Vruchtbaarheidsonderzoek: Wat je moet weten als je zwanger wilt worden

If you have been trying to conceive for a while without success, a fertility test can be an important step. Approximately one in six couples in the Netherlands will experience fertility problems. It is very normal to wonder what is going on and what options there are. Midwives PuurBegin At Kampen we understand that this can be an exciting and sometimes difficult time.

When is a fertility test useful?

In general, it is recommended to consider a fertility test if you have not become pregnant after a year of regular unprotected sex. If you are over 35, it is recommended to sound the alarm after six months. Even if you have a irregular menstrual cycle If you have any, it may be useful to have an investigation done sooner.

It is important to know that fertility problems can be in both men and women. Therefore, it is important that both partners are tested.

What does a fertility test involve?

A fertility study, also called an exploratory fertility study (OFO), is a study to find the cause of the lack of pregnancy. The study consists of various components, which depend on your personal situation.

Possible components of a fertility investigation include:

Anamnesis: A conversation with the doctor about your medical history, lifestyle and menstrual cycle.
Physical examination: A general physical examination and, if necessary, an internal examination.
Ultrasound: A vaginal echo to assess the uterus and ovaries.
Semen analysis: Research of the sperm of the man to judge the quality.
Blood test: Blood tests to determine hormone levels, for example.
HSG (Hysterosalpingography): An examination in which the patency of the fallopian tubes is tested using contrast fluid and X-rays.
Laparoscopy: A laparoscopic surgery to assess the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

It is good to know that not all tests are necessary for everyone. The doctor will decide together with you which tests are useful in your situation.

The role of the midwife in fertility problems

Although fertility problems are usually treated in a hospital, we can Midwives PuurBegin in Kampen we can support and advise you. For example, we can help you interpret the results of tests, discuss possible treatments and deal with the emotional aspects of fertility problems.

What are the possible causes of fertility problems?

There are several causes of fertility problems, in both men and women.

Possible causes in women include:

Problems with ovulation: For example by PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) or other hormonal imbalance.
Blocked fallopian tubes: For example, due to an infection or adhesions.
Endometriosis: A condition in which endometrium grows outside the womb.
Afwijkingen aan de baarmoeder: For example, a polyp or fibroid.
Age: Female fertility declines with age.

Possible causes in men include:

Reduced seed quality: For example, a low sperm count, reduced motility or an abnormal shape.
Closed vas deferens: For example, due to an infection or an operation.
Hormonal problems: For example, a testosterone deficiency.
Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol and drugs can negatively affect sperm quality.

In about 10% of cases, no clear cause is found for the fertility problems. This can be very frustrating, but even in these cases there are often still possibilities to become pregnant.

What treatments are available?

The treatment of fertility problems depends on the cause. Possible treatments include:

Hormone treatment: To stimulate ovulation.
IUI (Intra Uterine Insemination): The introduction of sperm cells into the uterus.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): The fertilization of an egg outside the body and the transfer of the embryo back into the uterus.
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A variation on IVF in which one sperm cell is injected directly into the egg cell.
Operation: For example, to open blocked fallopian tubes or to remove endometriosis.

Here too, not all treatments are suitable for everyone. The doctor will decide together with you which treatment has the greatest chance of success in your situation.

What can you do yourself to increase your fertility?

There are a number of things you can do yourself to increase your fertility:

Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, eat a healthy and varied diet, do not smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs.
Folic acid: Take folic acid tablets.
Regular cycle: Try to chart your menstrual cycle.
Sexual intercourse: Have sex regularly, preferably every other day around ovulation.
Relaxation: Try to avoid stress.

Fertility research by midwives PuurBegin

Bee Midwives PuurBegin In Kampen we are ready to support you during this process. We offer a listening ear, give advice and can help you make the right choices. Together we can look at the possibilities to your desire to have children to be fulfilled.

Remember that you are not alone. Many couples experience fertility problems. Talk about it with your partner, friends, family or with us. Together we are stronger!

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