The basic evaluation for couples struggling to become pregnant includes a semen analysis, blood tests to evaluate ovarian function, a hysterosalpingogram and a pelvic sonogram to evaluate the uterus and fallopian tubes. It is not uncommon for couples to undergo this basic evaluation for infertility and find that all of their tests are normal. At that point,
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For some lucky couples, the “Fertile Myrtles” of procreation, getting pregnant involves candles and a month or two of enjoyable, yet purposeful sex. They may never know exactly when ovulation occurs, or how miraculous it is that out of millions of sperm, one strong swimmer arrives at the fallopian tube precisely when a single egg is ready.
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Couples having trouble with conception are certainly not alone; approximately 1 in 6 couples are thought to have issues with infertility. An infertility evaluation is warranted after one year of trying if the woman is under age 35. For women over age 35 an evaluation is recommended if they have been trying for 6 months without success.
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In general, couples who have had trouble conceiving for 6-12 months should undergo a basic infertility evaluation. The tests include obtaining a semen analysis from the woman’s partner, undergoing an evaluation for ovarian function, having a pelvic sonogram, and undergoing a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). The final diagnostic test is a laparoscopy. However, this procedure is not always necessary.
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Many patients struggling to become pregnant wonder when it is time to quit. Just when is “enough enough”? It is important to realize that if the physicians at Texas Fertility Center can utilize all of the options available to us, probably 85-88% of patients will be able to have a baby. But that does not mean that there aren’t times during the treatment process when “enough is enough”.
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How many times have you heard, “Just relax and you’ll get pregnant, it’ll happen when you least expect it”? For many couples, these comments that are not meant to be hurtful can be the ones that hurt the most. Many people who have not struggled with infertility don’t truly understand the magnitude of the process which leads to common myths being passed on as truths.
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