What to Do When Pregnancy Just Isn't Happening



Try as they might, some couples just can't seem to conceive. After months and months of practicing and waiting to see if a period will start or it won't, disappointment haunts them.

If a reasonable amount of time has passed between making the decision to try and conceive and ceasing pregnancy preventing medications, such as birth control pills, it might be worth looking into fertility testing. Oftentimes couples that think they have a biological problem preventing them from conceiving will find they both check out 100 percent okay. The numbers game just hasn't resulted in their favor as of yet.

When fertility problems are suspected, a medical doctor will very likely order a few tests for both partners. The idea behind these tests is to rule out any problems or to isolate issues that could be blocking successful conception.

The tests for men and women vary, but their goal is to make sure the plumbing is working as it should and that eggs and sperm are healthy.

Tests for a woman include a few different standard procedures. A hysterosalpingogram is a likely procedure for a woman. During this test, X-rays are taken of the fallopian tubes to ensure they are not blocked, which would prevent the release of eggs. A simple blood test to check on the egg supply might also be ordered. Other tests might include a progesterone test to check for ovulation, an ultrasound to inspect the health of the uterus and even the cervix and more.

Men very likely will be asked to undergo a semen analysis. During this testing procedure, a sample of ejaculate will be necessary. From this sample, doctors can tell how much sperm is being released on average, the health of the sperm and its virility. If sperm is present, but in low counts, it is possible a few simple measures will be all that's necessary to improve a couple's chances for conceiving.

Fertility testing can be a little unnerving, but the end result will provide a couple the answers they so desperately seek. Many times, minor medical issues, such as low sperm counts, can be overcome with a little bit of help. In other cases, different measures such as in vetro fertilization might be suggested. Fertility medications might also be prescribed.

Getting pregnant doesn't always come easy. Sometimes couples think they have or might have fertility problems that don't. Other times, it is possible that issues exist that medical attention can remedy. Unfortunately, some couples might find it is impossible for them to conceive. Knowing, however, is half the battle. Once answers are found, it is possible to explore alternatives that can enable a couple to experience the joys of parenting.

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