Pregnancy Week by Week

A full-term pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks and consists of three trimesters—which begin on the first day of your last menstrual period. Each trimester develops the fetus using specific developmental milestones, and throughout this time, the pregnant person will experience varying side effects and changes in their body.

Although 40 weeks is the standard timeframe, a full-term baby can be born as early as 37 weeks and as late as 42 weeks. We believe it is important to understand how each pregnancy differs—and what soon-to-be parents can generally expect as their baby develops.

Helping you build your family is our only goal. We’re here to help you know which symptoms you may experience throughout your experience, week by week.

First Trimester (1-12 Weeks)

The first trimester is a crucial time for the development of the fetus. Over the first 12 weeks (about 3 months) of the pregnancy, the fetus will begin to develop major organs and structures, form fingers to toes, and weigh around one ounce. During this time, the eyelids will also form and remain closed until around week 28 (second trimester).

During the first trimester, the pregnant person will begin to exhibit changes that will likely last throughout the remainder of the pregnancy. These include:

• Fatigue and mood changes
• Food cravings and aversions
• Headaches, indigestion, and constipation
• Nausea and increased urination

Morning sickness can last throughout additional trimesters, although this symptom typically doesn’t last throughout the pregnancy and is most common during the first trimester.

Second Trimester (13-28 Weeks)

The thirteenth week of pregnancy marks the beginning of the second trimester. The fetus undergoes many changes during these fifteen weeks, marking a significant time for fetal development. By the end of the second trimester, the fetus will:

• Form skin, hair, and nails
• Form lungs, but the lungs do not yet work
• Regularly sleeps and wakes
• Develop the first bowel movement in the intestines

Other changes in the fetus include taste buds forming, bone marrow making blood cells, and fine hair covering the body. While the fetus develops, the pregnant person will experience several new changes, such as possibly feeling the baby move and the abdomen expanding as the fetus grows.

Additionally, darker areolas, potential swelling of ankles, fingers, and the face, itching, as well as more prominent stretch marks around the abdomen, thighs, breasts, and buttocks are common. Some may also notice dark patches on the face.

Third Trimester (29-40 Weeks)

The third trimester will last from the 29th week to the delivery, typically around week 40. (Remember—this will vary for every pregnancy.) Because this is the final trimester with the fetus, the pregnant person can expect most organs and body systems to have formed, paving the way for growth with each passing week.

For the fetus, the third trimester experiences several key developmental milestones. This includes the bones hardening, the eyes opening and sensing light, the complete formation of lungs, and the development of a vernix, a white, waxy coat over the skin. As delivery approaches, the fetus will also drop lower in the abdomen, usually facing head-down.

Pregnant people are likely to experience new discomforts and changes during this time, such as:

• Heartburn, shortness of breath, and frequent urination
• Insomnia and mood changes
• Nipple and breast changes
• Contractions, which indicate labor

Know What to Expect with Your Pregnancy

Your pregnancy is an intimate journey. While there are many different paths to parenthood, CARS works to help build your family. We’ve helped conceive over 18,000 babies using the latest technologies and treatments.

Grow your family with a lending hand. Schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist today.

Do I Need IVF?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a widely recognized and highly effective fertility treatment that has helped countless individuals and couples achieve their dream of parenthood. This advanced procedure involves the fertilization of an egg outside the body and the subsequent transfer of the resulting embryo into the uterus for hopeful implantation.

The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (CARS) understands that the journey to conception can be filled with emotional and physical challenges. If you’re wondering whether IVF is right for your family-growing goals, our empathetic approach to fertility care will guide you through every step of the process.

When to Consider IVF

Deciding whether IVF is the right choice for you can feel overwhelming. This decision may be influenced by several factors, like specific infertility challenges, medical history, goals, or the unique needs of LGTBQ+ individuals and couples.

Determining the best course of action begins with knowing what to look for:

Unsuccessful with Other Treatments

If you've tried other fertility treatments—medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or lifestyle changes—without success, IVF may be worth considering. IVF may have higher success rates, as it can identify and correct several factors contributing to infertility at the same time.

The Center is proud to carry a 79.5% success rate for new patients age 35 or younger—which was 15% higher than the 2021 national average, according to the 2021 SART outcomes report.*

Age-Related Infertility

A woman’s fertility declines with age, especially after turning 35. If you are in this age bracket and have been unable to conceive, ovulation induction (OI) helps stimulate the ovaries to maximize egg production.

The quality of a woman's eggs also declines with age, which can result in failed implantation, miscarriages and birth defects. IVF with PGT allows for testing of the embryos for chromosomal abnormalities that may be a result of the age of the eggs.

Male Factor Infertility

Infertility can affect both men and women. In cases where low sperm health is identified, IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can facilitate fertilization by directly injecting a single sperm into an egg.

Blocked or Damaged Fallopian Tubes

With blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, natural fertilization is unlikely to occur. There are several ways to diagnose this, including an X-ray test (a hysterosalpingogram), an ultrasound test (a sonohysterogram), or minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy).

IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely by retrieving eggs directly from the ovaries and fertilizing them in the laboratory. Since IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes, it can also be a viable option for women who have undergone tubal ligation previously and who now want to grow their family. For many, IVF can be a more effective option than tubal ligation reversal procedures.

Endometriosis or Other Medical Conditions

Endometriosis, which is when tissue similar the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, is one condition that can impact fertility. Other medical conditions, such as ovulation disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hyperthyroidism, uterine polyps, and ovarian sufficiency can also impact the likelihood of fertility.

IVF treatment can increase the chance of conception through egg retrieval and a controlled environment for embryos.

Unexplained Infertility

For some patients, despite all the testing that is performed, there may be no specific reason identified that would cause infertility. In these cases, IVF can be a good option, as fertilization and early embryo development happen under controlled conditions.

Plan Your Family at CARS

Knowing if or when IVF might be appropriate can help you make an informed choice for your fertility treatment. During your time at CARS, you’ll receive the utmost care, support, and expertise to help you find a solution to any infertility challenges you may be facing.

Contact us to schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist and discuss the best path to parenthood.

Note: A comparison of clinic success rates may not be meaningful because patient medical characteristics and treatment approaches may vary from clinic to clinic. Please visit www.SART.org for more success rates information. 

How Early Can You Take a Pregnancy Test?

Taking a pregnancy test too early after fertility treatment or testing can provide inaccurate results. By accurately determining the right time to take a pregnancy test, individuals or couples who undergo treatments like IUI (intrauterine insemination) or IVF (in vitro fertilization) can help reduce stress as you work toward building or growing your family.

The wait to learn if you’re pregnant after completing fertility treatment (either IUI or an IVF embryo transfer) is commonly known as the “two-week wait” and with it can come exhaustion, frustration, and anxiety.

We know it can be very difficult to resist taking a test early. At The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (CARS), we recommend waiting for the proper timeframe to ensure accurate results. Our team of counselors is here to provide additional support during this time.

Read on to learn more about the factors that impact when you can take a pregnancy test.

Pregnancy Testing for Fertility Patients

If you’ve undergone fertility treatments, or if you’re considering them, it’s important to know that the timing of taking a pregnancy test follows a more complex timeline. Both IUI and IVF can impact the timing of ovulation and implantation, which affects when hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels are detected.

Our fertility clinic closely monitors hCG levels through blood tests, which are generally more sensitive and accurate than standard home pregnancy tests. This enhanced accuracy better tracks any changes in hCG levels to provide more reliable results.

We recommend professional testing, including pregnancy tests, for anyone who has undergone fertility treatments. This helps to avoid any inaccurate results.

Importance of Tracking Ovulation for Successful Conception

Understanding the timing of ovulation is critical for accurately predicting the best time to take a pregnancy test and increasing your chances of conception. Typically, ovulation occurs about 14 days before the start of your next menstrual cycle. During this period, your body releases an egg from the ovary, which is then ready for fertilization.

Tracking your ovulation can provide valuable insights into your most fertile days. By using tools such as ovulation predictor kits, monitoring your basal body temperature, or observing changes in cervical mucus, you can identify when you are most likely to conceive.

After ovulation, the fertilization process begins when the sperm and egg travel through the fallopian tubes, leading to implantation. This process usually starts about 6 to 12 days after ovulation. It’s during this time that your body begins producing hCG, the hormone detected by pregnancy tests.

Once hCG levels are sufficiently high, it’s time to take a pregnancy test. For the most accurate results, follow the instructions provided by your fertility specialist. Their guidance will help ensure that you’re testing at the optimal time for detecting pregnancy.

The Right Pregnancy Test Matters

For the most accurate results, it's generally best to wait until after a missed period to take a pregnancy test. This timing allows hCG levels to build up enough to be detected reliably. While some individuals may take a test just 10 days after ovulation begins, your fertility specialist will provide specific guidance on the best time for you to perform a pregnancy test.

For those undergoing fertility treatments, the timing and type of pregnancy test are especially important. Over-the-counter pregnancy tests aren't always reliable for fertility patients due to factors such as lower hCG levels in the early stages. This can result in false negatives, which can be disheartening and misleading.

By relying on clinical pregnancy tests, you can better ensure accurate results that detect the presence of hCG. If you have any questions about what this process may entail, schedule a consultation to learn more.

Start Your Journey to Parenthood

While it may be tempting to take a pregnancy test as early as possible, waiting until after a missed period can save any potential disappointment with a false negative. For those trying to conceive, we invite you to learn more about your options with our fertility specialists.

Pregnancy is a different experience for everyone. CARS believes in providing everyone with the information needed to make an informed decision as you decide your path to parenthood. Schedule your first consultation with our fertility specialists today.

Can Birth Control Make You Infertile?

Birth control is designed to prevent pregnancy, but the lingering questions about its long-term effects on fertility can be overwhelming. While birth control is designed to prevent pregnancy temporarily, it doesn’t have long-term effects on fertility.

Still, it’s natural to feel worried or confused when planning for parenthood. The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (CARS) emphasizes a compassionate and factual approach to family planning, which includes easing any concerns about birth control and infertility.

Birth Control & Infertility: Myths & Misconceptions

One prevalent myth is that long-term use of birth control can lead to permanent infertility. This misconception often causes unnecessary fear and anxiety. To date, there are no scientific research or expert opinions that have concluded any long-term negative effects of birth control upon fertility.

Another common myth is that some birth control types—like the Depo-Provera shot—can lead to long-term infertility. While it's true that Depo-Provera, an injectable form of birth control, is known to delay regular cycles for several months after the last injection, this effect is temporary.

Studies also indicate that most women begin ovulating within seven to ten months after the last shot.¹ If you're on birth control and curious about the likelihood of infertility, know that each person has a unique body and hence reacts differently, meaning birth control isn't likely to harm fertility based on overwhelming evidence.

Birth Control & Its Effects on the Body

There are various types of birth control available, each working in different ways to prevent pregnancy. Hormonal methods—like pills, patches, injections, and IUDs—all work by preventing ovulation.

Hormonal birth control will change your menstrual cycle and, for some time, inhibit ovulation, although these changes are generally short-term. Once you stop taking hormonal birth control, your body usually goes back to its natural cycle in just months. In most cases, fertility will return to normal after the discontinuation of birth control.

On the other hand, non-hormonal methods, such as copper intrauterine devices and barrier methods like condoms, do not allow sperm to reach the egg. Additionally, IUDs and the implant can be removed at any time.

When to Seek Fertility Treatment Options

If you've been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you're over 35) without success, it's time to consult a fertility specialist. An initial consultation with our fertility specialists may recommend fertility testing as an option to begin tailored fertility treatment options.

Fertility treatment options are varied and designed to address different issues. In vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and ovulation induction (OI) are commonly used to assist with conception. Your fertility specialist will conduct thorough assessments to determine the most appropriate treatment for your situation.

Our Fertility Specialists Work for You

In most instances, birth control doesn't directly lead to infertility. In most cases, women regain their fertility just months after cessation, and then they are free to pursue their dream of parenthood.

If you have concerns about fertility or birth control, let CARS help. For guidance and support, contact our fertility specialists to learn more about how we can assist you along your fertility journey.

¹ https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-does-fertility-return-after-stopping-birth-control-4056322

Applications Now Open for the 2025 Nest Egg Foundation IVF Grants!

The Nest Egg Foundation is here to help dreams of family-building come true for residents of Connecticut and New York. With up to $20,000 in IVF grants for 2025, we’re offering hope and tangible support to those navigating the challenges of infertility.

Making IVF Treatment More Accessible

Infertility can be an overwhelming journey, and for many, the high cost of treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) adds another layer of stress. While insurance coverage often falls short, the Nest Egg Foundation is dedicated to bridging that gap. Our grants provide life-changing financial assistance for IVF, covering services that can make all the difference in helping people grow their families.

Applications are open from February 4 to March 14, 2025.

A Legacy of Compassionate IVF Support

Since 2015, the Nest Egg Foundation has proudly supported individuals and couples on their fertility journeys. To date, 27 grants have been awarded, resulting in 18 beautiful babies, one ongoing pregnancy, and more families currently in cycle. Our grants, ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, can be used at partner clinics, including The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (CARS).

Special grants are also available for egg donation and those experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss. By working together, the Nest Egg Foundation and its partner clinics make IVF more accessible, transforming dreams of parenthood into reality.

Who Can Apply for an IVF Grant?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be full-time residents of Connecticut or New York and U.S. citizens for at least four years.
• Have a household income of $125,000 or less (for singles) or $200,000 or less (for couples).
• Meet medical criteria, including:
  • Age 25–44
  • BMI of 38 or less
  • Non-smoker status (for both partners).

• Consultation with a Reproductive Endocrinologist within the past nine months and fertility testing within the past year.

Applicants from all backgrounds and family structures are warmly welcomed, including LGBTQ+ individuals, single parents by choice, and those using egg donation.

How to Apply for an IVF Grant

If you’re ready to take this step toward your dreams of parenthood, visit our application page to get started. Once submitted, applications will be reviewed by our Evaluation Panel, which includes medical professionals, financial advisors, and mental health experts. Notifications will be sent directly to grant recipients after the review process.

Learn More About the Nest Egg IVF Grant

Visit the Nest Egg Foundation Application Page for full details, FAQs, and application tips. Together, we’re making IVF—and parenthood—more accessible, one grant at a time.

What are Treatments for Infertility in Women?

If you are struggling to conceive, you are not alone. To help have a baby, some women may benefit from infertility testing and treatment.

At the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, your growing family is our priority. Whether you have questions about your options or are ready to start infertility treatment, our fertility specialists are here to support you.

Testing for Infertility

Fertility testing is recommended for women who have had a difficult time conceiving naturally for a year if they are under 35 or for six months if they are over 35. Women may struggle with infertility for a number of different reasons, and our comprehensive fertility testing accounts for all possibilities.

For example, polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a common health condition that causes a hormonal imbalance and irregular ovulation. This is a treatable cause of infertility affecting around 1 in 10 women of childbearing age.

To ensure that your fertility results are thorough, your testing may include:

• Bloodwork—Tests AMH and FSH levels
• Endometrial biopsy—Tests uterine lining for infections, polyps, or issues preventing embryo implantation
• Hysterosalpingogram—X-ray to determine if fallopian tubes are blocked
• Hysterosonogram—Evaluates pelvic organs for signs of infertility
• Hysteroscopy—Scans the uterine cavity for intrauterine pathology
• Laparoscopy—Scans the pelvic organs for possible signs of infertility

This allows our fertility specialists to fully assess the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and pelvis to determine what each individual woman needs, which allows our specialists to develop custom-tailored treatment plans specific to you.

LGBTQ+ Families

Every individual or couple who wants a family should be able to achieve that dream, and The Center is here to help in any way we can. LGBTQ+ individuals who are looking to grow their family can also benefit from fertility testing and treatment. You and your partner can receive testing to determine your options and make a decision that fits your family best.

How We Help Grow Your Family

Depending on your individual circumstances, our fertility specialists may suggest a variety of treatments to restore fertility, ranging from medications to surgical procedures. Additionally, you’ll have several options for fertility assistance, including:

Intrauterine Insemination

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a safe, in-office procedure that can be performed if no causes behind infertility are found. During this procedure, a sample of sperm is inserted into the uterus using a speculum and syringe. Your provider will ensure your comfort and safety throughout, and they can make recommendations as you move forward in your fertility journey.

In Vitro Fertilization

Depending on your medical history, test results and family building goals, you may benefit from in vitro fertilization (IVF). This procedure consists of collecting mature eggs and fertilizing them in our state-of-the-art IVF lab before transferring them back into the uterus. During the IVF process, you will need routine blood tests, pelvic ultrasounds, and self-administered hormonal injections. You will also have the support and care of our fertility specialists and nurses to guide you through every step and address any concerns that you have.

Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation

Performed in conjunction with IUI and IVF fertility treatments, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is the process of inducing ovulation. This is achieved through certain fertility medications, which our fertility specialists will recommend based on your needs and fertility evaluation results.

Explore Your Fertility Options with The Center

If you struggle with infertility, know that you have plenty of options for successful conception. The experienced team at The Center is here to support you throughout your fertility journey.

To learn more about your fertility options, contact our fertility specialists today!

IVF vs IUI

IVF vs IUI

If you are considering fertility treatment, you likely have a lot of questions. Which form of treatment is right for you? What can you expect during the process? How much will treatment cost? You can learn more about two of your options—IVF and IUI—in this breakdown.

With nearly four decades of experience providing successful fertility treatments, the specialists at the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services are here to be your fertility partner.

IVF vs IUI: Understanding Your Fertility Options

In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) are two common fertility treatments that we recommend to our patients. Our board-certified fertility specialists work with women, men, and LGBTQ+ individuals to determine the best treatment plan based on individual medical history and family-building goals.

Both IVF and IUI can lead to a successful pregnancy; however, there are a few important distinctions between these procedures: 

What is IVF?

IVF involves a series of advanced procedures to collect, fertilize, and successfully develop an embryo. During the IVF procedure, mature eggs are collected and fertilized with sperm in our state-of-the-art IVF lab. Once fertilization has occurred, we’ll transfer the best embryo into the uterus, with the goal that it will successfully implant into the uterine lining and develop into a fetus.

This form of assisted reproduction is a great option for couples or individuals who experience conditions that cause infertility—such as endometriosis—or who are unable to conceive naturally. It can be done using your and your partner’s egg and sperm, or you can use a donor. We’ll perform routine testing and monitoring through every step for the best chances of a successful outcome.

What is IUI?

IUI is a quick procedure that increases the likelihood of pregnancy by inserting sperm directly into the uterus. Once a sperm sample is provided, our fertility specialists will concentrate moving, or motile, sperm and remove any non-motile sperm. Using a speculum and a syringe, the concentrated sperm is guided through the cervix and deposited into the uterus.

This procedure can be performed in one of our offices, and it only takes a few minutes to complete. Our fertility specialists will work with you to time the procedure with your menstrual cycle. We may also recommend certain fertility medications to increase ovulation and the chance of a successful pregnancy.

IVF vs IUI: Financing Your Fertility Treatment

Before undergoing IVF or IUI, it’s important to understand what to expect in terms of timeline and costs. Because IVF involves more steps, monitoring, and testing, this treatment may be more costly than IUI. However, IVF can be an effective fertility treatment for individuals with a low probability of success following multiple IUI attempts.

At The Center, we’re here to guide you through the financing process of your fertility treatments. Our Financial Service Representatives will meet with you to review cost expectations, insurance coverage, and financing options. Having a baby should be an attainable goal for everyone, and we’re here to help make that a possibility.

IVF vs IUI: Which is Right for Me?

If you need support growing your family, IVF and IUI are two effective fertility treatments available to you. You can start your fertility journey at The Center cby making a consultation with one of our fertility specialists.

Contact us to request an appointment today.

IVF near Middlebury CT

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a conception method that can help those who have fertility issues conceive a child. If you’re in Middlebury, Connecticut, and considering IVF to expand your family, The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services can help. We offer fertility care that begins with a fertility assessment and, depending on your needs and family-building goals, can include IVF services. 

Four Decades of IVF Success in Middlebury CT 

The Center has been providing fertility care for four decades. Our board-certified reproductive endocrinologists are experts in their field. They will provide you with the fertility and IVF care you need in a way that’s attentive to your needs and past experiences. Our nurses also have extensive experience and training in fertility care. Our team is here to help you on every step of your IVF journey. 

Fertility struggles and treatments can bring up a lot of emotions. Our fertility specialists provide care from a place of compassion. We help with the emotional aspects of infertility, as well as financing stresses such as insurance coverage. When in our care, you’ll have access to a psychologist who has over ten years of experience working with those dealing with the stresses of infertility. 

State-of-the-Art IVF Lab 

One of the most overlooked and yet critical components of helping our patients achieve a successful, healthy pregnancy can be attributed to the advanced technology and procedures practiced in the laboratory. That’s why The Center has a highly advanced IVF lab that does its best to simulate a natural uterine environment. Our IVF lab: 

• Minimizes the impact of toxic environmental factors 
• Employs high air quality filtration 
• Uses highly advanced mini-incubators 

The successful outcomes of our patients can also be attributed to the skill and dedication of our highly experienced embryologists and lab team. In addition, our IVF lab has specialized equipment to monitor the progress of your embryo and perform procedures such as cryopreservation, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), biopsies, and preimplantation genetic testing. 

All the equipment we use is hooked up to remote monitoring systems and backup generator systems to ensure that it functions 24/7. A cloud-based alarm lets our team know if there is anything to be concerned about so it can be handled immediately, prioritizing the safety and health of the embryos in our care. 

IVF Procedures The Center Offers 

Since The Center began offering IVF in 1985, we have kept our success rates above the national average. The Center offers IVF procedures, including intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pre-implantation genetic testing. 

IVF procedures involve a sperm fertilizing an egg outside of the uterus in our IFV lab. The fertilized embryo is then cultured in our lab until it reaches the blastocyst stage; then, the healthiest embryo is transferred back to the uterus for implantation, hopefully resulting in a pregnancy.  

Assisted fertilization, also known as ICSI, is also an option that can be used in conjunction with IVF. This method improves the treatment of severe male factor infertility, like low sperm count. A single sperm is injected into an egg to improve the chance of fertilization. Then, the embryo is transferred back to the uterus for implantation. 

Assisted hatching can enhance pregnancy rates when used with certain IVF treatments. A small opening is made in the embryo’s shell right before implantation, making it more likely that the embryo will implant on the uterine wall. 

The right option for you will depend on you and your partner’s medical/fertility history. Your fertility specialist will help you review all your options and choose the right path. 

Learn More About Growing Your Family Through IVF 

If you’re interested in growing your family using IVF, schedule an appointment at The Center in Middlebury, CT, to learn more. Our fertility specialists will support you through the IVF process with compassion and dedicated care. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.