Wilford Hall Medical Center IVF

2200 Bergquist Drive, Suite 1
Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology
Lackland AFB, TX 78236
210-292-7533
Fax: 210-292-7547

Rhonda L. LaFranchise, R.N.
In Vitro Fertilization Coordinator

WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM IVF?

1. IVF is of demonstrated value for patients with absence or blockage of the fallopian tubes.

2. IVF is also recommended to those where corrective surgery has either failed and/or is deemed inadvisable.

3. Couples with infertility related to severe male factor, e.g., lowered sperm counts or motility or antisperm antibodies.

4. Those who have other causes of infertility such as: endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or couples that have experienced repetitive intrauterine insemination (IUI) therapy failure.

PRELIMINARY TESTING

This includes, but is not limited to, blood studies, clomiphene citrate challenge test, IVF consult, semen analysis, and hysterosalpingogram (HSG).

All testing (bloodwork and cultures) is usually completed prior to initiating an IVF cycle. If the results of any of the screening procedures are not satisfactory, the patient may be denied participation in the Program. This requirement is to maintain the health and safety of the participants in the In Vitro Program.

BLOODWORK:

Female - Blood Studies
HIV, HbsAG, HcAb, RPR,
Blood Type-RH, Rubella, CBC

Male - Blood Studies
HIV, HbsAG, HcAb, RPR,


INFERTILITY CONSULT: One of the doctors on the infertility team will complete a history and physical examination at the time of consultation. It is helpful to bring copies of your old medical records and hysterosalpingography films, if available.

HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAM: This is an X-Ray test of the uterus and fallopian tubes. If you have
previously had a hysterosalpingogram or hysteroscopy the report and films should be reviewed by the physician. This test must be scheduled to be completed on days 7 - 10 of the menstrual cycle. Menstruation should be absent for this test to be done. You may experience some cramping during the procedure. It is recommended that you take Ibuprofen (approximately 600 mgs) 1/2 hour prior to this procedure. This will reduce the cramping. If you cannot take Ibuprofen, take 2 Extra-Strength Tylenol tablets instead.

CALL BACKS: IVF call backs will be made between 1:00PM - 5:00PM on weekdays and from 10:00AM
-2:00PM on Saturdays and Sundays. If you will NOT be home, then you must have a telephone answering machine so that we may leave a message regarding your instructions. If you do not receive a call back by 6:00PM on weekdays or 5:00PM on Saturdays or Sunday, please contact the Labor and Delivery unit at Wilford Hall Medical Center and ask to speak to the chief resident on call.

A PERSONAL NOTE: The process of In Vitro Fertilization can be psychologically stressful. Significant anxiety and disappointment may occur. A substantial commitment of time by the couple is needed. Patients have described the IVF experience as an emotional roller coaster. The IVF staff of physicians and nurse are well aware of the added stress and burden that the In Vitro process can sometimes create. We, therefore, suggest that you consider joining a support group or participate in a therapy group to help you through this stressful period. If you would like additional information telephone the Wilford Hall Medical Center office at (210) 292-4016 and leave a message for Sarah, our IVF nurse.

LOCATION: RESOLVE support group
Meetings: Third Wednesday of each month
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: North Central Baptist Hospital
Information: (210) 961-6771

Naval Medical Center
Sub Speciality Base
San Diego, CA
(619)524-6195

This facility offers IVF, but the only information we have, at this time, is:

The woman must be in San Diego for about two weeks.

She must also be 40 or under.

The cost varies between $6,000-$7,000.

Wait time for IVF is about 3 months.

Walter Reed Army Medical Center OB/GYN

Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility


The Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) is staffed by subspecialty board-certified physicians, fellows in subspecialty training and Ob-Gyn resident physicians and is supported by a specialized staff of nurses, technicians, and scientists. The REI Division devoted to the couple with infertility, and to patients referred for a multitude of endocrine disorders affecting normal reproductive function. This service operates on a referral only basis. Patients desiring care must obtain referral from their local primary or OB/GYN provider and have this faxed to (202) 782-3492.


In conjunction with Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC), A.R.T. Institute of Washington at Walter Reed Army Medical Center America is the independent contractor for Assisted Reproductive Services (ARS) for all military members and their dependents. By utilizing military physicians, patients are charged for only laboratory services which equals to a significant reduction in the overall cost to the military member. The total cost for the laboratory services will range from approximately $3,200 (in-vitro fertilization) to $4,100 (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). Please note prices are subject to change without notification dependent on contract negotiations.

Requirements-

Based on discussions within the Reproductive Endocrinology Division and on published data the following are the basic requirements to be enrolled in the IVF program at WRAMC. There are no exceptions.


The female patient must be no older than 42 years of age at the time of the initial consult.


The day 3 FSH in our lab must be less than 12. Outside lab values may need to be repeated if they are slightly elevated in our lab.


The female patient must have a uterus and at least one ovary. She also must be in good health and if she is under the care of a doctor for a medical condition a note from her physician is required stating that pregnancy would not worsen her condition. This includes morbid obesity.


If the male or the female patient has a terminal or life threatening disease then they are not candidates for IVF.


The source of the sperm must be the husband of the female patient or an anonymous donor from a reputable sperm bank in the U.S. Fresh sperm samples from males who are not the female patients husband are not accepted.


Couples currently separated or undergoing marital counseling are not candidates.


A consult from your physician is required and must include a complete and up to date history and physical exam.


Single active duty females must provide a letter from their command in reference to their participation in the program.