We recently sat down with Dr. David Cohen, an expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility on staff at the Silver Cross Center for Women’s Health. His primary focus is on fertility preservation for cancer patients—including fertility preservation for children and adolescents with cancer.
Q: When should a woman come to see you? Is there a certain age?
A: There is no specific age when someone “should” come. If you have been trying unsuccessfully for one year to get pregnant, or if you have any other concerns you should come see me. I also am able to help men with infertility.
Q: Is infertility common? Is there a way to prevent this?
A: Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent infertility. As people age, the chances of naturally conceiving are dramatically reduced. Overall, approximately 10% of reproductive aged couples will have problems conceiving.
Q: How common is it to have trouble getting pregnant?
A: A woman has about a 20% chance of getting pregnant each month (during her cycle) in her twenties and a 10% chance at forty. The chances are reduced even more if a woman has a family history or a health condition that may affect her fertility.
Q: What different methods are used?
A: There are many treatments available to treat couples with infertility. Naturally, the treatments are individualized to address specific problems, but the underlying theme is to increase the probability of a sperm meeting an egg. Fertility medications increase the number of fertilizable eggs each month and insemination places sperm closer to the eggs. If sperm and egg are not likely to meet inside her body then in vitro fertilization (IVF) permits fusion of egg and sperm outside of the body.
There are a variety of methods used for the various procedures we have available. It really is customized for each individual. However, the most common are:
(Ranked less invasive to more invasive)
- Pills (oral)
- Insemination
- Injections
- In Vitro Fertilization
All these individual methods can be combined with the other methods to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
Q: What is the success rate? How long or how many treatments before results?
A: There is no guarantee; every person has different results based on their health, their age, and any previous health conditions. It is important for individuals to have reasonable expectations of success for each treatment they select; the details of each should be discussed with the physician.
Q: What does the process entail?
A: Well, I conduct initial consultations at the Silver Cross Center for Women’s Health twice a month. We can usually schedule an appointment within two weeks. From there, the person(s) involved need to go through some basic diagnostic evaluations. This usually takes anywhere from 4 – 6 weeks. Once that is complete, we can personalize a schedule for treatments. Most treatments are conducted monthly (based on cycle) but can vary.
Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Like any medical procedure, there are common side effects such as moodiness, hot flashes, nausea, headaches as well more serious risks. Since there are so many procedures, and each individual is different, I like to sit down with my patients and explain honestly what they may experience. There is no silly question or concern I will not answer honestly and to the best of my knowledge. My staff and I are always available to address the concerns of our patients.
Q: Once pregnant, are there more chances for disability? Multiple births?
A: Yes, there is definitely a greater chance for disabilities because there is a greater chance for pre-term delivery because in-vitro fertilization tends to create multiple births (which is associated with earlier deliveries). It is imperative that the risks of multiple gestations be considered and understood before beginning any treatment.
Q: Do you try one method at a time, or do you try them all at one time—how do you decide?
Each patient is different, so my team and I customize a plan to fit an individual’s needs.
Q: How much does this cost? Is there insurance coverage available?
Fortunately, for people in Illinois, many insurance carriers help cover the costs of reproductive therapies so check with your provider. We also offer various packages for patients who are paying out of pocket. You can see those packages by clicking here.
Q: What else should people know?
A: There are many options that are not invasive that women can receive. Also, we help both men and women with their fertility needs. I also specialize in fertility specialization therapies.
If you have any other questions or concerns, call (773) 702-6642.