We often hear about the ways in which our bodies and minds are impacted by hormones. Although we can't physically perceive how their levels change, we can often feel when they do. From menstrual cycles and skin problems to chronic stress and countless diseases, our hormones hold a lot of power over us. When our physician suspects you're dealing with an issue related to hormones, they may refer you to a specialist -- known as an endocrinologist. But why exactly might you want to see an endocrinologist? In today's post, we'll share a few scenarios that might prompt you to make an appointment.

• You've Been Diagnosed With With Diabetes: Did you know that diabetes is considered to be the most common endocrine disorder in the nation? Those with diabetes do not make enough insulin, a hormone responsible for allowing your body to process glucose properly. It's what keeps your blood sugar levels from getting too high or too low. If you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes or are pre-diabetic, your doctor may recommend that you see a specialist for an evaluation or to develop a treatment plan.


• You Have Thyroid Issues: If you have a thyroid disease such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, it's possible that your primary care doctor has already provided you with a diagnosis. However, you may be referred to a specialist in order to better monitor your condition or to create a plan for managing it. Although some primary care physicians are comfortable with these conditions, many will suggest working with a hormonal specialist to ensure everything is being done to help you and that all parties are in agreement about a course of treatment.


• Your Hormones Are Imbalanced: Many people experience insufficient or excessive production of certain hormones. Some men, for example, have low testosterone production, while many women experience hormonal issues leading up to or during menopause. if your doctor suggests that you undergo a test for a hormonal imbalance, you may be able to get some answers about the underlying condition affecting your physical and mental health.


• You're Struggling With Infertility: Many women see a hormonal specialist if they face challenges when trying to conceive. Considering that fertility starts to decline for women from around the age of 30, reproductive system concerns are quite common among many patients. By making an appointment with a reproductive endocrinologist Michigan residents trust, women can gain insight into any fertility issues they may be experiencing. Although fertility challenges are not always the cause of a hormonal issue, hormonal treatments can play an important role in preparation for in vitro fertilization.

As you can see, there are many different scenarios wherein it might make sense to meet with an endocrine specialist. If you are looking for answers in regards to your own fertility and have been struggling to conceive, you may want to make an appointment with a reproductive endocrinologist. From there, you and your doctor will be in a better position to make decisions regarding reproductive next steps.

At IVF Michigan, we support all individuals throughout their fertility path. Finding the right fertility treatment center can be difficult for families, and we want to help you throughout the process. Whether your path entails evaluation or IVF treatment, you can trust IVF Michigan to provide you and your family with great recommendations and treatment.
 
As we provide fertility treatment to those who have difficulty getting pregnant, many women discover they have uterine anamolies through 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or hysterosalpingogram (HSG) testing. We are here to explain what a “uterine anomaly” is and reassure you that fertility and pregnancy do not have to be compromised if you are diagnosed with an anomaly.
 
What are congenital uterine anamolies (CUAs)?
There are many different types of malformations that can form in the uterus because of flawed embryonic development. These anamolies – called congenital uterine anamolies (CUAs) – occur if the baby’s uterus develops as two separate halves and form together before being born. Most causes for CUAs are unknown and usually occur in less than 5% of all women; however, anamolies occur more frequently in women who have miscarriages and premature deliveries.
 
What are the symptoms of a CUA?
Most CUAs are fully formed at birth and are asymptomatic. However, the most common symptoms are the following:

• Pain when inserting a tampon
• Irregular periods
• Pain during intercourse
• Recurrent problems with miscarriages and/or infertility
• Abnormal baby positioning during labor
• Preterm labor

 
What are the different types of CUAs?
A majority of CUAs are either septate or bicornuate, but a handful of other anamolies exist:

• Arcuate: Normal external uterine surface, but has a small depression in the endometrial cavity; considered to be variation of normal
• Bicornuate: Abnormal uterine surface with two endometrial cavities
• Unicornuate: Only one half of the uterus develops normally
• Didelphys: Two halves of the uterus do not form together and are separated
• Septate: Normal external uterine surface, but has two endometrial cavities

 
Do CUAs cause infertility?
Ultimately, infertility and potential risks of miscarriages and preterm births depend on the diagnosed CUA. Women with bicornuate, unicornuate, and didelphic CUAs usually have no problem with fertility, but may have a slightly higher risk for miscarriage and preterm birth. In comparison, septate anamolies have a high risk for infertility, miscarriage, and preterm birth. If a woman is diagnosed with more than one CUA, the risk of fertility problems increases significantly.
 
Should I receive treatment for my CUA?
You should always consult with your doctor when determining your individualized treatment plan. If a septate uterus is discovered through evaluation, your physician will most likely advise surgical removal and treatment. But, other forms of CUAs – such as bicornuate, unicornuate, and didelphic – may not require surgical treatment.
 
If you have had a series of fertility problems and would like an evaluation for CUAs, make sure to reach out to Dr. Mostafa Abuzeid and his team of trained clinicians at IVF Michigan. We understand how challenging infertility can be and are here for you and your family every step of the way.

Here at IVF Michigan, we understand how difficult pregnancy can be. Finding a fertility clinic and physician you and your family trust – let alone a successful fertility treatment – can be challenging, but we are here to help you every step of the way.
As you begin your search for the right Michigan fertility center, make sure the staff is knowledgeable about multiple types of procedures including traditional In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). By asking lots of questions, you and your doctor can make the best choice for your fertility success.

The Traditional Routes: IVF and IUI Treatments
Both In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) can be successful fertility treatments for you and your family, but each of these assisted reproductive procedures is different because of multiple factors. Even with these differences, it is important to note many families go forth with either treatment and see positive results.
In general, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) places collected sperm into the uterine cavity to increase the likelihood of an egg-sperm encounter, and thus, pregnancy. Often, families will begin IUI treatments because of its low cost in comparison to traditional In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment. Based on the fertility clinic, each treatment cycle can cost between a few hundred dollars and $2,000 depending on the number of cycles, blood work, and prescribed medication. Additionally, IUI can be performed during the natural ovulation cycle and may be completed along with over-the-counter (OTC) ovulation predictor kits (OPKs), unlike other treatments. Most fertility clinics offer IUI, and it is an excellent place to start if you and your loved one are interested in going forth with fertility treatment.

If IUI fails, a fertility clinic can create an individualized treatment plan which includes In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF), a treatment that enables an egg-sperm encounter outside of the woman’s uterus. To achieve fertility success, the women usually takes oral medication to stimulate the ovaries to help develop multiple follicles and eggs. After retrieving eggs from the uterus, the sperm is inseminated, and embryo growth is monitored to identify optimal embryo transfer. As this procedure can cost nearly $12,000, IVF is recommended to couples who have been unsuccessful in pregnancy for more than one year.

The Road Less Traveled: ICSI
Although we generally think of fertility problems associated with the female reproductive system, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) focuses on male infertility factors. When looking for Michigan fertility clinics, it is important your physician performs procedures like ICSI for all-encompassing fertility treatment. ICSI is commonly recommended if a male has low sperm count, poor sperm motility and quality, or sperm that lack the ability to penetrate an egg. In ICSI, sperm is collected through normal ejaculation or a specialized needle, and much like IVF, is injected directly into an egg within a laboratory setting.

Walking Through Multiple Routes
Although maneuvering the path to fertility can be frustrating, it is important to talk about different treatments with your doctor and loved ones. Regular conversations with your doctor and partner can differentiate positives and negatives between procedures, resulting in a personalized treatment plan that works well for you and your family.
As treatment can take a toll on the body and your family, make sure you are surrounded by people you trust. Dr. Mostafa Abuzeid and his clinical staff believe in you and want your fertility dreams to come true. To learn more about specialized treatment for you and your family, reach out to one of our specialists!