Whether you’re searching for international egg donors, contemplating a fifth IVF cycle, or debating using a surrogate, getting pregnant isn’t always as easy as we’ve been told.
In our middle school health classes, we’re taught there’s only one way to make a baby – you know, the ‘birds and the bee’s’ conversation. However, what our teachers and textbooks negate to tell us is the standard ‘traditional technique’ doesn’t work for everyone.
From PCOS to low ovarian reserves, natural conception doesn’t account for a plethora of fertility-related circumstances.
So, what are your options?
If conception can’t happen the ‘old-fashioned’ way, what medical techniques or family building solutions are available to help you have the baby of your dreams?
Do You Have a Fertility Problem? Answering Your Questions About When to See a Doctor
When is it time to start seeking alternative fertility solutions? At what point is your inability to get pregnant a “problem?”
If you’ve only been trying for a month or two with no success, does that constitute infertility trouble?
Based on guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, someone under the age of 35 should try to get pregnant on their own for at least a year before seeking infertility testing. If you’re over 35, you should try for six months before asking for help.
Since most healthy people in their early 30s only have approximately a 20% chance of conceiving each month, taking time to let things happen naturally is key before diving into fertility treatment.
The Most Common (and Reliable) Fertility Solutions
Once you’ve spoken with your doctor and it’s confirmed there’s a fertility-related problem to overcome, you may wonder what the most likely treatment solution will be.
There are several different techniques and procedures available, depending on your unique fertility condition.
Reproductive Surgery
From cervical issues to uterine polyps, there are many potential problems which could be causing your infertility. Thankfully, many of them can be corrected using various surgeries – several of which are simple and non-invasive.
Surgeries are often the first step in treating an individual or couple’s reproductive challenges. However, if surgery isn’t possible or doesn’t work, your physician might recommend alternatives.
Fertility Medications
If your conception challenges are related to issues like premature ovulation or anovulation (not ovulating at all), there’s a chance your doctor might recommend using a regimen of fertility medications to fix the problem and increase your chances of getting pregnant.
Some of the most common fertility drugs include:
- Clomiphene Citrate
- Synthetic Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
- Follicle Stimulating Hormones
- Bromocriptine and Cabergoline
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
After an unsuccessful attempt using fertility medications on their own, some fertility specialists may suggest an IUI as a possible treatment solution. This involves collecting a sperm sample, whether it’s from your partner or a donor, and inserting the sperm directly into your uterus using a catheter.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
As of 2019, over 8 million babies have been born through IVF technology worldwide. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the most common infertility treatment procedures.
As with an IUI, sperm is collected from your partner or donor during an IVF cycle. Unlike IUI, eggs (either yours or from an egg donor) will also be retrieved for use during the process.
The collected eggs and sperm are combined in a petri dish or through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to allow for fertilisation. From there, developing embryos are inserted into your uterus using a catheter and ultrasound technology.
Surrogacy
In some situations, using a surrogate might be the only way for you to become a parent. Some examples include same-sex couples, older patients, or those struggling with recurrent miscarriages. By using a surrogate, you’ll circumvent some of the main obstacles you’ve encountered during your fertility journey.
Getting Pregnant: It’s More Than Just a Textbook Process
Most people don’t grow up assuming they’ll need to find a surrogate or start an IVF cycle to get pregnant. After all, many people conceive without any trials and tribulations.
However, it’s vital to recognise that fertility isn’t a black and white topic.
Starting a family can take various paths; what’s essential is to find the avenue to children that works for you.
