Infertility that remains unexplained after a thorough medical evaluation may be treated through ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) or through IVF. The chosen course is dependent upon a number of factors, including the age of the parents, length of infertility, prior treatments and goals.
For example, some patients may opt to start with oral agents + IUI (recommended first line treatment) for a few cycles followed by injectable medications with IUI for up to three cycles. Other couples may elect to proceed directly to IVF due to its higher success rate and improved control over issues such as multiple gestation.
The current mainstream approach, based on cost effectiveness analyses, to patients with unexplained infertility is to start with clomiphene citrate 100mg/IUI for 3 cycles and if not pregnant then move on to IVF.
Providing individualized guidance to couples about decisions such as these is a strength of the physicians at our Center.
See Treatment Options for more details on diagnosis and procedures.