NEEDS ASSESSMENT

COURSE DESCRIPTION

1.  Identify some of the new additions to the diagnostic options for semen and ovarian reserve assessment in the initial infertility evaluation.

2. Examine potential approaches to improve ART method selection through the initial infertile couple evaluation.

3. Identify how a urology evaluation most benefits infertile couples.

4. Identify how a gynecologist evaluation most benefits infertile couples.

5. Review the history of how initial evaluation of the infertile couple has changed over the decades and apply lessons learned to today’s approach.

         A large amount of new clinical data has emerged which demonstrates the potential to substantially improve both semen and ovarian reserve assessments through the first evaluation of the infertile couple.

         The potential for establishing consensus regarding diagnostic algorithms will be discussed in the context of reviewing the latest clinical data assessing  newer diagnostics,  such as anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and new algorithmic approaches, as well as older, controversial  diagnostics such as sperm DNA fragmentation.

            Data will be examined that demonstrates the improvement in ART success that is possible with appropriate incorporation of gynecology and urology into the clinical algorithms of fertility care.

            Finally, proposed new technologies will be evaluated in the context of the successes and failures of diagnostics introduced in the past with the intent of learning from history.