Tag Archives: fertility issues

Setting Limits for Infertility Treatments

When you enter into treatment for infertility, you have high hopes. You may expect to get pregnant within a few months of your first visit to the clinic. This is often not the case. It can take many months, or even years, to finally get pregnant. The initial high you feel can quickly fade and you may feel very low. This is why trying to conceive is often compared to a ride on a roller coaster. The stress of infertility can make you want to give up. This is very normal. Trying to have a baby is not fun, despite … Continue reading →

The Link Between Infertility Treatments and PPD

An Australian study suggests a link between infertility treatments and post partum depression. The study of 700 new mothers showed a four times greater incidence of PPD in the mothers who had undergone treatment for infertility prior to getting pregnant. This study shouldn’t be interpreted to mean that all women who are in treatment for infertility will develop post partum depression. It just means there is an increased risk. Understanding the risks and symptoms of post partum depression is an important factor in getting treatment and feeling better. Additional Risk Factors for PPD: * The number of children. Women with … Continue reading →

What is a Luteal Phase Defect?

The luteal phase of your cycle is the time from ovulation until your menstrual period begins. The normal length of the luteal phase is 14 days, in a 28 day cycle. Women with a luteal phase defect have a much shorter phase, often ten days or less. If you manage to conceive, the much wanted pregnancy ends in miscarriage. Low progesterone level is thought to be the cause of a luteal phase defect. There are a few causes of low progesterone. A low level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) can result in poor follicle development. This causes the body to … Continue reading →

Infertility Testing: Sonohysterogram

A sonohysterogram is an ultrasound using a saline solution. This is done to diagnose problems with the shape of the uterus or abnormalities. The saline offers a clearer picture of fibroids or polyps in the uterus as well. The sonohysterogram begins like a pap smear. A speculum is inserted and the cervix is washed with iodine. This is done to prevent infection. A catheter is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. Saline is put through the catheter and fills the uterus with the solution. As the uterus fills with fluid, it is common to feel some discomfort. This … Continue reading →

Initial Infertility Testing

If you have been trying to conceive for one year without success, it may be time to call a doctor. If you are over the age of 35, you should be evaluated after six months without natural conception. Your initial evaluation can be done by an infertility specialist. The initial evaluation is often done by the OB/GYN. A minor problem can be treated by your regular doctor. In many cases, after these initial results come back you may be referred to a reproductive endocrinologist. A thorough initial evaluation will save you time and money at the fertility clinic. Most of … Continue reading →

Infertility: Taking Care of Yourself

When you are going through infertility treatments, it’s easy to neglect your health. You are so focused on treatments and running back and forth to doctor’s visits that you may neglect your health. If you have been going through infertility for an extended period of time, you may feel depressed. This can cause you to neglect yourself. It’s important to take care of yourself when you are going through infertility treatments. Take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. The time you invest in caring for yourself now will benefit your baby later. A healthy mommy increases the chances of … Continue reading →