< Back to the Blog
Conception

What Should I Try Before IVF?

Hannah Berman
Hannah Berman

There are other methods you can use to boost fertility before turning to costly medical procedures. Here’s what to try before IVF.

No items found.
Modified On:
Published:
Sep 8, 2023
Est. Read Time:
0
Published:
Jul 2, 2025
Est. Read Time:
0

There are other methods you can use to boost fertility before turning to costly medical procedures. Here’s what to try before IVF.

Conception
Share to:

There are other methods you can use to boost fertility before turning to costly medical procedures. Here’s what to try before IVF.

IVF, or in-vitro fertilization, is the process most people think of first when they consider getting medical assistance to conceive. You might also know it as the “test tube method.”

IVF involves extracting eggs from a person’s ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm outside of the body, and then reinserting any viable, fertilized embryos back into the uterus, where they can begin to develop into a baby.

While IVF certainly enjoys the biggest reputation of all the fertility treatments, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution to infertility. One of the big reasons for this is its price tag: Since IVF is an invasive, non-mandatory procedure, it can cost between $15,000 and $30,000 for a single IVF cycle, and not all insurance providers will even partially cover that cost.

>>MORE: Infertility is Expensive. Here Are 7 Ways To Save Money When Trying to Conceive.

Luckily, there are other fertility treatment options out there. They may not all have as high a success rate as IVF, which leads to successful pregnancies in 55% of people under 35, but they have other perks — some can be non-invasive, others are inexpensive, and some can even be done at home.

How to choose your path to parenthood

Infertility is one of those dreaded diagnoses that aren’t actually as bad as they sound. Being infertile is simply defined as actively trying to conceive for six months without becoming pregnant, in people under 35, or for twelve months in people over 35. In other words, an infertility diagnosis doesn’t mean you’ll never conceive; it just means you haven’t yet.

Still, an infertility diagnosis is a wake-up call that you might want to start considering alternative fertility treatments. The most important thing to figure out at this point in your fertility journey is where the problems lie, so that you and your healthcare provider can collaborate on a fertility plan that targets those particular issues.

Here are a few options for infertility treatments aside from IVF, along with the specific problems that they target.

Lifestyle and health changes

If you aren’t ovulating regularly (or at all), that means that no matter how much intercourse you’re having, it’s going to be difficult to conceive. There are several natural adjustments you can try to help regulate your menstrual cycle, so that you know if and when you’re ovulating.

One of these strategies is to make lifestyle changes. If you’re very underweight or regularly doing a lot of strenuous exercise, your body is going through stress that can prevent your period from coming; on the flip side, if you’re very overweight, your body often produces increased estrogen, which can also stop you from ovulating.

A diet that is high in antioxidants and fiber and low in trans fats will help your period regulate itself naturally. That means eating plenty of fruit, veggies, nuts, and grains, and less processed products.

>>MORE: Oova 101: How Your Diet Can Affect Fertility

Ovulation tracking

Another non-invasive way to boost fertility is by keeping track of your cycle and knowing when you’re ovulating. If you know exactly when you ovulate each month, you’ll be able to have timely intercourse to target your fertile window, the period between when an egg leaves your ovaries and when it leaves your body.

There are several methods to track your ovulation from home. You can use a calendar and calculate to find your fertile window based on the average length of your cycle; you can track changes in your discharge; you can measure when your basal body temperature (BBT) rises; and you can track your hormone levels via urine tests. These options vary in terms of reliability — if you’re just doing the math or checking on the texture and smell of your discharge, your estimate of when you’re ovulating is going to be very rough, especially if your cycle is irregular (like most people’s!).

Oova makes hormone-tracking urine testing devices that are able to pinpoint your exact fertile window. Oova’s fertility testing kit is the first at-home ovulation test that gives insight into both luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and progesterone levels. By tracking changes in the levels of both of these hormones and using AI to learn about your cycle, Oova can detect ovulation in people with irregular cycles, for whom regular, one-hormone ovulation tests wouldn’t be able to do the trick.

Medical interventions

With the data you collect from ovulation tracking, you’ll likely be closer to knowing where your issues with fertility fall. If your infertility is related to the fact that your eggs aren’t reliably making their way down the fallopian tubes, your healthcare provider might suggest that you look toward medical interventions to treat infertility.

There are a few main drugs used for ovarian induction (OI). The tamer of these options is a hormonal pill called clomiphene citrate, which you can take twice daily for five days of your cycle. A more-intense alternative is gonadotropins, which are administered in the form of daily shots and are more powerful than clomiphene citrate. All OI drugs are designed to prompt your ovaries to release eggs.  

If you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, your doctor might also prescribe antidiabetic drugs to help regulate your cycle.

>>MORE: PCOS and Pregnancy: What to Know If You're TTC with PCOS

Assisted reproductive technologies

Finally, if medical interventions aren’t working, you might graduate to the realm of assisted reproductive technologies, or ARTs. These fertility-boosting methods all involve technology, but not all of them require serious surgery.  

For example, many people choose to opt for intrauterine insemination, or IUI, before doing IVF. IUI, also known as the turkey baster method, is a process where sperm is inserted artificially into the uterus. IUI is often used for couples whose sperm is not particularly strong, or in cases where sperm donation is necessary.

Other, more-intense ARTs include options like transfers of fallopian tubes or frozen embryos, intravaginal cultures, intracytoplasmic sperm injection. If you’d like to find out more about these ARTs, ask your doctor if they’re a good fit for your specific situation.

When to do IVF

So, when is it time to trying IVF? Doctors will generally make you wait for an official infertility diagnosis before recommending you for IVF. That means a full year of trying to conceive for people hoping to carry a child that are under 35, and six months for those above 35.

If you and your partner struggle with fertility issues like blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, and severe endometriosis, IVF is probably a good option for you. It’s also one of the only options for people looking to use donor eggs or sperm or gestational carriers to conceive.

At the end of the day, your personal fertility journey may very well end up depositing you at IVF’s door — this expensive process is, after all, one of the most reliable fertility treatments.

However, you may also have the power to pick and choose your fertility treatments along the way, and one of these less-invasive options might end up working for you. Keep in mind that there is no singular correct fertility path — each person’s body is different, and therefore everyone might require different treatment to have successful conception.

‍

About the author

Hannah Berman
Hannah Berman is a Brooklyn-based educator and writer with a passion for all things sex ed. She is a graduate of Wesleyan University with majors in English Theory and Literary Forms, Italian Studies, and a minor in Education Studies. You can read more of her writing at hannah-berman.com.

Sources

‍

perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

Posts

Latest Articles

Stress and Perimenopause: How It Affects Your Hormones
Perimenopause
Nov 26, 2025

Stress and Perimenopause: How It Affects Your Hormones

Stress makes perimenopause symptoms significantly worse. Learn how stress affects progesterone, cortisol, and estrogen and what you can do about it.

Perimenopause Bloating: Why Your Belly Won't Flatten (And What Actually Works)
Perimenopause
Nov 20, 2025

Perimenopause Bloating: Why Your Belly Won't Flatten (And What Actually Works)

Digestive health symptoms are jaw-droppingly common in perimenopause. Nearly 80% of women report experiencing perimenopause bloating alone. Read on to learn what causes perimenopause bloating (hint: it isn’t you), and what you can do to help ease bloating and discomfort.

Perimenopause Breast Pain: When to Worry and How to Find Relief
Perimenopause
Nov 20, 2025

Perimenopause Breast Pain: When to Worry and How to Find Relief

Pain and soreness in your breasts are common perimenopause symptoms. While breast pain may seem scary, most cases aren’t cause for concern. Here’s what’s behind perimenopause breast pain, when and how to talk to your doctor, and strategies for pain management.