The Different Types of Fertility Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide
March 18, 2025Fertility treatments are becoming increasingly common among a number of couples facing difficulties with conception. Infertility is a common problem worldwide, which is the inability to conceive after a year or more of unprotected sex.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that after a year of trying, 6% of married women up to the age of 44 are unable to conceive. Additionally, about 12% of women in the same age range experience impaired fecundity, which is the inability to conceive or have a pregnancy that does not reach term.
There are many types of fertility treatments, and each one has different chances of success. In this guide, we will learn about various fertility options available to help you make the best choice.
What are the Different Types of Fertility Treatments?
Different types of fertility treatments include IVF, surgical sperm retrieval, fertility drugs, and embryo assessment. Explore the different treatment possibilities and learn whether you're an ideal candidate for the treatment.
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In Vitro Fertilization
People who are unable to conceive naturally are frequently treated with in vitro fertilization, or IVF. In IVF, the woman typically takes fertility hormones, which are medications, to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. After that, the eggs are collected and combined with sperm in a lab.
The embryos are given two to six days to develop if fertilization is successful. This aids the embryologist in choosing the most viable embryo, which is subsequently returned to the woman's womb in the hopes of a successful pregnancy.
IVF may be advised for men and women with the following issues:
- Fallopian tubes are damaged or blocked.
- Those who have infertility issues that cannot be explained.
- Men with lower sperm counts or having high sperm that are morphologically abnormal.
- Women who experience ovulation difficulties.
- Older women with fewer chances to be successful with less invasive treatments.
- People opting for surrogacy.
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Intrauterine Insemination
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is another fertility treatment where a thin catheter is utilized to introduce sperm directly into the uterus, positioning it near the fallopian tubes. This technique enhances the likelihood of sperm encountering the egg. During the ovulation phase, sperm provided by either a partner or a donor is inserted into the uterus, facilitating the opportunity for conception.
Your doctor may suggest IUI if there is:
- Cervical mucus problems or several other problems with your cervix.
- Low sperm count or sperm impairments.
- You’re using donor sperm.
- There is ejaculation or erection dysfunction.
- Unexplained infertility.
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Fertility Drugs
Fertility medications serve as a treatment option for certain women who have been unsuccessful in conceiving naturally despite their attempts. These drugs are primarily utilized for those experiencing fertility challenges associated with polycystic ovary syndrome, as well as for individuals of both genders facing fertility problems related to hormonal imbalances. Your doctor may suggest fertility drugs if:
- You've been tested with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
- Your menstrual cycle and ovulation are highly irregular and unpredictable.
- Experiencing fertility challenges related to your pituitary gland's hormone production.
- Have a low sperm count or your sperm may exhibit poor motility.
- Dealing with specific infections or inflammatory issues
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Donor eggs
Similar to IVF, the procedure involves fertilizing a donor egg with sperm and inserting it into your uterus. The donor may be a person you know or someone an organization anonymously matches with you. Despite not having biological ties to your child, you are still labelled as the birth mother on the record when you use a donor egg.
Donor eggs may be the next option if conventional IVF cycles have failed. The treatment may be suitable for women with:
- Low egg count and poor egg quality, which is more common after age 40.
- If you have a significant disease or genetic disorder that you do not want to pass on to your child.
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Gestational Carrier (Surrogacy)
A gestational surrogate, also known as a gestational carrier (GC), carries a child on behalf of a different woman or same-sex couple. Usually, the embryo is put in the surrogate's uterus after the parents go through IVF. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the child, but both parents do.
Opting GC may be a good choice for the following:
- For couples who wish to have a biological child but are unable to carry a pregnancy,
- GC may also be considered by same-sex couples or women who are unable to maintain a pregnancy, lack a uterus, or have a medical condition that would make pregnancy risky or difficult.
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Egg freezing
Egg freezing comprises retrieving a woman's eggs in a process similar to IVF, freezing and preserving them. The eggs are frozen, fertilized, and inserted into your uterus when you're ready to become a parent. Healthy eggs are most likely to be recovered, frozen, and stored by women in their 20s and early 30s. Egg freezing might be worth considering if:
- You plan to have children in the future, but not immediately.
- Women receiving cancer therapy or those with a family history of ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or early menopause may find it to be a useful alternative.
The Final Word
The ideal fertility treatment for each individual depends on a number of factors. To find the best course of action for you, a fertility specialist should conduct a comprehensive fertility evaluation if you are thinking about getting fertility treatment. Apollo Fertility employs world-renowned fertility doctors. To improve a person's chances of getting pregnant, we create fertility treatments tailored for them. Get in touch with Apollo Fertility right now to find out more about your options for fertility care in India.
