FAQs

Just talking about a problem can often make it a bit easier to deal with. So naturally, a good set of FAQs can be useful too. Below are some of the most common questions we get. If you still don't see what you're looking for, you can send us your question/comment using our secure online form.

Where is Northwest Fertility Center Located?
Answer: We're located near downtown Portland in the RiverPlace Office Building in the River Place district. We're easy to find and get to, and have free parking available when you arrive.

What is the actual success rate of each type of procedure?
Answer: Dr. Stoelk's success rate is consistently one of the highest in the nation. Because there are so many different types of procedures and patient variables (especially age), it's almost impossible to tally it all up into one succinct number. When visiting with Dr. Stoelk, you'll be given all the information you need, including procedure success rates specific to your situation and age. We feel this will help make your decision easier.

Are procedures expensive?
Answer: We know that the least expensive route to success is to do things right the first time. This doesn't mean that everyone gets pregnant on the first try, but many do. We are very concerned about your costs. That's why our fees are usually less than other facilities, and we offer discounts to cash-only patients. Flexible payment plans, package plans, MasterCard and Visa are also accepted. We will even bill your insurance when appropriate.

Will my insurance cover these procedures?
Answer: Not all insurance companies will cover all fertility treatments. At Northwest Fertility Center, we have our own expert on staff to help answer your questions about insurance coverage. However, be sure to check with your provider to be absolutely sure.

Is there a chance of having twins, triplets or more?
Answer: According the U.S. Census Bureau, the odds of naturally giving birth to twins are 1-in-32. For triplets it's 1-in-8,100. So, even without fertility treatments, the odds of having more than one baby are not entirely remote. Although, the stories we all see about a woman giving birth to 4 or more babies are often sensationalized, they are truly rare.

How is Northwest Fertility Center different from other clinics?
Answer: Any fertility clinic you visit will be careful and attentive. Our team adds "nurturing" to that list. We're with you every step of the way. You'll even get Dr. Stoelk's home phone number when you become a patient. That way you can call him anytime, day or night.

My partner would like to be more involved. Is that possible?
Answer: We encourage the hopeful father to accompany you to every visit - especially the initial consultation. When you first meet with Dr. Stoelk, he will be able to more accurately pinpoint the true nature of your infertility - especially if he can ask the future father a few questions as well. And as with some cases, the father may need to be tested.

If I adopt, will I get pregnant sooner?
Answer: There is no greater chance of becoming pregnant after adopting than there is before. In addition, an adoption, while a wonderful addition to any family, can often take more time and cost more money than good, quality fertility treatments.

Can stress cause infertility?
Answer: No. Anyone who is trying without success to conceive will feel stressed. And while stress can add to a couple's anxiety, it is never the cause for infertility. Dr. Stoelk can pinpoint a medical or hormonal cause of infertility at least 90% of the time.

Should we try for another year just to be sure?
Answer: After one year of unsuccessful attempts at conception, it's often best to accept the help you need. And never forget that the biological clock is not a myth - it happens to every woman.

Does God want us to be childless?
Answer: No. By gifting humans with the wisdom to invent new technologies to combat infertility, He obviously wants us to help one another to experience the ultimate joy of parenthood.

If I'm in my 40's, should I worry?
Answer: As we get older, it becomes harder to conceive. Those celebrity moms who give birth in their 40's and beyond typically become pregnant thanks to donor oocyte in-vitro fertilization (IVF).