Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is infertility a common problem?

Yes. About 10% of women ages 15–44 years have difficulty getting pregnant or staying pregnant.

How long should women try to get pregnant before calling their doctors?

Most experts suggest at least one year. Women aged 35 years or older should see their doctors after six months of trying

What increases a man's risk of infertility?

A man's sperm can be changed by his overall health and lifestyle. Some things that may reduce the health or number of sperm include:

• Heavy alcohol use
• Drugs
• Smoking cigarettes
• Age
• Environmental toxins, including pesticides and lead
• Health problems such as mumps, serious conditions like kidney disease, or hormone problems
• Medicines
• Radiation treatment and chemotherapy for cancer

What factors can contribute to female infertility?

There are a number of factors that can affect a woman's fertility, such as:

• Age
• Athletic training
• Being overweight or underweight
• Excessive alcohol use
• Health problems that lead to hormonal changes
• Poor diet
• Sexually transmitted diseases or infections
• Smoking
• Stress

Is age a factor in infertility?

Yes. Aging has a pronounced effect on the ovaries. Studies have shown that in women, fertility begins to decline at age 35 and then increases to decline more rapidly as the woman ages.

How do you determine the first day of your cycle?

Day 1 is the first day you see a red flow, not just intermittent spotting.

At what time of the month is a woman most fertile?

The day you start your menstrual period is "day 1". Around "day 14" you may ovulate and release an egg. That egg is viable for about 24 hours. It is important to note that not all women ovulate on day 14--some ovulate earlier, some later, and some not at all. An Ovulation Predictor Kit can help you predict ovulation. Having a period is not a certain indicator of ovulation.

What is in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the process where eggs are removed from the ovaries during minor surgery and fertilized with sperm outside the uterus

What is Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (I.C.S.I.)?

ICSI is a technique where a single sperm can be micro-surgically injected into the cytoplasm of an egg to develop into a fertilized embryo. This procedure has given new hope to men with poor semen quality or azoospermia

How long does it take for fertilization to occur?

Fertilization occurs within 24 hours after ovulation.

How long does it take for implantation to occur?

Implantation occurs about 5-10 days after ovulation.

What is Dysmenorrhea?

When there is abnormal pain during menstruation then that condition is called Dysmenorrhea. It may be a symptom of endometriosis. With a fertility problem improving the situation by using a contraceptive pill is not an option

What is a Fibroid?

A fibroid is a benign tumor of the uterine muscle; it is also called a Myoma.

What is Progesterone?

A hormone produced predominantly during the second half of the menstrual cycle by the ovary to facilitate the development of the uterine lining so the embryo can implant.

How do we find good infertility treatment?

Make an appointment at Dorset fertility for expert advice. Phone 01202 700063/701332

Does stress affect fertility?

In some women stress hormones affect the pituitary gland. This in turn may affect ovulation, commonly seen if the cycle becomes irregular or stops. Couples may also have sex less often if they are subconsciously afraid of failing to conceive. Don't forget, you are not alone and many other people are feeling the same as you. It is normal to feel isolated. Joining support groups, finding out about stress management and techniques such as acupuncture may help.

What else can we do?

EDUCATE YOURSELF! Get and read good, reliable information from your doctor, library, internet (be careful it is mostly promotional), or trusted friends or family. Look at your lifestyle, weight and diet