|
An evaluation of the cervix and uterus usually has two endpoints for identifying problems. They
are physical problems or mucus related problems. The physical problems of the cervix is more
related to recurrent miscarriages than a cervical evaluation. The mucus related problems usually
involve three possible issues:
-
There is not enough mucus for the sperm to survive.
-
The mucus is too thick for sperm to survive.
-
The mucus contains sperm antibodies.
Cervical Treatments
There are many different types of treatments for cervical issues. The cervical factor is very patient
specific and needs to be discussed and evaluated at length with your physician. Here is a list of
treatments that are sometimes used for cervical factors:
Intra-uterine Insemination (IUI)
Sperm is placed in a catheter and the catheter is placed through the cervix to the uterus. Any mucus issues
related to the cervix are bypassed.
Low Dose Estrogens
Estrogens are needed to produce an adequate quantity of sperm friendly mucus.
Ovulation Induction
Poor ovulation will give out low levels of estrogen and progesterone and yield poor mucus. Ovulation
induction with clomiphene or gonadotropins can improve ovulation and therefore mucus.
IVF (in vitro fertilization)
If there are anti-sperm antibodies in the cervix, IVF will bypass the cervix and be a treatment option to assure
that fertilization is possible.
Cough Medications
An expectorant may be given to thin the thick cervical mucus.
Stop Taking Medications
Clomiphene, tamoxifen and progesterone are anti-estrogens that can limit adequate mucus production.
Sperm Abstinence
Sometimes a woman may make an anti-sperm antibody. Six months of condoms can deprive the anti-sperm
antibody production capability and return the cervix to a normal mucus environment. This treatment
is rare due to the heightened awareness of more successful therapies and the urgency to become pregnant.
Wide speculation of treatment options takes place with infertility patients in general. The treatment
is very specific to the patient. Please feel free to discuss all treatment options with the physicians
at the Advanced Reproductive Health Centers.
Our Mission Statement "...Exceeding patient expectations..."
|