But I'm Scared To Be Tested for Fertility Problems!
If you and your partner suspect that you have fertility issues, you'll want to see your doctor. Your doctor will run a number of tests and will, potentially, send you to a fertility specialist. This entire process may appear scary before you go through it, and it's very important to allay your fears and to get the facts. Learn about this process so that you will be ready to get tested and will know what to expect from the testing itself.
Getting Tested
When you first go to your doctor to discuss fertility issues, you'll need to give him a brief history of your attempts to conceive. You'll explain how long you've been trying to get pregnant, if your partner has regular cycles, if you do anything unusual that might lower your sperm count, etc. The doctor will then order a semen analysis for you to check both the quality and the quantity of your sperm. You are going to need to provide a semen sample, and many men find this process embarrassing. Remember that this is routine for your doctor, and he is not embarrassed at all by this process! You'll be offered a container, a quiet location and a chance to produce the sample.
Analyzing the Results
Assuming that the first semen analysis comes back normal, you'll have a second round of tests done to rule out a possible false negative result. If both tests return normal, this will be a good indication that you don't have a sperm issue, and the doctor will look elsewhere to explain your problems. If something does look irregular, the doctor may order more tests to further explore male fertility issues. If the tests come back with an indication that you do have male fertility issues, you'll be sent on to a fertility specialist for further testing and for assistance.
What's the Problem?
If the test identifies a problem, it may be the result of a number of different issues. Semen analysis can show Azoospermia, which means that you don't produce any sperm at all. It may show Oligiospermia, which means that you only produce a little bit of sperm. It may show an issue with your sperm motility, indicating that the sperm isn't moving in a normal way. It may show sperm morphology, showing that the structure and form of the sperm may be causing infertility.
What Happens Now?
If a problem is identified, the doctor will recommend a fertility specialist for you to see. The specialist will help to isolate the exact issues and to counsel you in lifestyle changes and in possible medical solutions. You'll be asked about your environmental factors and lifestyle choices that may impact your fertility and you may be given vitamins or other medical treatments.
Getting tested and getting to the bottom of your fertility issues is certainly less stressful than wondering for great length of time about what might be wrong. The most embarrassing part of the process is that you have to provide semen samples. Keep in mind that the doctors are professionals and that they work with loads of men - and loads of semen samples! With these types and ideas in mind, you should be able to put yourself on the road towards the conception of a beautiful baby.
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