In Vitro Fertilization: The A.R.T. of Making Babies »

Sher, founder and medical director of the Sher Institutes for Reproductive Medicine, prepares couples for the IVF journey with information on how to locate and choose an IVF program and what to expect as they go through the IVF process. Complex biological, medical, and technical concepts and procedures are explained in simple language, yet at a sufficient level of depth to impart real understanding, making the book accessible to its intended educated and motived readership. This edition contains new material on third-party parenting options and conditions that negatively affect fertility, plus more detailed discussions of ovulation and ethics. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

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This clearly written technical handbook guides couples who are trying to conceive in determining whether they are eligible for in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in selecting the program that will help them achieve the best results. It describes in detail the anatomy and physiology of conception and the steps required for realizing it in the IVF procedure. In addition to providing accurate information, the practitioner authors address emotional, financial, physical, and moral-religious issues involved in the decision to conceive with medical assistance. Despite its experimental reputation and persistent high cost, IVF is an appropriate option for many of the estimated 3.3 million infertile couples in the U.S. today, so this specialized manual speaks to a rather large audience of potential users.