For couples struggling with infertility, it’s important to know they are not alone in their journey

For many couples, having children is one of the most rewarding and gratifying things that will happen in their lives. But for countless others who so desperately want to become parents and grow a family, struggles with fertility and reproductive health can be overwhelming.

But through the depression and despair that can arise during these difficult times, it’s important for those struggling with infertility to know they are certainly not alone. And thankfully, there have been major strides made in the field with recent innovations providing a renewed sense of hope when it appeared all was lost. 

We spoke to area experts to get a better sense of some of the recent advancements that are benefitting patients and to dispel the common misconceptions surrounding reproductive health. 

What recent advancements in reproductive medicine are most impacting your patients?

“I have seen an increase in patients coming to us for egg preservation, and also sperm preservation. People freeze embryos as well. It’s nice to have the option to freeze eggs because they stay the age that they’re frozen at forever.”

–Amanda Hill, nurse practitioner, Reproductive Medicine Associates

“Recent research suggests acupuncture may serve as a beneficial complementary therapy for individuals undergoing IVF or other fertility treatments. By improving uterine blood flow, supporting hormonal regulation, modulating the nervous system and reducing stress, acupuncture helps create a more favorable physiological environment for implantation and reproductive success.”

–Dr. Zakia L. Chang, Acupuncture of Orlando

How can acupuncture treatments help prepare the body for a healthy pregnancy and improve postpartum recovery?

“Treatments focus on supporting hormonal balance and improving blood circulation to the uterus and ovaries to create a healthy uterine lining for implantation. Acupuncture also calms the nervous system, which is vital for patients navigating the stress of fertility treatments.

“After childbirth, acupuncture supports postpartum recovery by reducing pain, promoting healing and assisting the body as hormone levels shift. It is also effective for managing fatigue, improving sleep and supporting emotional well-being. In some cases, it may support breastfeeding by promoting relaxation and circulation to help with milk production.”

–Dr. Chang

What are some of the more common myths about fertility treatments that you encounter and why should couples not always believe what they read?

“A lot of people don’t delve into their infertility care until it’s too late. Unfortunately, biology is biology. People just don’t really understand you can socially push off your first child, but biologically this is not changing. Your body is going to stop being able to do this. You definitely want to get your situation looked at and examined.”

–Dr. Michael Simoni, Reproductive Medicine Associates

“That women should wait a year before they see a doctor. Yes, we do recommend women actively try to conceive for at least a year before they panic as long as they are healthy and have no risk factors, but this time decreases to six months if they are over 35 years old. And for ladies over the age of 40, they can see a reproductive endocrinology and infertility group to go over their options right away. These recommendations are for women with normal regular menstrual cycles and no risk factors for infertility. And the same goes for your partner.”

–Dr. Santana Rothen, Women’s Care Florida

What types of questions should couples be asking about their treatment options?

“Appropriate questions to ask vary on where they are on their journey. Some questions include what are tests I can have performed to assess my fertility potential as far as ovarian function? How can my spouse be checked? What free educational programs/patient seminars are available to learn about my treatment options? What financing options are there available for IVF? These are a few that come to mind.”

— Dr. Ann Marie D’Heureux-Jones, Women’s Care Florida