CONCLUSION: HOPE FOR INFERTILE COUPLES

Each year, thousands of couples become parents using the ART procedures described in these web pages. For many couples who fail to respond to surgical or medical therapy, ART procedures offer new hope with delivery rates (per retrieval, per ART procedure) ranging from 18% to 28% in women under 40. In 1993, there were more than 9,000 pregnancies and 8,741 deliveries as the result of over 43,000 ART procedures.

It is important for a couple to remember that they are in control of their treatment. It is up to you to determine how many ART cycles you are willing to undergo. If ART procedures do not prove successful, some couples may pursue other options such as achieving family-building goals through adoption. Others may choose to be child-free.

As a result of working together to reach a resolution, some couples find that their communication skills and problem-solving abilities have improved. This can add a new level to the relationship, strengthening and deepening it in ways never before imagined. Since some couples find that infertility puts a strain on their relationships, participation in counseling or a couples support group is highly recommended.

There is hope for infertile couples! Thousands of couples become parents each year using the procedures and medications described. You should not delay seeking professional help. If there's a specific problem causing infertility, the sooner you and your partner begin therapy, the closer you are to achieving your goal.

Click on a title below to read
Emotional Impact of InfertilityThe Growth of ART
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)
Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT)ART and Microsurgical Treatments for Infertility
Success Factors and Rates for ARTART MAIN PAGE


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