Going Through The Rigors Of Fertility Testing
I have been through the pain
of infertility, though I loathe the term ‘infertile’. It’s not very
accurate, because many people who have problems conceiving usually go on to
have children. Though I am not actively trying at this time, I have a friend
who is, and she is about to go through the rigors of fertility testing. This
can put a strain on almost any relationship, and many people are scared when
the testing begins. If you do a little research before you start, you are
going to be able to handle what comes next a little better.
Fertility testing often starts with the basics. The man in the relationship
will be asked to give a sample of semen for a sperm count. This is of course
painless, and can sometimes spot the problem right away. The sperm is tested
for count and motility. If there is a problem with either of these things,
your doctor can go from there. Men are lucky in this aspect, as fertility
testing for them in not very invasive and can be done quickly.
For women, however, fertility testing can get downright personal. Not that
being told you have slow sperm, or that you just aren’t making enough isn’t
personal, but it does not require an invasive exam. Women may have to face
this as they move down the line in fertility testing. Most women will be
asked to chart their cycles or use some other method to verify that they are
indeed ovulating. You can’t get pregnant if there aren’t any eggs maturing.
She may be tested for PCOS, or other hormonal problems, as well as for
conditions such as endometriosis.
If you are under 35, you will be asked to try to conceive on your own for a
year before you undergo fertility testing. If you are over 35, they will ask
you to try for six months. After your required time period has elapsed and
you have not conceived, then the testing can begin. Ask your doctor what
they plan to do, and what you should be prepared for. Remember to talk
things over with your spouse and make sure you both understand that even if
something is wrong, it does not make either of you less of a person. A low
sperm count does not mean a man is deficient, and a woman who is having
trouble ovulating is not a failure. It is most important that you support
each other through fertility testing and that you are there for each other,
no matter what the outcome may be.
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