Infertility Flashcards
Define infertility
Inability to become pregnant after 12 months
How many US couples are affected by infertility?
1 in 8
What is secondary infertility?
When a person has one pregnancy and then has trouble becoming pregnant again
-More common than primary
What criteria determines if a woman should be assessed earlier for infertility?
-Over 35
-History of oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea
-Uterine/tubal disease or endometriosis
-Partner known to be subfertile
Between what ages does optimal fertility occur?
20 and 30
True or False: The male should be checked first when exploring infertility?
True
What are 4 non-pharmacologic treatment options for infertility?
- Gain or lose weight
- Avoid caffeine, smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs
- Reduce stress
- “Expectant management”
What are the situations in which weight should be gained to help treat infertility?
-Hypothalamic anovulation
-BMI < 20
What are the situations in which weight should be lost to help treat infertility?
-High BMI
-Insulin resistance
What do urine ovulation predictor kits measure?
Detect surge in LH levels
When should urine ovulation predictor kits be used?
Use around time of suspected ovulation
–Test morning urine daily
What does a positive result on a urine ovulation predictor kit indicate?
Indicates ovulation in next 18-36hours with peak fertility generally in 2 days
How long does a woman’s fertile window last?
6 days
How long does sperm live after ejaculation?
1-2 days, up to 5 days
What is the lifespan of an egg after ovulation?
12-24 hours
How can cervical mucus be used to predict ovulation?
-Most fertile when mucus is clear, slippery, and stretchy
**Dry mucus means not fertile
When should a basal body temperature be taken?
Every morning before rising from bed or eating/drinking
How does ovulation affect basal body temperature?
Ovulation marks an increase by 0.3-0.5 degrees F
-Occurs 1-2 days after the LH surge
–After ovulation, high progesterone levels lead to increased body temp for 10 days
How does pregnancy affect basal body temperature?
When pregnancy occurs the basal body temperature remains high until the placenta takes over
What is the first FDA approved birth control app?
Natural Cycle
What does the OvuSense device measure? (vaginal monitoring)
Intravaginal core body temperature every 5 minutes during sleep
What is a benefit of the vaginal monitoring technique?
Beneficial in women with irregular periods
When should women <35 yo undergo an infertility evaluation?
If unable to become pregnant after 12 months of frequent, unprotected intercourse
When should women 35-40 yo undergo an infertility evaluation?
If unable to become pregnant after 6 months of frequent, unprotected intercourse
