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 An
evaluation of the cervix and uterus usually has two endpoints for identifying
problems. They are physical problems or mucus related problems. The physical
problems of the cervix is more related to recurrent miscarriages than a
cervical evaluation. The mucus related problems usually involve three possible
issues
1) There is not enough mucus for the sperm to survive.
2) The mucus is too thick for sperm to survive.
3) The mucus contains sperm antibodies.
Cervical
Treatments
There are many different types of treatments for cervical issues. The cervical
factor is very patient specific and needs to be discussed and evaluated at
length with your physician. Here is a list of treatments that are sometimes
used for cervical factors:
Intra-uterine Insemination (IUI)
Sperm is placed in a catheter and the catheter is placed through the cervix to
the uterus. Any mucus issues related to the cervix are bypassed. Without
gonadotropin ovulation induction, this technique is not very effective.
Ovulation Induction
This strategy counters the belief that the poor mucus is the result of a poor
ovulation which is giving out low levels of estrogen and progesterone. IUI may
be necessary in addition to ovulation induction.
IVF (in vitro fertilization):
If there are anti-sperm antibodies in the cervix, IVF will bypass the cervix
and be a treatment option to assure that fertilization is possible.
Stop Taking Medications:
Clomiphene, tamoxifen and progesterone are anti-estrogens that can limit
adequate mucus production.
Wide speculation of treatment options takes place with infertility patients in
general. The treatment is very specific to the patient. Discuss treatment
options with your physician.
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