It is amazing that a significant number of women (or couples) trying to
conceive, have undergone little or no investigation. Some may have begun
investigations but decided not to follow through for one reason or another.
Unfortunately, due to the poorly structured health care system in
Nigeria, many government and private health institutions lack clear clinical
pathways for couples to follow when trying to conceive. This lead couples to
self-medicate, accept treatments and suggestions from well-meaning friends,
family members or 'doctors'. Sadly, when these do not work, many women are left
confused, frustrated and even more anxious than they began with.
It is important to share that taking fertility
pills without undergoing the necessary tests can be counterproductive as it may
lead to the development of cysts (painful and may need surgery) or even push a
woman into early menopause!!! Not worth the risk!
Research suggests it takes average, a year for over 75% of couples to conceive under normal circumstances. It is estimated that 1 in 6 couples seek infertility care in the developed world. Although we lack current data, it is thought that the problem is twice as common in developing countries such as Nigeria.
Many couples wrongly conclude that they are having fertility
'delays/issues', therefore, let us make clear what is referred to as a delay in
conceiving. Infertility means not being able to get pregnant after
trying for one year (or six months, if the woman is 35years old+). Women
who can get pregnant but are unable to stay pregnant may also be classed as infertile.
Yes, societal pressure and personal expectations
can make the idea of following proper recommendations unappealing. However, it
is important to work together as a couple, agree to wait the required time then
plan to seek care from a reputable healthcare facility that follows
evidence-based guidelines when the need arises.
FOCUSIMS recommends the following 7 steps to be taken for all couples planning to become parents.
1) Establish your menstrual cycle pattern in order to identify
any abnormalities (frequency, flow, likely ovulation window and so on).
2) Have a well woman health check done. This would include (but
aren't limited to); breast exam, cervical cancer screening and so on.
3) Begin to take preconception vitamins (such as pregnacare or
just folic acid tablets) - this ensures that any vitamin deficiencies are
addressed.
4) Adopt a healthier lifestyle with regards to diet and exercise
(for both partners) - this would help improve nutritional status hence enhance
the production of healthier sperm and eggs. It can also help improve conditions
such as being overwieght/obese which have been shown to impact negatively on
fertility. In addition, exercise helps to improve circulatory function which in
turn, can help improve hormonal imbalances.
5) Stress control - Anxiety causes the release of stress hormones
which counteracts the hormones needed for successful conception. Counselling
may be undertaken as a therapy to help reduce anxiety if this is an issue.
7) Undertake clinical investigations if conception does not occur within 12months (if under the age of 35) or 6months (if over the age of 35).
7b) The basic investigations that you can expect to start with are as
follows:-
i. Semen Analysis (sperm count, Microscopy, etc.).
ii. Hormone profile blood tests on specific days of the menstrual cycle
to determine if the woman is ovulating.
iii. Pelvic ultrasound scan to assess the pelvic organs for any
abnormalities.
Based on
the reports from the above tests, there are several other investigations that
may be carried out as necessary. Treatments to induce ovulation may be
necessary if indicated by the test results.
It is important to address a common attitude – “waiting on God”. There
is absolutely nothing wrong with "waiting on God", it is admirable to
approach an issue such as fertility with a spiritual stance.
However, whilst
waiting on God, a couple can and should carry out the necessary tests to
identify any issues that might be causing delay in conceiving. This does not
mean you do not have faith, it just means you are being proactive!
What are your thoughts on the above post?
What are the challenges that you or a friend/family member have encountered with regards to conception/fertility?
Please comment!
