Danustouch
August 20th, 2001, 01:22 PM
This is an article on how to take your first steps toward fertility awareness, and how to know whether or not you may have fertility problems...
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Some Common questions for those just starting with infertility:
After how many unsuccessful months should I begin to wonder?
Many couples have a hard time admitting that there may be an infertility problem. After each menstrual period, they hope that next cycle will be the one that works. When these hopes fail each month, a woman will often turn to her regular ob/gyn or clinic.
Generally after six months of trying, you might consider making an appointment to have a general workup. Most physicians advise you not to be concerned unless you have been trying to conceive for at least one year. However, if you are over 30 years old, have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, painful periods, miscarriage, irregular cycles, or if your partner has a known low sperm count, you may want to seek help sooner.
Should I see my gynecologist?
For your basic work up, that would be fine. However, a Reproductive Endocrinologist really is the pro to seek help from. Infertility is their specialty.
What should I expect from my first appointment?
The doctor will first get a history, including how long you have been trying. They will want to know if you have been keeping track of your morning temps and using any ovulation predictor kits. They will conduct a pelvic exam and migh also do a basic hormone blood workup, depending on what cycle day you are on.
For the most part, the first appointment is for getting a game plan together. You will find it very helpful to bring a list of questions you might have to your first appointment.
.
********************************************
Some Common questions for those just starting with infertility:
After how many unsuccessful months should I begin to wonder?
Many couples have a hard time admitting that there may be an infertility problem. After each menstrual period, they hope that next cycle will be the one that works. When these hopes fail each month, a woman will often turn to her regular ob/gyn or clinic.
Generally after six months of trying, you might consider making an appointment to have a general workup. Most physicians advise you not to be concerned unless you have been trying to conceive for at least one year. However, if you are over 30 years old, have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, painful periods, miscarriage, irregular cycles, or if your partner has a known low sperm count, you may want to seek help sooner.
Should I see my gynecologist?
For your basic work up, that would be fine. However, a Reproductive Endocrinologist really is the pro to seek help from. Infertility is their specialty.
What should I expect from my first appointment?
The doctor will first get a history, including how long you have been trying. They will want to know if you have been keeping track of your morning temps and using any ovulation predictor kits. They will conduct a pelvic exam and migh also do a basic hormone blood workup, depending on what cycle day you are on.
For the most part, the first appointment is for getting a game plan together. You will find it very helpful to bring a list of questions you might have to your first appointment.
.