IVF provides many couples with the opportunity to pursue their dreams of pregnancy in the face of one or more hurdles that may impede their success. We realize that the IVF process is complex and requires careful attention to detail. Our highly trained staff is dedicated to holding your hand throughout your experience with North Dallas IVF. Our priority is to provide you with customized care based on your particular problem at hand. We strive to make ourselves available to you and provide you with the best resources to give you the highest chances of obtaining a pregnancy.
We provide the following information as a guide to help you in your journey. Please feel free to consult our staff if you need additional support or information at any step throughout the treatment process.
Is there a possibility of multiple births from Assisted Reproductive Technology?
Our goal at North Dallas IVF is to help couples achieve the birth of a single, healthy child. But any time more than one embryo is transferred, there is a chance for multiple pregnancies. We follow the guidelines established through the American Society of Reproductive Medicine regarding the number of embryos to transfer in order to achieve the safest and most effective outcome.
Can my partner and I have intercourse while taking the hormone medications?
Yes. However, it is recommended that the male abstain from ejaculating for three to five days preceding the egg retrieval. This precaution assures that the semen sample on the day of egg retrieval contains the maximum number of motile sperm. You may find that near the time of egg retrieval your ovaries will be markedly enlarged and tender, possibly making intercourse uncomfortable.
If an embryo transfer takes place, how long must we wait until we have intercourse without risk to the embryo?
There is no conclusive evidence that shows that intercourse either aids or impedes implantation. However, orgasms following intercourse may cause uterine contractions. Therefore we recommend that you refrain from having intercourse until cleared by your physician.
How active can I be after the embryo transfer?
Strenuous exercise, like running or heavy lifting, should be avoided from the start of your IVF cycle until cleared by your physician.
Can I have a glass of wine or alcohol during the cycle up until the pregnancy test?
Please refrain from drinking alcohol from the start of your IVF cycle until cleared by your physician.
Can I travel long distance in a car or fly in an airplane after my embryo transfer?
Yes, but it is not recommended until the day after your transfer.
Are immunizations or injections okay during my cycle?
The following vaccinations or injections are acceptable:
- Flu shot (avoid the live nasal spray)
- Hepatitis vaccine
- Chicken pox immunoglobulin
- Tuberculosis test
- Tetanus shot
- Allergy shots
- Novocaine for a dental procedure
What medications can I take before or after my embryo transfer?
- Cold medicines: Sudafed, Robitussen
- Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Erythromycin
- Bactrim: Okay before pregnancy test
- Flagyl: Okay before pregnancy test
- Doxycycline, Tetracycline: Okay before pregnancy test
- Nasal spray decongestants
- Tylenol Cold or PM
- Claritin D
- Valium
- Benadryl
- Colace, Senekot, Immodium, Pepcid
What are possible reasons for cycle cancellation?
Unfortunately, there are times when your cycle may need to be cancelled, including:
- Too few follicles are growing.
- An inadequate rise in blood estrogen level is observed.
- An excessively high estradiol level is observed, suggesting a significant risk for moderate to severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
If a cycle is cancelled, your treatment protocol in subsequent IVF cycles will likely be modified in efforts to ensure the safest and most successful outcome.