There may be some questions about infertility that you feel too embarrased to ask. We'll try and answer some.
1
Will I ever get pregnant?
Yes, most likely you will! 92% of all couples conceive within the first 12 months of trying. Go and see a doctor after one year of trying if you have had no success.
2
Could it be my sperm?
Male factor infertility accounts for 40% of all cases where couple are having problems conceiving. This can be due to poor sperm quality, abnormal production, damage due to cancer.
3
Am I too old to have my own child?
Fertility declines with age and it is believed that women over 44 years are unlikely to be fertile. However there are tests which can be done to predict the remaining egg supply and their potential for IVF stimulation. But they can't predict the quality.
4
Should I only use donor eggs?
It depends on your age as well as the outcome from ovarian reserve tests that can be undertaken. Most fertility specialists will suggest donor eggs after successive IVF failures with your own eggs together with your age.
5
Is it OK to use complementary therapies?
If it will aid your chances of success most fertility experts will say yes. Some fertility clinics offer acupuncture, massage and nutritional therapy as extras as they can see that it does help.
6
Will fertility treatment hurt?
It is not pleasant to have to inject yourself with medication. Nor is it nice to have eggs retrieved. But fertility clinics try and make the patient as comfortable as possible with sedation during egg retrieval and will discuss your concerns.
7
Will I meet my donor?
It depends on where you go for fertility treatment. In the UK donation is only allowed by a known donor. But in most countries in Europe, egg and sperm donation is anonymous.
8
Is ICSI safe to use?
Retrospective studies have shown that there is no increased risk from having ICSI compared to conventional IVF.
9
How many embryos should I have transferred?
Your fertility team will be able to advise you based on the quality of the embryos available. Having too many embryos transferred puts you at increased risk of a multiple pregnancy.
10
What if I miscarry- can I try again quickly?
Your fertility specialist can advise on this but they usually suggest three periods before trying again.