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Boca Fertility Welcomes Dr. Cheri Margolis and Dr. Leah Roberts!

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Excitement is in the air at Boca Fertility as we proudly announce the newest members of our dedicated team! Dr. Cheri Margolis and Dr. Leah Roberts have joined us, bringing with them a wealth of experience, compassion, and a shared commitment to helping individuals and couples on their journey to parenthood.

The arrival of Dr. Margolis and Dr. Roberts marks an exciting new chapter for Boca Fertility, enhancing the clinic’s capabilities in fertility preservation, in vitro fertilization, third-party reproduction, and preimplantation genetics and diagnostics, among other fertility services. Both doctors recently completed their fellowships at Reproductive Medicine Associates (RMA) in New Jersey and are thrilled to return to their roots in Florida, further strengthening Boca Fertility’s position as one of the leading fertility centers in the state.

Dr. Moshe Peress, Founder & Medical Director of Boca Fertility, shared his excitement about the new additions, stating, “We are thrilled to announce the expansion of the Boca Fertility physician team, and the bright future the practice holds with Dr. Roberts and Dr. Margolis. Their partnership will enable us to continue providing industry-leading fertility solutions to more individuals in South Florida, raising the bar for excellence in patient experiences.”

Established in 1982, Boca Fertility holds the distinction of being the first clinic in Palm Beach County to offer in vitro fertilization (IVF). Since then, it has maintained its position as a leading fertility center in southern Florida. The clinic’s commitment to delivering outstanding care and exceptional patient experiences has garnered national recognition, including being featured in the Top 10% of Newsweek’s 2023 Best Fertility Clinics in America.

To meet with Dr. Margolis or Dr. Roberts, schedule an appointment with Boca Fertility by phone or request an appointment online today.

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Debunking Common Myths About IVF

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In recent years, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has become a lifeline for couples struggling with infertility. While it has helped millions of people achieve their dream of parenthood, IVF is still shrouded in myths and misconceptions that can create unnecessary anxiety and fear. By debunking these common misconceptions about IVF, we hope to provide you with accurate information and a clearer understanding of this reproductive technology.

One of the most common misconceptions about IVF is that it’s the go-to solution for all fertility issues. In reality, IVF is typically considered after other, less invasive fertility treatments have been explored and failed. We often recommend lifestyle changes, medications, and other interventions before turning to IVF. The decision to pursue IVF is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific needs and circumstances of the individuals or couples involved, and their cause of infertility.

IVF has certainly improved the odds of conception for many people, but it is not a guaranteed solution. Success rates can vary widely depending on factors like age, underlying causes of infertility, and the quality of the embryos. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the average success rate for IVF in the United States is around 40% for women under 35. It’s essential to manage expectations and be prepared for the possibility of multiple IVF cycles or exploring alternative options.

While it’s true that IVF can sometimes lead to multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets, modern techniques have become more precise in controlling this outcome. Most fertility clinics now aim for a single, healthy pregnancy to minimize the potential risks associated with multiple births. Doctors carefully monitor and adjust the number of embryos transferred to reduce the chances of multiples, making IVF safer for both the mother and the babies.

IVF is not exclusively for older women. While advanced maternal age can be a factor in infertility, it’s by no means the only reason to consider IVF. Many younger couples and individuals also benefit from IVF when facing issues like male infertility, tubal blockages, endometriosis, or unexplained fertility problems. It’s essential to consult a fertility specialist who can determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a fertility treatment option that has helped many couples struggling with infertility issues to successfully conceive. However, it is often mistakenly believed that only people with fertility problems can benefit from this technology. While it is true that it’s primarily used by those struggling to get pregnant naturally, there are other groups of individuals who may benefit from IVF as well.

In Vitro Fertilization is a remarkable advancement in the field of reproductive medicine, offering hope and opportunities for many couples and individuals struggling with infertility. However, as with any medical procedure, it is essential to distinguish between myths and facts when considering IVF. By debunking these common misconceptions, we hope to empower individuals and couples to make informed decisions, manage their expectations, and embark on the IVF journey with greater clarity and confidence.

To explore your options and create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and circumstances, schedule an appointment with Boca Fertility by phone or request an appointment online today.

 

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Fertility Preservation: A Guide to Preserving Your Future Family

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Fertility preservation, a process of saving or protecting eggs or sperm for future use, has gained prominence in recent years as people increasingly seek to take control of their reproductive futures. By freezing eggs or sperm, which can then be used later for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), fertility preservation provides individuals and couples with the option to have children in the future, even when faced with challenges such as medical treatments, age-related decline, or personal circumstances.

Fertility preservation empowers individuals to take control of their reproductive future. It becomes especially crucial for those facing medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, which can have a detrimental effect on fertility. Additionally, as societal trends shift towards delayed childbearing, fertility preservation becomes an essential tool for individuals who wish to preserve their fertility potential.

  • Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation): This method involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then harvested, frozen, and stored for future use. Egg freezing offers a viable option for women who wish to preserve their fertility.
  • Sperm Freezing (Sperm Cryopreservation): Sperm freezing is a straightforward process where sperm samples are collected, processed, and frozen for future use. This method is particularly beneficial for men who may face fertility-threatening treatments or who want to secure their reproductive options.
  • Embryo Cryopreservation: After fertilization through IVF, embryos can be cryopreserved for future use. This method is commonly used by couples undergoing IVF who have surplus embryos or those facing fertility-threatening treatments.

Cancer Patients: Individuals undergoing cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation may experience fertility-related side effects. Fertility preservation allows them to focus on their health while preserving the possibility of starting a family in the future.

Individuals with Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or hormonal imbalances, may impact fertility. Fertility preservation provides a safeguard for those facing potential fertility challenges.

Transgender Individuals: For transgender individuals seeking to transition, fertility preservation offers the opportunity to have biological children in the future.

Individuals Pursuing Delayed Childbearing: As more people choose to delay starting a family for personal or professional reasons, fertility preservation provides a safety net, ensuring that they can pursue parenthood when the time is right.

Fertility preservation has emerged as a vital option for individuals and couples looking to secure their reproductive future and advances in reproductive medicine have made these procedures more accessible and successful than ever before. If you are considering fertility preservation,  schedule an appointment with Boca Fertility by phone or request an appointment online today.

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Exploring Male Infertility and its Impact on the Fertility Journey

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The path to parenthood is a deeply personal and often challenging journey for many couples. While infertility is a struggle that both partners can face, male infertility is a topic that is sometimes overlooked or misunderstood. It is often assumed that the problem lies with the female partner, however in nearly 30% of infertility cases, male infertility is the cause. In this article, we will address the role of male infertility in the IVF process, including the use of sperm donors and other male fertility treatments.

Male infertility refers to a condition in which a man experiences difficulties in impregnating a fertile female partner due to issues related to his reproductive system or sperm quality. Infertility is generally defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Male infertility can result from various factors, including:

  1. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): This is when a man’s semen contains fewer sperm than the normal range (typically below 15 million sperm per milliliter). A low sperm count can reduce the chances of sperm successfully fertilizing an egg. 
  2. Abnormal Sperm Function: Even if a man has a sufficient sperm count, the sperm may have mobility issues (asthenospermia) or abnormal morphology (teratospermia), meaning they may not swim effectively or have a proper shape to penetrate and fertilize an egg. Sperm count and function can be evaluated with a semen analysis. 
  3. Blockages or Structural Problems: Physical obstructions, such as blockages in the male reproductive tract or structural abnormalities in the testes or ducts, can prevent sperm from being ejaculated.
  4. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone or high levels of prolactin, can disrupt sperm production and function.
  5. Genetic Factors: In some cases, genetic factors can contribute to male infertility, leading to issues with sperm production or function.

Emotional Strain: Dealing with male infertility can be emotionally challenging. Men often experience feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy, which can strain their relationship with their partner.

Relationship Stress: Infertility can put a strain on even the strongest relationships. Open communication and support are crucial for navigating this difficult period together.

Financial Costs: Fertility treatments can be expensive, adding a financial burden to the emotional one. Couples may need to make difficult decisions about their treatment options.

Male infertility is a complex issue, and its diagnosis and treatment often require medical evaluation by a urologist or fertility specialist. Fortunately, many cases of male infertility can be treated or managed. Making healthy lifestyle choices such as maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can improve sperm quality. In some cases, medications can address hormonal imbalances or other underlying issues, and surgical procedures can correct physical blockages or structural problems. Ultimately, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART treatments) like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) can help couples achieve pregnancy when male infertility is a factor. 

Donor sperm insemination is a relatively low cost alternative treatment for couples with male infertility who do not wish to consider In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), or in cases where despite all efforts, no sperm could be retrieved from the male partner for IVF treatment. Sperm donation is a carefully regulated and ethical process. Donors typically remain anonymous, and both parties—the donors and the recipients—have legal rights and protections. 

The process generally involves:

  • Donor Screening: Donors undergo extensive medical and psychological evaluations, as well as genetic testing, to ensure they are suitable candidates.
  • Sperm Collection: Donors provide sperm samples through a controlled and monitored process.
  • Storage and Testing: Sperm samples are carefully stored and undergo additional testing to confirm their quality and safety.
  • Matching and Fertility Treatments: Sperm from donors is matched with recipients based on specific criteria, and it can be used in various assisted reproductive techniques, including IVF or IUI.

Male infertility is a challenging issue that affects many couples on their fertility journey. It’s essential to recognize that infertility is not solely a female concern and to seek professional help and support when facing this issue. There are various treatments available to address male infertility, including the use of sperm donors and other ART options. By working closely with a fertility specialist, couples can increase their chances of success in conceiving a child through IVF.

To determine if male infertility is impacting your fertility journey, request an appointment with Boca Fertility by phone or request an appointment online today.

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A Comprehensive Overview of the IVF Process

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For couples facing infertility, the journey to parenthood can be filled with challenges and uncertainties. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has emerged as a groundbreaking solution, offering hope to those struggling to conceive. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the IVF process step by step, demystifying the procedure and helping you gain a thorough understanding of what to expect on your path to parenthood.

The IVF process typically begins with an initial consultation with one of our fertility specialists.

During this meeting, you’ll discuss your medical history, previous fertility treatments, and any underlying conditions that might affect the success of IVF. Your doctor will outline the treatment plan, including any required testing, as well as address any questions or concerns. Some required procedures or tests in preparation for IVF may include a high complexity semen analysis or an ovarian reserve assessment. 

After the initial consultation, the first step in the IVF process is the ovarian stimulation phase. Your fertility specialist will determine which stimulation protocol is best for you, taking into consideration your age, weight, and ovarian reserve assessment indicators. Your fertility specialist will then monitor your progress through blood tests and ultrasounds to ensure the eggs are maturing as expected. An ovulation trigger will be administered after 10 days of ovarian stimulation when the leading follicles containing eggs reach a diameter of 20mm.

Once the eggs have reached the optimal size, a minor surgical procedure called egg retrieval is scheduled. This is a minor procedure using transvaginal ultrasound guidance, performed in our in-office operating room suite. This takes about 15 minutes to complete and is done using intravenous sedation administered by our board-certified anesthesiologist.

After the egg retrieval, you will be given medications to suppress your ovary. Expect to begin your menses in 10-14 days. Meanwhile, all of your embryos making it to day 5-7 in the laboratory will be frozen and transferred one at a time starting with your next menstrual cycle.

We do not transfer fresh embryos, so all embryos are frozen at the blastocyst stage. The frozen embryos will be thawed and transferred in the subsequent cycle.

Now that your eggs have been removed from your ovaries, the next step is for the embryologist to prepare your eggs and the male sperm for fertilization. This can be done through traditional insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. After fertilization, the embryos are monitored for development. 

The dishes containing the eggs and sperm are placed in embryo incubators. A computer controlled system precisely regulates temperature, oxygen and CO2 levels within the incubators conducive for embryonic growth.

The eggs will be checked 24 hours later to see how many of them were fertilized. You will receive a daily briefing from the IVF nurse coordinator, informing you of the embryos development.

The resulting embryos are cultured in a controlled environment for several days, typically five or six. During this time, the embryologist assesses their quality and selects the healthiest embryos for transfer. Any additional embryos may be frozen for future use.

The doctor will discuss with you the number of embryos to be transferred. In general, only one embryo is transferred. The embryo transfer is not painful and takes only a moment to accomplish.

Your pregnancy test will be performed 9 days after the embryo transfer.

If the blood test confirms pregnancy, you’ll continue to work with your fertility specialist to monitor the pregnancy’s progress. If successful, you’ll transition to regular prenatal care with an obstetrician.

The IVF process can be challenging, both emotionally and physically, but it has provided hope and joy to countless families worldwide. Understanding the steps involved can alleviate some of the uncertainty and anxiety that often accompanies infertility. It’s important to remember that IVF outcomes can vary, and multiple cycles may be necessary to achieve success. Schedule an appointment with a qualified fertility specialist at Boca Fertility who can tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs. 

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Empower Your Future: Unveiling the Benefits of Egg Freezing

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In recent years, advances in medical technology have opened up new possibilities for women to take control of their reproductive health. One such option that has gained significant attention is egg freezing, a process that allows women to preserve their fertility for the future. Whether it’s for career aspirations, medical reasons, or personal circumstances, freezing your eggs can provide a sense of empowerment and flexibility that was once unimaginable. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of egg freezing and how it’s transforming the landscape of reproductive choices.

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a medical procedure that involves harvesting a woman’s eggs, or oocytes, and preserving them at very low temperatures for future use. This technique allows women to preserve their fertility by storing eggs in a frozen state until they are ready to use them. When the individual is ready to conceive, the frozen eggs can be thawed, fertilized with sperm in a laboratory (in vitro fertilization or IVF), and then implanted into the uterus as embryos.

The process of egg freezing involves several stages, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and vitrification. Ovarian stimulation involves the use of fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs than they would typically produce in a menstrual cycle. Egg retrieval is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a doctor retrieves the eggs from the ovaries using a thin needle. Finally, vitrification is the process of freezing the eggs at a very low temperature (-196°C) to preserve them for future use.

There are several benefits to consider when it comes to egg freezing. Some of the most significant advantages include:

  1. Delaying Pregnancy: One of the most significant benefits of egg freezing is the ability to delay pregnancy. Women who are not ready to have children can choose to freeze their eggs and have them available for use when they are ready.
  2. Medical Conditions: Women who are diagnosed with certain medical conditions that require treatment that may affect fertility can also choose to freeze their eggs. These conditions may include cancer, autoimmune disorders, or endometriosis.
  3. Age-related Infertility: As women age, the quality and quantity of their eggs decrease, making it more difficult to conceive naturally. Egg freezing allows women to preserve their eggs at a younger age, increasing their chances of having a successful pregnancy in the future.
  4. Career and Education: Women who are focused on building their careers or pursuing higher education may choose to delay having children. Egg freezing provides an option to preserve their fertility while they focus on their career or educational goals.

While egg freezing has several benefits, there are also limitations to consider. Unfortunately with egg freezing, there is no guarantee of pregnancy. The success rate of thawed eggs depends on the quality of the eggs, the age of the woman when the eggs were frozen, and the fertility of the partner. Additionally, egg freezing can be very costly and time consuming. The process of egg freezing can take several weeks, and it may not be suitable for women who need to start medical treatment immediately. Pricing can vary depending on the location and the clinic. The cost of the procedure and the ongoing storage fees should be considered when deciding to freeze your eggs.

Egg freezing is an option for any woman who wants to preserve her fertility. However, there are certain groups of women who may want to more seriously consider egg freezing. These groups include:

  1. Women who want to delay pregnancy due to personal or professional reasons.
  2. Women who have been diagnosed with medical conditions that may affect their fertility, such as cancer or autoimmune disorders.
  3. Women who are undergoing fertility treatment, such as IVF, and have extra eggs that they wish to freeze for future use.
  4. Women who have a family history of premature menopause or early menopause.

Egg freezing is a revolutionary advancement that offers women newfound control over their reproductive choices. From empowering women to pursue their goals on their own terms to providing solutions for medical challenges and age-related fertility decline, the benefits of egg freezing are far-reaching. It’s important to note that every woman’s journey is unique, therefore it is essential to discuss egg freezing with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for an individual’s particular circumstances.

To determine if egg freezing is right for you, request an appointment with Boca Fertility by phone or request an appointment online today.

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The Journey To Motherhood: Navigating IVF Fertility

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Infertility is a common issue that affects many couples and can be emotionally and physically draining. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology that can help couples overcome infertility and achieve their dreams of having a baby. IVF fertility treatments can be a confusing and overwhelming process, but with the right information, support, and resources, couples can increase their chances of success. In this article, we will explore the world of IVF fertility, answer common questions, and provide tips and advice to help couples on their journey to motherhood.

IVF fertility treatments involve fertilizing an egg outside of the body and then transferring the fertilized egg back into the uterus. The process typically involves several steps, including:

  • Stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs
  • Retrieving the eggs through a surgical procedure
  • Fertilizing the eggs with sperm in a laboratory
  • Transferring the fertilized egg back into the uterus

There are several factors that can impact the success rates of IVF fertility treatments, including:

  • Age of the woman
  • Quality of the sperm
  • The cause of infertility
  • The number of eggs retrieved
  • The quality of the embryos
  • The experience of the clinic and its staff

While there is no guarantee of success with IVF fertility treatments, there are several things couples can do to increase their chances, including:

  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise
  • Managing stress through relaxation techniques and counseling
  • Seeking support from family and friends or a support group
  • Finding a reputable IVF clinic with experienced staff
  1. What is the success rate of IVF fertility treatments? The success rates of IVF fertility treatments can vary depending on several factors, including age, cause of infertility, and the quality of the sperm and eggs. On average, the success rate is around 40% for women under the age of 35 and decreases with age.
  2. How much does IVF fertility treatment cost? The cost of IVF fertility treatments can vary greatly, depending on several factors, including the location, the experience of the clinic and its staff, and the type of treatments used. On average, a single cycle of IVF can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $15,000.
  3. What are the side effects of IVF fertility treatments? The side effects of IVF fertility treatments can vary, but some common side effects include bloating, cramping, and mood swings. Women may also experience headaches, nausea, and breast tenderness.

IVF fertility treatments can be a confusing and overwhelming process, but with the right information and support, couples can increase their chances of success. By understanding the basics of IVF, considering factors that affect success rates, maximizing their chances with tips and tricks, and asking questions, couples can take control of their journey to motherhood. Whether you’re just starting out or have been on this journey for a while, remember to take care of yourself, seek support, and never give up hope.

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Boca Fertility Integrates RI Witness Technology into IVF Laboratory

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Boca Fertility is the first IVF center in Florida to use a groundbreaking system to protect and secure the identification of patient’s embryos and sperm. This new system will provide an added layer of safety and give patients peace of mind.

Boca Fertility has installed RI Witness™ – a system which uses radio frequency ID technology to help ensure that samples used during the IVF process are accurately used for each patient. At the beginning of an IVF cycle, the patient receives an ID card. This card is then placed in readers located in the IVF laboratory registering the ID of their samples. Radio frequency tags are attached to all dishes and tubes in which samples are stored. RI Witness constantly monitors the samples’ ID as they are transferred from one tube to another. Alarms sound if samples from different patients are brought into the same work area in the laboratory, stopping any procedure and any potential mistake.

Dr. Moshe Peress, Medical Director, and Dr. Michael Matilsky, IVF Laboratory Director of Boca Fertility, said “In the past we carried out double witnessing manually, which was effective, but this new system will make it even more efficient and help avoid any potential problems that have occurred in other hospitals and clinics.”

“The electronic witnessing system offers increased confidence that patient samples are properly verified and will not be mixed up during treatment. RI Witness™ takes security to the next level giving patients every confidence that it is their samples we are using. Utilizing RI Witness™ means that patients can go home with absolute certainty that their sperm, eggs and embryos are properly identified and only used for them.”

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