Affordable IVF Alternative Offers Hope for Infertility Struggles

Approximately ten percent of couples in the United States face challenges with infertility, prompting some to explore a lesser-known option in reproductive health called restorative reproductive medicine (RRM). This approach focuses on identifying and treating the underlying causes of infertility, contrasting with the commonly pursued route of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Couples like Karen and Anthony Monetti have turned to RRM after years of unsuccessful attempts to conceive. After nine years of marriage, the Monettis felt a spiritual calling to start a family. “Put it in God’s hands,” Anthony told CBN News. Karen added, “And we got pregnant pretty fast.”

Despite their initial success, the couple experienced the heartbreak of four miscarriages. “Nothing has hurt, and I’ve never grieved so much as the infertility journey,” Karen lamented. At 41, Karen faced pressure to consider IVF, a suggestion she and Anthony ultimately rejected. “My hematologist insisted on IVF due to my age and the risks of genetic defects,” she recalled. “But we were firm: this is all in God’s hands.”

The Monettis opted against IVF due to concerns about the fate of unused embryos. “I could not bring myself to that, knowing that there was life there that was not inside of me,” Karen explained.

Understanding Restorative Reproductive Medicine

According to Dr. Golden-Tevald, who specializes in RRM, the process begins with a thorough assessment of the woman’s ovulation cycle and hormonal balance. “In 20 years of practice, I have never encountered a woman for whom we couldn’t identify a cause of infertility,” he stated.

Karen underwent extensive testing, including blood work, and soon after, the couple learned of underlying issues that had contributed to their struggles. Dr. Fleming emphasized the importance of evaluating both partners, noting that men can also experience factors affecting fertility, such as low testosterone levels.

For the Monettis, Karen’s blood clotting issues and hormonal imbalances were significant hurdles. “It’s almost always never just one thing,” Dr. Golden-Tevald remarked. “There are usually multiple factors at play.”

After beginning treatment, which included blood thinners and hormone therapy, the Monettis received joyous news: Karen was pregnant. “My pregnancy was a huge success,” she shared, celebrating the birth of their healthy daughter. “We finally have our baby, our miracle.”

RRM’s Advantages and Challenges

Doctors report that RRM’s success rates can be comparable to or even exceed those of IVF, with the added benefits of lower costs and minimal risks. Dr. Fleming pointed out that RRM is often overlooked, leading to a lack of awareness among prospective parents. “There’s really no financial incentive to recommend RRM, which is part of why it isn’t well known,” he stated.

Karen expressed a desire for greater public knowledge about RRM. “I think many people are unaware it exists,” she said. “It’s often just IVF, IVF, IVF in mainstream medical discussions.”

As legislative discussions regarding the RESTORE Act resume, advocates for RRM hope to raise awareness through personal recommendations. “I recommend everybody I know who struggles with fertility,” Karen said, sharing the contact information of the doctors who helped them. “God gave us our miracle baby, and we want others to experience that joy.”