Fertility treatments: what works, what to expect
About one in six couples has trouble getting pregnant. That can feel overwhelming. The good news: there are clear, proven options that help many people. This page breaks down the main treatments, what they do, likely success rates, common risks, and practical steps you can take now.
Common medical options
Start with simple testing: semen analysis for the partner with sperm, blood tests like AMH and FSH for ovarian reserve, and a check of the uterus and tubes (ultrasound or hysterosalpingogram). From there, common treatments include:
Ovulation induction: Medicines such as letrozole or clomiphene help trigger ovulation. These are often the first step for irregular cycles. They’re cheap and low-risk but need monitoring with ultrasound.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI): Sperm are washed and placed directly into the uterus around ovulation. IUI adds a small boost over timed intercourse, especially with mild male factor or unexplained infertility.
In vitro fertilization (IVF): Eggs are retrieved, fertilized in the lab, and embryos are transferred to the uterus. IVF has the highest success rates for many problems, including blocked tubes, severe male factor, or older age. It’s more expensive and requires more medications and clinic visits.
Surgery or targeted fixes: Laparoscopy can remove endometriosis or open blocked tubes. Varicocele repair may help some men. Surgery is useful when a clear structural issue is found.
Practical tips & what to expect
Success rates vary by age and diagnosis. For example, IVF success for women under 35 is noticeably higher than for those over 40. Clinics publish outcome data—ask for their live birth rates by age and diagnosis.
Costs: expect low-cost medicines and tests at the start, IUI in the low thousands per cycle, and IVF ranging widely depending on country and clinic from several thousand to tens of thousands per cycle. Ask what’s included (meds, lab fees, embryo storage).
Risks: ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) from stimulation drugs, multiple pregnancy from transferring several embryos, and emotional stress. Ask about single embryo transfer options to lower multiple risks.
Lifestyle changes matter. Stop smoking, limit alcohol, maintain a healthy BMI, and check vitamin D and folate levels. These steps won’t fix all problems, but they improve outcomes and overall health.
When to see a specialist: if you’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after 12 months of trying, or over 35 after 6 months, get a fertility evaluation. If you have irregular periods, known pelvic disease, prior chemo, or a partner with poor semen results, don’t wait.
Questions to ask a clinic: What are your success rates for my age? How many embryos do you transfer? What’s included in the price? What tests will I need? How do you handle emergencies like OHSS?
Fertility care can feel technical, but clear steps and good communication with your doctor make a big difference. If you want, start with basic tests and one simple treatment before moving to more advanced options. Small, steady steps often lead to the best outcome.
