The Fascinating Journey: Ability to Conceive and Parenthood

– Most women get pregnant within a year of trying, with around 1 in 3 getting pregnant within a month of trying.
– Around 1 in 7 couples have difficulties getting pregnant.
– More than 8 out of 10 couples where the woman is under 40 will get pregnant within one year if they have regular unprotected sex.
– More than 9 out of 10 couples will get pregnant within 2 years.
– The Pill does not cause infertility, but it may cover up conditions linked to infertility.
– Lifestyle factors can affect fertility.
– Make an appointment with a GP if you haven’t conceived after a year, or sooner if you are over 36 or have a known fertility issue.
– Low sperm count, medical issues, and irregular or no periods can affect fertility.
– General practitioners (GPs) will ask about lifestyle, health, and medical history to assess the situation.
– Medication, lifestyle, and habits are also considered.
– Unexplained infertility is when no reason has been found for fertility problems.
– If trying to conceive for more than two years, IVF may be offered.
– Both partners will be offered fertility tests.
– Tests for men include a semen test to measure quantity and quality of sperm.
– Tests for women may include hormone level checks, evaluation of ovarian response to fertility drugs, and examination of fallopian tubes.
– Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and availability in the local area.
– Three main types of fertility treatment are mentioned: ovulation-improving drugs, surgery for blockages or growths in the reproductive system, and assisted conception methods like IUI and IVF.
– The Fertility Network UK provides support and forums for those affected by infertility.

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Ovulation: Understanding Your Fertility Cycle for Successful Conception

– Ovulation is a part of the female menstrual cycle where an egg is released from an ovary and moves towards the uterus.
– Ovulation usually occurs once each month, about two weeks before the next period and can last from 16 to 32 hours.
– Ovulation does not occur if a woman is on the contraceptive pill, pregnant, or postmenopausal.
– It is possible to get pregnant in the five days before ovulation and on the day of ovulation, but the three days leading up to and including ovulation are the most likely for pregnancy.
– Signs of ovulation include slick and slippery vaginal discharge or mucus, abdominal pain on one side of the tummy, and premenstrual symptoms.
– Ovulation predictor kits can be used to predict fertile days by measuring the level of luteinising hormone (LH) in urine.
– Ovulation calculators or calendars can help determine fertile days and estimate due dates.
– Some women do not ovulate regularly, particularly in the first two to three years after periods start and during the lead-up to menopause.
– Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), amenorrhoea, and certain hormone conditions can cause irregular ovulation or no ovulation at all.
– Medical tests, such as blood tests for progesterone, can be conducted to check if a woman is ovulating.
– Tablets and injections can be used to increase hormones that control ovulation for women who do not ovulate regularly.
– There are various ways to improve chances of ovulation.

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Infertility: Understanding the Science, Causes, and Treatment

– Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year (or longer) of unprotected sex.
– Infertility can be frustrating and unexpected for couples hoping to become parents.
– Many couples who struggle with infertility end up having children, sometimes with medical help.
– Fertility in women declines with age, so providers may evaluate and treat women aged 35 years or older after 6 months of unprotected sex.
– Couples unable to conceive should consider making an appointment with a reproductive endocrinologist, a doctor specializing in managing infertility.
– Reproductive endocrinologists may also help women with recurrent pregnancy loss, defined as having two or more spontaneous miscarriages.

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