How to Talk to Your Doctor About Infertility

When you suspect you may be having problems with fertility, the first person you'll want to speak to is your doctor. He may be able to help you determine whether you should go in for infertility testing or if you should try on your own a little longer. He may also be able to put your mind at rest by explaining the delicate nature of conception and detailing why it can take some couples longer than others to conceive.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• List of questions or concerns

Talk to Your Doctor About Infertility

1. Ask your doctor when she feels is an appropriate time to talk in depth about the possibility of infertility. Some doctors prefer to open a dialogue immediately, especially for patients over the age of thirty-five. Others, however, take more cautionary approach and ask patients to try to conceive naturally for at least 12 months before seeking treatment.
2. Make a list of important points to bring up to your doctor. You don't want to miss something important, such as recurring pelvic pain, irregular menstruation or a history of sexually transmitted diseases.
3. Find out what kind of tests your doctor would like to perform, and in what order they will be done. Some of the more common types of exams are follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and progesterone tests, ovarian reserve testing and semen analysis.
4. Talk to your doctor about your range of treatment options. Depending of the type of infertility you're experiencing, your options may range from intra-uterine insemination (IUI) to in vitro fertilization (IVF) or adoption.
5. Speak with your doctor about lifestyle changes which may reverse your infertility. Since there is a strong link between obesity and infertility, making modifications to your diet and being consistent with an exercise program may help get you back on track.

Tips & Warnings

• When speaking to your doctor about infertility, it is especially important to clarify vague or confusing information. If you don't understand your diagnoses, treatment options, prescription medications or medical advice, let your doctor know. The best chances of improving your fertility rest on your complete understanding of the situation and cooperation with your doctor's recommendations.
• Get a referral to a fertility clinic from your doctor, who should be quite familiar with the organization and ethics of the clinics in your area. This may save you a great deal of time when researching potential local clinics.
• If your doctor makes recommendations to you, it's very important you follow them exactly. Failing to do so could further compromise your fertility.

Who Can Help: