Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation at The Advanced Reproductive Center of Hawaii, the physician will review your medical history, discuss the diagnostic plan, and review your options. The physician will also review your insurance benefits and suggest the best coverage for your upcoming treatment. A treatment plan will be individually created for you and your partner, and our medical team will help to coordinate your appointments and answer any of your questions.
In an effort to maximize the effectiveness and success of your consultation, please submit the following materials before your appointment:
- Patient Information Sheet
- Female History Form
- Male History Form
- Medical Release Form
- HIPAA Policy Form
- Patient Authorization Form
- Copy of Your Insurance Card and Driver’s License
- All Previous Medical Records
What you can do to help
Smoking
Smoking is absolutely contraindicated, or forbidden, during pregnancy and may result in an increased risk of premature labor, intrauterine growth retardation and other complications. Studies have shown that smoking may decrease fertility by 30%. We strongly feel that if you currently smoke, you must stop.
Alcohol
Heavy alcohol intake can impair male and female fertility. Once pregnancy is established, alcohol intake is absolutely contraindicated because of the effects it can have on the developing baby. No level of alcohol intake has been shown to be safe in pregnancy.
Caffeine Intake
Several studies have demonstrated that an increase in caffeine intake may decrease the chance of conceiving. We recommend limiting caffeine intake to 200 mg per day or less. One cup of coffee typically contains 100 mg caffeine.
Drug Use
The use of recreational drugs is contraindicated while attempting to conceive and during pregnancy.
Vitamin Supplementation
Several studies have indicated that folic acid supplementation can significantly reduce the occurrence of neural tube defects in infants. We encourage all women attempting to get pregnant to take at least 600 mcg of folic acid daily. We also recommend that you take an over-the-counter prenatal vitamin daily.
Baby or children’s aspirin (81mg) is also recommended every day. There has been an abundance of research regarding the benefits of baby aspirin in increasing the circulation around the ovaries and the uterus, which could help stimulation and implantation. Baby aspirin may also help prevent the microscopic formation of blood clots that can increase one’s chance of a miscarriage. There is new evidence that excessive intake of vitamin A increases the chance of birth defects. Therefore, we recommend taking only one prenatal vitamin daily.
Omega-3 Fatty acids are also recommended for pregnancy. Recent research suggests that they may benefit visual and cerebral development. We recommend brands that use pharmaceutical grade materials and are tested for heavy metals such as lead and mercury. Be cautious in choosing your supplements, however, as some over-the-counter fish oil products contain high concentrations of vitamin A-like compounds, which may cause birth defects.
Routine Gynecologic Care
During your fertility treatment, it is important for you to continue routine follow-up with your gynecologist or primary care physician. This includes a yearly blood pressure check, physical examination, Pap smear, and baseline mammogram for women 40 years of age and older.