Staying Sane While Deciding if you See an Infertility Specialist
If you are reading this, you may be wondering whether to visit an an infertility clinic. It can be daunting, as making this decision can make infertility more real. However,if you have been “trying” to conceive for a year or more without success, your chances of conceiving naturally maybe low. Fortunately, infertility treatments have a high rate.
One of the main concerns of anyone considering seeing an infertility doctor is the cost. The good news is that more and more people in the US have at least some insurance coverage. You need to check with your or your partner’s Human Resources department to see what coverage is available. Don’t just ask someone; read the insurance coverage details yourself. If coverage is lacking, visit Resolve.org for resources and ideas on how to advocate for coverage from your coverage employer. Some states have mandated coverage, and your company might not be aware of this. The Resolve web site lists all states with mandated coverage, and the specifics of what coveraged.
Another common concern is the assumption that IVF (in vitro fertilization) will be necessary. That is a myth. Although IVF has the highest success rates, many individuals can conceive with far less complex and less expensive treatments. You won’t know what treatment you need until you see an infertility specialist, have a few tests (for both you and your partner), and only then your doctor determine the best treatment to help you conceiving a healthy baby. Many women can get pregnant by simply taking medications for several days!
It is common to feel discouraged after trying unsuccessfully for a long time. Depression and anxiety are prevalent (almost half of women seeing an infertility doctor for the first time report symptoms of anxiety, depression or both,due to the stress of trying). If you aren’t feeling like yourself, you are not alone. The best infertility clinics offer ample support anging from stress reduction materials, to free webinars by experienced mental health professional (MHP), and even having a MHP in the clinic to provide coping skills for patients.
You may not feel ready to commit to visiting an infertility clinic. It can feel too real, and uncomfortable, your partner might be hesitant, it might feel scary, and you may well worry about the potential expense. However, time is not on your side. The longer you wait, the less likely you are to conceive. While It is well known that a woman’s fertility decreases with age, men’s fertility also declines, albeit not as drastically.
Consider making an appointment to see how the experience feels. Ensure your doctor have good “chemistry”, that you felt compassion, that you trust them, that you liked the nurses you met and even the front desk staff. One visit doesn’t commit you to a diagnostic work-up or treatment. It is similar to a first date- you don’t have to decide on the first visit you want to pursue treatment. If the visit goes well, you can then decide on the next steps.
Infertility can impact every area of your life, leaving you feeling out of control of your body, sex life, your relationship with your partner if you have one, your relationships with family and friends, your job, and even your relationship with God (why won’t God give me a baby?). However, you can control how you increase your chance of conceiving. If you suspect you or your partner might have an infertility issue (and remember that almost half of couples who can’t conceive on their own have a “male factor”), you can take control by seeing an infertility specialist and taking steps to increase your odds.
Remember, most individuals and couples who see an infertility doctor and follow their recommendations end up as happy parents.