stress related to infertility....

Fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) are more successful than ever at helping you realize your dream of becoming a parent. Unfortunately, these therapies are also very expensive and often cost-prohibitive for many would-be moms and dads. Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility...

Our purpose at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is to help you achieve the miracle of parenthood. Led by award-winning Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, our team uses the most sophisticated technology available to accomplish that goal. But we also know that our high success rate comes from blending the team’s...

When you’ve decided to undergo fertility treatments, part of the challenge is remaining realistically optimistic as you undergo a series of evaluations and therapies aimed at helping you become a parent. Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, directed by Reproductive Endocrinologist Deborah Smith, MD, is a full-service fertility clinic and IVF andrology...

For countless women in the United States who are no longer considering pregnancy, tubal ligation has long been a relatively quick, mildly uncomfortable, and simple method of permanent birth control. Sometimes, however, changes in your life cause you to reevaluate that decision. Guidance and evaluation regarding tubal ligation reversal is...

Our team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, is nationally recognized for our innovative technology and high success rates. We’re also well-known for our commitment to providing you the personalized care, support, and information you need as you make choices regarding infertility treatments. Our...

Our Reproductive Endocrinologist, Dr. Deborah Smith, and her award-winning team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center understand that the journey through infertility is often difficult and highly emotional. It’s why our group focuses on providing the most advanced treatments available in a warm and welcoming environment that’s built on a foundation...

Dr. Deborah Smith of Rocky Mountain Fertility Center in Parker, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota, is a top-level Reproductive Endocrinologist whose team enjoys one of the highest success rates in the nation for infertility treatments. The group has also earned an outstanding reputation for developing a patient-friendly environment that...

Led by nationally acclaimed Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, the mission of our specialty team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is to make your dreams of becoming a parent into a reality. We work hard to help you achieve that goal by offering a comprehensive package of infertility services that...

The specialty team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, led by Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith, offers a wide range of highly effective services to people who are struggling with infertility. Our patient-focused care includes state-of-the-art treatments delivered at our beautiful facilities in Parker, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota. As...

In vitro fertilization is used for seemingly irreversible female infertility involving problems with the fallopian tubes, sperm or egg quality. Dr. Deborah Smith is a top-level Reproductive Endocrinologist who leads a team of specialists at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center (RMFC) in Parker, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota. Dr. Smith...

Advancements in technology, along with the medical expertise of nationally recognized Reproductive Endocrinologists like Dr. Deborah Smith of the Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, have increased the popularity and the success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Dr. Smith and our entire team of experts, located in Parker, Colorado, and Rapid...

Dr. Deborah Smith is one of the top rated and experienced fertility specialists in the United States, and she leads our team here at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center. We have offices in Englewood/ Parker, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota, and are proud of our high success rates at helping...

Are you hearing the ticking of your biological clock as you contemplate your future, but find that you’re not yet ready to start your family? Or are you being forced to choose between remaining fertile versus treatment for a serious medical condition such as cancer? Egg freezing may be your...

Most of us declare every year that we aren’t going to let stress interfere with our holidays. And most of us admit afterward that we fell somewhat short of our objective, and so we vow to do better next year. But when your goal is managing holiday stress while you...

Solving the problems of infertility for couples seeking the miracle of parenthood has long been the mission of Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our infertility specialist  team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center (RMFC). Dr. Smith and our dedicated group serve patients from our state-of-the-art facilities in Parker, Colorado, and...

The Office on Women’s Health at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services estimates that about 6.5 million women in the United States have endometriosis. Yet many have no idea they have it until they try to become pregnant and discover it’s one of the leading causes of female...

There’s much you can do to help set the stage for a healthy pregnancy and delivery, but can certain vitamins and supplements really increase your fertility? Dr. Deborah Smith is a highly regarded, board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist with 25+ years of experience in helping individuals achieve their goal of becoming parents....

Patient care and safety have always been the top priority here at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center. Our offices in Parker, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota, are staffed with highly skilled medical professionals who are led by award-winning Reproductive Endocrinologist, Dr. Deborah Smith. Our entire team is expertly trained in...

Fortunately, medical science continues to develop effective treatments that can help you win the battle against cancer. Unfortunately, many of these life-saving therapies can impair your ability to conceive a child and experience a successful pregnancy. Dr. Deborah Smith is an award-winning physician who is board-certified as a Reproductive Endocrinologist...

Deborah Smith, MD is a Reproductive Endocrinologist who leads the team at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center in Parker, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota. Our team of experts delivers evidence-based fertility treatments in a setting founded on the guiding principles of compassionate care. The team’s commitment to excellence has resulted...

Reproductive Endocrinologist Dr. Deborah Smith and our team of specialists at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center are well-known for our comprehensive, innovative, patient-centric approach to fertility treatments. Here’s why Dr. Smith appreciates the simplified process, lower patient cost, and success rate of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure called INVOcell®. What...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of irregular menstrual cycles and infertility is one of the common symptoms of PCOS. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available that can help you overcome the fertility challenges associated with PCOS. At Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, with locations...

Treatment for infertility can be a complex process. Your specialist must first accurately diagnose the cause of your fertility issues and then proceed with a treatment plan that, ideally, results in your goal of delivering a healthy baby. The process can be long and frustrating, however, and there are certain...

Infertility can be a challenging topic to discuss. Couples may face sadness over their fertility problems in starting or growing their families. If you’ve been trying for six months to get pregnant and haven’t succeeded, you should consider seeing a fertility specialist. It may help to know that 13% of...

About 12% of American couples face infertility. It’s a common problem, and the journey can take an emotional toll on many couples. But there are technological advances in today’s infertility medicine that can help. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology that can significantly increase your...

Roughly one in eight couples experience infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) has helped many couples have children. With IVF, an egg is fertilized in a laboratory and then implanted in her uterus. While IVF is safe and effective, the process can be stressful. While you may think stress is just...

IVF ( In Vitro Fertilization) is a medical procedure used to help women/ couples conceive when other treatment modalities have failed. IVF is a technique in which eggs are removed from the woman, fertilized in a petri dish with sperm and the resultant embryos are placed back into the uterus to help...

Anyone who has been trying to conceive for at least a year without any luck might be a good candidate for ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection. ICSI is a type of Assisted Reproductive Technology that has proven successful for many couples who want to have a baby. This is especially...

It is estimated that one out of every 10-15 women suffer from PCOS, which can be a problem if you are trying to get pregnant. PCOS may present with a host of symptoms. If you suspect that you might have this condition, learning more about it and checking out the...

Sometimes, if a couple is having difficulty conceiving, the Colorado reproductive endocrinologist might believe there are indications for a woman to have a laparoscopy. For example, the only way to definitively diagnose endometriosis that may be a cause of infertility is with laparoscopy. In this instance, laparoscopy would be used...

IVF, short for In Vitro Fertilization, and refers to a form of Assisted Reproduction Technology. It is a medical process in which a woman’s egg is fertilized by a male sperm “in vitro” or “outside the body.” IVF may be used in cases of female infertility, as well as male...

Have you been trying to conceive for a while with no results, and wondering if you should consider IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization at a fertility clinic? In fact, IVF is normally not an option unless a couple has been trying to conceive for two years or longer of regular,...

Have you been trying to get pregnant for a while without any luck and would like to get some facts about IVF, such as what affects your chances for successful treatment? IVF, which stands for In Vitro Fertilization, is a widely used treatment for infertility. Usually, IVF is not the...

Many people who are struggling to conceive may be thinking about IVF as an option to help get pregnant and have questions about this treatment. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about IVF. Q. What is IVF? A. IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization and refers to...

Women who are having difficulty conceiving might be wondering how long to wait between In Vitro Fertilization treatments if pregnancy didn’t occur on the first attempt, or unsure about how long to wait before beginning IVF. First of all, you should understand that the answers to these questions are not...

How do you know if you have endometriosis? Millions of women suffer from endometriosis. As a matter of fact, according to the government website for women’s health, more than 5 million women in the United States have this condition, and it is one of the most common health problems among...

ICSI is the one of the best options for treating couples with male factor infertility. ICSI is most often used when the male partner has factors preventing ejaculation (and sperm must be retrieved from the epididymis or testicle) or if the sperm sample demonstrates a low count, low motility and/or...

PCOS affects many women worldwide, and is one of the leading causes of infertility. If you have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive and a doctor has said you have PCOS, you probably have a lot of questions about this condition and how it will affect you. Here are ten of...

For those women who have been procrastinating about starting a family, egg freezing might be a viable option. But, if you decide to go this route, when should you freeze your eggs? Now, or later? More and more women are considering oocyte cryopreservation—or egg freezing—to extend or “reschedule” pregnancy and...

Endometriosis as a condition is an excess of tissue growth (-osis) within the lining of the uterus or womb (endometrium). Endometriosis is when this tissue has grown to encompass surrounding organs or bodily structures, or if the growth of the tissue has progressed outside the womb. The common locations for...

Have you had your tubes tied and now want to get pregnant, but are unsure which is best—tubal reversal or IVF? Women who have had their tubes tied in the past sometimes regret or rethink this decision and wish to become pregnant. Fortunately, most tubal ligation procedures can be successfully...

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a laboratory procedure, used in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF), to reduce the risk of passing on genetic disorders. Some of the most common reasons for PGD is testing embryos for specific disease (such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia) or testing for...

The ability of a Colorado reproductive endocrinologist to treat endometriosis depends on a number of factors. The age of a woman, how far the disease has progressed, the severity of the symptoms being felt, and the decision on whether or not future children are wanted are all major factors determining...

Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that has two separate functions, diagnosis and treat disease. A diagnostic laparoscopy is used to determine the severity of a number of conditions within the body and to figure out why a person is experiencing symptoms. It is performed by inserting a thin, lighted tube into...

For some patients who have their tubes tied as a birth control measure, there may later be a decision in life to want to have children again. This raises the question – is it possible to have the tubal ligation procedure reversed to be able to achieve pregnancy? The answer...

The technique of oocyte cryopreservation has been a breakthrough option for women/ couples who are either unable, or not ready, to conceive at this time. Vitrification, also known as egg freezing, is the process in which an oocyte (egg) is extracted, frozen, and stored in an oocyte bank to be...

FSH, or Follicle Stimulating Hormone, is produced within the pituitary gland of the body and plays a large role in the fertility of an individual. FSH has different effects in the two sexes and is a key hormone in the production of reproductive material. Measuring the amounts of FSH in...

IVF is a process used for those couples who are having complications with natural conception and have chosen to receive assistance. Often this option is only chosen in instances where the couples have exhausted many of the other fertility drugs or surgical options. For many the IVF process has been...

Assisted hatching is a technique used primarily to assist those couples who have had one or more failed IVF cycles in the past. Often, these failed cycles have occurred as a result of the embryo failing to implant within the uterus. For women who have a poor prognosis for their...

For patients who undergo an in vitro fertilization cycle there is an increased chance of having twins or a multiple pregnancy with treatment. For those who undergo an IVF treatment cycle there is an approximately 30-75% chance of achieving pregnancy with an approximately 35% chance of having twins, and a...

Recurrent pregnancy loss is a surprisingly common occurrence, effecting 4-5% of the female reproductive age population.. Approximately 15% to 20% of all clinically recognized pregnancies end in spontaneous miscarriage. Traditionally, a woman is not diagnosed as having recurrent pregnancy loss until she has lost at least two pregnancies. While it...

PCOS affects an estimated 5 million women in the United States alone and is one of the main causes for female infertility, as well as sub-fertility. If you have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive and were diagnosed with PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, you may appreciate some information about what...

Endometriosis is a common condition that affects millions of American women every year. If you have been diagnosed with this disease and want to become pregnant, it is important for you to know it may cause difficulty for you to achieve pregnancy. Unfortunately—yes, it can affect your fertility and ability...

To understand how the ovarian reserve affects a woman’s fertility, you must first understand what the reserve is. The ovarian reserve is the entire collection of eggs that her body can provide as potential embryos for fertilization. These eggs are resting in a premature state, and depending on the quality...

Once a patient has decided to do IVF the infertility doctor will develop a treatment plan. This plan often uses a combination of oral contraceptives, and fertility hormones to stimulate the ovary to make multiple eggs. Once stimulation is started the fertility patient will present to the fertility doctor every...

Could the technique known as Assisted Hatching help you to conceive? Assisted hatching is sometimes used in women undergoing IVF who have failed to conceive after multiple IVF attempts.  Assisted hatching is typically done if a day 2 or 3 embryos transfer is performed.  Women who have had multiple failed...

PGD, or pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, is used to check an embryo prior to use within a Denver IVF cycle for any potential genetic defects present. There are three separate stages of embryo progression in which the testing is done, each with a unique purpose for testing at that stage. A POLAR BODY...

Medical therapy used to help produce the development of eggs is known as ovulation induction. A large number of women undergo ovulation induction therapy every year with great success, as the medical therapy triggers the development of more than one viable egg during the cycle. The treatment is designed to...

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most commonly known assisted reproductive technology, or ART. IVF is a procedure where the egg and sperm are combined together outside of the female’s body, and then placed in the woman’s uterus or fallopian tube. It’s a relatively expensive and extensive procedure, but IVF...

Egg Freezing: How it Works Egg freezing may be an option if you want to have a baby in the future, but would prefer to postpone it for a few years.  Women who wish to postpone childbearing due to cancer therapy, advancing age with no male partner or those who...

If your fertility specialist has recommended ICSI, you may be wondering what is involved with the process of IVF with ICSI. First of all, what is ICSI? ICSI stands for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection. The sperm are literally injected into the egg, with the goal of fertilization of the egg, good...

If you have been diagnosed with endometriosis and want to get pregnant, you might appreciate answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about this disease that affects between 5-6 million women in the U.S. annually. Endometriosis may have many symptoms and is one of the main causes...

For those parents or partners who want to bring a life into the world, there is no fault in wanting to test the potential embryo for any and all potential defects. The most often used method for this screening is a combination of PGD (Preimplantation genetic diagnosis) and PGS (Pre-implantation...

There are a number of potential complications arising from having an in vitro fertilization, and they are very similar to the risks associated with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ISCI). Each of these treatment options can potentially increase the risk of a patient contracting ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, or of having multiple pregnancies...

For those women who have been diagnosed as having a diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), conception may be rather difficult without the help of a fertility specialist. Diminished ovarian reserve is defined as a large reduction in the ability of the ovary to produce good quality eggs. Reasons include advanced maternal...

A basic infertility evaluation consists of gathering a thorough medical history and conducting a medical examination. Your fertility specialist will ask a number of questions to help determine the cause of infertility.  Medical, lifestyle, surgical, gynecological and obstetric history will be all be gathered, as well as a complete review...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder related to a woman’s hormones. The syndrome commonly causes the ovaries to become enlarged and to develop cysts on the outer edges. Although these cysts do not occur in all instances, this disorder occurs in women of almost any reproductive age. PCOS is...

Spontaneous miscarriages are not rare. Rather, they are quite common. Out of every 100 fertilized eggs, only 20 to 25 pregnancies actually come to term. When a woman finds out that she’ll become a mom, it is usually the best moment of her life. Then the first problem comes in...

There can be many factors that cause infertility in women. The female reproductive system is delicate, and there are many factors that alter conception and maintenance of a pregnancy. Conception and pregnancy, sometimes, are more difficult for women with certain illnesses. Ovulation Disorders Ovulation disorders are conditions like PCOS, hypothalamic...

Couples should be concerned that they have an infertility problem if they have tried to conceive for 6 months unsuccessfully.  At the six month mark women over 35 should see a specialist immediately and those under 35 should get an Ovulation predictor kit and start paying attention to their health...

Approximately 20 percent of couples are infertile. This means they aren’t able to conceive a child even though they’ve had frequent, unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or longer. In about half of these couples, male infertility plays a role. For a man to produce sperm, many complex systems have...

To understand fertility, one must understand the female menstrual cycle. What is the menstrual cycle? Basically, it is the body’s monthly preparation for getting pregnant. The Menstrual Cycle Typically for most women between the 11th and 21st day  (day 1 is the first day of bleeding) of the menstrual cycle,...

The growing population may be a cause for concern in some countries, but there are millions of infertile couples across the world struggling to have a baby. It’s not just women who have been facing the problem of infertility. Modern day lifestyle has adversely impacted the fertility of men as...

Menstruation and Ovulation Every month a woman menstruates. This is what happens if a woman doesn’t conceive. About two weeks before menstruation, the egg in the woman’s ovaries starts to develop. A woman is born with her eggs for the expanse of her life, and generally, one is only released every...

An Infertility evaluation is performed when a couple has been trying to conceive for 1 year and have been unsuccessful despite having regular intercourse (or after 6 months if the female partner is over 35). An infertility evaluation will include an detailed medical history, a limited physical exam, a Gynecologic...

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is procedure used to treat sperm-related infertility problems. This process is performed by a single sperm being harvested, and inserting it into a fully developed egg. If the egg fertilizes and develops into a good quality embryo it will be inserted into the woman’s uterus. ICSI...

There are times when a couple can’t get pregnant by themselves. They can, and often do, go to a fertility doctor for help. Denver fertility specialists are trained to assist couples who experience difficulties with conception. It’s a long arduous process that can take a very long time to complete,...

One of the main signs that a complication in ovulation has arisen is when women to begin having irregular periods, if not missing them altogether. Infertility in women contributes to only about one-third of the overall number of infertile couples. AGE One common cause of infertility within women is the...

The Menstrual Cycle If fertilization does not occur, the egg – together with the endometrium (lining of the uterus) – are excreted in the form of bleeding. This bleeding is called menstruation (period).The menstrual cycle is an interval between two periods. The distance between two menstrual cycles is most frequent...

Oocyte vitrification, is when a woman’s eggs are frozen for later use in fertility treatments. The frozen specimen is often an immature egg known as an oocyte. The oocyte vitrification procedure is considered experimental. The Oocyte Vitrification Procedure The process of vitrification involves processing the oocyte with an increasingly stronger...

Couples who have unsuccessfully been trying to get pregnant for over a year should consider testing to discover the cause. Whereas the issue of infertility used to be blamed on the female, it is now known that men account for 50% of all infertility. Tests for infertility should begin immediately,...

A third of the cases of infertility in couples are due to male fertility factors. Typical causes of male infertility range from physical to psychological issues; lifestyle choices are also known to impact male reproductive health. Male infertility typically falls under the following eight broad classes: 1. Hormonal Imbalance Hormones that...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a female hormonal imbalance commonly observed during a woman’s reproductive years. The ovaries appear enlarged in most cases with the presence of multiple cysts on the exterior. Alternative names of this condition are polycystic ovaries, polycystic ovary disease, Stein-Leventhal syndrome and polyfollicular ovarian disease. Prevalence...

Thanks to evolving technology, that biological clock most women are warned to fear is ticking less loudly these days. If you’d like to stop that dreaded tick-tock, you can freeze your healthy eggs until you’re ready for parenthood. Deborah Smith, MD is a Reproductive Endocrinology and fertility specialist, with offices...

Before you panic about not being able to get pregnant, it’s important to consider and try all the easiest ways of improving fertility first. After all, why jump straight to expensive, invasive procedures if you can get pregnant by adjusting a few things in your life? We understand your frustration,...

When couples aren’t able to conceive a baby on their own, it’s important to understand what is really going on. Whether the man has a low sperm count, or the woman has eggs that aren’t viable, fully understanding the issue helps us find the best treatment options. If a woman...

When couples can’t conceive, they have to look at the specific issue they have and go from there. Some couples can’t conceive due to poor egg quality. Sometimes, due to heredity or disease, a woman may not have eggs at all. In the past, this meant that she was destined...

After trying to get pregnant for months or even years, you may start to look into every fertility treatment under the sun. Some of them may be little more than old wives tales, while others have the blessing of your doctor. Acupuncture is one of those treatments that use to be considered...

If you’re ready to have a baby, but aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Before you go down the road of fertility treatments, it’s important to try as much as you can to improve your fertility. The following tips may help you conceive, or simply...

If you’re between the ages of 20 and 35, you might be starting to wonder about what your future looks like. Are you working hard at a job you love? Thinking of having kids, but just not yet? Freezing your eggs can be a good option for peace of mind,...

Whenever someone famous comes out to say they’ve frozen their eggs, or been upfront about getting plastic surgery, we notice there’s a buzz about that specific topic. But, just because someone famous is freezing their eggs, it doesn’t mean that it’s a good idea for you, too. Though, we must admit...

What do you do if you know you want to have a baby someday, but you aren’t sure that everything will line up just right when that time comes? If you’re not sure you will be able to have children in the future, either due to situation or illness, you...

We at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center are proud to offer flexible financing options. We know what it’s like to first look into fertility treatment and how much it costs. There’s so much information on how to finance your infertility care that it can be a little intimidating and overwhelming. But we’re...

Infertility affects thousands of couples in the United States. Fortunately, you have numerous options available to improve your chances of getting pregnant. Low sperm count or unhealthy sperm are common problems for men who want to have children. Here are some tips for improving the quality of your sperm. HOW SPERM...

Approximately one in four women decide to have tubal ligations during their lifetimes. The procedure is most often performed after childbirth, although some women do have the surgery at other life stages. The choice to have tubal ligation is made when a woman feels that she has had her last...

An estimated four out of ten adults in the United States rely on complementary and alternative medicine to improve their health and quality of life. Therapies that were once found only in day spas are not offered through some of the country’s top medical research facilities, such as Johns Hopkins, Yale and...

Fibroids are very common. In fact, 30% of women by age 40 will have uterine fibroids. Not all uterine fibroids are symptomatic. You might have uterine fibroids and not even know it. Only, some fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage or infertility. Here is a basic overview of what...

The full connection between stress and fertility is still unknown, but studies suggest your stress level certainly plays a role in your ability to get pregnant. Pregnancy is far more likely to occur for couples that feel happy and relaxed versus those who feel anxious and tense. For instance, reducing...

The majority of miscarriages are due to genetic or chromosomal abnormalities and are random occurrences. The abnormality may be caused by the sperm, the egg, or the early embryo. Research estimates that 30-60% of all conceptions will end before 12 weeks gestation. Interestingly, half of the time the woman has...

When it comes to getting pregnant, there are many ways to boost your fertility beyond having intercourse during ovulation. Weight control, eating habits, and avoiding harmful chemicals are just a few of the ways you can boost your egg quality and ultimately your fertility. WEIGHT CONTROL Your weight prior to conception is...

10% of American women are affected by polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, making this health condition more common than one may imagine. The cause of PCOS is not well understood and still a subject of debate.  Researchers believe that as many as half of all women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome...

Parker, CO September 7, 2017 – A select few of physicians were honored with the prestigious 2016 Patients’ Choice Award, and this year includes Dr. Deborah Smith. Only doctors who received top ratings and reviews by their patients are awarded Vitals Patients’ Choice Award. With over 8 million ratings and...

When you are ready to conceive and find you are having trouble the struggle to conceive can quickly become overwhelming. Many couples begin to feel worried about not conceiving after just a few months of trying. As a fertility center, our job is to help couples conceive through appropriate medical...

It seems that getting pregnant is something that happens naturally; so naturally for most women that, when month after month passes without conception, a couple may be taken completely by surprise. We have been led to believe that a couple can conceive pretty much at will. Not so. The fact...

Certain fertility issues are easy to pinpoint and treat while others are more evasive. Before you choose to pursue fertility treatments, there are specific ways you can boost your fertility without medical help. Before scheduling a fertility specialist visit, consider how the following suggestions might help increase your fertility. EAT HEALTHY...

Infertility can affect people regardless of age, gender and marital status. In fact, there are millions of couples worldwide who struggle with infertility. Some of the most common fixable lifestyle causes of infertility in both men and women include: Obesity. Besides other health problems like diabetes, obesity can be a contributing...

Elective SET Selective embryo transfer (SET) is an option for many couples who are at risk for transmitting an inherited condition. After embryos are produced via standard in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, 1-2 cells are removed from each embryo to evaluate the disorder. Each embryo has only 6-10 cells, so...

Avoid Substance Abuse For men, smoking cigarettes and marijuana reduces sperm count and motility, and also increases the risk for abnormal sperm. In addition, smoking affects cells in the testes that produce testosterone. Anabolic steroids will increase production of certain reproductive hormones and reduce fertility. Cocaine will interfere with sperm...

The field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has come a long way in the last four decades. Around 1% of babies in the United States are conceived using in vitro fertilization (IVF), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This process allows an egg to be fertilized outside...

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a medical procedure used for couples who face fertility problems. During their lifetime, 10% of couples face some type of fertility issue. IVF is one of the most common forms of assisted reproductive technology (ART). The IVF procedure has many advantages for a couple with...

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT WHILE TALKING WITH YOUR ON BUILDING FAMILY WITH EGG DONATION? You will have years of inspirational conversation with your kid. You will be able to instill the ability in them that you will tell truth and you will find that they respond in kind. They know...

Why is laparoscopy done? The fertility specialist in Denver may suggest laparoscopic surgery to diagnosed the cause of female infertility. This procedure is performed after other testing is completed. The doctor may suggest a laparoscopy to determine your source of pain for clients with symptoms of endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, or...

Infertility is a condition resulting from abnormal functioning of the female or male reproductive system. This condition is defined by the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse (six months for women age 35 years and older), or by the inability to carry a pregnancy to live birth....

At our state-of-the-art IVF Denver facility, we offer a wide variety of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) that help clients achieve pregnancy. The most common method is in vitro fertilization (IVF), which is often combined with other techniques, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), and assisted hatching...

Stop struggling to conceive, have donor’s egg and go through the gestational process now! Many women face difficulty in having their own babies due to eggs. Therefore, a donor’s egg is a ray of hope for those infertile women and a best chance to become pregnant. With the help of...

  There may be a number of reasons for women not able to conceive. However, even till yesterday, there were no other steps to have a baby, but today everything has changed with the advanced science and technology. Thanks to science who has found out the ways to fuse sperms...

What Is Embryo Grading? After the fertilization of oocytes with sperm in the IVF lab , the fertilized eggs (embryos) are stored in the laboratory for about 5 days before being implanted into the uterus. Before the transfer, the embryos are first “graded”  to select the best ones that can be...

Starting a family by conceiving a baby is a common need of most couples worldwide. The joy and happiness of being a parent is unparalleled. Unfortunately, the path to achieve this dream may be riddled with hurdles for some couples or individuals. Unsolvable fertility issues might spell disaster on the...

What Is Semen Analysis? Semen analysis is a process used to measure the quality and quantity of sperm in a man’s semen. The test is also referred as the sperm count. Normal Results of the Semen Analysis The following are some of the standard values found after carrying out a semen...

Conceiving a baby to start a family is a dream of most couples. However, unfortunately, some are faced with extreme hurdles in the way of conceiving due to infertility issues. Assisted reproductive technologies using a donor egg is one of the ways to cross such hurdles. Here, a woman (known...

What is Evaluation of Ovarian Reserve? Ovarian Reserve is the medical terminology for tests to evaluate the quality of a woman’s eggs and quantity of remaining eggs.  As women age their ovarian reserve declines.  Some women with infertility will have a premature decline in their ovarian reserve that leads to difficulty...

WHAT IS EGG DONATION? In egg donation, a woman donates her egg which is fertilized with the male sperm of in a laboratory dish. The fertilized egg is then implanted into the uterus of the female recipient where it grows to take shape of a foetus. WHAT IS AN EMBRYO DONATION?...

If you are contemplating becoming an egg donor, congratulations on the rewarding experience that you are about to be a part of! Your decision to donate your eggs is going to make a childless couple somewhere the happy recipient of your egg, if you are found suitable for the procedure....

What is Hysteroscopy? Hysteroscopy is a method that allows a Denver fertility doctor to look inside the uterus to help treat and diagnose any cause of abnormal bleeding, recurrent miscarriages or infertility. It is performed using a thin, lighted tube (hysteroscope) inserted into the vagina to get a clear view...

What Is Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)? During Frozen Embryo Transfer process, healthy embryos from IVF cycle can be frozen and stored for future use. Once a patient is ready to have a child, the embryos are thawed and transferred directly to the uterus at the appropriate time of the menstrual cycle....

Trying to unsuccessfully start a family may be one of the most stressful times in a couple’s life. When the reality means seeking outside help, the pressure increases. Along with daily life and responsibilities, a whole new set of worries and fears begin. Sex, children and money can create negativity...

Premature ovarian failure also referred to as “primary ovarian insufficiency” occurs when the ovaries are unable to function properly before you hit the age of 40 years. Once the ovaries fail, they are unable to produce the correct amounts of estrogen hormone or release good quality eggs regularly. The result...

What Is Genetic Screening? Genetic screening is a process used to examine a patient DNA, which is a chemical compound that carries details of your body’s functions. This process can reveal any changes or alterations that may be found in your genes which may cause diseases or illness. Genetic screening gives...

Uterine Septum (also known as Septate uterus) is a condition where the uterus gets an extra wedge of tissue known as the septum that hangs from the top. The septum can be a little bit small, or it can extend all the way to the cervix dividing the uterus into...

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is a simple screening test carried out to determine if there are chromosomal or genetic disorders present in the embryos. This is performed through a procedure known as the IVF (in vitro fertilization). The embryos are first screened before being transferred directly into the uterus to...

What is Clomiphene? Clomiphene helps stimulate the release of hormones needed for ovulation. The clomiphene therapy is usually taken for five consecutive days during the early menstrual cycle. Only 80% of anovulatory women will ovulate on Clomiphene and sometimes finding the right dosage for ovulation stimulation may take a couple...

Child birth is one of the greatest moments in life for any mother or father. However, there are a few ‘want to be’ mothers, who are unable to naturally conceive a baby because of some biological issues in their body. These women practically have bad or low quality ‘eggs’ in them. But,...

What is Artificial Insemination? Artificial Insemination is a method used to treat different kinds of infertility in both women and men. During this procedure, the sperm is introduced into a woman’s cervix, uterus or fallopian tubes. This shortens the trip covered by the sperm, eliminating any potential obstructions. IUI or...

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome is a problem that occurs in women who use fertility medicines that help to stimulate egg production. In simple terms, it is the swelling of the ovaries and abdomen after use of injectable hormones medications that are used during IVF or IUI treatments. This condition can lead...

What Is Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)? Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a natural hormone that is used in the development of egg (follicles) that is produced in the ovaries. It is also useful in sperm development. When Is FSH Used? Follicle Stimulating Hormone should be used for benefits such as; To stimulate...

Have you ever wondered how egg donation exactly works? If yes, read on to learn more, and if you’re completely unaware of the procedure, read on for the knowledge. The very first step for an egg donor is to apply to an egg donation program, and go through an initial...

Every couple at one time or another wants to have a baby and as a matter of fact we usually think that it an easy process. When at school we used to attend the sex education classes we used to think getting pregnant is pretty easy however it’s not that...

The internet is a hugely popular way for people to find out information. We are very quick to ‘Google’ for answers, especially now that so many people have smart phones and instant access to thousands of answers to one question. Using the internet can be a good thing because of...

If you’re thinking about having fertility treatments such as IVF to start your family, you may be worried about how you will pay for it. Health insurance can play a part in financing your treatment but how much it will pay out varies enormously from state to state and even...

In vitro fertilization – the process by which an egg is fertilized by combining it with sperm in a laboratory, and the embryo transplanted to the mother’s uterus – is typically done using the mother’s own eggs. But a number of infertility conditions may make it difficult or impossible to...

Up to 47% of infertility problems are caused by male factors such as obstruction of the vas deferens, ejaculation failure, or hormonal deficiencies. When this is the case, couples who are having difficulty conceiving may be helped by intrauterine insemination of sperm collected from the woman’s partner. A semen specimen...

Recurrent miscarriage is defined as two or more miscarriages in a row. When a woman has recurrent miscarriage, she can feel overwhelmed by the feeling of hopelessness. But the fact is, many women who have recurrent miscarriages go on to have successful pregnancies. About one out of 100 women will...

During the journey of dealing with infertility, maintaining your emotional health is just as important as taking care of yourself physically. Every day can be an emotional struggle, and for that reason it’s important to have tools for keeping your spirits up. Here are five ways to help you deal...

INTRAUTERINE INSEMINATION (IUI) IUI is one of the many therapies that are currently available to treat infertility, and it can also be used to treat women who have mild endometriosis, dysfunctional ovulation, and male factor or cervical factor infertility. For women who are ovulating normally, IUI can be used for...

   1. Take time to plan Before you decide to begin infertility treatments, it’s important to set out your plan and goals. It’s important to know how far you are willing to go with treatment – are you prepared to try medications but not ready to try surgery? Your opinion may change...

Being diagnosed with infertility can be as difficult for a man as for a woman. For many, it can be emotionally devastating and lead to feelings of weakness or powerlessness. Facing the idea that one may be unable to father a child can be extremely difficult. And unfortunately, not all male...

Ovulation induction is the use of medication to help follicles develop in the ovaries of women.  Follicles are – the parts of the ovary where eggs mature –   Ovulation induction is often used in women who do not ovulate on their own, this is called anovulation.   There are various causes...

Fertility treatments have undergone nothing short of a revolutionary series of advancements since the first successful in vitro fertilization in 1977. In the past decade, a number of hurdles to infertility that were previously thought to be insurmountable have been solved. One of the major watersheds in this field was...

Ovulatory dysfunction (OD) is a term that describes a number of different conditions that all have the same outcome: irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation altogether. The primary symptom of OD is a history of irregular menstrual cycles. In healthy women menstrual cycles occur regularly every 27 to 30 days...

Infertility is a problem that many people face every year, and it may be caused by a number of reasons. When infertility is due to the mother or father being unable to produce viable eggs or sperm, third party parenting is an option. Third party parenting describes pregnancies that are...

Insurance coverage is one of the more challenging issues faced by couples dealing with infertility. Following passage of the Affordable Care Act, insurance mandates for infertility treatments depend on which state you live in. The ACA itself does not require insurance providers to cover infertility treatments, although the following states...

Infertility affects about ten percent of couples in the United States. About one in three cases are due to female infertility factors, and about half are due to a combination of female infertility and male infertility factors. There are a number of reasons why a woman may have infertility problems....

Dysfunctional menstruation and heavy bleeding during menstruation are typically caused by hormonal imbalances but may also occur because of previous complications with pregnancy, illness, or infection. Dysfunctional menstruation does not mean bleeding that is caused by miscarriage, fibroids, cervical or uterine cancer, or anemia. There are two kinds of dysfunctional...

1. Build a supportive network.  Infertility is not something that is easily faced alone. Whether your personal network includes a supportive partner, family, friends, or other parents struggling with infertility, it’s important to have. Communicating with and learning from your network will help make your process easier.   2. Try yoga/...

In vitro fertilization – the process by which an egg is fertilized by combining it with sperm in a laboratory, and the resultant embryo transplanted to the mother’s uterus – is typically done using the mother’s own eggs. But a number of infertility conditions may make it difficult or impossible to...

IN VITRO FERTILIZATION (IVF) WITH ICSI In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure in which an egg and sperm are manually combined in a laboratory dish. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the mother’s uterus and hopefully a pregnancy results. IVF is used to treat infertility caused by a...

Up to 30% of infertility problems are caused by male factors such as obstruction of the vas deferens, ejaculation failure, genetic problems, poor semen quality or hormonal deficiencies. When this is the case, couples who are having difficulty conceiving may be helped by intrauterine insemination using donor sperm.  However the most common reason women use...

FEELING LOSS Most couples assume that if they live a decent life and do their best and are kind and loving to each other – they will be blessed with a child. To find out that you have infertility issues can blow all of that out of the water. You...

Fibroids typically do not affect pregnancy. The majority of them are small and located in an area of the uterine cavity that does not adversely impact pregnancy. It is estimated that 10-30% of women have fibroids. Uterine polyps and fibroids are induced by hormones, and are benign. Although they are...

There are many chemicals, toxins, and substances that pose a threat to male fertility. Heavy metals, like lead and cadmium, are being researched because these tend to accumulate in the body and lead to fertility issues. Also, there is the possibility that environmental pollutants could damage male fertility. Many public...

The general testing procedure for male infertility begins with a visit to the urologist or fertility doctor. During the initial evaluation, a patient’s complete medical and reproductive histories are noted. Questions are asked about one’s sexual life, past infections, surgeries and chronic or genetic conditions. Physical Exam A physical examination...

Women, who are unable to conceive by natural means, may be prescribed fertility medications to increase their likelihood of conceiving. However, some past studies had associated the use of fertility medications with an increased risk for developing breast cancer. Recently, a large study concluded that there was no such link...

Fertility drugs are medications that work by causing the release of hormones in the female human body. Once these hormones are released, they can jump start ovulation, or in some cases, regulate it back to normal. These drugs are the primary treatment for women who have ovulation problems. The medicine...

A blockage of a fallopian tube can prevent an egg from reaching the sperm, and a fertilized egg may not reach the uterus due to a blockage. Many times, people will seeksurgery for this infertility issue if the location of the blockage in fallopian tube is not operable. There are...

With increasing numbers of young female survivors following cytotoxic cancer treatments, the issue of fertility preservation is ever more important. This is due to ovarian aging and cytotoxic treatments, since these are the most common causes for fertility loss in women. One recent study shows that phthalates (chemicals found in...

A fertilized egg needs to attach itself to the uterine lining for normal pregnancy to ensue. Ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus, typically within the Fallopian tubes. Pregnancy resulting from attachment of the fertilized egg to the tube is also known as tubal pregnancy. The...

Endometriosis is a medical condition caused by the abnormal growth of the uterine lining, also known as the endometrium. Most commonly, endometriosis occurs in the Fallopian tubes, ovaries, the other side of the uterus, bowel and pelvic regions; rarely, endometriosis may be detected beyond the pelvic region as well (e.g....

Intrauterine insemination (IUI), a method of artificial insemination, requires the placement of concentrated semen into a woman’s uterus to help conception. The timing of insemination is planned based on the woman’s ovulation schedule in order to increase the chances of success. IUI offers several advantages to couples who are experiencing...

Couples who are unable to conceive after 1 year of contraceptive-free intercourse are considered infertile. However, if a woman is over 35 years of age, and is unable to conceive after 6 months of contraceptive-free intercourse, she may consider fertility treatment. With advanced age of the female, her fertility declines,...

Advancements in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) have made it possible for gay men and lesbian couples to have biologically related children. In particular, third party assisted reproduction, such as surrogacy, has enabled gay couples to fulfill their dreams of starting a family. It is estimated that 1 – 9 million...

Modern societal demands have led couples to delay their child-bearing age into the 30s and 40s. It is known that fertility of a woman declines with her age. Thirty five years is the typical timeframe for women, after which risks of infertility, pregnancy complications and fetal abnormalities tend to rise....

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are benign (non-cancerous) uterine growths. These typically appear in women during her childbearing years, and affect up to 1 in 5 women. Fibroids are rarely found in women under 20 years of age. Uterine fibroids do not increase a woman’s likelihood of...

Can the psychological effects of stress contribute to conception difficulties? This is an ongoing question that researchers and physicians are trying to figure out based on existing medical evidence. It is estimated that as much as 30% of all infertility cases may be controlled by stress factors. It is generally...

According to the National Survey of Family Growth, CDC (2006 – 2010), approximately 1 in every 8 couples experiences difficulty in getting pregnant. It is reported that around a third of the infertility cases are due to female factors, another one-third is attributable to the male partner, and the remaining...

Pregnancy loss or miscarriage is the natural loss of pregnancy prior to 20 weeks of gestation, commonly occurring by 13 weeks of gestation. It is estimated that 10 – 25 % of all pregnancies result in pregnancy loss. The symptoms include back pain, pinkish vaginal discharge, bleeding while pregnant, contractions,...

The process of human reproduction is remarkable in its complexity. Broadly divided into the stages of ovulation, fertilization and implantation, human reproduction embodies multi-levels of challenges and medical wonders. Ovulation The human ovary comprises of millions of follicles, hundreds of which will develop during a woman’s lifetime. During each menstrual...

There are over 400 fertility clinics across the US, and therefore choosing the right clinic may seem frustrating to some. Many couples find fertility clinics in their locality by word of mouth. Recommendations from a friend or relative, who has previously used such services, provide a good starting point. Also,...

It is reported that as many as 1 in 8 couples in the US are faced with fertility problems, leading to an inability to conceive. Although many of these cases may benefit from IVF treatment, in my practice, I have seen many couples back away from the same. In their...

Tubal ligation is a method of birth control for women. The Fallopian tubes are blocked by clamping or sealing to prevent pregnancy. A woman’s egg needs to pass through the Fallopian tubes to meet the sperm, and thereafter enter the uterus following fertilization. Once the Fallopian tubes are “tied”off, the...

Oocyte or egg cryopreservation is the process of extracting and freezing eggs until the time is ready for their use. During assisted reproductive technology procedures, the frozen eggs can be thawed out, fertilized in vitro and transferred to the recipient’s womb for pregnancy to ensue. Egg cryopreservation can benefit women...

A woman’s best ovulation time is 12 to 16 days before her next menstrual period starts and around five to 12 days after her last period stops. Every woman is different, so it’s up to the woman to find out the best time for ovulating if she is trying to...

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures may require the transfer of embryos to a woman’s uterus to start a pregnancy. Embryo transfer from the laboratory to a woman’s womb is an important step, and choosing the optimal number of embryos will help prevent medical complications. The transfer of many embryos can...

Getting your body mass index (BMI) close to the normal range value will improve your chances of becoming pregnant. It will assure a healthy pregnancy as well. BMI is a calculation based on your weight and height. A normal BMI range is 19 to 25, a range of 25 to...

WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS? Endometriosis is when functional endometrial tissue that is found outside the uterus.  In the ovary, it is referred to as an endometrioma, and in the uterine myometrium, it is called an adenomyosis. The most common sites endometriosis is found are on the ovaries and behind the uterus....

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a method for detecting genetic defects in fertilized embryos obtained through in vitro fertilization (IVF).  PGD is performed when either one or both parents of the embryo are known to carry a genetic disorder. On the other hand, preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) refers to the...

Louise Brown, the first “test tube baby,” was born in July 1978 at the Oldham General Hospital, Greater Manchester, UK. This marked the first successful human birth through in vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF is a part of assisted reproductive technology which enables the fertilization of an egg by sperm in...

Having problems with conception when deciding to start a family, can be quite difficult for a couple. Understanding what exactly is wrong, what treatment to consider, and how to go about choosing the right options all are important. Try to be open to fertility evaluations and necessary investigations at a...

Women are changing from their conventional roles and constantly evolving in terms of what they do and how they make the choices in their life. However, not all of the changes in lifestyle are positive, and sometimes, this can result in problems with conception. It is important to know and...

Age and fertility are two topics that are connected, and they tend to be the subject of much discussion. With changes in lifestyle, environment, and much more, age 25 is the new 35 and women in their 20s are rushing to find out what they need to do to make...

Deciding to have a baby is a huge decision, and when the process doesn’t go as planned, it can be quite stressful for the couple. For men, in particular, issues relating to virility or fertility are extremely difficult to cope with and discuss. However, if you plan to start a...

If you are a smoker and are thinking of starting a family soon, then the best path to take is to quit right away. Don’t keep telling yourself you can do it after the baby is born (males) or as soon as you get pregnant (females). The point is to...

Deciding to proceed with in vitro fertilization (IVF) in order to conceive can be quite an emotional and exciting decision. Understanding what to expect from the IVF process will leave you better prepared to tackle what lies ahead. IVF is generally considered when other attempts at conception have failed. However,...

Everyone is more or less aware of what needs to be done to become pregnant. Once the baby is conceived, many couples read books and articles to ensure the baby is safe and healthy while in the uterus. However, in the fast paced world we live in, we often forget...

What is infertility? Infertility refers to an inability to get pregnant after trying for a year in women under 35 or after 6 months of trying in women over 35 years of age. Is infertility a common condition? According to the National Center for Health, statistics have shown that 20%...

Generally, one egg is released in a normal female menstrual cycle once each month, when a woman is having regular periods. Human menopausal gonadotropins (HMG) are used in “superovulation”  (also called ovarian stimulation) to increase the number of eggs to be released/ made during a given cycle.  By creating more...

There are many myths concerning egg donation. Many are told in order to scare parents from using this method of parenting. Many times, myths stem from “truths” but exaggerated and twisted into something completely different. Here is a list of myths and truths concerning egg donation. Myth #1: Mother and...

Using donor eggs can be a hard decision to make. Many infertile couples chose egg donation as their last resort, other women come in requesting to use an egg donor due to their age, poor egg quality or known history of a genetic disorder. Usually by the time most couples...

Why do we care so much about celebrities and their infertility secrets? It’s probably not so much about their infertility secrets as it is about what they are doing in general. We are interested in what they do because we use a commonality of comparison of famous people and ourselves....

There are a few basic things that we do know about egg donors. They are women usually between the ages of 21 to 30. They donate eggs in order to help people to become parents. There are other things about egg donors that most people don’t know. Number 1: They...

1: Definitions There are a few definitions regarding in vitro fertilization (IVF) that you need to understand. These include: IVF is joining an egg and sperm together in a laboratory dish.IVF Denver COIVF means “outside the body.”For egg donors, IVF is a means of providing a couple or person with...

Treating infertility in women can be a complicated process. A professional fertility specialist will carefully gather a patient’s medical history, evaluate prior fertility records and conduct a thorough physical examination. Before artificial insemination or surgical procedures are recommended, fertility medications are administered to treat the problem. Infertility Center Denver Some...

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure with two main functions: diagnostic and operative. Diagnostic laparoscopy is used primarily for the examination of the internal regions of the abdomen, and for cases of fertility is used within the pelvic region to assess potential damage to the uterus from conditions such as...

DAMAGE TO THE EGGDuring the extraction process there is a risk for damage occurring to the oocyte (egg), albeit a small chance. Since eggs are extracted via piercing the follicle and gathering them with suction, it is possible for the egg to either be punctured or deformed by the tube.IVF...

It is used to assist an embryo by weakening the zona pellucida (egg wall) in order to provide the implantation an increased chance of taking effect. Often this procedure is recommended to those women who have had one or more failed IVF cycles, or if the embryo to be used...

In many cases, the signs of infertility in both men and women are not revealed until a couple attempts to conceive a baby. Initially, erections, intercourse, and ejaculations will happen without difficulty. To the naked eye, factors such as the quantity and quality of the semen may appear normal. Infertility...

Cryopreservation of sperm is a method many men choose when they are faced with any number of complications that may inhibit their sperm production in the future. Cryopreservation of the sperm is an option to be considered if a man has been diagnosed with cancer, is scheduled for a testicular...

Ovulation Induction Ovulation induction is where the ovaries are stimulated with fertility drugs to produce more eggs and eventually ovulate more eggs. This treatment is usually used in women who either don’t ovulate or ovulate infrequently, have unexplained infertility, endometriosis, diminished ovarian reserve, multiple miscarriages or other fertility disorders. Ovulation...

Infertility refers to the incapacity to have children, regardless of participating in unprotected sexual activities or attempting artificial insemination. Infertility is primarily divided into two broad categories, depending on the nature of infertility. Primary Infertility – This occurs when a couple has no record of conception with them indulging in...

Assisted reproductive technology, or ART, is there to help men and women that have difficulty with fertility. There are several different procedures depending on the difficulty level and type of infertility. Intrauterine Insemination Intrauterine Insemination, or IUI, is where washed and concentrated sperm is placed directly into the uterus with...

The process for freezing an oocyte (an egg) in a cryopreservation treatment cycle begins the same as the egg retrieval process used in an in vitro fertilization treatment. The ovaries are stimulated using a controlled overstimulation hormone treatment in order to produce multiple eggs per each menstrual cycle. This overproduction...

You may have heard that tubal reversal is possible and often successful, but is it really? About 50% of women who have had their tubes tied regret it at some point farther down the road and wonder if they can have the tubal ligation reversed in order to get pregnant....

Here’s an incredible fertility success story Dr. Smith at Rocky Mountain Fertility received recently: “After my husband and I got married we decided to try to have our first child. Being how we were both so young (me 18 and my husband 22) we thought we would conceive right away....

In approximately 33-40 percent of infertile couples, a problem with the male partner is determined as the cause for infertility.  While most physicians focus the fertility evaluation traditionally on the woman, the male partner should not be ignored, as a large portion of infertility cases are due to a problem...

Oocyte donation, or egg donation, is an excellent treatment for infertility due to poor egg quality. Women in their late 30s and 40s are more prone to experience decreased egg quality making it difficult to conceive. For women who are unable to use their own eggs to conceive, oocyte donation...

Treating infertility in women can be a complex process.  A  fertility specialist at an initial consultation with a new patient will gather a patient’s medical history, review prior fertility treatment and evaluation from the OBGYN or other fertility specialists  and often perform a GYN ultrasound. Treatment options often include, surgery or...

Fertility specialists performing in vitro fertilization (IVF) are able to use an advanced screening and diagnostic testing to assess if an embryo carries certain genetic abnormalities before pregnancy begins.  This procedure is known as preimplantation diagnosis or PGD. Preimplantation diagnosis and screening is used for a variety of reason but...

When patients have difficulty conceiving its best that the patient/ couple is evaluated by a Denver fertility specialist who evaluates women with fertility issues.  At the initial appointment a medical history will be reviewed and a limited physical exam will be performed. After being seen by a fertility doctor Colorado...

Women with a diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) have one or more ovaries that do not contain as many oocytes as expected for the woman’s age. The term ovarian reserve refers to the overall quality and number of remaining eggs. There are several tests that can be utilized to test ovarian...

The inner lining of the uterus is known as the endometrium. During a woman’s menstrual period, this lining is shed through the vagina, in what is commonly known as a period.  Endometriosis occurs when there are fragments of the endometrium that are produced in various other places besides the inner...

The process of cryopreservation or Vitrification is a freezing procedure used for sperm, eggs and embryos at fertility clinics in Colorado.  The technique involves freezing and preserving the eggs and embryos so that fewer fertility drug stimulations and oocyte retrievals are needed to achieve pregnancy.  When the number of infertility...

Infertility is medically defined as the inability to conceive a child after unprotected intercourse (i.e. no contraception) for one year.  Infertility affects over 5 million couples in the United States.  According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, nearly 9 percent of the reproductive age population is impacted by fertility problems....

Laparoscopy is a reproductive surgery that provides successful results for women who have trouble getting pregnant due to a variety of problems. Laparoscopy is generally performed on an outpatient basis using a laparoscope that is inserted into the naval and through other small incisions on the abdomen.  A surgeon is...

Assisted hatching, known as AH, is a procedure that is performed on a cellular embryo prior to its transfer or prior to pre-implantation genetic testing.  AH usually is not performed on blastocyst embryos. The procedure of assisted hatching is sometimes needed when the outer layer of tissue surrounding the embryo...

In vitro fertilization is often referred to as ‘test tube baby.’ It is a highly effective process designed to treat infertility when other methods have been unsuccessful. In fact, IVF has become the most successful form of fertility treatment yielding a success rate of 50 percent or even higher in...

A tubal reversal or tubal reanastomosis is a surgical procedure conducted to reverse a tubal ligation surgery.  A tubal ligation is a surgery performed to prevent pregnancy and is generally done by occluding the tubes with clips, tying the tube off with suture or burning the fallopian tubes so that...

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is publishing a 7 Part Series on Infertility (one each day). For Part VII, we provide an Overview of Oocyte Donation (Egg Donation) Oocyte donation, or egg donation, is an excellent treatment for infertility due to poor ovarian performance....

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is publishing a 7 Part Series on Infertility (one each day). For Part VI, we provide an Overview of PGD Testing: What Is PGD Testing and How Is It Beneficial? PGD stands for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis and is a...

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is publishing a 7 Part Series on Infertility (one each day). For Part V, we provide an Overview of In Vitro Fertilization In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most highly successful options for treating infertility, and increases...

In recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week, Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is publishing a 7 Part Series on Infertility (one each day). For Part IV, we discuss the Common Causes of Infertility There are a number of factors that can cause infertility.  Problems in the female may include tubal damage,...

This is Part III on the Rocky Mountain Fertility Center series on Infertility. The first focused on Medical Management options, and the second focused on Reproductive Surgery options. Here is an overview of Intrauterine Insemination. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a procedure used for infertility patients that involves placing a “washed”...

Some cases of infertility require surgery to correct anatomical problems causing infertility. Surgery is utilized to correct adhesions, endometriosis, uterine polyps, blocked fallopian tubes, perform tubal reversals etc. Modern advancements in medicine provide new techniques for reproductive surgery that no longer requires long stays in the hospital and prolonged recovery...

There are a variety of treatment options available for infertility.  Medical therapy is among the most common treatments for infertility and is used to correct various infertility problems such as ovulatory dysfunction or unexplained infertility. This is Part I in a series of available Infertility Treatments in recognition of National Infertility Awareness Week....

Pregnancy can be achieved through sperm donation for couples with infertility issues involving low or absent sperm count. Sperm donation is also used for single females and same sex couples. Approximately 5% of men that seek to donate sperm meet the criteria. Several conditions disqualify potential donors including: Men with...

One of the most common questions fertility doctors receive is whether or not ovarian cysts adversely affect fertility. The answer is: It depends on the type of cyst. The types of ovarian cysts that impact fertility include: Endometriomas – these types of cysts are caused by endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition...

Uterine polyps and fibroids are female conditions that cause problems with fertility in women.  The majority of fibroids are located within the uterine cavity, affecting an estimated 10-30% of women.  Depending on location, fibroids can cause symptoms such as spotting and pain in the pelvis. Fibroids may increase the risk...

Ovulation induction is a procedure that can help non-menopausal women who are not ovulating release eggs and possibly become pregnant. Ovulation induction  is generally very effective and depending upon the reason for the lack of ovulation up to 80% of anovulatory (not ovulating) woman can achieve pregnancy with ovulation induction....

Repeated attempts at conceiving are frustrating for any couple trying to get pregnant. Failure brings up a variety of self-doubt, insecurities, and fear in men and women. But what does the failure to conceive really mean? Couples often underestimate the time it takes to get pregnant. After a few months...

Recently, HealthTap allowed members to vote on the top fertility doctors in the country. By a very wide margin, Dr. Deborah Smith of Rocky Mountain Fertility Center won the Top Reproductive Endocrinologist in Colorado. For years, HealthTap has been a leading provider of health information by its contributing medical experts....

Endometriosis is a common condition, affecting women during their reproductive years. The cause of endometriosis is still a mystery to doctors as it is unknown why endometrium (uterine lining) cells begin growing outside of the uterine cavity. One of the leading theories is “retrograde menstruation”. This is when to menstrual...

In vitro fertilization was introduced in the United States in 1981. Since then it has been responsible for the births of thousands of healthy babies. In vitro fertilization (IVF) occurs when eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory setting. The embryos then form and are placed in the uterus....

In the United States alone, there are as many as five million women impacted by polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS.  This number means that approximately 1 in 15 women of childbearing age have PCOS. PCOS is a health issue that shifts a woman’s hormone levels out of balance, and increases...

Some women feel like they may never get pregnant, losing hope for and often giving up on their desire to have a baby.  Over the last 20-30 years, new developments in fertility treatments have given rise to successful options that increase a woman’s chances of getting pregnant – no matter...

For many couples, the process of getting pregnant does not happen like they imagined. Often times it takes longer and requires more effort than initially assumed. Some couples are fine with waiting out the process, while others want answers right away. This begs the question, “When is the right time...

Pregnancy loss occurs in approximately 30% of all pregnancies. However, approximately 4% of individuals can experience repeated pregnancy losses resulting in the need for a recurrent pregnancy loss evaluation in order to identify the possible reasons for multiple miscarriages. Couples or individuals may request a recurrent pregnancy loss workup at...

Dr. Deborah Smith, one of the leading infertility doctors in Colorado, was recently interviewed about Egg Freezing and offered insights into this cutting edge technology. Rocky Mountain Fertility Center is currently in Phase 2 of an egg freezing study. Egg freezing is offered to women of reproductive age who fall...

Leading fertility clinic in Colorado, Rocky Mountain Fertility Center, is now enrolling in the second phase of its egg freezing study. The research is evaluating various methods of freezing eggs for subsequent fertilization. The technique is also called oocyte cryopreservation. Those individuals who are chosen to participate in the study...

Blastocyst Transfer Overview In the blastocyst transfer process, embryos are cultured in the lab up to the blastocyst stage, and then a transfer to the uterus is performed. Typically it takes 5 -6 days after fertilization for the embryo to reach the blastocyst stage and it is the most advanced...

Cryopreservation is a freezing technique that can be used for eggs, embryos and sperm.  By freezing the eggs, sperm or embryos in certain situations, there is a reduction in the number of fertility drug stimulations and oocyte retrievals required.  Simplification and reduction in costs of future IVF cycles is connected...

Assisted hatching (AH or AHA) is a procedure performed on an embryo just prior to embryo transfer or in relation with pre-implantation genetic testing.  In some cases, the outer layer of the tissue that surrounds the embryo may not hatch open the way it should, therefore causing prevention to implantation....

Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) refers to procedures that are performed on embryos or eggs prior to implantation or fertilization. PGD is considered another way to check for problems in a baby before it is born (prenatal diagnosis). When used to screen for a specific genetic disease, its main advantage is that it...

Does Artificial Insemination (IUI) Really Help? IUI, or intrauterine insemination, is a fertility treatment that uses a small catheter to insert washed sperm directly into the uterus.  An insemination procedure involves the insertion of a speculum and is similar to a pap smear.  The goal of an IUI is to...

Understanding Infertility – When Should I Seek Treatment? According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, infertility is a reproductive system disease that impairs the conception of children.  Conception is a complicated process that depends on a wide range of factors, including the production of viable sperm and eggs, the...

Advanced Fertility Treatment In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a highly successful assisted reproductive technological procedure.  During an IVF treatment cycle there are four basic steps: 1. Ovulation Induction This is the step in which a woman begins taking fertility medications to encourage the development of eggs within the ovaries.  The...

Egg donation is a highly effective treatment for infertility that is generally brought on by decreased ovarian function.  This problem can occur at any age, but is more common in women in their late thirties and forties. For women who are unable to conceive using their own eggs, donor egg...

Today in vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a well-known word, while not long ago it was considered a mystery.  Unlike the simpler process of artificial insemination, in which sperm are placed in the uterus and conception proceeds somewhat normally, IVF involves the combination of eggs and sperm outside of the...

Pregnancy can be achieved for patients who experience infertility, due to abnormal or absent sperm, by using donor sperm. Donor sperm can also help single women and women in same sex relationships to conceive. Patients who desire fertility using donor sperm are able to choose sperm through a certified sperm...

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a technique used to identify genetic abnormalities in embryos before a woman gets pregnant.  Chromosomal abnormalities are common in embryos, and are one of the main reason women fail to conceive with IVF (or spontaneously) as they age. It is known that about 60% of...

The process of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an effective laboratory procedure that was developed to assist infertile couples that are undergoing in vitro fertilization due to male factor infertility.  Prior to the development of microinjection techniques, couples in which the male partner had very abnormal semen parameters, donor sperm...

Recurrent Miscarriage Overview Recurrent miscarriage is defined as three or more failed pregnancies, but most medical experts agree that two or more miscarriages may also be termed recurrent pregnancy loss.  Reproductive endocrinologists and Denver fertility specialists will initiate an investigation to examine if the cause can be determined, and treated,...

Tubal Ligation Reversal – Restoring Fertility A tubal ligation reversal is a procedure to restore the fertility of a woman who has undergone a tubal ligation.  A tubal ligation procedure is generally performed to permanently prevent pregnancy by cutting, clipping, burning or “tying” the tubes. Tubal reversal surgery is typically performed...

For a variety of situations or conditions, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), may be required as the first line of treatment.  In other cases, IVF may be needed if other treatment options fail to produce results. Below is a compilation of indications for IVF treatment. Age Related Fertility A woman’s ovarian function...

Fertility specialists such as the fertility clinic RMFC recognize that women are waiting longer to startfamilies.  Recent trends are showing that more and more women are waiting until they are in their thirties and even forties before having children. However, women over the age of 35 years of age may...

Basic Treatment for Infertility Basic treatment is what most patients require when it comes to Colorado infertility. The treatment is less complex than in vitro treatment, and is simple and less expensive.  The basic treatment can be categorized in a few different groups: Ovulation drugs Artificial insemination Surgical procedures For...

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Overview In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure of assisted reproduction that involves the combination of an egg with sperm in a prepared laboratory environment.  Typically performed in a lab dish, if the egg fertilizes and initiates the process of cell division, the resulting embryo (fertilized...