The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services is a part of the First Fertility family of centers. Learn More About The Center.

In Vitro Fertilization

For many individuals and couples facing fertility challenges, in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be a life-changing solution. At The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services (CARS), we are committed to supporting the emotional and physical journey of hopeful parents-to-be with advanced solutions. 

Our IVF Program supports individuals and couples whose fertility has been impacted by conditions such as tubal concerns, endometriosis, male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, and situations involving previous unsuccessful IVF procedures. This approach involves fertilizing eggs in a specialized laboratory and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus.

IVF Procedures We Offer

The IVF program at CARS is designed to provide comprehensive care based on each patient's needs. In addition to traditional IVF, we offer several specified procedures to enhance your chances of success, including intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), assisted hatching, and embryo cryopreservation.

How Does Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Work?

ICSI, or assisted fertilization, is a fertility procedure that has dramatically improved the treatment of severe male factor infertility. A relatively common cause of infertility in couples is a low sperm count. 

With ICSI, a single sperm can be injected into the egg, significantly improving the likelihood of fertilization. This process is used in conjunction with IVF.

Assisted Hatching in IVF

Assisted hatching is another laboratory procedure that enhances pregnancy rates in certain IVF treatments. In this procedure, a small opening is made in the shell surrounding the embryo just before transferring it to the uterus.

The assisted hatching procedure increases the likelihood that the embryo will implant into the uterine wall, resulting in a successful pregnancy.

How Embryo Cryopreservation Works

For many undergoing an IVF procedure, embryo cryopreservation—commonly referred to as embryo freezing—offers additional flexibility and opportunities. This advanced technique allows embryos to be stored for future use, giving individuals and couples more control over their family planning timeline.

We offer expert embryo cryopreservation and storage solutions. This process ensures that individuals can preserve their embryos, giving them time, flexibility, and options as they plan for the future.

Our IVF Success Rates

Our team began offering IVF in Connecticut in 1985. Present-day success rates rank above the national average—among the highest in the country. 

CARS is an active member of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technologies (SART), operating under the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. The Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Laboratory satisfies the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) requirements and holds accreditation by the College of American Pathologists (CAP). 

These credentials reinforce the ongoing commitment to maintaining high safety, reliability, and care standards.

What Is In Vitro Fertilization?

In Vitro Fertilization is a process where eggs are fertilized outside the body in a specialized laboratory.

During the IVF process, several medications are taken to develop multiple ovarian follicles containing mature eggs capable of fertilization. We closely monitor this process using blood tests and vaginal ultrasounds.

Mature eggs are retrieved through a simple procedure under ultrasound guidance. We then expose the retrieved eggs to sperm, select the best embryos, and transfer those embryos into the uterus.

An IVF procedure may benefit:

  • Individuals with tubal irregularities, including blockages or damage.
  • People with endometriosis affecting fertility.
  • Those with male factor issues linked to sperm count or motility.
  • Individuals coping with unexplained infertility.
  • Couples who have experienced unsuccessful cycles in the past and wish to pursue a new approach.

Some search online for an IVF clinic near me to find a supportive facility. It's reassuring to know that CARS has decades of experience, advanced technology, and a qualified team to guide those requiring extra medical assistance.

Our IVF Labs and Technologies

CARS features a state-of-the-art IVF lab that was custom-designed with the help of Alpha Environmental, Inc. 

Led by CEO and founder Antonia Gilligan, the engineering process focused on achieving the highest indoor air quality possible for embryo development. This improved air quality means fewer contaminants that could affect embryo viability. According to research conducted by Alpha, CARS's lab demonstrates exceptional results. 

As fertility science advances, so does our laboratory. The constant focus on new technologies and improved methods aims to raise success rates. This dedication is reinforced by memberships and affiliations, including the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART).

Data on clinic success rates is collected by SART, though comparisons between clinics can be difficult because each practice may have different treatment philosophies and patient backgrounds.

IVF Financial Guidance and Support

Funding fertility treatment can be a topic that causes stress. Various elements influence IVF costs, such as medications, preliminary tests, and the scope of procedures. 

CARS remains dedicated to sharing transparent information and offering resources that ease concerns. Support might be available in different formats:

  • IVF Financial Assistance Programs: Grants or specialized funds that ease overall IVF costs. For instance, the Nest Egg Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit offering grants to Connecticut residents who need assistance accessing treatment.
  • Insurance Verification: A review of coverage helps clarify specific plans and what they include. Some insurance policies include partial coverage for IVF services.
  • Payment Plans: Many fertility practices extend structured payment schedules, allowing individuals to organize treatments in a manageable way.
  • Employer Benefits: Some workplaces offer family-building benefits as part of comprehensive health packages.

It can be helpful to keep an open dialogue with financial counselors who specialize in IVF. They can discuss every possible avenue that might provide relief and make each step feel more approachable.

IVF Emotional Support Resources

An IVF cycle can feel overwhelming, so at CARS, we integrate psychological and counseling services. Skilled mental health professionals offer mind-body cognitive-behavioral approaches, equipping individuals with techniques to cope emotionally. 

Support Groups

We host drop-in gatherings where those undergoing IVF meet others in similar circumstances. Hearing shared experiences can be deeply comforting.

All Paths Family Building

A regional non-profit that organizes peer support meetings for those dealing with fertility concerns. Couples and individuals find a welcoming environment to discuss stories, practical tips, and updates on available resources.

Counseling Services

Options include private sessions with psychologists who understand the nuances of fertility treatment. This helps participants navigate medical terminology, process outcomes, and remain encouraged as they move forward.

IVF Success Stories and the Wall of Hope

Our IVF program has helped many create families. There is a Wall of Hope at CARS featuring images by talented photographers like Janine Boudo and Bella Blue Photography. Each photo brings to life the experiences of fertility patients who chose to share their stories. 

This gallery offers encouragement to those who pass through the halls. Each photograph represents perseverance and optimism, and the collaborative spirit of our staff who strive to bring about healthy outcomes.

Learn More about IVF at CARS

For more information about our In Vitro Fertilization Program, including details on IVF procedures, costs, and available support resources, please contact The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services. Our team of experienced and compassionate specialists is proud to support your journey to parenthood.

Uconn Fertility success story image of baby holding embryologist image of embryo