Fertility problems

Very few couples expect to have fertility problems and it can come as a shock that conception does not happen easily. That being said, fertility problems are quite common, in varying degrees, and sometimes a little help and advice is all that is needed to reach the goal of conceiving.

Focus on infertility

Fertility isn't always a straightforward case of being able, or unable, to conceive. A couple may have no difficulty in conceiving their first child, but find they cannot get pregnant a second time; this is called secondary infertility. Another couple, who have both had children with previous...
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Seeking fertility advice

First of all, go to see your family doctor so you can talk about your worries and ask any questions. For many couples it's the woman who seeks advice first, but it's really important for you both to accept that whatever the reasons for your problems, you're both going to need investigation. So if...
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Miriam's casebook - Infertility

Peter, 29, and Jane, 27, have been trying for a baby for three years without success. Peter had non-specific urethritis (NSU) three years ago and was treated at a genito-urinary (GU) clinic. The problem hasn't come back. Peter also had mumps when he was 12. Jane wants some medical advice about...
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The importance of counselling

With all the tensions that surround the treatment of infertility, couples need and deserve sound psychological support. If you do decide to start on a course of investigation and treatment, ask your doctor to refer you to a counsellor to help you cope with the stress.
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External impacts on your fertility

There are a number of external elements, such as lifestyle and medications that can adversely affect your fertility.
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What is infertility?

Infertility affects 1 in 10 couples who want children. Fertility declines in both sexes after the ages of 25-30, and because more and more couples are delaying starting a family until their 30s, infertility is becoming more common in the developed world.
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Problems conceiving

A couple can consider they are having problems conceiving when pregnancy does not result after they have had regular, unprotected sex for more than a year.
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