What is Infertility?
How frequently do infertility problems occur?
How do I know when it's time to seek out an infertility specialist?
What exactly is a fertility specialist?
What will happen on my first visit?
What types of questions will the doctor ask me on my first visit?
Do all treatments for infertility involve "high-tech," experimental procedures?
Are there any side effects associated with the use of hormonal therapies?
What is Infertility?
Infertility is the inability to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse in women under 35, or after six months in women over 35, or the inability to carry a pregnancy to term.
How frequently do infertility problems occur?
There are about 6 million people in the United States who are coping with infertility problems. It is estimated that about 1/3 of the time infertility is due to a condition in the woman, 1/3 of the time to a condition in the man, and 1/3 of the time infertility is due to unexplained or unusual problems that may be present in both partners.
How do I know when it's time to seek out an infertility specialist?
The definition of infertility is the inability to conceive after a year for women under 35, after six months in women over 35, or the inability to carry a pregnancy to term. If you meet any of the following criteria you should seek specialized help from an infertility specialist:
- Regular unprotected intercourse with no pregnancy for a year
- Trying 6 months when 35 years of age or older
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- A history of pelvic pain or other problems such as infection or abdominal or reproductive surgery
- DES Exposure
- Two or more miscarriages
Male problems that could alert you to a problem include:
- Reproductive Surgery
- Low sperm count or problems with morphology
- prostatitis
- Urinary infections
What exactly is a fertility specialist?
A fertility specialist is usually an Obstetrician-Gynecologist with advanced education, research and professional skills in Reproductive Endocrinology. The reproductive endocrinologist has a 2 to 3 year fellowship in the area of infertility.
What will happen on my first visit?
Typically a routine screening and consultation is done and medical histories of both partners will be taken. (Try to keep track of your menstrual cycles for several months before hand.) A semen analysis will be scheduled. Further appointments will be made based upon individual circumstances, most likely revolving around your ovulation.
What types of questions will the doctor ask me on my first visit?
The physician asks the woman if she has irregular periods, severe menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, a history of genital infection, or medical illnesses. Also, expect questions concerning prior conceptions, prior miscarriages, pregnancies, operations, and methods of contraception. The man will be asked questions concerning genital injury, operations, infections, drug and/or mediation usage, history of prior paternity, and medical illnesses. Your physician will ask both of you how long you've been trying to conceive, how often you have sexual intercourse, if you use lubricants during intercourse, and if anyone in your family has birth defects.
Do all treatments for infertility involve "high-tech," experimental procedures?
No. Many couples are successful in their attempts to conceive using relatively simple, "low-tech" procedures. Less than 5% of all couples seeking treatment will undergo assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization.
Are there any side effects associated with the use of hormonal therapies?
Clinical studies have shown that hormonal therapies are safe and effective for women to use. However, as with all prescription medicines, there are possible side effects. Your doctor will discuss potential side effects as well as monitor your response to therapy. Remember too, that it is important to report all symptoms to your physician.