MEDICAL SELF-CARE

Article Tools

Image Gallery

Print

E-mail

Comments

RSS

INCREASE YOUR CHANCES

When attempting to conceive, try to have intercourse several times a week. Only 16% of fertile couples who make love less than once a week conceive within six months, but the proportion rises to 80% for coupleswho have intercourse four or more times a week. And be sure not to miss the periovulatory period: the 36 to 48 hours after ovulation when the egg travels down the fallopian tube, and when the cervical mucus becomes most hospitable to sperm. A physician, family-planning clinic, women's health center, or book on "fertility awareness" can help you identify this most receptive time.

To further increase your chances, do not use commercial lubricants during intercourse. Even such products marked "not for contraceptive use" can slow sperm, decreasing the chance for fertilization. And although saliva is still widely recommended as the best and safest natural lubricant, a recent research report reveals that it, too, impairs the movement and activity of sperm. The study's authors suggest using petroleum jelly, glycerin, or egg white instead.

There is no "magic" lovemaking position for conception, but sperm do need time to reach the fallopian tubes, where conception should occur. Since this journey takes 10 to 20 minutes, regardless of the couple's position, the woman can increase the likelihood of conception by lying on her back for about 30 minutes after intercourse. And don't douche . . . this disrupts the sperm.

MEDICAL HELP

If you have trouble conceiving, most doctors recommend continuing to try on your own for at least six months. If you're in your 20's, even a year may be a reasonable length of time. Older couples, however, should keep the maternal age factor in mind and not delay seeking help for too long.

Once you've decided to get a physician's assistance, you may want to start with your gynecologist or family doctor. On the other hand, you can go directly to a fertility specialist: a gynecologist or urologist with additional training in reproductive endocrinology. If your family doctor cannot refer you to such a person, send your request and a self-addressed, stamped business-sized envelope to the American Fertility Society, Dept. TMEN, 1608 13th Avenue South, Suite 101, Birmingham, Alabama 35205. In return, they'll mail you a list of specialists in your area.

Among the many diagnostic tests available to infertile couples, semen analysis is basic, as is a pelvic exam for the woman. If two physicians are involved in the fertility workup—a urologist for the man and a gynecologist for the woman—make sure they stay in close touch. And remember, you should feel free to ask whatever questions you may have about infertility and the procedures your doctor recommends: You have the right to get satisfactory answers, and to have a full explanation of any tests-including their costs—and possible side effects. If you don't feel satisfied and confident with your physician, find one with whom you do.

RSS | Comments | E-mail | Print