Overcoming Infertility: 12 Couples Share Their Success Stories [Paperback]

Herbert A. Goldfarb (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 11, 1995

"Helps couples learn about and sort through the numerous treatment options available—An invaluable resource for couples undergoing treatment."—from the Foreword by Vicki Baldwin Founding Director, IVF America Member of the Board of Directors, National RESOLVE

"Rightfully celebrates the fruits of the struggle to conceive. I hope that it will encourage couples to continue their quest."—from the Preface by Charles Debrovner, M.D. Associate Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine Lecturer in Obstetrics and Gynecology Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons

In these poignant and inspiring true stories, twelve couples share their personal struggles with infertility and the joy of overcoming it. Noted obstetrician/gynecologist Dr. Herbert Goldfarb reveals how new fertility drugs and the latest advances in laser surgery, GIFT (gamete intrafallopian transfer), and IVF (in vitro fertilization) helped them. He explains the most frequent symptoms, risk factors, and underlying causes of infertility, details the pharmacological and surgical treatments available, and discusses the prospects for a successful pregnancy.

For every couple who has faced the seemingly endless cycle of testing, wondering, and waiting, here is new reassurance and hope that they can achieve their dream of having their own baby.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Until 20 years ago, most reproductive technology focused on the prevention of pregnancy. Couples who wanted children but who were having difficulty conceiving had few options outside of adoption. But procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) have changed the course of infertility treatment. Today, according to the authors, more than 270 IVF centers exist in the U.S., and more than 10,000 "miracle" babies have been born. This volume offers 12 examples of couples who have successfully beaten their infertility problems. Goldfarb, an obstetrician and gynecologist who specializes in helping wannabe parents to conceive, culls from his medical practice couples who illustrate different causes of infertility: endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease and partner-to-partner allergies where the woman's antibodies are directed against her partner's sperm. All of the case histories described end happily with the birth of a baby (and, sometimes, even more than one). But knowing the cause of a problem doesn't necessarily mean that the path to biological parenthood is an easy one. As one patient explains, "You have to be dedicated to the project. It's a physical, emotional, lifestyle commitment." This book will help couples realize that they are not alone as they face the disappointment of yet another negative pregnancy test. And it explains the battery of treatments with clarity and compassion, making the burden of overcoming barrenness just a little easier to bear.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

Goldfarb uses the story of 12 couples to illustrate 12 causes of infertility and the methods currently available for treating those problems. All of the couples are present or former patients of Goldfarb, who specializes in gynecological laser therapy and other cutting-edge procedures. By using real stories with real successes, he gives encouragement to those struggling with the same problems. Goldfarb's explanations of both problems and procedures are clear and understandable, and the personal experiences are more interesting than the reading found in other infertility titles such as Sherman Gilber's How To Get Pregnant with the New Technology (LJ 2/1/91). Ultimately, however, the book adds nothing new to the burgeoning literature on infertility. In addition, there are a few inconsistencies that may cause confusion for the lay reader. For example, Goldfarb uses the generic name clomiphene throughout the text, then suddenly switches to the brand name Clomid; he makes no mention that they are different names for the same drug. An optional purchase.
KellyJo Houtz Griffin, Harrison Memorial Hosp., Bremerton, Wash.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 252 pages
• Publisher: Wiley; 1 edition (January 11, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0471557064
• ISBN-13: 978-0471557067
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.5 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,748,248 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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