Numerous assisted reproductive technologies have developed since 1981 when the first IVF baby was born in the United States. Infertile couples now face what is often a confusing collection of acronyms when deciding how to proceed with what may be their best possibility for their own genetic child. Understanding these technologies is important if couples are to make informed decisions regarding the applicability of different assisted reproductive technology procedures. Before patients receive treatment through these assisted reproductive technologies, they typically undergo a basic infertility evaluation.
Screening tests are necessary for both the protection of the patient and the potential child.
Physicians will usually accept written reports of prior test results when it is feasible and clinically appropriate. This often includes testing for Chlamydia, which can cause pelvic infection and tubal damage- ranging from subtle deterioration in function to complete obstruction. Mycoplasma has been implicated, although not proven, to be associated with infertility, as well as repeated pregnancy loss. Chlamydia and Mycoplasma cultures are often obtained from both the man and the woman. Should infection be found in either, both are treated with doxycycline, a tetracycline-like antibiotic for 10 days.