What Is Infertility?
When trying to conceive, understanding the basics is the first step. Although the “textbook definition” of infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse (or six months for women over 35), many women seek assistance sooner—and that is entirely appropriate.
Infertility symptoms are often silent, with the primary sign being the inability to get pregnant. However, irregular cycles or underlying health conditions can be indicators. We look beyond the definition to understand your specific body. We review your menstrual cycle history to look for consistency and signs of ovulation.
While some women have physical signs of ovulation, others do not. We often recommend tracking apps or Basal Body Temperature (BBT) charting to gather valuable data that helps us pinpoint ovulation and time intercourse effectively.
Benefits of an Infertility Evaluation
Undergoing a professional evaluation provides clarity. The unknown is often the most stressful part of fertility struggles. By partnering with infertility specialists, you gain:
- Answers: We identify if there are hormonal imbalances, structural issues, or ovulation disorders.
- Personalized Plans: We move away from guessing and towards a targeted strategy, whether that involves lifestyle changes, medication, or further infertility testing.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a medical expert monitoring your progress can alleviate the stress that often hinders conception.
Who Are Ideal Candidates for Infertility Evaluation in Katy, TX?
You may be a good candidate for an evaluation if:
- You are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for one year without success
- You are over 35 and have been trying for six months
- You have irregular periods, known hormonal imbalances, or a history of pelvic issues
- You are interested in learning more about your infertility options before problems arise
We also consider male factors. Since male factor infertility accounts for a large proportion of cases, we often recommend a semen analysis. If necessary, we can refer your partner to a urologist experienced in fertility for a comprehensive approach.
How the Infertility Diagnosis & Treatment Process Works
Our process is thorough and collaborative. We aim to find the least invasive, most effective path to a successful pregnancy.
- Cycle Tracking & History
We start by reviewing your charts (App or BBT) to assess cycle length and ovulation consistency. If we need to intervene, this historical data is valuable for your success.
- Hormone Level Testing
We check your hormone levels to determine if a specific imbalance is preventing pregnancy. Hormones must work in perfect symphony for the menstrual cycle to function. If a hormone is out of balance, we can often use medication to correct it, thereby improving the chances of spontaneous conception.
- Oral Medication (Ovulation Induction)
Our practice frequently uses oral medication to assist with conception. We typically prescribe Clomid or Letrozole, tailored to your individual characteristics. These medications help you ovulate a “bigger and better” egg. We follow up with you monthly through this process to monitor your progress.
- Referrals for Advanced Care
If your infertility diagnosis suggests you need more than oral medications, we are happy to refer you to trusted specialists for more intensive treatments (such as IUI or IVF). Our goal is your goal: a successful pregnancy.
Timeline and Results
The timeline for success varies from patient to patient. Some women achieve pregnancy in the first month of treatment, while others may need several cycles to find the right dosage or medication. We generally monitor progress month-to-month.
Many patients find that correcting hormonal imbalances or inducing ovulation is the “nudge” their body needs. While we cannot guarantee a specific outcome, our targeted approach significantly improves the statistical probability of conception for many couples.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of infertility treatment and testing varies depending on your individual insurance coverage. During the diagnostic phase, many insurance plans cover the initial consultation and necessary testing, including blood work and exams, used to determine the underlying cause of infertility.
However, coverage for the treatment phase, including medications like Clomid and ongoing fertility monitoring, is highly variable between different plans. We strongly recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to understand your specific benefits and coverage details.
Why Choose Progressive Women’s Care?
Dr. Ann Marie Bertles and the team at Progressive Women’s Care are dedicated to your total well-being. We combine medical excellence with genuine empathy because we understand that infertility causes significant stress and heartache. We strive to provide answers in a supportive, patient-centered environment.
Your care is led by Dr. Bertles, who is board-certified and highly experienced in managing complex fertility issues. Our practice is conveniently located to serve patients across Katy, Cypress, Houston, and Fulshear, providing top-tier medical support close to home. Furthermore, we support your comprehensive health journey; from initial fertility evaluations to prenatal care and beyond, we are here with you for every phase of womanhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AVIVA scarless labiaplasty painful?
We administer local anesthesia to numb the treatment area completely before beginning. Most patients report feeling only mild pressure or warmth during the procedure, and post-procedure discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Will AVIVA affect my sexual sensation?
This is a common concern, but AVIVA is designed to target the tissue without damaging the sensitive nerve endings responsible for pleasure. Many women report that their sexual satisfaction actually improves after treatment because they no longer experience the physical distraction of discomfort or self-consciousness.
Does AVIVA treat both the labia minora and majora?
Yes, the AccuTite technology is versatile and can address laxity in both the labia minora (inner lips) and labia majora (outer lips). Dr. Bertles can personalize your treatment plan to address specific concerns in either or both areas, achieving a balanced look.
Can this procedure correct uneven or asymmetrical labia?
Absolutely. One of the primary benefits of this non-surgical labiaplasty treatment is the ability to contour specific areas with high precision. Dr. Bertles can treat one side more aggressively than the other to improve symmetry and restore balance.
Is it safe to have AVIVA before having children?
Yes, you can undergo this procedure before childbirth. However, it is important to note that pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch the tissues again, which might alter your results. If you plan to have children in the near future, we can discuss the best timing during your consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let another month go by with unanswered questions. If you are struggling to conceive, let us help you navigate your infertility options in Katy, TX, with compassion and expertise. Contact Progressive Women’s Care today to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward growing your family.
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Meet The Team
Dr. Bertles is licensed by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners and is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Amanda Smith, PA-C, spent the first 15 years of her career in primary care and is excited to join Progressive Women's Care and Dr. Bertles as she brings her primary care knowledge to women's health.
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