Author: Alex Franklin

  • What’s Involved with a Semen Analysis?

    What’s Involved with a Semen Analysis?

    Semen analyses are quick and easy tests that can tell us a lot in terms of what might be causing infertility. But you may be wondering what the procedure itself entails. Here’s the lowdown.

    Has your doctor ordered a semen analysis? If you’ve never gotten one before, you might be wondering what this test entails, if it will be uncomfortable, and what it can tell you.  

    Gen 5 Fertility Center offers semen analyses as well as several other fertility tests and treatments. Dr. Samuel Wood and Dr. Benito Villanueva will walk you through all the steps and expectations of a semen analysis so you can feel ready before the procedure. 

    Why we do semen analyses

    If you and your partner have been trying to conceive naturally for more than a year without luck, you should consider a semen analysis. For one reason, it’s one of our least invasive testing options, and it can give you answers fairly quickly. For another, it can test for several different issues all at once. 

    Problems with testicular function, ejaculation, hormones, or even a genetic issue could all potentially create infertility in those who produce sperm. This test makes it easy and fast for us to rule out all of these potential problems.  

    What a semen analysis will feel like

    A semen analysis isn’t a complicated or invasive procedure. You visit our clinic and receive a container. Then, you wash your hands and your penis before masturbating into the container. Try to catch all of the sperm in the container, and please let us know if you don’t.   

    During the procedure, you won’t be able to use lube, and you mustn’t try to push sperm that didn’t make it into the container back in, as that could contaminate the sample. Generally, this is a simple procedure that you could do at any time as long as you’ve avoided sexual activity involving ejaculation for two to seven days beforehand. 

    The procedure is simple, fast, and discreet. We understand the common feelings of nervousness and embarrassment, but trust us, everyone at our clinic is simply focused on helping you and your partner conceive.  

    What happens after your semen analysis 

    After you provide a semen sample, you can go home without any need for recovery or post-procedure treatment. The results take a few days, and share them with you as soon as we have them.  

    At our clinic, we use semen analysis to check for several qualities, including 

    • Volume 
    • Color
    • Liquification level 
    • pH level
    • Sperm shape  
    • Sperm count 
    • Motility

    If any of these qualities are off, it could be affecting your fertility. Some issues can be treated easily with lifestyle changes, such as wearing different types of underwear, avoiding alcohol, eating (or abstaining from) certain foods, and more. Other issues might require medication or even surgery.  

    There’s nothing to worry about with a semen analysis. We provide quick, effective testing that is always safe and discreet. If you have any other questions, our staff is happy to answer them so that you feel as comfortable as possible.  

    To book an appointment, call or visit our online booking portal. We look forward to meeting you at our San Diego, California, office. 

  • What Can I Expect During My IVF Evaluation?

    What Can I Expect During My IVF Evaluation?

    An IVF evaluation is more than just determining if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. It also prepares you for the IVF process and allows us to determine which options will best suit you and your partner.

    IVF (or in vitro fertilization) is an excellent option for those who want to conceive and are having trouble doing so naturally. This treatment program involves fertilization outside your body, and subsequent implantation in your uterus. But what does it mean to be evaluated for this procedure, and what does evaluation entail?  

    At Gen 5 Fertility Center, we offer the most advanced treatments for fertility issues. Dr. Samuel Wood and Dr. Benito Villanueva will help you determine if IVF is right for you, which involves several evaluations before the procedure ever takes place.  

    A good candidate for IVF 

    IVF isn’t right for everyone. Often, the best candidates are those with specific conditions, such as endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, or PCOS. Patients of an advanced age who are attempting to get pregnant and those with male partners who have low sperm counts or other sperm-related fertility issues may also benefit.  

    However, this isn’t to say everyone in these situations will definitely be candidates for IVF or that those who aren’t won’t. IVF is a procedure that requires time, effort, money, and careful consideration of its risks, rewards, and potential frustrations. That’s why we evaluate before you ever begin preparation for the procedure.   

    What your IVF evaluation will entail 

    When you visit Gen 5 Fertility Center with questions about IVF, the first step is an honest discussion about your goals and what the procedure involves. We can tell you about how IVF may be able to help, as well as the typical chances that your process will end in a live birth. Of course, we can’t predict this perfectly. 

    We want you to understand that IVF increases the likelihood that you will conceive and give birth to a child. It isn’t a guarantee, nor is it a catch-all solution for infertility. To help you understand this, we conduct a preconception evaluation

    Once this is complete, you go through several tests. One is the evaluation of your ovarian reserve, which tells us if your ovaries are producing enough healthy eggs for us to use. If not, the use of donor eggs may be necessary. Male partners also usually receive a semen analysis.  

    Once you have undergone these evaluations, it’s time for you to begin the preparation process for IVF.  

    Why evaluation is so important 

    Being evaluated before you begin IVF is paramount. First and foremost, it’s necessary to find out what may and may not be wrong before you ever start treatment. There’s a possibility that something less expensive or invasive might suit you better than this option, so you’ll want to make sure you explore all avenues available to you.  

    Next, we need to make sure the procedure has the highest chance of success. That means finding out if your and/or your partner’s eggs and sperm will be less successful than a donor’s when undergoing IVF.  

    Finally, patients who have unrealistic expectations for the procedure often suffer from frustration, depression, and other issues, as well as seeing their relationships affected by this helpful but complex process. To avoid this, we require our patients to discuss IVF with our team before proceeding with treatment.  

    Make sure you’re ready before IVF starts 

    These evaluations help us determine your candidacy for the procedure and make sure we do it in a way that suits you. However, it also prepares you for the process. It can be long and even difficult, but with the proper evaluations and preparations, we can help set you up for a healthy journey with IVF.  

    Book an appointment with us online or by calling our office in San Diego, California. You’ll be glad you did.

  • Mini IVF and Integrative Fertility Treatments at Gen 5 Fertility

    Mini IVF and Integrative Fertility Treatments at Gen 5 Fertility

    When it comes to fertility care, one size does not fit all. Every patient’s journey is unique, which is why Gen 5 Fertility in San Diego offers highly personalized treatment plans designed to meet each individual’s needs. Under the leadership of Dr. Samuel

    What Is Mini IVF? 

    Mini IVF, also known as low-stimulation IVF, uses a gentler approach compared to standard IVF cycles. Instead of high doses of medication, Mini IVF relies on lower stimulation protocols to produce fewer, but often higher-quality eggs. For women over 40, this approach is often more effective than traditional IVF because it prioritizes egg quality over quantity. Low-stimulation IVF can also be less physically demanding and more cost-effective, while offering excellent chances of success. 

    Integrative Fertility Treatments 

    At Gen 5 Fertility, integrative fertility means combining advanced medical protocols with supportive therapies that help optimize overall reproductive health. Dr. Wood takes into account each patient’s unique biology, lifestyle, and goals when creating a treatment plan. He uses comprehensive testing to determine which approach will be most effective, from ovarian rejuvenation to targeted fertility supplements and personalized fertility regimens. 

    By avoiding a “standard protocol” and instead focusing on customization, Gen 5 Fertility gives patients the best possible chance of success while minimizing unnecessary interventions. This patient-centered approach ensures that every step of treatment feels purposeful, supportive, and designed with long-term outcomes in mind. 

    Why Patients Choose Dr. Samuel Wood 

    Dr. Wood is internationally recognized as a pioneer in ovarian rejuvenation and advanced fertility care. He is especially sought after by women over 40, as well as those diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) or premature ovarian failure (POF). His depth of expertise, compassionate approach, and innovative use of low-stimulation IVF make him a trusted leader for patients who want truly personalized care and renewed hope in their fertility journey. 

    Personalized IVF Treatments That Put You First 

    At Gen 5 Fertility, the focus is always on you—your body, your goals, and your path to parenthood. By combining the latest advancements in fertility medicine with a deeply individualized approach, Dr. Wood and his team provide patients with hope, clarity, and expert guidance every step of the way. 

    If you are ready to explore Mini IVF, integrative fertility, or personalized treatment options with Dr. Wood, contact Gen 5 Fertility today and take the next step toward building your family

  • IUI vs. IVF: When to Consider Each in Fertility Treatment

    IUI vs. IVF: When to Consider Each in Fertility Treatment

    Fertility treatments can feel overwhelming. IUI and IVF are two common options that help with conception in different ways. Understanding when to use each can help you take the next step with confidence.

    What is IUI?

    Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is often one of the first fertility treatments recommended. During IUI, prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. This increases the chances of sperm meeting the egg naturally. 

    IUI is generally considered when:

    • There are mild male factor issues, such as low sperm count or motility.
    • The woman has regular ovulation and open fallopian tubes.
    • There are cases of unexplained infertility.
    • Donor sperm is being used.

    Because it is less invasive and more affordable than IVF, many couples or individuals start with IUI as a first step. However, its success rates are lower compared to IVF, particularly for women over 35 or those with more complex fertility challenges. 

    What is IVF?

    In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a more advanced treatment. Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a lab. Embryos are then grown and transferred into the uterus. 

    IVF may be recommended when:

    • IUI attempts have been unsuccessful.
    • A woman has blocked fallopian tubes or severe endometriosis.
    • There are more significant male factor infertility issues.
    • The patient is older or has diminished ovarian reserve.
    • Genetic testing (PGT) of embryos is desired.

    IVF also provides more control and options—such as freezing embryos for future use or using donor eggs or sperm—making it a powerful choice for many families. 

    Choosing the Right Path for You

    Deciding between IUI and IVF depends on several factors, including age, fertility diagnosis, medical history, and personal preferences. At Gen 5 Fertility, our team will walk you through every option, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs and goals. 

    Take the Next Step

    If you’re wondering whether IUI or IVF is the right choice for your family-building journey, the experts at Gen 5 Fertility are here to guide you. 

    Call us at 858-568-6210 or visit Gen5Fertility.com to schedule a consultation and take your first step toward turning the dream of family into reality.

  • Traveling for Ovarian Rejuvenation at Gen 5 Fertility in San Diego

    Traveling for Ovarian Rejuvenation at Gen 5 Fertility in San Diego

    For many women, the path to parenthood is filled with unexpected challenges. When faced with diminished ovarian reserve or age-related fertility concerns, it’s natural to seek hope, answers, and the very best care available.

    That’s why women from across the United States—and around the world—travel to Gen 5 Fertility in San Diego, home to Dr. Samuel Wood, the global leader in ovarian rejuvenation. 

    Why Women Choose Gen 5 Fertility 

    Dr. Wood has built an international reputation for his groundbreaking work in ovarian rejuvenation. Known not only for his expertise but also for his compassionate approach, he has become a trusted resource for women who want to expand their options. Patients often come to him after being told elsewhere that nothing more could be done—only to discover new possibilities for their fertility journey. 

    From the moment you connect with Gen 5 Fertility, the process is designed to be seamless. Consultations can begin virtually, allowing you to speak directly with Dr. Wood and a dedicated Ovarian Rejuvenation Specialist before you ever step foot on a plane. The team then takes care of the details—so traveling to San Diego is straightforward, comfortable, and stress-free. 

    A World-Class Experience 

    At Gen 5 Fertility, ovarian rejuvenation is not just a procedure—it’s a chance to restore hope. Every treatment plan is personalized, reflecting your unique history and goals. Patients repeatedly share that what sets Dr. Wood apart is not only his advanced medical expertise, but also his ability to listen, guide, and support with genuine care. 

    The Added Bonus of San Diego 

    Coming to San Diego for treatment means more than just accessing world-class fertility care. With its mild, sunny climate, convenient international airport, and welcoming atmosphere, San Diego is an easy city to travel to. If you have time to explore, you’ll find beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks like Balboa Park, and a relaxed pace of life that makes recovery feel even more restorative. 

    Take the Next Step 

    Traveling for ovarian rejuvenation is easier than you think—and choosing Dr. Samuel Wood and the Gen 5 Fertility team means placing your hopes in the hands of true experts. 

    Call to Action: 

    Start your journey today. Schedule your remote consultation with Dr. Wood by visiting Gen5Fertility.com or calling 858-568-6210.

  • All About Ovulation Induction

    All About Ovulation Induction

    You may know about IVF and other infertility treatments, but do you understand how ovulation induction fits into many types of fertility care — or even how this process alone might be able to help you conceive? 

    Here’s a big secret: many people struggle with fertility. And while infertility treatments are used more often each year, there are still many gaps in common knowledge about the practice. For one, you may be wondering what ovulation induction — a key part of many fertility treatment plans — is.  

    We at Gen 5 Fertility Center not only offer IVF and IUI, but we help our patients understand how ovulation induction is part of the process and even how it can help your fertility on its own. 

    Dr. Samuel Wood, Dr. Benito Villanueva, and Dr. Martin Bastuba will discuss your specific treatment plan with you and determine if ovulation induction should be a stepping stone toward further treatments or possibly all the help you need to start building your family. 

    Ovulation induction 101

    First, let’s define the treatment. Ovulation induction stimulates and increases eggs’ maturity, supply, and release during ovulation. The therapy relies on medications like clomiphene citrate and letrozole to create these effects.  

    The first is an oral medication that convinces the body its estrogen production is low, which causes increased production of FSH (or follicle-stimulating hormones). The second is also an oral medication used when clomiphene citrate causes unwanted side effects. A third medication is sometimes used to induce ovulation once the others have taken effect. 

    The process of ovulation induction 

    Before the process begins, you and your provider undergo a series of tests to ensure this is the right treatment for you. Blood tests, an ultrasound, and even your family medical history can help determine your path to success.  

    Once you begin, we give you your medication and a strict schedule. You take these oral medications for five days straight, and we monitor your follicle growth to ensure the treatment is working.  

    After this, you may want to try having sex naturally to see if the ovulation induction has increased your ability to conceive. But you may also choose to move into IVF or another type of treatment. You and your provider make this decision together based on your specific situation. 

    A good candidate for ovulation induction

    You may still wonder if you’re a good candidate for this procedure. If you’re a candidate for IVF, you’ll go through this process as part of your overall treatment. But people who might be good candidates for ovulation induction itself are those who 

    • Struggle with irregular ovulation patterns 
    • Have no clear cause for infertility
    • Are younger than 38 
    • Have a male partner with no known fertility issues 

    Risks associated with ovulation induction 

    Clomiphene citrate causes side effects for many patients, including mood swings, pain, and hot flashes. If you’re likely to experience these side effects or if you’d like to try letrozole instead, this medication can be much milder and also has a lower chance of resulting in multiple births.  

    Success rates of ovulation induction

    Ovulation induction can be uncomfortable and may cause some problematic side effects, but many patients see favorable results with this option before IVF or IUI is even needed. According to Yale Medicine, success rates with ovulation induction are comparable to those of couples with no fertility issues attempting to conceive.   

    Choosing ovulation induction

    Over the years, your choices for fertility treatment have become more varied and nuanced. This wonderful advancement has allowed many people to expand their families. Ovulation induction is just one of these treatment types, and we’d be happy to discuss how it might be effective for you.  

    Make an appointment at our San Diego, California, office today. Just visit us online or call to book and start your journey toward building your family today.

  • What Can Unblock My Fallopian Tubes?

    What Can Unblock My Fallopian Tubes?

    Blocked fallopian tubes can vary in severity and in the extent to which they might affect your chances of conceiving a child. Fortunately, several fertility treatments can manage this condition — and even bypass it entirely!

    So, you believe you might be dealing with blocked fallopian tubes. While extremely common, this issue needs to be diagnosed by a medical provider, and afterward, you’ll be able to discuss the options available to you to manage this issue.  

    Here at Gen 5 Fertility Center, we pride ourselves on providing our patients with all the options. Dr. Samuel Wood and Dr. Benito Villanueva understand that your needs, just like your situation and your body, are different from everyone else’s. We will help you get the best options for your unique situation so you can build the family you want.  

    Blocked tubes: What does it mean, and can you still get pregnant?

    Blocked fallopian tubes occur when scar tissue forms on these tubes or the tissues and organs begin to adhere to one another. Many common conditions — such as endometriosis, fibroids, sexually transmitted infections, and ectopic pregnancies — can all lead to blocked fallopian tubes. Blocked tubes often cause no symptoms but could stand in the way of conception.  

    When the sperm travels to the egg to fertilize it, it travels up the fallopian tube to reach the egg. Then, the fertilized egg travels down the tube to the uterus. But when the tubes are blocked, this can make it difficult for one or both of these processes to occur.  

    According to a 2022 study, “Tubal blockage accounts for 30%-40% of a woman’s fertility.” So, though you may have been diagnosed with this condition, it could still be possible for you to become pregnant naturally. However, this often depends on the severity of the blockage.  

    Unblocking fallopian tubes and other options 

    At this point, you’re probably wondering if unblocking your fallopian tubes is an option. In some instances, it might be. People who have minimal blockage due to minor scar tissue or other issues can often benefit greatly from either a hysteroscopy or a laparoscopy. Both of these procedures can help us open up the fallopian tubes.  

    Hysteroscopies are milder and less invasive. They don’t require incisions and can occur in an outpatient facility. It’s a worthwhile treatment option, mainly because it isn’t very invasive, if it is beneficial for your unique situation. Laparoscopies, on the other hand, are slightly more invasive, and you would need to be under anesthesia.  

    However, if your scarring is more severe, you might want to consider other options. While surgical repair used to be a choice for some patients, most people now prefer the option of IVF or in vitro fertilization. With IVF, you can bypass the issue by having one of your eggs fertilized in a lab and implanted in your uterus without relying on the fallopian tubes at all!  

    Many people with significant scarring opt for this approach because it allows them to build the family they want without going through major surgery. Still, it’s important to remember that each of these procedures may be appropriate for different situations and to discuss with your provider which of them will work best for you. 

    You can get pregnant with blocked fallopian tubes

    Many people can achieve this through the remarkable technological advances available at clinics like ours. We take pride in helping make our patients’ dreams come true, and we look forward to discussing all of these options with you. 

    Make an appointment now to visit us at our San Diego, California, office. Simply call or book online.

  • The Ins and Outs of Egg Freezing

    The Ins and Outs of Egg Freezing

    If egg freezing interests you but you don’t know enough about it to decide, keep reading to learn all about the procedure and determine whether it might be right for you.

    Are you considering putting off having children until later in life? Do you want to help someone struggling to conceive? Or perhaps you’re just not sure about your future family plans. All of these are good reasons to freeze your eggs.  

    Gen 5 Fertility Center offers an egg-freezing process that takes you from the very first stage of consideration to the last when our medical professionals retrieve and store your eggs.   

    Our providers — Dr. Samuel Wood, Dr. Benito Villanueva, and Dr. Martin Bastuba — understand the choice to freeze your eggs, and the process can take considerable time, effort, and thought. That’s why our clinic strives to help patients understand everything possible about the procedure before it begins.   

    The process of freezing your eggs

    Deciding to freeze your eggs isn’t a simple, one-and-done process. It first involves a bit of soul-searching to determine if this is the best course of action for you. Then, you can discuss it with your provider to find out if you’re a good candidate. If you are, you and your provider will create a plan for the process.  

    You’ll need to take medications that stimulate egg production so your provider can retrieve as many as possible during the procedure. This process goes on for about two weeks before the procedure itself. When that time comes, we sedate you so you won’t feel pain. You might have some temporary cramping afterward. 

    After this, we evaluate your eggs and freeze the mature ones. We give you a report letting you know how many eggs have been frozen, and we care for these eggs until the next phase of the process — whatever that may look like for you.  

    Why people decide to freeze their eggs

    Freezing your eggs is a big decision and requires a lot of steps, so most people don’t approach it lightly. But there may be many reasons why you may decide to go through with the process.  

    For one, you may know you want to have children but aren’t sure when. Egg freezing allows you to avoid these worries and live your life as you choose. 

    Some people want to keep some of their eggs and donate others, while still other candidates choose to donate all their eggs. Donating eggs can be a lucrative process and can also help make someone’s dream come true.  

    Finally, you may freeze your eggs for a medical reason, such as a cancer diagnosis or another condition that may require egg freezing to have children down the road.  

    A good candidate for egg freezing 

    Good candidates for egg freezing are often between 25 and 40, although ages 27 to 34 are considered ideal. Generally, after age 40, egg freezing is less effective, but we may consider some patients on a case-by-case basis.  

    We assess your fertility health at the beginning of the process and administer medication to increase your egg production so we can retrieve as many eggs as possible.   

    Possible risks with egg freezing

    Egg freezing doesn’t have many risks. However, because of the hormonal medications given to increase egg production, you may experience bloating, discomfort, and mood swings, which can be difficult to weather. Other risks are associated with anesthesia and the procedure but are rare.  

    Success rates of egg freezing

    Many factors affect the success rates of freezing your eggs, but age matters most overall. Freezing your eggs at a younger age increases the likelihood of a healthy birth.  

    Choosing egg freezing

    Are you ready to freeze your eggs? Visit our San Diego, California, office or book an appointment online.

  • Reproductive Options for LGBTQ Couples

    Reproductive Options for LGBTQ Couples

    We want all of our patients to have the same access to reproductive treatment options. We believe everyone has the right to build the family of their dreams. Here’s what we offer LGBTQ couples at our San Diego office.

    Love is love, and family is family — no matter how they’re made. There are many people throughout the world who choose to create a family of their own in different ways, and we’re here to help.  

    At Gen 5 Fertility Center, we’re proud to offer reproductive treatment options to LGBTQ+ folks who want to start or grow their families. Our providers — Dr. Samuel Wood, Dr. Benito Villanueva, and Dr. Martin Bastuba — are always focused on offering you the best care, which includes nuanced treatment that takes all your needs into account. 

    Let us tell you about some of the options we provide for LGBTQ couples. If you think this might be right for you and your partner, we’d love to have you visit us at our San Diego office so we can discuss further.  

    LGBTQ reproductive options

    In many cases, there is a combination of similar and unique treatments needed from those of straight couples. For example, you may require treatment for a condition like PCOS before implementing another reproductive treatment. For this, we recommend discussing your specific situation with us.  

    With any kind of treatment program, one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why we take the needs of our gay, lesbian, transgender, and queer patients with specific consideration. We want to provide you with options that feel right to you and your partner, so please don’t hesitate to let us know which of these options — or if a combination of them — would work best for you.  

    Egg and sperm freezing 

    Like other couples, you might not be ready to begin the process of starting or growing your family at this time. If fertility down the line is a concern, we recommend egg or sperm freezing. Both can be extremely helpful to provide you with the best fertility options later in life, so you don’t have to worry now.  

    Assisted reproductive technology (ART) 

    ART involves several options for egg, embryo, and sperm donation as well as surrogacy. You and your partner can decide which is best for you. We’re extremely thorough in vetting our candidates for donation and surrogacy, and the process can be tailored to your needs, depending on the biological connection you wish to have between all parties and your child.  

    Split insemination 

    Split insemination is an excellent option for two partners who possess sperm and would prefer not to choose one biological link to their child. Instead, this option allows half the embryos to be fertilized with one partner’s sperm and half with the other’s. The procedure provides several possibilities for our patients, many of whom prefer this approach to surrogacy.  

    Co-IVF

    Co-IVF is also a fantastic option for couples who both have uteruses and want to participate in the reproductive process. One partner is the egg donor, while the other partner carries the fertilized embryos. It can provide the kind of pregnancy to which all parties are connected.  

    Other services 

    We also understand that other services may be a part of your reproductive journey. For example, a semen analysis may be necessary if you’re concerned about the viability of your sperm, or laparoscopic surgery may be a requirement before IVF to remove blockages in your fallopian tubes.  

    Whatever the case, we will be able to provide you with the options you need to begin a reproductive process that is as safe and successful as anyone else’s. We promise to take all your needs into account and provide you with the best possible options.  

    We take pride in helping build families 

    Our most important job is to provide our patients with safe, effective care, enabling them to build the families of their dreams. We believe everyone has the right to create their own family, and we’ll stand by you as you create yours.  

    Please call our San Diego, CA, office today to make an appointment or visit us online. We look forward to meeting you!

  • What’s the Best Age to Freeze Your Eggs?

    What’s the Best Age to Freeze Your Eggs?

    Are you too young or too old to freeze your eggs? When is the right time to secure your future family? Many factors make this decision a bit fluid. Here’s what you need to know.

    More and more people are turning to egg freezing as a way to preserve their fertility for later in life. It makes sense: You may want to have a child but aren’t ready now, don’t know if you want to be a parent, prefer to find the right partner, or want to prepare financially first. Whatever the case, this procedure has helped many people plan for the future. 

    Gen 5 Fertility Center offers egg freezing, consultations about the procedure, and anything else you might need to feel ready and informed about. Our providers — Dr. Samuel Wood, Dr. Benito Villanueva, and Dr. Martin Bastuba — understand that knowledge is power and want all of our patients to feel as empowered as possible on their fertility journeys. 

    But one more thing: Some people avoid the option because they think it’s too late or too early to freeze their eggs. So, here’s the skinny on the best age to complete this procedure.  

    The answer’s a bit complicated

    Unfortunately, there’s no one age doctors can point to for every individual and say, “This is the optimal age for egg freezing.” This is because your body is different from the person’s next to you and because fertility treatments aren’t a one-size-fits-all. Still, there are a few rules of thumb to follow when you’re trying to determine the best age to freeze your eggs.  

    #1: Freezing early can be helpful

    Some providers will tell you that the earlier you freeze your eggs, the better. We understand this mindset. The female body experiences diminished fertility with age, as the eggs released each month become less fertile and fewer over time. A woman in her 20s usually has a better chance of conception than a woman in her 40s.  

    For this reason, some purport the ideal age for freezing your eggs to be around 20 years old. This is about the earliest that most providers will consider going through with the procedure, as it can be a difficult process on your body as well as your hormonal and mental health.  

    However, this isn’t true of every patient, and it’s important to consider other factors.  

    #2: 37-year-olds see the best cost-effectiveness

    On the flip side, patients who choose to freeze their eggs at the age of 37 tend to see the best results in terms of cost-effectiveness because fertility starts to decline in one’s 30s, but accelerates after 37. This is usually a good time to consider whether the procedure could benefit you. 

    The likelihood that the eggs you freeze at this time will still be viable and result in a live birth is high. If you freeze your eggs after 40, it can be harder to achieve these same results (though not impossible). For those who haven’t thought about freezing their eggs at a younger age, this is an ideal age to make the choice and get the best results rather than doing nothing

    #3: Patients 30-35 can get the benefit of both 

    A caveat here is that patients who choose this procedure between 30 and 35 often get the best of both worlds. As such, they get the benefit of healthy fertility in their early 30s while not having to go through a complex medical procedure at a younger age, where the process might be less tolerable.  

    Those who may not have thought about having children in their 20s may have a strong desire to do so in their 30s, making the procedure much more beneficial. In addition, freezing your eggs can be costly, and those in their 30s are usually in a better position to afford the procedure.  

    When should I freeze my eggs?

    The important thing to remember is that every patient is different. Some make the choice at 22 while others do so at 42, and some never do. Whatever the case, the most important thing you can do is discuss the option with your provider and determine the best course of action.  

    If you’d like to learn more about egg freezing, visit us online or call us on the phone to make an appointment at our San Diego, California, office. We can’t wait to meet you!

  • Inclusive Fertility Care: Building Families with Dr. Samuel Wood at Gen 5 Fertility

    Inclusive Fertility Care: Building Families with Dr. Samuel Wood at Gen 5 Fertility

    At Gen 5 Fertility, we believe that family comes in many beautiful forms—and no one understands that better than Dr. Samuel Wood, our founder and medical director.

    At Gen 5 Fertility, we believe that family comes in many beautiful forms—and no one understands that better than Dr. Samuel Wood, our founder and medical director. 

    Dr. Wood is more than a globally recognized fertility specialist—he’s a compassionate advocate for people from all walks of life who are ready to build the family they’ve always dreamed of. His clinical excellence is matched by his warmth, kindness, and deep respect for the individual journeys of his patients. 

    Whether you’re a same-sex couple pursuing egg donation and surrogacy, a single parent by choice, or a hopeful family navigating fertility preservation, Dr. Wood is here to guide you with expert care and genuine heart.


    A Leader in Third-Party Reproduction

    At Gen 5, we work with many families using egg donors and gestational surrogates—and Dr. Wood’s experience in these areas is second to none. His ability to tailor treatment plans to each family’s needs, values, and vision is what makes him a trusted leader in the fertility world. 

    We are proud to partner with outstanding organizations that share our passion for inclusive family-building and help make these journeys possible: 

    YourEggs

    A world-class egg bank known for its diverse, high-quality donors and exceptional support for LGBTQ+ families. We love working with YourEggs to help our patients find their perfect match. 

    Great Beginnings Surrogacy

    A trusted surrogacy agency where many Gen 5 patients have found compassionate, committed surrogates to help bring their families to life.


    Building Families, the Right Way—Your Way

    Dr. Wood’s success speaks for itself, with countless families across the country and around the world welcoming babies with his support. But it’s not just about numbers—it’s about the feeling our patients have when they walk through our doors.

    “Welcomed,” “empowered,” and “cared for” are just a few of the words they use to describe their experience.

    At Gen 5 Fertility, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Whether you’re starting from scratch or continuing a long journey, we honor your path—and we walk it with you.


    Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Journey?

    Call us today at 858-585-4766 to speak with a friendly member of our team.

  • Can Ovarian Rejuvenation Improve My Odds of Getting Pregnant with PCOS?

    Can Ovarian Rejuvenation Improve My Odds of Getting Pregnant with PCOS?

    Ovarian rejuvenation is a noninvasive procedure that doesn’t require a lot of pain, difficulty, or a long recovery for patients who want to increase their odds of getting pregnant. Fortunately, it can be an excellent option for those living with PCOS.

    Polycystic ovary syndrome (or PCOS) is an illness that affects about 1 in 10 US women. While researchers are unsure why the condition occurs or how to manage it, many living with it experience infertility as a result.  

    While there is no cure for the condition, a treatment known as ovarian rejuvenation might help. Gen 5 Fertility Center is the only clinic in the United States to offer this treatment as a possible option for increasing fertility. If you’ve been struggling with PCOS while trying to get pregnant, ovarian rejuvenation may be able to help. 

    Dr. Samuel Wood, Dr. Benito Villanueva, and Dr. Martin Bastuba want to provide you with the best care to manage your fertility with as many options as possible. That’s why we offer this treatment, which can be extremely helpful when dealing with this health problem.  

    How PCOS affects fertility 

    PCOS causes several unwanted symptoms in the women it affects, such as the growth of facial and body hair, skin tags, acne, and thinning hair on the top of the head. Most of these symptoms are related to higher than normal levels of androgens, male hormones. High insulin levels may also be the culprit, but the exact cause is unknown.  

    PCOS can affect your fertility too, making your periods more irregular or even stopping them altogether before menopause takes effect. The high androgen level in your body creates this because it affects your ovulation cycle. When your body doesn’t ovulate regularly, it becomes harder to get pregnant.  

    Using ovarian rejuvenation to improve fertility with PCOS 

    There are several ways to manage PCOS and improve your chances of getting pregnant. These options include ovulation medications, IVF, and even surgery. Additionally, we offer another solution here at our San Diego, California, office called ovarian rejuvenation.  

    Ovarian rejuvenation is a highly effective procedure for PCOS and other difficult-to-treat issues that can get in the way of conception. It’s minimally invasive, requires almost no recovery time, and causes minimal discomfort. It involves using platelet-rich plasma (or PRP) from your body that we inject into your ovaries.  

    The procedure can help manage some of the fertility problems associated with PCOS. According to a 2023 study, ovarian rejuvenation helped decrease inflammation and improve hormonal imbalances in patients with PCOS. It also restored ovulation functions to more normal levels, which increased the patient’s odds of getting pregnant. 

    Discussing ovarian rejuvenation with your provider 

    Of course, every patient is different and has different needs. If you’re wondering if ovarian rejuvenation can increase your odds of getting pregnant with PCOS, you should consider certain factors. 

    • Is PCOS likely the only reason for your fertility issues? 
    • Are you in your 30s or 40s and dealing with low ovulation caused by PCOS? 
    • Do you want a noninvasive treatment and natural conception? 

    Also, you must discuss this with your provider before you jump in headfirst. Other issues may be at play, and it’s always important to research before you begin any treatment regimen. But if you’re dealing with PCOS-related infertility, ovarian rejuvenation could just be the answer you’re looking for as you try to get pregnant. 

    Learn more about ovarian rejuvenation today

    This treatment is noninvasive and requires no surgery or medication. It’s also the cutting edge of today’s fertility options, especially for someone with PCOS. If you’d like to learn more, we’d love to discuss it with you. Please give us a call or book an appointment online today.