This question is about reciprocal IVF. Im 21 and my wife is 58. She hasn’t reached menopause and I have irregular periods. I was diagnosed with infertility at a young age after a miscarriage. Who would you recommend to use the eggs and carry? We want to use my eggs and have her carry but unsure if it’ll be safe
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Our Medical Directors are outstanding physicians that you will find to be very personable and compassionate, who take care to ensure that you have the most cutting-edge fertility treatments at your disposal. This is your outlet to ask your questions to the doctors.
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Dear Patients,
I created this forum to welcome any questions you have on the topic of infertility, IVF, conception, testing, evaluation, or any related topics. I do my best to answer all questions in less than 24 hours. I know your question is important and, in many cases, I will answer within just a few hours. Thank you for taking the time to trust me with your concern.– Geoffrey Sher, MD
Fill in the following information and we’ll get back to you.
IVF
Name: Mikayla h
This question is about reciprocal IVF. Im 21 and my wife is 58. She hasn’t reached menopause and I have irregular periods. I was diagnosed with infertility at a young age after a miscarriage. Who would you recommend to use the eggs and carry? We want to use my eggs and have her carry but unsure if it’ll be safe
Answer:
Youn could do so, but I must caution you that there would be significant medical risk in a woman of 58Y carrying a pregnancy.
Geoff Sher
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH OTHERS AND HELP SPREAD THE WORD!!
Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)……. for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
I invite you to visit my very recently launched “Podcast”, “HAVE A BABY” on RUMBLE; https://rumble.com/c/c-3304480
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\
Embryo grading
Name: Sherry P
other Hi Dr. Sher,
I have two embryos frozen on day 3 (not day 5 for some reason). . One embryo is 8 cell grade 1 and the other is 10 cell grade 1. Are these good quality embryos? What are my chances of getting pregnant? I am in my mid 40s.
Thank you,
Sherry
Author
Answer:
This is very much dependent on your age and the clinical underlying circumstances. While ordinarily anything better than a 5c day-3 embryo are positive feature3s, there are many other considerations. If you wanted better comfort, I would suggest these 2 embryos be thawed, carried to blastocyst and biopsied for PGT by no later than day 6. This would not in my opinion, prejudice the embryos.
Geoff Sher
__________________________________________________________________________
PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH OTHERS AND HELP SPREAD THE WORD!!
Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)……. for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
I invite you to visit my very recently launched “Podcast”, “HAVE A BABY” on RUMBLE; https://rumble.com/c/c-3304480
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\
Protocolo para preservación
Name: Maria M
He realizado mi primer ciclo para vitrificar ovulos, sin embargo de 5 fólicos que han engordado sólo se ha podido obtener un óvulo maduro.
Tengo 37 años y AMH de 0,33. En la ecografía se observaban 10 folículos.
El tratamiento del primer ciclo ha sido:
– Inicio del tratamiento: 3/4 día de regla ya que hay problemas para detectarlo porque inicio con manchado y no con sangre. El dia anterior inicio tratamiento: estradiol a 75 y 7 folículos antrales.l (ya menos que las otras ecografías semanas antes que eran 10).
– 1 y 2 dia de tratamiento se ha suministrado meriofert 150 UI, mientras que del 3 al 9 se ha puesto dosis de 300 UI.
– Día 6 de tratamiento se ven dos folículos muy evolucionados (17-15, mientras el resto a 6-6-8)
– 5 al 9 dia tratamiento se ha suministrado orgalutran 0,25
– el 10 dia a las 21:30 se ha suministrado decapeptyl 0,2 y ovitrelle 250 “dual trigger”. Tamaño: 23-19-15-14-13
– del 1 al 9 del tratamiento se ha administado cleoxane 40mg por riesgo trombosis
– el día 11 del tratamiento 9:40 se realiza punción y sólo se obtiene uno maduro el que el día 5 medía 8mm y el día 10, 15mm. El resto de folículos el aspirado sale vacío.
Mis dudas son:
(i) ¿ha podido influenciar el día de inicio del tratamiento y que se haya suministado los dos primeros días una dosis menor de meriofert (150 vs los 300 que correspondía)?
(ii) ¿Es necesario suministrar 300 ui o con mi número folículos / reserva con 150 ui no se va a notar diferencia?
(iii) Ahora dicen incluir anticonceptivos previos, según indica pareciera ser adecuado. ¿Cuándo y como?
(iv) ¿A su parecer cómo debería ser el protocolo más adecuado? Me dicen que vuelva a probar ciclo entero pero me preocupa que sólo sea 1 y la carga hormonal (antecedente cáncer de mama).
(v) Así mismo he leído estudios que denotan que si se suministra 36 horas antes de la punción ovitrelle, y luego 12 horas después otra dosis – esto es 24 h antes de la punción – puede mejorar que los folículos si desprendan el óvulo porque puede ser que el aspirado salga vacío a pesar de que haya óvulo adherido entre el cumulus oophorus y la pared folicular pero que el aspirado no sea capaz de absorber y con esta segunda dosis a las 12 horas permite mayor relajación. Otra opción en estudios he leído que es doble aspirado. ¿Tiene usted experiencia o apoya alguna?
(vi) Así mismo puede ser que si están vacíos y se repite la punción al día siguiente puedan desprenderse?
(vii) ¿Hay alguna técnica o medidor que prediga que salgan vacíos? Tenía el estradiol a 900 el día 10.
(viii) el clexane / heparina ha podido afectar?
(ix) ¿Es recomendable tomar complementos coencima Q10 / acido / vitaminas/etc? ¿Recomienda alguna concreta?
Millones de gracias, porque estoy dudando si he escogido la clínica correcta y no se ha seguido el protocolo y debo buscar alternativas o es correcto y debo asumir la realidad?
Saludos
Author
Answer:
Please re-post your question in English!
Geoff Sher
___________________________________________________________________________
PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH OTHERS AND HELP SPREAD THE WORD!!
Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)……. for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
I invite you to visit my very recently launched “Podcast”, “HAVE A BABY” on RUMBLE; https://rumble.com/c/c-3304480
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\
Protocolo DOR
Name: Laura S
Primero agradecer su trabajo.
Le escribo para saber según su opinión ¿Cuál es el mejor protocolo de medicamentos para una estimulación ovárica para mi con 37 años y 0,3 de antimulleriana?
Con otras respuestas no consigo entender día a día que debería ser lo propio.
Primer ciclo sólo salió un óvulo maduro de 7 folículos que se veían. ¿Cómo evitar ese efecto?
Muchas gracias!
Author
Answer:
Please post in English!
Understanding the impact of age and ovarian reserve on the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is crucial when it comes to reproductive health. This article aims to simplify and clarify these concepts, emphasizing their significance in the selection of ovarian stimulation protocols for IVF. By providing you with this information, we hope to shed light on the importance of considering these factors and making informed decisions regarding fertility treatments.
- The Role of Eggs in Chromosomal Integrity: In the process of creating a healthy embryo, it is primarily the egg that determines the chromosomal integrity, which is crucial for the embryo’s competency. A competent egg possesses a normal karyotype, increasing the chances of developing into a healthy baby. It’s important to note that not all eggs are competent, and the incidence of irregular chromosome numbers (aneuploidy) increases with age.
- Meiosis and Fertilization: Following the initiation of the LH surge or the hCG trigger shot, the egg undergoes a process called meiosis, halving its chromosomes to 23. During this process, a structure called the polar body is expelled from the egg, while the remaining chromosomes are retained. The mature sperm, also undergoing meiosis, contributes 23 chromosomes. Fertilization occurs when these chromosomes combine, resulting in a euploid embryo with 46 chromosomes. Only euploid embryos are competent and capable of developing into healthy babies.
- The Significance of Embryo Ploidy: Embryo ploidy, referring to the numerical chromosomal integrity, is a critical factor in determining embryo competency. Aneuploid embryos, which have an irregular number of chromosomes, are often incompetent and unable to propagate healthy pregnancies. Failed nidation, miscarriages, and chromosomal birth defects can be linked to embryo ploidy issues. Both egg and sperm aneuploidy can contribute, but egg aneuploidy is usually the primary cause.
- Embryo Development and Competency: Embryos that develop too slowly or too quickly, have abnormal cell counts, contain debris or fragments, or fail to reach the blastocyst stage are often aneuploid and incompetent. Monitoring these developmental aspects can provide valuable insights into embryo competency.
- Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR): As women advance in their reproductive age, the number of remaining eggs in the ovaries decreases. Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) occurs when the egg count falls below a certain threshold, making it more challenging to respond to fertility drugs effectively. This condition is often indicated by specific hormone levels, such as elevated FSH and decreased AMH. DOR can affect women over 40, but it can also occur in younger
Why IVF should be regarded as treatment of choice for older women an those who have diminished ovarian reserve ( DOR):
Understanding the following factors will go a long way in helping you to make an informed decision and thereby improve the chances of a successful IVF outcome.
- Age and Ovarian Reserve: Chronological age plays a vital role in determining the quality of eggs and embryos. As women age, there is an increased risk of aneuploidy (abnormal chromosome numbers) in eggs and embryos, leading to reduced competency. Additionally, women with declining ovarian reserve (DOR), regardless of their age, are more likely to have aneuploid eggs/embryos. Therefore, it is crucial to address age-related factors and ovarian reserve to enhance IVF success.
- Excessive Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Testosterone Effects: In women with DOR, their ovaries and developing eggs are susceptible to the adverse effects of excessive LH, which stimulates the overproduction of male hormones like testosterone. While some testosterone promotes healthy follicle growth and egg development, an excess of testosterone has a negative impact. Therefore, in older women or those with DOR, ovarian stimulation protocols that down-regulate LH activity before starting gonadotropins are necessary to improve egg/embryo quality and IVF outcomes.
- Individualized Ovarian Stimulation Protocols: Although age is a significant factor in aneuploidy, it is possible to prevent further decline in egg/embryo competency by tailoring ovarian stimulation protocols. Here are my preferred protocols for women with relatively normal ovarian reserve:
- Conventional Long Pituitary Down Regulation Protocol:
- Begin birth control pills (BCP) early in the cycle for at least 10 days.
- Three days before stopping BCP, overlap with an agonist like Lupron for three days.
- Continue daily Lupron until menstruation begins.
- Conduct ultrasound and blood estradiol measurements to assess ovarian status.
- Administer FSH-dominant gonadotropin along with Menopur for stimulation.
- Monitor follicle development through ultrasound and blood estradiol measurements.
- Trigger egg maturation using hCG injection, followed by egg retrieval.
- Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol (A/ACP):
- Similar to the conventional long down regulation protocol but replace the agonist with a GnRH antagonist from the onset of post-BCP menstruation until the trigger day.
- Consider adding supplementary human growth hormone (HGH) for women with DOR.
- Consider using “priming” with estrogen prior to gonadotropin administration
- Protocols to Avoid for Older Women or Those with DOR: Certain ovarian stimulation protocols may not be suitable for older women or those with declining ovarian reserve:
- Microdose agonist “flare” protocols
- High dosages of LH-containing fertility drugs such as Menopur
- Testosterone-based supplementation
- DHEA supplementation
- Clomiphene citrate or Letrozole
- Low-dosage hCG triggering or agonist triggering for women with DOR
Preimplantation Genetic Screening/Testing(PGS/T): PGS/T is a valuable tool for identifying chromosomal abnormalities in eggs and embryos. By selecting the most competent (euploid) embryos, PGS/T significantly improves the success of IVF, especially in older women or those with DOR.
Understanding the impact of advancing age and declining ovarian reserve on IVF outcomes is essential when making decisions about fertility treatments. Age-related factors can affect egg quality and increase the likelihood of aneuploid embryos with resultant IVF failure. Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) further complicates the process. By considering these factors, you can make informed choices and work closely with fertility specialists to optimize your chances of success. Remember, knowledge is power, and being aware of these aspects empowers you to take control of your reproductive journey.
_______________________________________________________________________________
PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH OTHERS AND HELP SPREAD THE WORD!!
Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)……. for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
I invite you to visit my very recently launched “Podcast”, “HAVE A BABY” on RUMBLE; https://rumble.com/c/c-3304480
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\
Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol (A/ACP):
Name: Elizabeth M
Hello Dr Sher
I’m 42 years old with an AMH of 4.4 pmol/L.
How many units of Lupron/Puregon/Menopur /HGH would you recommend for me in this type of protocol?
Author
Answer:
WE should talk! There are too many other factors to be considered!
ADDRESSING ADVANCING AGE AND DIMINISHING OVARIAN RESERVE (DOR) IN IVF
Geoffrey Sher MD
Understanding the impact of age and ovarian reserve on the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is crucial when it comes to reproductive health. This article aims to simplify and clarify these concepts, emphasizing their significance in the selection of ovarian stimulation protocols for IVF. By providing you with this information, we hope to shed light on the importance of considering these factors and making informed decisions regarding fertility treatments.
- The Role of Eggs in Chromosomal Integrity: In the process of creating a healthy embryo, it is primarily the egg that determines the chromosomal integrity, which is crucial for the embryo’s competency. A competent egg possesses a normal karyotype, increasing the chances of developing into a healthy baby. It’s important to note that not all eggs are competent, and the incidence of irregular chromosome numbers (aneuploidy) increases with age.
- Meiosis and Fertilization: Following the initiation of the LH surge or the hCG trigger shot, the egg undergoes a process called meiosis, halving its chromosomes to 23. During this process, a structure called the polar body is expelled from the egg, while the remaining chromosomes are retained. The mature sperm, also undergoing meiosis, contributes 23 chromosomes. Fertilization occurs when these chromosomes combine, resulting in a euploid embryo with 46 chromosomes. Only euploid embryos are competent and capable of developing into healthy babies.
- The Significance of Embryo Ploidy: Embryo ploidy, referring to the numerical chromosomal integrity, is a critical factor in determining embryo competency. Aneuploid embryos, which have an irregular number of chromosomes, are often incompetent and unable to propagate healthy pregnancies. Failed nidation, miscarriages, and chromosomal birth defects can be linked to embryo ploidy issues. Both egg and sperm aneuploidy can contribute, but egg aneuploidy is usually the primary cause.
- Embryo Development and Competency: Embryos that develop too slowly or too quickly, have abnormal cell counts, contain debris or fragments, or fail to reach the blastocyst stage are often aneuploid and incompetent. Monitoring these developmental aspects can provide valuable insights into embryo competency.
- Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR): As women advance in their reproductive age, the number of remaining eggs in the ovaries decreases. Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) occurs when the egg count falls below a certain threshold, making it more challenging to respond to fertility drugs effectively. This condition is often indicated by specific hormone levels, such as elevated FSH and decreased AMH. DOR can affect women over 40, but it can also occur in younger
Why IVF should be regarded as treatment of choice for older women an those who have diminished ovarian reserve ( DOR):
Understanding the following factors will go a long way in helping you to make an informed decision and thereby improve the chances of a successful IVF outcome.
- Age and Ovarian Reserve: Chronological age plays a vital role in determining the quality of eggs and embryos. As women age, there is an increased risk of aneuploidy (abnormal chromosome numbers) in eggs and embryos, leading to reduced competency. Additionally, women with declining ovarian reserve (DOR), regardless of their age, are more likely to have aneuploid eggs/embryos. Therefore, it is crucial to address age-related factors and ovarian reserve to enhance IVF success.
- Excessive Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Testosterone Effects: In women with DOR, their ovaries and developing eggs are susceptible to the adverse effects of excessive LH, which stimulates the overproduction of male hormones like testosterone. While some testosterone promotes healthy follicle growth and egg development, an excess of testosterone has a negative impact. Therefore, in older women or those with DOR, ovarian stimulation protocols that down-regulate LH activity before starting gonadotropins are necessary to improve egg/embryo quality and IVF outcomes.
- Individualized Ovarian Stimulation Protocols: Although age is a significant factor in aneuploidy, it is possible to prevent further decline in egg/embryo competency by tailoring ovarian stimulation protocols. Here are my preferred protocols for women with relatively normal ovarian reserve:
- Conventional Long Pituitary Down Regulation Protocol:
- Begin birth control pills (BCP) early in the cycle for at least 10 days.
- Three days before stopping BCP, overlap with an agonist like Lupron for three days.
- Continue daily Lupron until menstruation begins.
- Conduct ultrasound and blood estradiol measurements to assess ovarian status.
- Administer FSH-dominant gonadotropin along with Menopur for stimulation.
- Monitor follicle development through ultrasound and blood estradiol measurements.
- Trigger egg maturation using hCG injection, followed by egg retrieval.
- Agonist/Antagonist Conversion Protocol (A/ACP):
- Similar to the conventional long down regulation protocol but replace the agonist with a GnRH antagonist from the onset of post-BCP menstruation until the trigger day.
- Consider adding supplementary human growth hormone (HGH) for women with DOR.
- Consider using “priming” with estrogen prior to gonadotropin administration
- Protocols to Avoid for Older Women or Those with DOR: Certain ovarian stimulation protocols may not be suitable for older women or those with declining ovarian reserve:
- Microdose agonist “flare” protocols
- High dosages of LH-containing fertility drugs such as Menopur
- Testosterone-based supplementation
- DHEA supplementation
- Clomiphene citrate or Letrozole
- Low-dosage hCG triggering or agonist triggering for women with DOR
Preimplantation Genetic Screening/Testing(PGS/T): PGS/T is a valuable tool for identifying chromosomal abnormalities in eggs and embryos. By selecting the most competent (euploid) embryos, PGS/T significantly improves the success of IVF, especially in older women or those with DOR.
Understanding the impact of advancing age and declining ovarian reserve on IVF outcomes is essential when making decisions about fertility treatments. Age-related factors can affect egg quality and increase the likelihood of aneuploid embryos with resultant IVF failure. Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) further complicates the process. By considering these factors, you can make informed choices and work closely with fertility specialists to optimize your chances of success. Remember, knowledge is power, and being aware of these aspects empowers you to take control of your reproductive journey.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)……. for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
I invite you to visit my very recently launched “Podcast”, “HAVE A BABY” on RUMBLE; https://rumble.com/c/c-3304480
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\
endometrioma
Name: Danille M
Hello, I am trying to conceive and have been told the issue is I have a 5cm endometrioma. I am hoping to have this aspirated before starting any treatments. I do not want surgery to remove it as they want to take my ovary. Please let me know and if you do this or know someone who does I would love to make an appointment.
Author
Answer:
Advanced endometriosis is often associated with ovarian endometriotic cysts, known as endometriomas. In my opinion, such cysts, if numerous or sizable (>1cm) can and often do activate the surrounding ovarian connective tissue to locally produce excessive amounts of male hormones such as testosterone. This effect can often not be detected in the blood but nevertheless occurs in the affected ovary where, upon entering the follicles, it can i(n my opinion) compromise egg development which in turn often can result in abnormal egg development during ovarian stimulation. This can in my opinion, lead to increased numerical chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy), reducing egg/embryo competency”. Thus it is my opinion that any ovarian endometriomas larger than 1cm in diameter, should be removed eliminated before embarking on IVF.
Aside from compromising egg quality in the involved ovary, endometriomas can also cause severe and intractable pelvic pain, heavy menstruation (menometrorrhagia) and painful intercourse. They can also rupture leading to dissemination throughout the abdominal-pelvic cavity. Accordingly, they are best addressed sooner rather than later.
SurgicalTreatment: Conventional treatment of endometriomas involves complete surgical removal, usually conducted laparoscopically. Unfortunately, with surgery normal ovarian tissue can inadvertently be removed/damaged and result in scarring that that can compromise subsequent egg development in the affected ovary. Since many women who have endometriomas have already undergone previous surgery (ies) for endometriosis. Both the surgery (ies) and the advanced endometriosis will often have resulted in significant scarring and adhesion formation that can compromise subsequent visualization of, and access to anatomic structures during surgery, thereby increasing the risk of surgical complications. As such, many women with recurrent ovarian endometriomas are uncomfortable with the prospect of repeat surgery and its avoidance is often a factor in their decision to proceed with IVF.
Aspiration of sizeable endometriomas is unfortunately not a solution. The cyst will return! Removal surgically or laser ablation of the inner lining of the endometrioma is needed. And in the hands of an expert, the ovary need not be sacrificed. Failure to address removal or ablation will usually ensure that the vast majority of eggs produced by the affected ovary will be ‘incompetent”.
Geoff Sher
______________________________________________________________
Herewith are online links to 2 E-books recently co-authored with my partner at SFS-NY (Drew Tortoriello MD)……. for your reading pleasure:
- From In Vitro Fertilization to Family: A Journey with Sher Fertility Solutions (SFS) ; http://sherfertilitysolutions.com/sher-fertility-solutions-ebook.pdf
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Unexplained IVF Failure: The Immunologic Link ;https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iYKz-EkAjMqwMa1ZcufIloRdxnAfDH8L/view
I invite you to visit my very recently launched “Podcast”, “HAVE A BABY” on RUMBLE; https://rumble.com/c/c-3304480
If you are interested in having an online consultation with me, please contact my assistant, Patti Converse at 702-533-2691 or email her at concierge@sherivf.com\