Problems Conceiving For most couples the idea of not being able to fall pregnant, or to be able to maintain a pregnancy, are furthest from their minds when they make the decision to try to have a baby. For most of us we have spent our whole adult and sexually active lives trying very hard to do the opposite. The window of opportunity to successfully fertilise your egg is only small so it is not really surprising that it does not happen with ease. The term "infertile" is quite harsh and the mention of this can send you on an emotional roller coaster. The reality is that most couples that have trouble conceiving on their own do end up falling pregnant, often with some help from the medical world. Most women, around 90%, will fall pregnant within 18 months of starting to have regular sex around the time they ovulate. If you feel concerned about your fertility you should speak to your doctor and they may begin investigations into your health, and they will be able to recommend you to a fertility professional if necessary. For more information visit our Links and Resources where we have provided a number of options for you to follow up. It is important when thinking about infertility that is not any body’s fault. The term “WE are having problems falling pregnant” rather than pointing the finger of blame will help you deal with this together. The pressure that is brought into a relationship when you begin down the path of infertility investigations and treatment can seem insurmountable. Remember you came to this point as a partnership; make sure you maintain this relationship. Did you know that 40% of infertility cases are related to men? The male partner is a good place to start your initial investigations, as providing a semen sample is relatively easy as opposed to some of the more intrusive tests for women. Women also account for 40% of all fertility problems. Initial tests for women include blood tests to check for correct hormone levels, a cervical mucus test, laparoscopy and ultrasound scanning. Both partners are accountable for 10% of reduced fertility rates. The remaining 10% are of no apparent cause in either partner and are termed “idiopathic infertility”. Here are a few reasons why you may be having trouble conceiving: You:
Your Partner:
Many of these problems can be treated using Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). The most common form of this is Invitro Fertilisation (IVF). If you are in any doubt about your reproductive health talk to your family doctor and they will point you in the right direction.
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from Alex - NSW Midwives Assoc.During breast feeding you need to have a balanced diet, including calcium. |
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