Lakeshore Women’s Specialists, PC, is located in Mooresville, NC, and serves residents in many communities throughout the Davidson and Huntersville, North Carolina areas. The providers at Lakeshore Women’s Specialists specialize in helping their patients overcome the obstacles of infertility.
request an appointmentWhat Defines Infertility?
Infertility is normally defined by the inability to conceive and carry a child to term after at least 12 consecutive months of attempts. If a couple tries for several months and cannot conceive, it does not mean one or both are infertile. Pelvic infections, injuries, high levels of stress and many other factors can create an environment that makes it difficult for the woman to conceive a child. Most of these conditions will correct themselves, allowing a woman to finally conceive. If, after a year’s worth of attempts, or earlier if desired, a woman has not conceived, one of our care providers will begin to perform tests to uncover the cause of infertility. In many cases, the cause is easily treated allowing the woman to conceive and carry a child to term.
What are Common Causes of Infertility?
Infertility can have many causes. High levels of stress, injuries to the pelvic area, cancer, endometriosis, advancing age and Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are common causes. PCOS can cause a variety of problems associated with a woman’s reproductive system. PCOS can cause ovaries to become enlarged, affect hormone production and prevent a woman from ovulating on a regular basis. PCOS is thought to affect one out of every 10 women who are in their childbearing years. PCOS can also cause a chain reaction that impacts other health conditions that affect women’s fertility. In most cases, an annual pelvic exam will uncover cases of PCOS and help the doctor create an effective treatment plan. Lakeshore Women’s Specialists help with women manage infertility by providing comprehensive evaluations, ovulation induction and helping to manage PCOS.
What is In Vitro Fertilization?
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a technique that increases a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant and carrying a child to term. During an in vitro procedure, a woman’s eggs are harvested and placed in a small container. The male sperm is introduced into the matrix and allowed to fertilize the egg. Once a viable embryo has formed, it is inserted into the female’s uterus so that it can attach to the lining, much like it would do if the process had occurred naturally within the body. In vitro fertilization can result in multiple births. During most procedures, multiple embryos form within the matrix and are implanted into the uterus. If more than one embryo attaches, a multiple birth may occur. Our providers do not perform IVF but can treat fertility problems that do not require this help determine if IVF may be necessary. They work closely with IVF providers before and after the procedure to optimize chances for success.