[{"_id":"project-settings","settings":{"translateMetaTags":true,"translateAriaLabels":true,"translateTitle":true,"showWidget":true,"isFeedbackEnabled":false,"fv":1,"customWidget":{"theme":"custom","font":"rgb(255,255,255)","header":"rgb(0,0,0)","background":"rgba(0,0,0,0.8)","position":"right","positionVertical":"bottom","border":"rgb(204,204,204)","borderRequired":false,"widgetCompact":true,"isWidgetPositionRelative":false},"widgetLanguages":[],"activeLanguages":{"fr-CA":"Français (Canada)","es":"Español","en":"English"},"enabledLanguages":["en","es","fr-CA"],"debugInfo":false,"displayBranding":true,"displayBrandingName":false,"localizeImages":false,"localizeUrls":false,"localizeImagesLimit":false,"localizeUrlsLimit":true,"localizeAudio":false,"localizeAudioLimit":false,"localizeDates":false,"disabledPages":[],"regexPhrases":[],"allowComplexCssSelectors":false,"blockedClasses":false,"blockedIds":false,"phraseDetection":true,"customDomainSettings":[],"seoSetting":[],"translateSource":false,"overage":false,"detectPhraseFromAllLanguage":false,"googleAnalytics":false,"mixpanel":false,"heap":false,"disableDateLocalization":false,"ignoreCurrencyInTranslation":false,"blockedComplexSelectors":[]},"version":25146},{"_id":"en","source":"en","pluralFn":"return n != 1 ? 1 : 0;","pluralForm":2,"dictionary":{},"version":25146},{"_id":"outdated","outdated":{"#, one partner provides the eggs, and the other carries the pregnancy. Many partners choose this option because it allows both people to have a physical role in bringing their child into the world. The partner providing the eggs contributes genetic material, while the partner who has the embryo transfer carries the pregnancy and delivers the baby.":1,"#With":1,"#The other class of drugs used to prevent ovulation are called GnRH antagonists, which include Cetrotide and Ganirelix. These work quickly in the brain to stop FSH and LH release. GnRH antagonists are used in the “antagonist protocol.”":1,"#In the down regulation protocol, Lupron is started at a low daily dose a week before your period. This gives the medicine time to block FSH and LH signals, which helps prevent your body from releasing eggs too early. By stopping early ovulation, your doctor can give your ovaries more time to grow the eggs without the risk of them being released too soon. You are still monitored closely to make sure you’re responding as expected.":1,"#GnRH agonists work in two different ways: First, they have a “flare” effect, resulting in the release of an increased amount of FSH and LH. Then, as you take a small dose each day, GnRH agonists actually turn off the release of FSH and LH to prevent ovulation. Turning off the hormones is called “down regulation.” This is how Lupron can be used differently in different types of stimulation protocols. The timing and dose of the Lupron determines the way that it will work during your cycle.":1,"#Lupron (leuprolide acetate) is an injectable fertility drug that is classified as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist. GnRH is a natural hormone made by the brain. It helps trigger the release of two other important hormones: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH is the primary hormone that grows the egg each month, and LH is the primary hormone responsible for the final maturation and ovulation of the egg.":1,"#There are several protocols that can be used to stimulate the ovaries for IVF or egg freezing. With each, the goal is to maximize the number of mature eggs that can be safely retrieved. Mature eggs can be fertilized and grow into healthy embryos to achieve pregnancy.":1,"#Based on your results, your fertility doctor has determined that the protocol for your cycle will be the Lupron down regulation protocol.":1,"#Your fertility doctor may ask you to start taking birth control pills as part of your protocol since it can help with timing the IVF process and give you scheduling flexibility. The birth control pill suppresses ovulation the month before stimulation and can be overlapped with Lupron. If you are on birth control pills, you may be told what day to start the Lupron and when to return to the clinic to start stimulation without getting a period in between.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Trigger shot and egg retrieval:</strong> When your follicles are the right size on an ultrasound and your hormone levels look good, your doctor will tell you when to take the trigger shot — a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). At that point, you will stop the Lupron and stimulation medicines. hCG works the same way as your natural ovulation hormone by inducing the final maturation of your eggs. The eggs are then retrieved about 36 hours after the trigger shot, before ovulation occurs.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Stimulation phase:</strong> You will get your period as expected and come in for blood work and an ultrasound to confirm you are ready to start stimulation. The injectable stimulation medicines are started, but you will stay on Lupron daily throughout. The dose of Lupron is often lowered at this point.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">One week before ovarian stimulation: </strong>Often, you will have blood work to confirm you ovulated and are ready to start low-dose Lupron daily.":1,"#Lupron down regulation protocol — timeline and actions":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=Collecting+a+semen+sample&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Fcollecting-a-semen-sample%2F":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=IVF+Antagonist+Protocol%3A+What+to+Expect&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Fivf-antagonist-protocol%2F":1,"#17% higher pregnancy rate per IVF transfer and 36% fewer retrievals per live birth means <a ljsid-1=\"\">fewer medications and treatments</a> are needed for successful pregnancies":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Descargo de responsabilidad:</strong> The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance. Conversations about health can sometimes focus solely on weight, which may feel challenging or overwhelming — especially if recommendations don’t consider your relationship with food, your body, or your mental health.":1,"#Limiting trans fats and added sugars can also help manage weight and blood sugar. Studies show that an anti-inflammatory approach supports reproductive health. While the Mediterranean diet is a great example, every type of cuisine can have an anti-inflammatory approach applied to it.":1,"#Many factors can influence BMI, including age, sex, and ethnicity. Conditions such as PCOS and thyroid disorders can also affect both fertility and weight. For example, PCOS can increase the body’s resistance to insulin, leading to higher insulin levels and contributing to weight gain. It also increases the amount of male hormones (androgens), which also contribute to insulin resistance, as well as irregular periods and infertility.":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=Prolactin+levels+and+testing&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Fprolactin-testing%2F":1,"#A person with a uterus may also have prolactin levels checked if they have stopped having a period or have any unexpected nipple discharge. It is unclear what role prolactin plays in people with sperm, but elevated results have been clearly linked to infertility and sex drive.":1,"#Prolactin is a hormone that affects fertility by reducing the release of other reproductive hormones. High levels of prolactin slow the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the brain. This lowers the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is needed for eggs to grow and for ovulation to occur. As a result, ovulation may not happen.":1,"#Structural chromosome abnormalities":1,"#Trisomy: A chromosome (or part of one) is duplicated. The most well-known example is Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.":1,"#Monosomy: A chromosome (or part of one) is missing. Turner syndrome, when there is only one X chromosome, is the only type that can rarely result in a live birth.":1,"#Some examples of aneuploidy include:":1,"#People with ovaries are born with all the eggs they will ever have. Eggs sit in the ovaries for years before they finish dividing. As they age, the machinery that helps chromosomes separate becomes more prone to errors. This is why older eggs are linked to higher rates of aneuploid embryos and pregnancy loss. Sperm, by contrast, is made continuously throughout life, so it is less likely to have these errors, even with age.":1,"#When the body makes eggs or sperm, it goes through a process that divides the chromosomes in half so that only one set is passed down. This process requires precise coordination. Errors sometimes occur, leading to an abnormal number of chromosomes. This is called aneuploidy, and it’s the most common cause of miscarriage.":1,"#Chromosomes contain your genes. They sit inside the nucleus of every cell. Each person typically has 23 pairs (46 total) — one set inherited from the egg and one set from the sperm.":1,"#When there are chromosomal abnormalities, the pregnancy tries to grow but doesn’t have the right genetic material to continue.":1,"#doctor with hand on patient's hand":1,"#If you’ve had a miscarriage, you’re not alone. Your fertility care team can help explain your options and whether testing may be helpful.":1,"#Age-related changes in eggs are the most common cause of aneuploidy, but other structural changes can also play a role. Testing may help identify whether chromosomal abnormalities were involved and guide future treatment decisions.":1,"#Most pregnancy losses are due to random chromosomal abnormalities, and they are not your fault.":1,"#A test on you or your partner that examines the number and structure of chromosomes (karyotype).":1,"#How chromosomes play a role":1,"#A test on pregnancy tissue that looks for missing or extra DNA across all chromosomes (microarray).":1,"#There are a couple of tests that can be done after pregnancy loss:":1,"#What testing can be done?":1,"#Structural chromosome abnormalities are less common than aneuploidy but may be considered if you’ve had multiple pregnancy losses.":1,"#These rearrangements can sometimes preserve all the necessary genetic material. But in many cases, they result in eggs or sperm that are missing or have extra DNA. This can cause miscarriage.":1,"#<em ljsid-0=\"\">Robertsonian translocation</em> is when two chromosomes lose sections and fuse together.":1,"#<em ljsid-0=\"\">Reciprocal translocation</em> is when two chromosomes swap segments.":1,"#Translocations: A piece of one chromosome breaks off and attaches to another.":1,"#Types include:":1,"#Not all abnormalities are related to age. Some are structural changes that happen when chromosomes rearrange before being passed down. These can occur spontaneously (called de novo) or be inherited.":1,"#A major cause of pregnancy loss is chromosomal abnormalities. In these cases, the pregnancy tries to grow but doesn’t have the right genetic material to continue. Some abnormalities still allow growth but come with serious health risks.":1,"#Early pregnancy can be an emotional time. Every ache, pain, or symptom may make you wonder if it’s “normal.” For better or worse, normal can look very different from person to person, and most symptoms don’t predict what will happen next. Unfortunately, pregnancy loss is not uncommon. About 20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, though the risk depends on your age and medical history.":1,"#Progyny’s integrated care model provides personalized clinical guidance, emotional support, and logistical expertise from pregnancy through postpartum and return-to-work. With digital tools and expert coordination, we help employees navigate complex decisions, manage leave, and feel confident as they balance growing their family with their career.":1,"#How Progyny supports employees – every step of the way":1,"#highest cost driver for employers are maternity and neonatal costs<sup ljsid-1=\"\">4</sup>":1,"#of women take extended maternity leave due to inadequate support<sup ljsid-1=\"\">3</sup>":1,"#of U.S. mothers skip their scheduled postpartum visit<sup ljsid-1=\"\">2</sup>":1,"#employees experience a perinatal mental health condition<sup ljsid-1=\"\">1</sup>":1,"#Holistic support that covers clinical, emotional, and logistical elements":1,"#Proven reduction in maternity and neonatal cost drivers":1,"#Industry-leading client retention (99% over nine years)":1,"#At Progyny, we deliver more than care – we deliver measurable impact.":1,"#Why do leading organizations choose Progyny?":1,"#Every journey is different. Without early support, small risks can become bigger.":1,"#State-specific guidance to simplify planning for leave, return-to-work, and retention":1,"#High-touch leave and benefits navigation":1,"#Leave and return to work navigation":1,"#See how Progyny supports members worldwide":1,"#Localized expertise with guidance on country-specific care, regulations, and leave policies":1,"#Why pregnancy and postpartum care matters":1,"#Benefit parity and consistent experience across regions":1,"#Support that spans borders":1,"#Decision and emotional support":1,"#lactation consultants":1,"#Unlimited, on-demand support from a multidisciplinary team of maternity experts including registered nurses, certified doulas and":1,"#See how early, connected care improves outcomes and reduces costs":1,"#Risk assessments and curated education enable early interventions and timely prenatal care":1,"#Dedicated expert coach and companion app provide proactive outreach from the earliest moments of pregnancy":1,"#Early engagement and risk identification":1,"#Book a demo":1,"#Clinically backed support from early pregnancy through postpartum and return to work for birthing parents and their partners — improving outcomes, reducing complications, and supporting a healthier workforce.":1,"#lista de reproducción de inyecciones de medicamentos para FIV en YouTube - abrir en una nueva pestaña":1,"#Pregnyl Intramuscular | Progyny":1,"#Updated by the Progyny Clinical Team — August 2025. Fertility medications are prescription drugs that help people reach their family-building goals. They may be used for ovulation induction (OI) or […]":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team — December 2025. Some clinics are part of large medical centers, while others are small […]":1,"#Understanding Clinic Options: Size, Services, and Specialties":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team — December 2025. Choosing a fertility clinic is a personal decision. The right fit depends […]":1,"#What to ask when choosing a fertility clinic":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team — December 2025. Starting fertility treatment is a big step and choosing a clinic is […]":1,"#How to choose a fertility clinic":1,"#Amount you may be expected to pay is approximately: $1800 to $2000":1,"#Amount you may be expected to pay is approximately: $25 to $30":1,"#les glucides raffinés <a ljsid-1=\"\">,</a>":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=Leaks+during+fertility+drug+injections&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Fmedicine-leak-fertility-drug-injections%2F":1,"#transferencia de embriones por fertilización in vitro (FIV),":1,"#clear - open in a new tab":1,"#anxiety and depressive symptoms are more prevalent for those living with PCOS - open in a new tab":1,"#serious long-term health risks - open in a new tab":1,"#can have a profound impact on mental health and self-esteem - open in a new tab":1,"#Nearly half report consulting three or more providers before receiving a diagnosis - open in a new tab":1,"#which are different from ovarian cysts - open in a new tab":1,"#at least two of the following symptoms, after other causes have been excluded - open in a new tab":1,"#affecting up to 13% of reproductive-aged women worldwide - open in a new tab":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=PCOS%3A+The+hidden+workplace+challenge+employers+can%26%238217%3Bt+afford+to+ignore&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Fblog%2Ffertility-in-the-workplace%2Fpcos-the-hidden-workplace-challenge-employers-cant-afford-to-ignore%2F":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Foods that support liver health</strong> include beets, lemons, limes, cabbage, and carrots.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Healthy fats</strong> can help balance hormones and encourage fertility. These fatty acids can be found in avocados, nut butters, chia seeds, extra virgin olive oil, and fatty fish, like wild salmon when possible.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Seed oils</strong> are common in processed foods and restaurant cooking because they’re cheap and have a neutral taste, so they work in almost any dish. Vegetable oils like soybean, canola, rapeseed, sunflower, and safflower mostly contain omega-6 fats, which can lead to inflammation. Avoid these fats by cooking with coconut oil, olive oil, or ghee (which is clarified butter) at home.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Highly processed carbs<a ljsid-0-1=\"\">, </a></strong>such as white bread, potato chips, and other highly processed foods should be avoided. Since these are rapidly processed in the body, like excess sugar, the same hormone and inflammation issues mentioned above may happen.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Excess added sugar</strong> both disrupts hormone balance and triggers an inflammatory response in the body. Inflammation is one of the primary causes of insulin problems, hormone imbalance, and PCOS.":1,"#PCOS is also known to be a metabolic disorder with a level of insulin resistance for most patients. Because it involves insulin resistance and metabolism, diet and exercise changes are an important step in its treatment — more on this later. For those with PCOS who are overweight, weight loss has been shown to improve PCOS symptoms and fertility. <a ljsid-1=\"\">Learn more about PCOS</a>.":1,"#PCOS is a hormone disorder where the body makes too many androgenic hormones. It often causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts, which is where the name comes from. These hormonal changes can lead to a lack of periods or longer time between periods, as well as infertility.":1,"#Finding the best foods for you can be difficult, but when you have a hormonal disorder or a disease it can be even more complicated. Then add trying to conceive on top of it. So how do you make sure you’re living a healthy lifestyle? We’ve broken down what foods to avoid and what to eat if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).":1,"#What to eat if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=Why+would+you+have+your+estradiol+levels+checked%3F&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Festradiol%2F":1,"#Looking to better understand your coverage or eligibility? We can help! <a ljsid-1=\"\">Contáctenos</a>.":1,"#We’re joined by Jennifer Sargent, CEO of Pacify, to discuss how doulas and lactation specialists fill critical gaps in support.":1,"#The DocTalk series, where we discuss current events on the full spectrum of women’s health and family building and what they might mean for you. From news, research studies, pop culture, and everything in-between, we’re going to break it all down and sift through the noise with the help of our expert Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Janet Choi and host, Lissa Kline, LCSW":1,"#This show does not constitute medical advice.":1,"#Lissa Kline, LCSW, SVP, Provider and Member Services, Progyny":1,"#Dr. Janet Choi, Chief Medical Officer, Progyny":1,"#Hosts":1,"#Jennifer Sargent, Chief Executive Officer, Pacify":1,"#Qui utilise ces options ?":1,"#Qu'est-ce que la congélation d'ovocytes et la conservation d'embryons ?":1,"#Congélation d'ovocytes et conservation d'embryons: quelle est la différence ?":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Call your Progyny Care Advocate</strong> for more information regarding your medication coverage.":1,"#You may also watch these videos directly on our <a ljsid-1=\"\">YouTube IVF Medication Injection Playlist</a>.":1,"#Use the drop-down menu to find your medication and watch a video demonstrating how to inject it.":1,"#When you receive your fertility medications, a Progyny Rx specialist will be available to explain how to safely administer, store, and dispose of them. Before you get started, check out our videos demonstrating how to inject the medications below.":1,"#Amount you may be expected to pay is approximately: $2025 to $2250":1,"#Watch clinical experts, advocates, and Progyny leaders discuss all things women’s health, fertility and family building.":1,"#Deep breathing for stress management":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team — November 2025. Have you noticed that when you’re stressed, worried, or anxious, your […]":1,"#Mindfulness for stress management":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — November 2025. If you were recently diagnosed […]":1,"#What should I know after being diagnosed with gestational diabetes?":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — November 2025. With gestational diabetes, your number […]":1,"#Blood sugar monitoring for gestational diabetes":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — November 2025. Getting the right amounts of […]":1,"#How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team — November 2025. Did you know that your own breath is a powerful tool […]":1,"#Appel: <a ljsid-1=\"\">855-315-5353</a>":1,"#If the sperm count is very low, your provider may recommend genetic testing, such as karyotyping, to look for chromosomal conditions.":1,"#Normal sperm concentration ranges from 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter. Fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter is considered low. However, sperm count alone doesn’t fully predict fertility. Some people with low counts can conceive naturally, and some with high counts may still have difficulty.":1,"#Concentration":1,"#Patients with both low volume and low sperm concentration may be experiencing testosterone deficiency. Less often, a low volume with either no sperm (azoospermia) or severely low sperm (severe oligospermia) may suggest some sort of obstruction.":1,"#The normal volume of semen is at least 1.5 milliliters. Low semen volume can happen for a few reasons, including an incomplete sample collection and partial retrograde ejaculation, when some semen flows back into the bladder instead of out through the urethra. In these cases, a second sample is often collected after emptying the bladder.":1,"#A semen analysis measures the amount and quality of semen and evaluates sperm under a microscope. It typically looks at:":1,"#Sperm-related infertility, also called male factor infertility, plays a role in up to 50% of fertility problems.":1,"#What’s a semen analysis?":1,"#In vitro fertilization with an intracytoplasmic sperm injection (injecting a single sperm directly into an egg in the lab)":1,"#Intrauterine insemination (placing sperm that are living and motile) directly into the uterus)":1,"#Depending on the cause, assisted reproductive technology may be needed. The options to increase the odds of conception include:":1,"#Your provider will review your results and may suggest repeating the test, since results can change between samples. If the analysis shows possible sperm-related fertility problems, you may be referred to a reproductive urologist for more testing and possible treatment.":1,"#When to visit a reproductive urologist":1,"#Motility describes how well sperm move toward the egg. Experts say the lower limit of normal total motility is 40%. Unless all sperm have poor movement, motility alone is usually not a strong predictor of infertility.":1,"#Motility":1,"#Morphology refers to sperm shape and structure. Healthy sperm have oval heads and long tails that help them swim. A normal sperm morphology result is 4% or more of sperm having a normal shape.":1,"#Morphology":1,"#Sperm-related infertility, also called male factor infertility, plays a role in up to 50% of fertility problems. To evaluate your sperm, your healthcare provider will recommend a semen analysis as part of an infertility workup.":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=The+importance+of+hydration+while+trying+to+conceive&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Ftrying-to-conceive%2Fthe-importance-of-hydration-while-trying-to-conceive%2F":1,"#Top tips for finding a therapist":1,"#Updated by the Progyny Editorial Team — December 2025. Facing challenges on your family-building journey can put strain on any […]":1,"#Caring for your relationships and yourself during fertility treatment":1,"#Anemia":1,"#Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, avocado, some legumes, nuts, and seeds, help prevent the formation of inflammatory molecules.":1,"#Soluble fiber also plays a role in reducing inflammation. It ferments in the gut to produce short-chain fatty acids, which help nourish cells in the colon and support the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.":1,"#Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but having too many can harm your cells. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and may prevent or delay cell damage. You can find antioxidants in many fruits, vegetables, and other whole, plant-based foods. Common examples include vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids such as beta-carotene and lycopene.":1,"#Antioxidants":1,"#Whole, unprocessed foods are linked to lower inflammation because they often contain antioxidants and other nutrients that protect cells from damage.":1,"#Improved sperm quality":1,"#Following an anti-inflammatory diet can improve fertility and reproductive results.":1,"#photo of healthy foods like avocados, salmon, oils, nuts":1,"#While no single food can eliminate inflammation, consistently choosing whole, nutrient-rich foods can lower your risk of inflammatory conditions and support your reproductive and overall health.":1,"#Studies suggest that an anti-inflammatory diet can improve fertility. Adopting this diet takes time, especially when so many processed and inflammatory foods are easy to access. Start with small, sustainable changes.":1,"#Omega-6-rich oils, including corn, peanut, sunflower, safflower, and soy oils":1,"#Better live birth rates":1,"#Fried foods":1,"#Processed meats":1,"#Saturated and trans fats":1,"#Sugary beverages":1,"#Simple carbohydrates, such as white flour and high-sugar foods":1,"#To reduce inflammation, limit or avoid:":1,"#What to avoid":1,"#Choose water, unsweetened teas, black coffee, kefir, or kombucha. For something sweet, try small amounts of honey, maple syrup, monk fruit, molasses, unsweetened dried fruit, cocoa, or dark chocolate.":1,"#Beverages and light sweets":1,"#Use vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil, mustard, or hot sauce to add richness without processed ingredients.":1,"#Higher pregnancy rates in spontaneous and in vitro fertilization pregnancies":1,"#Healthy fats and condiments":1,"#Spices and herbs such as turmeric, ginger, chili pepper, garlic, black pepper, oregano, rosemary, sage, and cinnamon can add flavor while reducing inflammation.":1,"#Pantry staples and flavor boosters":1,"#Fill your plate with color — berries, watermelon, pineapple, kiwi, apples, pears, cherries, peaches, apricots, plums, grapes, oranges, grapefruit, pomegranates, avocados, tomatoes, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, beets, asparagus, eggplant, celery, bell peppers, pumpkin, mushrooms, turnips, onions, and carrots.":1,"#Choose slow-digesting carbohydrates like whole oats, whole-wheat bread or pasta, farro, quinoa, millet, freekeh, amaranth, buckwheat, barley, bulgur, and wild rice.":1,"#Whole grains and complex carbs":1,"#Black or kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils, tofu, tempeh, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, chicken, turkey, and fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, cod, herring, and anchovies. Chia seeds and nuts are also excellent options.":1,"#Protein sources":1,"#You have a lot to choose from! Aim for a variety of whole, nutrient-dense foods that naturally reduce inflammation:":1,"#What to eat":1,"#Following an anti-inflammatory diet can improve fertility and reproductive results. A <a ljsid-1=\"\">2022 study</a> highlighted that an anti-inflammatory diet appears to be associated with:":1,"#Written by the Progyny Editorial Team and reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — November 2025":1,"#A chemical pregnancy from unassisted conception means that fertilization happened and the embryo started to implant in the uterus. In fertility treatments, fertilization occurs in a lab and the embryo is transferred to the uterus. A chemical pregnancy in both cases suggests early embryo attachment.":1,"#With this, there is a reduced or loss of ovarian function prior to age 40. As the ovarian follicle count goes down, falling estrogen levels lead to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms.":1,"#Sometimes, people with delayed periods may be evaluated for a condition called primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) or premature ovarian failure (POF).":1,"#Hormonal conditions impacting body mass index (BMI)":1,"#When trying to conceive, it is important to determine whether one is successfully ovulating each month. That’s because anovulation or other ovulatory conditions may play a role in a missed period and can affect your efforts to conceive.":1,"#Most brands of home pregnancy tests say to wait until the first day of your missed period to test. Remember, hCG rises differently in each person. Test again in one week if pregnancy is suspected.":1,"#Using digital apps for menstrual cycle tracking or ovulation prediction kits (OPKs) can help people get a firm grasp on their menstrual cycle to predict when they are most likely to ovulate.":1,"#The average menstrual cycle is 28 days but can still be considered regular if your period arrives either seven days before or after the 28-day mark. There are many things impacting hormones that may cause cycles to vary slightly in length from month to month: stress, life events, dietary habits or nutritional conditions, over exercising, the lunar cycle, etc.":1,"#If you are trying to conceive and your period is more than one week late with a negative pregnancy test, consider consulting a healthcare provider for a thorough fertility diagnostic evaluation.":1,"#For couples trying to conceive, a missed period is often the first exciting sign of a positive pregnancy. But what if the pregnancy test is negative? There are many possible explanations.":1,"#What a missed period and negative pregnancy test could mean":1,"#If levels are out-of-range, it’s important to find out what is causing it and treat it. The solution could be as simple as stopping a specific prescription or could involve treating an underlying condition such as hypothyroidism.":1,"#Many everyday issues can affect levels too. Intense exercise, lack of sleep, and some foods and medicine (especially some anti-depressants and painkillers) can raise prolactin levels. A provider may give out information about how to prepare for the test to minimize the impact of these factors.":1,"#For those who are not chestfeeding, high prolactin levels are often caused by prolactinoma — a small, usually benign tumor on the pituitary gland that releases excess prolactin in the body. An underactive thyroid or other, more rare medical problems can also raise prolactin levels.":1,"#High prolactin levels inhibit secretion of FSH, which is the hormone that helps the body prepare for ovulation. So, if prolactin levels are high, ovulation may be suppressed. This is why people who are chestfeeding (who typically have high levels of prolactin) usually don’t become pregnant.":1,"#Prolactin levels are checked at any point in the menstrual cycle. Levels vary throughout the day but are highest while sleeping and first thing in the morning. So, if a result is out-of-range, the healthcare provider may ask patients to repeat the test if the first test was drawn in the afternoon or evening.":1,"#A person with a uterus may also have prolactin levels checked if they have stopped having a period or have any unexpected nipple discharge. It is unclear what role prolactin plays in people with sperm, but abnormal results have been clearly linked to infertility and sex drive.":1,"#Prolactin is a hormone that plays a role in fertility by preventing <a ljsid-1=\"\">follicle-stimulating hormone</a> (FSH) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). These hormones trigger ovulation (when an egg is released from the ovary) and allow eggs to develop and mature.":1,"#Prolactin levels and testing":1,"#send an email to enteryour@addresshere.com?subject=Embryos+don%E2%80%99t+fall+out+after+IVF+transfer&body=Check%20this%20out:%20https%3A%2F%2Fprogyny.com%2Feducation%2Fembryos-dont-fall-out%2F":1,"#In general, people who have higher AMH levels require less medicine for stimulation and often generate a larger quantity of eggs. AMH levels continue to drop as a person with a uterus ages, and trend toward “0” at the time of menopause.":1,"#There are age-specific averages for AMH levels. It is important to know that AMH levels do not predict pregnancy success. AMH levels can predict response at the time of an <a ljsid-1=\"\">egg freezing cycle</a> or an <a ljsid-3=\"\">IVF</a> cycle.":1,"#AMH is thought to be a more reliable predictor of ovarian reserve. That’s because the levels stay mainly consistent throughout the menstrual cycle and can be tested on any day. The higher the AMH, in theory, the higher the number of eggs. The lower it is, the lower the number of eggs.":1,"#The level of FSH in the body can fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and therefore FSH levels are usually tested on day 2 or 3 of a menstrual period.":1,"#FSH is a hormone that stimulates the ovary to release an egg (ovulate). With diminished ovarian reserve, the ovary signals to the brain to produce higher quantities of FSH. Therefore, a <a ljsid-1=\"\">high level of FSH likely indicates a low ovarian reserve</a>.":1,"#Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) screening":1,"#Infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, but luckily there are various screenings that can help diagnose issues. Results from an ovarian reserve test help determine how many eggs remain. It can also guide reproductive planning, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing.":1,"#Testing ovarian reserve: FSH, AMH, and AFC":1,"#No vigorous activities such as heavy lifting (over 10 pounds), bending, or exercise. These could raise body temperature and embryos do not like heat.":1,"#Several recent studies have confirmed that immediate bed rest after the embryo transfer is unnecessary. One <a ljsid-1=\"\">study</a> showed better pregnancy rates after an immediate return to normal activities, compared to bed rest right after the embryo transfer.":1,"#When the transfer is ready to happen, the embryologist removes the embryo from the incubator. Then, they use a vaginal speculum to visualize the cervix and cleanse the cervix with some sterile fluid. Typically, there is no pain during this, but a person may feel pressure. For those who have had routine pap smears, the sensation is usually very similar.":1,"#During IVF, the embryos develop in a Petri dish for three to five days, and the healthiest embryo is chosen for the transfer.":1,"#Miembros":1,"#Male infertility accounts for <a ljsid-1=\"\">1/3 of infertility cases</a>, but don’t be surprised if you didn’t know that as it’s so infrequently discussed. Conversations about infertility in media usually focus on women and those with ovaries, and rarely do you see male celebrities or prominent figures opening up about their struggles with infertility.":1,"#The stigma around male infertility":1,"#Monica Ochoa, LCSW: Mental Health Therapist, Pinnacle Fertility":1,"#Justin Smith: VP of Client Success, Progyny":1,"#Joshua Halpern, MD, MS: Reproductive Urologist and Chief Scientific Officer, Posterity Health":1,"#Joe Liverani: National Account Manager, Progyny":1,"#We invite you to join us for a timely and informative webinar about male infertility and its role in the family building process.":1,"#Webinar: The Male Fertility Conversation: Changing the Narrative Around Men’s Reproductive Health | Progyny":1,"#If you are a Progyny member and have any questions about your benefit or coverage, please call 888.597.5065.":1,"#If you’re a Progyny member or have access to the Progyny benefit, your benefit includes access to Reproductive Urology services, as well as mental health support and guidance from a dedicated Progyny Care Advocate (PCA). In addition to helping navigate care and treatment options, your PCA can be another part of your support system as you tackle the challenges that can come up as you navigate your fertility journey.":1,"#These misconceptions about male infertility won’t be reversed overnight. But that’s why it’s so important that we continue to normalize conversations such as this about how common and normal it is. It means educating people in schools, in the workplace, in media, and in healthcare as well – about how male factor infertility is very common and often treatable. And most importantly, it means helping men feel seen and supported, physically and emotionally.":1,"#A lot of men are conditioned to believe that male infertility equals a lack of masculinity, which can create a lot of shame and avoidance. You might feel like something’s wrong with you, and it can be really isolating especially if you don’t know how common male infertility actually is. Not only can it be damaging for your own well-being, it can also harm your relationship. That’s why it’s so important to shift the conversation and reframe infertility as a shared medical journey instead of personal inadequacy. Dealing with infertility doesn’t mean you can’t have a fertility journey filled with hope and dignity. While you are going through the journey, its important to find support that can help you through. This support can come from an employee resource group through your company, community support groups that can be found through your clinic/RU, and of course any family and/or friends you feel comfortable sharing with.":1,"#Myth #3: Experiencing infertility means I’m not a “real man.”":1,"#Ads for testosterone replacements are seemingly everywhere, so you wouldn’t be at fault for thinking they might help promote your fertility. After all, testosterone is an essential hormone when it comes to men’s health, affecting everything from vitality, sex drive, muscle mass, and – of course – fertility. Unfortunately, the testosterone you need for sperm production has to come from inside your body in order to be helpful for your fertility. In fact, taking testosterone exogenously, whether through injection or topical gel – can actually harm your fertility because it shuts down your body’s own production of testosterone and sperm. This isn’t to say that you can’t take anything to help with your testosterone production, but that’s why it’s crucial that you work with a reproductive urologist, who has medical expertise and is qualified to help.":1,"#Myth #2: Men can take testosterone to promote fertility.":1,"#When faced with trouble conceiving, it’s common for a lot of men to think, “It couldn’t be me.” But that couldn’t be further from the truth, since anywhere from 1/3 of all infertility cases are due to male-factor infertility. Infertility is not a women’s only issue – it’s a couple’s issue, and it’s important that both partners take the necessary steps to address any challenges faced.":1,"#Myth #1: Infertility only affects women.":1,"#There are a lot of misconceptions out there about male infertility. Here are some of the top ones:":1,"#Common myths and how to move forward":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Surgery: </strong>Surgical intervention may be required in instances where lifestyle changes and medication aren’t enough. This can encompass a lot of different things that range in invasiveness, so it’s best to listen to what your RU and reproductive endocrinologist recommend for you and your partner.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Medication: </strong>Your RU may prescribe certain medications that are geared towards improving your fertility (e.g., improving levels of testosterone and other hormones that promote sperm production) or sexual function.":1},"version":25146}]