FAQs

Can stress cause infertility?
There is little evidence that stress can cause infertility. In rare instances, if a woman is under extreme emotional or physical stress, she can stop ovulating and stop having spontaneous menses, thus leading to infertility.

When should I see an infertility specialist?
If there is a known cause of infertility, such as irregular menses, abnormal semen analysis, history of endometriosis, or blocked fallopian tubes, it is recommended to see an infertility specialist when pregnancy is desired. It is fine to wait one year before seeing a fertility specialist if a woman is less than 35 years of age and healthy. If a woman is 35 years of age or older, it is advised to see a fertility specialist after 6 months of trying to conceive. Once a woman is the age of 40, it is appropriate to seek fertility consultation right away.

How long does the IVF process take?
The IVF process typically takes about 4-6 weeks. There is a one-week time period where frequent ultrasounds and the egg retrieval take place. The embryo transfer happens 3-5 days after the egg retrieval.

How long do I take birth control pills?
It is important that you still take the active birth control pills (also known as cycle control pills) until the nurse instructs you to stop. Do not take the inactive pills unless instructed to do so. If you finish the active pills in one pack, continue to the next pack of pills the following day. If you have any questions about the pills, please do not hesitate to contact us.

What should I do if I run out of pills or other medications?
If you run out of birth control pills, please call the office and let us know the type of pill you are taking and the phone number of your pharmacy. If you run out of other medications, you can call the pharmacy that filled your prescription to order refills. Please keep track of your medications so that you will be able to obtain refills in a timely manner. Some pharmacies do not routinely stock certain fertility medications and need time to order them.

What medications can I take while going through cycle?
You may take ONLY Tylenol or extra-strength Tylenol if needed. DO NOT TAKE Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, or Motrin, as they can interfere with follicle development and implantation. You may also take Actifed, Sudafed, Tums, or plain Robitussin if needed for allergy or cold symptoms. Please call us before you take any other medications since they may have an adverse effect on your treatment. If you are currently taking a thyroid medication, glucophage or metformin, parlodel or bromocriptine, you must continue as directed throughout the cycle.

Is there a problem if I begin bleeding while on birth control pills?
No. Occasionally, some patients may experience breakthrough bleeding while on birth control pills. While breakthrough bleeding/spotting can be a nuisance, it is not an issue while you are in cycle. The pills are still serving their desired purpose of ovarian suppression (preventing cyst formation), even though the uterus may still bleed/spot. It is advised that you still call Idaho Fertility Center when you have bleeding, however, so that we are aware of it.

Who do I call if I have a problem/question/run out of medication after hours?
If you have a problem, question, or concern, or if you run out of medications after hours, call our office at 208-529-2019 and select the emergency line option to be connected to our on-call nurse. If your situation can wait until the next morning, please leave a voice mail, and we will get in touch with you the following business day.

What do I do when I start my period?
Always contact the office on cycle day 1 (CD1), which is the day you begin regular flow. If you have spotting, please wait for regular flow to begin before calling us. If your CD1 occurs on the weekend, please call first thing Monday morning for instruction. If you do not call to inform us of your CD1, it is possible your treatment/cycle could be delayed or negatively affected.

How can I avoid adverse side effects from the antibiotics?
It is important to remember to take your Doxycycline a ½ hour following breakfast and dinner. Taking this antibiotic on an empty stomach or with food can cause stomach upset. Doxycycline also causes sensitivity to sunlight, so use sunscreen and/or avoid being out in the sun to minimize the risk of sunburn.

When will my follicles be mature?
Your follicles become mature when you have two or more that are 18mm or greater. We will then provide you with further instructions.

What time do my ultrasounds need to be done?
Ultrasounds should be performed in the morning. If we determine that a blood test needs to be done, we will be able to get results the same day, which is important for the optimal success of your treatment. We also kindly ask that you arrive on time for your appointment.

What do I do when I see blood in the syringe when giving an injection?
Do not inject. Instead, stop and withdraw the needle. You must change the needle. After which, you may inject into another site. The small amount of blood that may be in the syringe will not affect the medication.

Is there a specific time of day when my blood needs to be drawn?
We must be able to receive same day results to successfully manage your treatment. Therefore, all blood work MUST be drawn before 11:00am.

What if my blood is to be drawn on a weekend?
An appointment will need to be made with a nurse M-F during the day, or with the on-call nurse over the weekend.

Will you call me with the results?
Same-day lab results are usually not available until late in the afternoon. We will only call you if you have abnormal results, or if we want you to change your medication or dosage. If you do not receive a call from us, please continue using the same dosage.

What time do I take my medications?

• Progesterone suppositories: Placed in the vagina at bedtime every NIGHT. Make sure to remove packaging before inserting. Progesterone suppositories that need to be taken twice daily should be placed in the morning and at bedtime. You may want to wear a mini-pad for protection, as discharge from the suppositories is common. Suppositories need to be stored in the refrigerator (do not freeze).
• FSH injections: Should be administered each day at the same time. There is no set time for the injections.
• HCG: We will instruct you as to the date and time to administer the injection.