A Helping Hand on Your Path to Parenthood

Your Fertility Questions Answered

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Male Infertility

ICSI

Gestational Surrogacy

Payment Plan

Infertility

IUI

IVF

Frozen Embryo Transfer

Donor Egg IVF

IVF With Donor Sperm

Gay Couples

Lesbian Couples

Egg Donation

Pricing & Financing

Other FAQ

Real Stories, Real Success: Our Patients Speak

Jesus C.

We can't thank you all enough for making our IVF journey such a positive experience. Your team's expertise and warmth meant the world to us. You made our dreams come true, and we're forever thankful.

California Fertility Partners
Los Angeles, CA
Krista B.

THEY ARE AMAZING!!! I absolutely love this clinic and everyone who works here! Being a lesbian couple, we were nervous trying to find a fertility clinic for us.. they made us feel so comfortable right away! They are so caring and sweet! I definitely recommend this place!! && Dr. Z is the man!! Nicest doctor I have ever met! I would give them a 100 stars if I could!

Advanced Fertility Care
Scottsdale, AZ
Patrick P.

Thanks to Dr. Dudley, we achieved a successful pregnancy, a dream that once seemed unattainable. His expertise and empathy made him not just a doctor but a beacon of hope in our most challenging times. We are profoundly grateful to Dr. Dudley and highly recommend him to any couple facing fertility issues!

Pinnacle Fertility
Atlanta, GA
Lee B.

We've worked with RGI twice now, and have had an excellent experience both times. Dr. Maseelall and her team have been amazing to work with. This time around, we were introduced to the "navigators" who essentially act as a liaison between us and the doctors, which was a change from the last time we were there. We found having access to a dedicated resource - even by text message - was a huge plus.

Reproductive Gynecology & Infertility
Akron, OH
R.W.

I highly recommend Dr. Dudley! He is one of the only doctors who explained things clearly, realistically, and positively. His bedside manner is outstanding. A defining moment (without disclosing my medical history) was when I explained something to him and he responded with "I believe in a women's intuition." He believed me, ran a quick test, and pivoted the plan. I can't recommend him enough.

Pinnacle Fertility
Atlanta, GA
Diana M.

My husband I went to Dominion after struggling with some fertility issues and multiple miscarriages. We couldn't have made a better choice! You can tell that the staff really care about their patients and make you feel at ease. At the beginning of the process, we were feeling a bit overwhelmed, but the doctors were understanding and great at explaining each step to us along the way. We now have a healthy baby boy and we could not be more happy and grateful to Dominion Fertility!!

Dominion Fertility
Arlington, VA

We understand that circumstances can change. While we don't offer direct payment plan refinancing, we encourage you to reach out to our financial support team if you experience financial challenges during your treatment. We may be able to explore potential solutions or adjustments.

***Please contact us immediately if you are unable to make payment. We will make every attempt to work with you given unforeseen circumstances.

Yes, we offer a grace period of ten days after the payment due date. This provides a bit of flexibility if you encounter temporary challenges in meeting your monthly payment deadline.

Please note, a late fee of $25 will be added to your balance for each missed payment.

Once your payment plan term is selected and the payment terms agreement is established, changes to the term may not be possible. It's important to carefully consider and choose the term that best suits your financial situation before finalizing your application. If additional services become required, we will work with you to adjust the length of the term if necessary.

Currently, Pinnacle Fertility Payment Plans are specifically tailored only to cover up to 50% of the costs of your Treatment Plan for IVF or egg-freezing cycles offered at a participating Pinnacle Fertility medical facility.

There is no application fee for the Pinnacle Fertility Payment Plan.

Your application will be declined only if we are not able to confirm your Treatment Plan with a participating Pinnacle Fertility medical facility, or if we are unable to confirm your direct auto-draft information. Your payment plan will be limited to no more than 50% of your Treatment Plan.

Yes, if your initial treatment cycle is unsuccessful, you can apply for an additional payment plan for subsequent cycles. We understand that fertility journeys can be unpredictable, and we're here to support you throughout your path to parenthood.

Yes, you have the option to pay off your plan early without incurring any prepayment penalties.

Our approval process is designed to be quick and efficient. You can typically expect a response within a few business days, at most, after submitting your online application.

There is no interest charge. We do charge a flat administrative fee based on length of the payment plan. Additionally, at the time of each payment, you will be charged the remaining administrative fee and a 3% processing fee assessed by our payment processor.

Monthly payments vary depending on the extended payment term you choose;, the number of payments per month, and the total amount under the payment plan. You'll receive a breakdown of your periodic payment options when you're approved for a payment plan.

***You can choose your payment dates, no less frequently than once a month, based on your personal need.

There are no credit requirements, and your credit score will not be affected.

To apply for a Pinnacle Fertility Payment Plan, simply click here to complete our secure online application form. This convenient and streamlined process allows you to initiate your journey toward financing your IVF or egg-freezing cycle with ease.

For your IVF or egg-freezing cycle, a 50% down payment is required upfront, which consists of the cycle cost plus administrative fee and a 3% processing fee, which is a portion of the fee charged by the third party payment processing company. This down payment is an essential part of our payment plan program and helps ensure that you can begin your fertility journey with confidence. The remaining balance can be paid off through our Pinnacle Fertility Payment Plan program - allowing you to manage the costs in a way that suits your financial situation.

You can select from a range of payment plan terms, including options for 6, 12, or 18 months. This flexibility allows you to choose the term that best aligns with your financial preferences and circumstances.

Pinnacle Fertility Payment Plans are available to individuals who are undergoing treatment at a participating Pinnacle Fertility medical facility. To qualify, patients are required to provide a 50% down payment as part of the payment term arrangement. Eligible patients must be without benefits or insurance coverage for IVF, Egg Freezing, or FET. This includes patients who may have exhausted their insurance benefits.

We offer payment plans for your IVF or egg-freezing cycle, covering up to 50% of the estimated total cost of your “Treatment Plan” at a participating Pinnacle Fertility medical facility. These payment plans do not include the costs of prescriptions or outside laboratory testing. There is no minimum or maximum amount set for this payment program –it all depends on the costs quoted to you for your IVF or egg-freezing cycle.Our goal is to provide flexible financial support tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you can pursue your fertility journey with peace of mind.

Payment Plans can be used for: IVF Cycle(s) (with and without PGT-A testing)*, Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycle(s), and Egg Cryopreservation Cycle(s)

Not included in Payment Plans: Diagnostic testing (including (but not limited to) HSG, SIS, semen analysis, consultations), IUI and/or timed intercourse cycles, medications, anesthesia*, donor services (donor eggs/tissue, donor sperm, donor IVF services, and/or gestational carrier services. Additionally, any patients who have insurance coverage are not eligible for the payment plan.

*Some clinic packages include PGT-A testing fees, and some require these fees to be paid directly to the genetics laboratory. This also applies to anesthesia services. Each of our clinics have separate agreements with anesthesia and laboratory providers; therefore, you must check with your specific clinics for more details.

Pinnacle Fertility Payment Plans is a specialized program designed to assist individuals and couples in achieving their dreams of parenthood at a participating Pinnacle Fertility medical facility. Through this program, we offer extended payment terms to cover a significant portion of the costs associated with IVF or egg-freezing cycles. Our aim is to provide accessible and flexible payment term options - thus enabling you to focus on your journey toward building your family without the burden of immediate financial constraints.

To begin your gestational surrogacy journey with Pinnacle Fertility, reach out to us for a consultation. Our team will guide you through the initial steps and answer any questions you may have.

The duration varies, but it generally takes several months from matching with a gestational carrier to the birth of your child.

The costs can vary depending on individual circumstances. Our team can provide detailed financial information during your consultation.

Pinnacle Surrogacy, our preferred surrogacy agency, offers services across the United States with regional presence in various states.

Yes, you can use your own embryos created through IVF or consider donor eggs if needed.

Legal contracts are established to clarify the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in the surrogacy process, ensuring a smooth and legally sound journey.

Both intended parents and the gestational carrier undergo comprehensive medical assessments to ensure they are physically and emotionally prepared for the surrogacy journey.

Our preferred surrogacy agency, Pinnacle Surrogacy, assists in selecting a gestational carrier who is medically and psychologically cleared for surrogacy. They guide you through the matching process, reducing time and effort.

Gestational surrogacy is an option for individuals or couples who may face fertility challenges, medical conditions preventing pregnancy, same-sex couples, or anyone seeking to become parents through a gestational carrier (surrogate).

Gestational surrogacy is a process where a gestational carrier, also known as a surrogate, carries and gives birth to a child for intended parents. The gestational carrier is not biologically related to the child, as the embryo is created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the intended parents' genetic material or donor gametes.

Yes, ICSI can be effectively used with both frozen eggs and sperm. It is particularly useful in cases where sperm viability might be compromised due to the freezing and thawing process.

The risks associated with ICSI are similar to those of IVF and include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, multiple pregnancies, and the potential for ectopic pregnancy. There's also a slightly increased risk of birth defects, though this is relatively low.

ICSI success rates depend on various factors, including egg quality, the underlying cause of infertility, and the overall health of the couple. Generally, ICSI success rates are comparable to those of traditional IVF.

ICSI is recommended for couples with male factor infertility, such as low sperm count, poor sperm mobility, or abnormal sperm shape. It's also used when sperm must be retrieved surgically, in cases of previous IVF failure, and when using frozen or thawed sperm.

ICSI is a specialized form of IVF where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg. While traditional IVF involves mixing multiple sperms with an egg, ICSI is used particularly for cases of severe male infertility, as it requires only one viable sperm per egg.

Unlike women, men do not experience a sudden drop in fertility with age. However, older men may have a slightly increased risk of fertility issues, including lower sperm quality and a higher likelihood of genetic abnormalities in offspring.

While some causes of male infertility may not be preventable, men can reduce their risk by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, using protective gear to prevent testicular injuries, and seeking prompt treatment for infections or health issues.

A varicocele is the swelling of veins in the scrotum. It can raise testicle temperature, potentially impacting sperm production and quality, and is a common cause of male infertility. Surgical repair may be an option.

Yes, vasectomy reversal, a surgical procedure, can restore fertility by reconnecting the vas deferens, allowing sperm to be ejaculated again. Success rates vary depending on various factors.

Yes, male infertility can have genetic components. Some genetic conditions can affect sperm production or function, leading to infertility. Genetic testing may be recommended in certain cases.

Fertility specialists diagnose and treat male infertility by conducting thorough evaluations, recommending treatments, and providing guidance on lifestyle changes and assisted reproductive technologies to improve fertility.

Men can improve fertility by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, managing stress, and addressing any underlying health conditions.

Yes, male infertility can often be treated. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, surgical interventions, and assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or ICSI, depending on the underlying cause.

Common causes include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal imbalances, varicoceles (swollen veins in the testicles), and lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Stress can indirectly affect fertility by disrupting hormone levels and sexual function, potentially reducing sperm quality. However, it's usually not the sole cause of male infertility.

Advances in infertility treatments have helped thousands of people become parents, but insurance coverage requirements vary by state and insurance plan. Check with your insurance provider to understand the fertility treatment benefits available to you.

At Pinnacle Fertility our Financial Counselors can help make your treatment even more affordable. They’ll help you navigate your insurance options, how to use your FSA/HSA benefits, apply for financing, and find grants. We also partner with financing providers to offer fertility financing.

There can be some restrictions and guidelines regarding who is eligible for various fertility treatments. It’s best to consult with your fertility specialist so you can understand the restrictions and your options.

There is currently no waiting list for fertility treatment at Pinnacle Fertility.

We partner with various financing providers to offer fertility financing options. Learn more here

No you do not.

Your Navigator is your main point of contact at Pinnacle Fertility, ensuring clear communication during and in between appointments and dedicated support throughout your journey.

Secondary infertility is a condition in which a couple who has previously had a biological child or children is unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term when they desire to have additional children. There are many factors that may be contributing to your inability to get pregnant, even if you’ve had a baby before. These factors are similar to infertility overall and may include age, sperm issues, ovulation, fallopian tube damage, endometriosis, or others.

Embryo freezing is a good option for couples that want to conceive but have their child later.

If you have a desire to have a family but aren’t planning to do so in the near term, egg freezing may be an option for you. By freezing younger, healthier eggs, you can improve your chances of a successful pregnancy later in life.

We recommend that anyone interested in financing options for their treatment to apply and see if they get approved. Our financing provider partners will make every effort to customize a loan within the framework of your current financial status.

The credit requirements for financing fertility treatment can vary depending on the lending institution and the specific financing program. Some lenders offer fertility treatment financing with relatively lenient credit requirements, while others may require a higher credit score and a strong credit history. It's advisable to research different financing options, compare their credit requirements, and choose one that aligns with your financial situation and credit profile.

Advances in infertility treatment have helped thousands of people become parents, but insurance coverage requirements vary by state and insurance plan. Check with your insurance provider to understand the fertility treatment benefits available to you.

At Pinnacle Fertility our financial coordinators can help make your treatment even more affordable. They’ll help you navigate your insurance options, how to use your FSA/HSA benefits, apply for financing, and assist you with grant applications. We also partner with CapexMD for fertility financing.

Yes. Assuming all goes well during your first donation, you are welcome to do it again. Future donations can be quicker because you’ve already been through the initial screening process.

No. Except in rare circumstances where uncommon side effects result from the egg retrieval process, donating will have no impact on future fertility.

Donors will take birth control prior to the cycle start for timing purposes. Once their cycle starts, they will take injectable medications for 10-14 days. They will also receive some medications during the egg retrieval procedure through their IV administered by anesthesia. Your physician will outline the full regimen with you in more detail during your first visit.

The short answer is yes. There are few restrictions when undergoing egg donation. The most critical thing is keeping on schedule with required medications leading up to the procedure.

It is important to note that side effects are extremely variable from person to person. In general, egg donation does have potential side effects. Possible symptoms from the medication taken prior include bloating, abdominal pain and swelling, breast tenderness, and moodiness. The egg retrieval procedure is guided by transvaginal ultrasound, and while serious complications are quite rare, they can include bleeding, internal organ damage, and infection.

The egg donation process typically takes approximately 3-6 weeks from the initial screening to the egg retrieval procedure. This timeline includes the donor's medical and psychological evaluations, ovarian stimulation, monitoring, and egg retrieval. However, variations can occur based on individual donor schedules, clinic protocols, and any potential delays or unforeseen circumstances.

The cost of IVF for lesbian couples is typically similar to the cost for other couples and can vary widely based on factors such as location, clinic, insurance coverage, and specific treatments needed. Typically lesbian couples need to consider the cost of donor sperm in addition to the cost of their IVF cycle. 

IVF for same-sex female couples will follow the same procedures as regular IVF, but will require a sperm donor and embryo transfer. Pinnacle partners with LGBTQIA+-friendly sperm donor banks and other third-party services. Our staff has received training on protocols for common processes in same-sex fertility treatment. Learn more about fertility options for lesbian and same-sex female couples here.  

Insurance coverage for IVF treatments for lesbian couples can vary depending on the insurance plan and location. Some insurance plans may provide coverage for IVF, while others may not. It's essential for lesbian couples to check with their insurance provider and review their policy to determine if IVF is covered and what specific treatments or services are included in their coverage. Pinnacle Fertility does provide various financing options to help patients afford care.

The cost of IVF for gay men couples can vary widely depending on factors such as location, clinic, any insurance coverage, and specific treatments needed. Gay men typically need to consider the additional cost of an egg donor and a gestational carrier (surrogate) in addition to the cost of an IVF cycle.

IVF for gay couples will follow the same steps as traditional IVF, however an egg donor and gestational surrogate will be required. Pinnacle partners with LGBTQIA- welcoming egg donor banks and other third-party services. Our staff is trained in protocols for processes common in same-sex fertility care. You can read more about fertility options for gay men here

Typically, insurance benefits do not cover expenses associated with IVF for gay couples. Pinnacle Fertility does partner with different financing partners to provide fertility financing options.

The demand for donor sperm continues to increase and is most widely used for single women, lesbian couples, and heterosexual couples experiencing infertility.

Donor sperm is sperm that is donated by a male with the intention of helping others conceive a child and grow their family. Sperm is collected by a sperm bank, and then processed in a lab to ensure quality for use in fertility treatment. Donor sperm is kept frozen and safely stored until purchased by a family for treatment. Sperm donors from a bank always remain anonymous.

Typically, sperm banks require donors to undergo a battery of tests to ensure both physical and mental fitness, as well as sperm analysis to screen for genetic disorders. Additionally, infectious disease testing and confirming an absence of high-risk behaviors are required per FDA regulations. Pinnacle Fertility works with the reputable sperm donor bank of your choice and coordinates with them to ensure the process is seamless.

There are many factors that impact IVF success rates. Influencing factors include things like the efficacy of your practitioner, the method and technology used, your personal health, lifestyle, and other complicating factors like age. 

Yes, there are potential risks associated with egg donor IVF, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can occur in the egg donor. The recipient may also face risks associated with the IVF procedure itself, such as multiple pregnancies or ectopic pregnancies. It's essential for both the donor and recipient to thoroughly discuss these risks with their healthcare providers before proceeding with egg donor IVF.

When doing IVF with an egg donor, a healthy lifestyle is always important when starting IVF of any kind. Exercise and a nutritious diet are both important. Your provider will also recommend you begin taking a daily prenatal vitamin before conception. Lastly, stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or acupuncture are also a good idea as less stress is better for your overall health.

Donor egg IVF typically takes around 4-6 weeks. This includes the time needed for the egg retrieval process from the donor, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer to the recipient. However, specific timelines may vary depending on individual circumstances and protocols.

Donor Egg IVF is designed for those who are unable to provide their own eggs for fertilization. When you use Donor Egg IVF through Pinnacle Fertility, eggs from a thoroughly vetted donor can be used for IVF. The IVF process will remain the same as in any other case, however instead of your own eggs, the donor eggs will be combined with sperm to create embryos.

IVF success rates using donor eggs are quite high, which is encouraging since 12% of IVF patients use them for the embryo transfer. You can read more about IVF success rates here.

Yes. Our team can help you coordinate details including the transfer of frozen eggs/sperm or frozen embryos from another clinic.

All IVF appointments at Pinnacle Fertility are outpatient procedures, meaning you never have to stay overnight at our clinic.

Yes, you can often select which frozen embryo to transfer during a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) cycle. Your provider will discuss with you the details of your available embryos, including their quality and developmental stage and your preferences. However, the final decision may also consider the recommendations of your provider and embryologist to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy.

The success rate for FET can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the age and quality of the frozen embryos and the individual patient's unique fertility factors. In general, studies have shown that the success rate for FET is comparable to fresh embryo transfer. It is important to discuss your specific situation with your provider to understand your potential likelihood of success with an FET cycle.

It is possible to do multiple FET cycles, as long as there are frozen embryos available. However, it is important to discuss with your provider the potential risks and benefits of multiple FET cycles before making a decision.

An FET cycle can be done at any time, as long as your frozen embryos are available and viable for thawing and transfer. However, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider if an FET is the best option for you, as there may be other factors to consider in deciding whether or not to pursue an FET cycle.

Another factor to consider is the age of your frozen embryos. Embryos can typically be frozen for several years before their viability begins to decrease, but it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider and fertility clinic.

During IVF treatment, some common side effects may include mild discomfort, bloating, and mood swings due to hormonal medications. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a rare, potential side effect that can cause more severe symptoms like abdominal pain and swelling. It's important to discuss any concerns or side effects with your provider during the treatment process.

Everyone’s IVF experience is different. While some people might achieve a successful pregnancy after one cycle, others might require several. 

An IVF treatment cycle typically lasts about 4-6 weeks. It involves stages such as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, and pregnancy testing. However, the duration can vary based on individual circumstances and any specific treatments or evaluations required before starting IVF.

In general IVF is not a painful procedure. Your doctor will prescribe injections that you’ll be required to self-administer which could be somewhat painful. Both the egg retrieval and embryo transfer procedures are not typically considered to be painful procedures, and are often compared to the feeling of a pap smear.

Yes, there are some risks associated with IVF, although they are generally low. Potential risks include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancies, ectopic pregnancies, and the possibility of failed cycles. It's essential to discuss these risks with a fertility specialist and make informed decisions based on your specific situation and medical history.

The success rate of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) varies widely depending on factors like age, cause of infertility, and clinic-specific factors. On average, IVF success rates for women under 35 are around 40-50% per cycle, with decreasing success rates as women age. Connect with us to consult with a fertility specialist for personalized information and to understand that multiple cycles may be needed to achieve a successful pregnancy.

ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is a method in IVF where a sperm is directly injected into an egg to enhance fertilization chances. In contrast, traditional IVF involves combining eggs and sperm in a dish. It's important to note that not all eggs fertilize, and not all fertilized eggs become healthy embryos. Embryo development is closely monitored, and mature embryos may undergo genetic testing before being transferred to the woman's uterus.

While it might seem counterintuitive, to prepare your body for IVF you’ll take birth control pills. These help prepare your ovaries to better respond to stimulation medication and also help coordinate your cycle so treatment can be planned accordingly.

Next, you’ll begin hormone therapy, either taken as a pill or injectable medication. This medication encourages your ovaries to produce more mature eggs than they would naturally. The end goal is to get at least three mature and fully developed eggs.

Once you’ve produced enough mature eggs, you’ll receive a hormone injection that induces ovulation (releasing of the eggs). After about 36 hours, you’ll return to our office for the outpatient egg retrieval procedure.

The IVF process typically spans 4-6 weeks, involving ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo transfer, and pregnancy testing. Success is not guaranteed, and multiple cycles may be needed. The timeline can vary based on individual circumstances and clinic protocols.

IVF and IUI are two different types of fertility treatments to achieve a pregnancy. IUI, or Intrauterine Insemination, is a process where sperm is placed directly inside a woman’s uterus to facilitate fertilization. IVF, or In Vitro Fertilization, is a process where eggs and sperm are combined outside of the uterus to create fertilized embryos. Following IVF, an embryo can be transferred to the womb to develop. 

Similar to the issues that may affect fertility for women, weight, smoking, excessive caffeine, consuming alcohol, drug use, and stress are all lifestyle factors that may affect fertility or IVF success for men.

Weight, smoking, consuming alcohol, drug use, excessive caffeine, exposure to toxins, stress, and over-exercising are all among common factors that may affect fertility or IVF success for women.

The appropriate number of developing follicles in an IUI cycle is highly dependent on your age and history. Your doctor will be able to set your medication based on this information aiming for the best and safest outcome.

After an IUI, you’ll take medications to help support your pregnancy in the early stages. 

After about two weeks, you’ll come back into the clinic for an HcG pregnancy test. Patients with positive pregnancy test outcomes are followed closely by both their navigator and provider with labs and ultrasounds to ensure the pregnancy is progressing successfully until graduation to their OB/GYN. If your pregnancy test is negative, we’ll schedule a follow-up visit to discuss your options.

Unless instructed otherwise by a doctor, you can return to normal activity immediately following an IUI procedure. It is typical to experience some light spotting and cramping in the days following the procedure. Additionally, it is important to treat your body as though it’s pregnant by avoiding alcohol, drugs, and limiting caffeine.