When a couple is faced with an infertility problem the emotional weight they carry can be devastating. The emotional distress can cause doubt on every decision made including when it's time to turn to an infertility center for more extensive and costly infertility treatment. Researching medical journals or on the Internet will reveal 10 or more large institutions located in major cities.
Now before thinking you have to visit a well known infertility center you really want to take a look at what is offered in your hometown or nearest large city. Your 'local' infertility center may have the solution to your particular infertility issue and this will remove the added stress of travel and lodging which will take time away from work as well as add to the expense of the whole procedure.
Even before you think you need In Vitro Fertilization, or 'IVF" as it is known, make sure you have explored more common options such as various fertility medications, inter-uterine insemination where sperm is placed directly in the woman's uterus as well as alternative methods such as acupuncture.
In-Vitro Fertilization procedures can cost as much as $35,000 so if you are not able to really afford that and can spend 6 months or so trying various alternative methods it can literally pay off in a relatively short period of time then you'll have that extra cash to go towards baby expenses or start that college fund.
When you actually visit an infertility center remember that you are going there to see if they are the right fit for you and your situation. Make sure they are very clear when discussing which procedures and any other work they are going to do and you will want this in writing so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.
Checking ahead of time with your insurance agent regarding the tests and procedures the center will perform is important so you know what your insurance company will cover and exactly what you can expect to pay out of pocket.
If the infertility center outsources certain tests or other types of lab work make sure you know which lab will be doing the work so you don't get any surprises a few months down the road. The percentage of multiple births is also an important factor. While twins can be a cause for joyous celebration you will have two babies to care for at the same time.
Triplets will obviously be a lot more work than a single baby. There is also the cost of raising a child in dollars and cents. If you suddenly find yourself pregnant with triplets the pregnancy can be more difficult and then there is the work load and cost of raising three babies simultaneously.
When you are dealing with an infertility problem it can be very personal and you might feel intimidated at times but you need to force yourself past that and ask any and all questions you have no matter how 'stupid' they might seem. You need to know!
One other problem you might have is when you are questioning an infertility center they might not be totally forthcoming when giving you answers. An infertility center is a business just like any other and is expected to return as high a profit as possible.
You can ask about similar couples with the same issue you are facing and what the success rate is and you can also ask to speak with the staff of the infertility center and while they are obviously not going to say anything bad about where they work you can get a 'feel' for them.
Despite the emotional roller coaster you may find yourself on you need to stay calm and make the best decision possible.
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