What is infertility?Infertility is a problem of the reproductive system. It affects the body's ability to reproduce. It could be caused by a problem with the man’s system, the woman’s system, or both. For a pregnancy, these must happen: Show
Infertility is not just a woman's concern. Half the time, a male factor causes or plays a part in the problem. Many couples have more than 1 factor that plays a role. In a few cases, a cause for infertility can’t be found. If you think you're not able to get pregnant, see your healthcare provider soon. Your age and how long you've been trying to get pregnant may affect treatment. We understand that gender is a spectrum. We may use gendered terms to talk about anatomy and health risk. Please use this information in a way that works best for you and your provider as you talk about your care. What causes infertility?Many things can cause infertility. It can be a problem in the female reproductive system. It can be a problem in the male reproductive system. Or it may be both. Below are things that can affect fertility. Female factors
Male factors
These lifestyle habits can also affect sperm quality and function:
What are the symptoms of infertility?A couple is defined as infertile if conception does not happen in these cases:
How is infertility diagnosed?To diagnose infertility, both the man and the woman are tested. Some healthcare providers can do a basic infertility evaluation. But many causes of infertility are best treated by a reproductive endocrinologist. This is an OB/GYN who has had education and training in infertility. They should be certified with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The healthcare provider will test both partners to find the cause of infertility. The healthcare provider is looking for answers to these questions:
The below tests are often part of the basic testing for infertility. Both partnersFemale
MaleA semen sample is taken and tested in the lab. The healthcare provider can:
Other tests may be done that test the sperm's ability to penetrate the egg, as well as male hormone testing. Men may need to see a urologist for more testing. How is infertility treated?Once a diagnosis is made, you can work with a fertility expert to find the best treatment. Most people with infertility are treated with medicine or surgery. Depending on the cause, there are many types of treatment. Types of treatments for women may include:
Types of ART include:
Types of treatments for men may include:
Key points about infertility
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP Date Last Reviewed: 3/1/2022 © 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. Does BCBS cover IVF in Massachusetts?Medication for donor egg IVF is covered for the donor under the following conditions: • Recipient is a member with BCBSMA pharmacy benefits, AND • Donor is known to the member, OR • Infertility medications for anonymous donors if the member is sole recipient of unknown donor eggs.
Is IVF covered by insurance in MA?Massachusetts Has Mandatory Coverage for IVF
There may be some limitations, but generally the following procedures should be covered if medically necessary: Artificial insemination (AI), intrauterine insemination (IUI) In vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo placement (EP)
Does MassHealth cover infertility treatment?In accordance with MassHealth, coverage for MassHealth ACO plan members is limited to services for the diagnosis and treatment of an underlying cause of infertility. No coverage is provided for infertility treatments, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Are fertility issues covered by insurance?Many fertility treatments are not considered “medically necessary” by insurance companies, so they are not typically covered by private insurance plans or Medicaid programs. When coverage is available, certain types of fertility services (e.g., testing) are more likely to be covered than others (e.g., IVF).
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