Fertility treatment: Practical options, tests, and next steps

Trying to get pregnant can feel overwhelming. This page gives clear, practical info about fertility treatment so you know what tests to expect, which treatments are common, and how to pick a clinic. No fluff — just what helps people move forward.

Start with basic tests. For women that usually means blood tests (AMH to check ovarian reserve, FSH and LH for hormone balance) and a pelvic ultrasound to look at eggs and uterus. Men typically get a semen analysis to check sperm count, motility, and shape. Some couples also need genetic screening or hormone panels. These tests shape the plan a clinic will recommend.

Common fertility treatments

Medications: The first step is often fertility drugs. Clomiphene or letrozole encourage ovulation. Injectable gonadotropins raise the chance of multiple eggs. These drugs are widely used and work well for many cases.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): IUI places washed sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation. It’s less invasive and cheaper than IVF but works best when sperm or ovulation issues are mild.

In vitro fertilization (IVF): IVF removes eggs, fertilizes them in a lab, and returns embryos to the uterus. This is the most controllable option and is used for many causes of infertility, including blocked tubes, low sperm counts, or unexplained infertility.

Surgery and procedures: Laparoscopy or hysteroscopy can fix blockages, remove fibroids, or correct uterine issues. For men, varicocele repair can improve sperm in some cases.

Donor eggs, sperm, and surrogacy: When one partner can’t provide viable gametes or carry a pregnancy, donor or gestational carrier options are available. These are sensible choices when other treatments fail or aren’t appropriate.

Picking a clinic and preparing for treatment

Ask about success rates for your age and diagnosis, not just headline numbers. Check how the clinic measures live birth rates per cycle and whether they report outcomes by age. Also ask about clinic accreditation, lab quality, embryo freezing methods, and average wait times.

Talk money up front. Fertility treatment costs vary widely. IUI is usually the least expensive, IVF costs more, and donor or surrogacy routes add extra fees. Ask what’s included: meds, monitoring, lab work, embryo storage, and frozen embryo transfers.

Small changes help: stop smoking, cut back on alcohol, aim for a healthy BMI, and time intercourse with ovulation. Track cycles with an app or ovulation tests so appointments are more efficient. Mental health matters — consider counseling or a support group while you go through treatment.

If you’ve tried to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if you’re over 35), see a fertility specialist. Bring previous test results and a clear list of questions. A focused plan and realistic expectations make the process easier.

Quick checklist: collect medical histories, write dates of past cycles and tests, track medications, note lifestyle habits, and list financial questions. Bring a partner if possible. Ask the clinic for a step-by-step timeline and expected costs so you can plan both emotionally and financially. Start early today.