A patient is scheduled to receive Pergonal (Menotropins) injections as part of an infertility treatment before in vitro fertilization.
What is the anticipated effect of this medication?

Choice A rationale
Smoking and drinking alcohol can indeed affect sperm count. Studies have shown that smoking and alcohol consumption do not significantly affect semen quality, but avoiding them is still considered good health advice.
Choice B rationale
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can be treated with medication. If treated properly, it should not affect the ability to conceive in the future.
Choice C rationale
The timing of intercourse for conception is usually centered around the time of ovulation, which typically occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, not three weeks after menstruation. Engaging in unprotected intercourse three weeks after her menstrual period may not be the most effective timing for conception.
Choice D rationale
Regular use of hot tubs can indeed decrease a man’s sperm count. The heat from hot tubs can affect sperm production, leading to a reduction in sperm count.

Choice A (Prepare for a vaginal delivery) is incorrect. Vaginal delivery is generally not recommended for women with active genital herpes lesions present during labor due to the high risk of transmitting the virus to the newborn. This risk is especially high when the mother experiences a primary infection (first outbreak) during the third trimester or has visible lesions at the time of delivery.
Choice B (Administer antiviral medication) is partially correct. While antiviral medications can be helpful in managing and potentially shortening outbreaks, they alone are not enough to prevent transmission during delivery. Antiviral medication can be used in combination with cesarean delivery to further reduce the risk of transmission.
Choice C (Prepare for a cesarean delivery) is correct. A cesarean delivery is the preferred method of delivery for women with active genital herpes lesions present during labor because it significantly reduces the risk of the virus being transmitted to the newborn. This risk can be as high as 50% during vaginal delivery with active lesions, while the risk with cesarean delivery is significantly lower, typically around 1% or less.
Choice D (Discharge the patient) is incorrect. Discharging a patient in active labor with active genital herpes lesions is not a safe or appropriate course of action. The patient needs to be carefully monitored and managed in a healthcare setting to minimize the risk of transmission to the newborn and ensure the safety of both mother and baby.