More evidence that obesity lowers IVF success. I had one of the first publication on this in 2001:
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/06/21/more-evidence-obesity-may-lower-ivf-success/

A new non invasive test for fetal genetic anomalies

http://www.latimes.com/news/science/la-sci-fetal-genome-sequence-20120607,0,7625263.story

Birth defects and fertility Treatment

Birth Defects and Fertility Treatment

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Two studies focusing on birth defects and fertility treatment techniques recently have been published. The finding of both studies show that certain fertility treatments are associated with increased risks of birth defects, but neither study revealed why this association occurs.

In a meta-analysis of 46 studies, the number of birth defects in children conceived using in vitro fertilization (IVF) was compared with the number of birth defects in children conceived without any intervention.¹ Researchers identified more than 124,000 children conceived via IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). These children were 37% more likely to have a birth defect than children conceived naturally.

There are several theories about why birth defects are more likely to occur with fertility treatments. One is that the same reasons that a couple is infertile are the reasons that lead to an increased risk of having a child with a birth defect. Another explanation is that IVF techniques or the drugs involved with fertility treatment may cause a birth defect. A third theory is that infants born as a result of fertility treatment are monitored more closely than those conceived naturally, and any increase in risk is because of this closer monitoring.

Another study conducted in Australia used a birth registry with data on 308,974 births, of which 6163 births involved some form of fertility treatment.² The risk of any birth defect was 8.3% when assisted reproduction technologies were involved, compared with a risk of 5.8% for naturally occurring pregnancies. When IVF was used, the risk of birth defects was 7.2%. The risk increased to 9.9% when ICSI was used. The children of women who used clomiphene to stimulate ovulation were 3 times more likely to have a birth defect than the children of women with no record of infertility. In addition, any history of infertility, even if spontaneous conception occurred, was significantly associated with birth defects.

According to lead researcher Michael Davies, PhD, MPH, a limitation of this study is that the most recent data used is 10 years old, a necessity to ensure a 5-year follow-up for all births. He suggests that risk of birth defects may be lower today, since treatments have evolved and pregnancy rates involving ICSI have improved.

Pertinent Points:

- In reality, there is only a 2.5% greater risk of birth defects when using fertility treatments.

- After adjustment for parental factors, the increased risk of birth defects associated with IVF was no longer statistically significant.²

- Every pregnancy, whether spontaneous or assisted, involves some risk.

Is your commute killing you?

http://www.slate.com/articles/business/moneybox/2011/05/your_commute_is_killing_you.html

What every patient should know: "payers don't like to pay"

http://www.washingtonpost.com/health-insurance-companies-push-to-diversify-raises-concerns/2012/04/27/gIQAWoSkoT_story.html

VCRM receives Best of Reston Award for the Fifth straight year

For the fifth consecutive year, I am pleased to announce that VIRGINIA CENTER FOR REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE has been selected for the 2012 Best of Reston Award in the PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS category by the US Commerce Association (USCA). "This is the first year that a business has qualified as a Five-Time Award Winner. I'm sure that your selection as a 2012 Award Winner is a reflection of the hard work of not only yourself, but of many people that have supported your business and contributed to the subsequent success of your organization. Congratulations on your selection to such an elite group of small businesses".

The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Top Doctors Washingtonian Issue

The Washingtonian Top Doctors issue is currently on sale. Dr Sharara has been named one of the Top Doctors in Infertility again, a continuous honor since 2005