Can i conceive (get pregnant)?
There are three basic needs to get pregnant. First, you need an egg. Second, you need sperm. And third, you need a way for them to meet. An egg is released from the ovary during ovulation and travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. Sperm swim past the cervix into the uterus and into the tube, where they meet and fertilize the egg. The embryo then implants into the uterine wall and begins to grow. So, the way the sperm and egg meet, requires an open tube and uterine cavity.
How do we know if his sperm is normal?
This is usually determined with a semen analysis. A semen sample is given and tested at a fertility office. The order and instructions for the semen analysis are given to you in our office.
When do I ovulate, and when’s the best time to try to get pregnant?
First, count the number of days from the start of one period to the start of the next. Subtract 14 from that number, and that’s around the day you likely ovulate. For example, if your cycle comes every 28 days, 28 – 14 is 14. So you probably ovulate around day 14. Day 1 is the day you start your period. So, get out a calendar and mark the day your cycle starts. If you are supposed to be ovulating around day 14, you should have intercourse every other day between days 10 and 20. You should not have sex in between those days in order for your partner’s sperm count to be optimal each time you do have intercourse. The other option is to use an ovulation kit, which more accurately determines when you’re ovulating. On the day your ovulation stick is positive, have intercourse that day and then once a day for the next 3 or 4 days.
How do I know if I ovulate?
If you have regular menstrual cycles, you are likely ovulating. You can also use ovulation kits, which can be bought over the counter and are easy to use. Laboratory tests can also be done to help determine if ovulation has occurred.
How do I know if my tubes are open and if my uterus is normal?
First, we need a good history and physical. Risks for tubal occlusion include previous sexually transmitted diseases that may cause scarring in the tubes (i.e. Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, etc…), previous tubal pregnancy, and previous abdominal or pelvic surgery. Multiple abortions or surgeries for miscarriage can lead to scarring in the uterine cavity called Asherman’s Syndrome. After the history and physical, a sonogram will give us a good look at the uterus and ovaries. Another test called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) can be done to determine the patency of the uterine cavity and tubes. With an HSG, dye is injected through the cervix and X-rays are taken to see how the uterine cavity fills (and thus it’s shape, patency, etc.) and if the dye goes through the tubes and spills into the pelvic cavity (showing that the tubes are open).
How long does it usually take to get pregnant?
Most people get pregnant within one year. Infertility is defined as unprotected intercourse without conception in one year. If it’s been over one year and you’re not pregnant, you need to come in to the office for a fertility work up.
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