Treating Infertility

So you are at a point in your life when you are ready to become a parent. Most women simply put aside the birth control and go for it. But for many couples nature just doesn’t function like it should. The medical world has come a long way and many options are now common practice. Consult your doctor about any concerns you may have, even if infertility is not an issue. If it is an issue, your physician can start you on a program that is right for you. Here are some basic guidelines to consider:

• If you believe you or your partner have fertility problems, talk with your doctor right away. Even if you are not planning pregnancy at the present time, age is an important issue in treating infertility, and you will be better off if you plan ahead.
• If you have been having unprotected intercourse for a year or more, and you are under the age of 35, and have been unsuccessful, it is time to see your doctor.
• If you have been having unprotected intercourse for 6 months or more, and are 35 years old or older, it is time to see your doctor.
• Or, as mentioned above, if you think you or your partner may have a fertility problem and plan to get pregnant in the future, consult with your doctor so you know what steps you can take now for a successful future pregnancy.

There are many ways to treat infertility. In some cases a prescribed medication may do the trick. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has several procedural options for positive outcomes. Intrauterine insemination, either with your partner’s sperm or a donor’s sperm, has produced thousands of pregnancies. In some cases, a surgery may be needed. You just won’t know until you are tested which options are best for you.