For over 80% of couples, where the female in the relationship is under 40 years of age, they enjoy the pleasure of starting a family naturally, generally within 12 months of having frequent unprotected sex. Frequent unprotected sex, from a medical point of view, is sexual intercourse every two to three days without the use of any form of contraception such as condoms or the Pill.
Unfortunately, for the remaining 20% of couples, this means that starting a family is something with which they are experiencing difficulties. If you have been trying to conceive for over 12 months or you have concerns regarding about your own or your partner’s fertility, it is vital that you get checked by a professional fertility clinic in Bangkok. Visiting a medical practitioner or the clinic is highly advisable for several reasons, and in this article, we will explain why.
- It may eliminate your concerns
If you have been unable to conceive for a substantial period of time it can often put a strain on a relationship. Couples often blame each other or themselves, which can be extremely damaging. Even where both partners are supportive, there will be inevitable worry that can impact on other aspects of not only your relationship but your life. However, the good news is that just because you or your partner hasn’t become pregnant after 12 months, it doesn’t necessarily mean there is a problem.
If you have a fertility check, it will put both of your minds at ease, and you will be able to make firm decisions based on facts. Of course, it can’t be stressed enough how important it is for both partners to undergo checks unless one of you has specific concerns.
- It can take time to get conclusive results
Although fertility clinics will do all they can to process results quickly, unfortunately getting conclusive results can be take time. It is relatively common during the male fertility check-up when often at least two semen samples are required. However, if they produce differing results, more tests may be needed before the doctor will make a diagnosis. It should be understood that this can be an agonising wait, and we will do all we can to help you prepare mentally.
- The early the diagnosis the easier the problem is to treat
Like with any other medical condition, the earlier the diagnosis, the quicker that treatment can begin and in many cases increases the likelihood of success. For this reason alone, all medical professionals will recommend seeking professional help as soon as you have any concerns. The check-ups are painless and nothing to be concerned about. Most couples get a sense of relief after undergoing checks, even when the need for treatment is identified.
- There may be underlying issues
There are many reasons why couples experience problems with fertility, and in some cases, more serious underlying issues are discovered. Needless to say, the underlying issues will need to be addressed before fertility treatment begins. In some cases, this may require lifestyle changes, while in others, it may be the sign of something more serious. Although these finding can sometimes come as a shock, they once again allow early commencement of treatment. It can’t be stressed enough how important early diagnosis is with almost any condition regardless of how trivial it may seem.
- You have more time to plan your next step
For some couples who need to undergo more expensive treatment such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), a significant amount of planning may be required. Obviously, this is a concern for older couples with fertility tending to decline in our mid to late 30s naturally. Saving for this type of treatment may take months or even years, and time off work may also be required. The earlier that you start planning, the earlier you will be able to commence treatment. We do try to stress this to all couples and make them fully aware of all implications, both positive and negative.
What to expect at your initial appointment
The doctor will need to establish a significant amount of background information about you and your partner’s overall health as well as your sex life. While this can understandably be a sensitive subject with some couples, you must tell the doctor the truth. Giving inaccurate information may delay diagnosis and end up costing you more time and money. Remember, all information that you disclose during your appointment will remain confidential. Common questions include:
- How long have you been trying to conceive?
This is a vital question and once again will be based on how long you have been having “frequent sexual intercourse”.
- How often do you and your partner engage in sexual intercourse?
Although setting “targets” for how frequently you should have sex can cause pressure in a relationship, the target for trying to conceive should be every two to three days, and your doctor will advise you about this.
- How long is it since you last used contraception?
It is a question that is particularly relevant with regards to the Pill, which affects the female’s hormone levels. Expecting to get pregnant a short time after ceasing medication is unrealistic. Where couples have stopped using condoms, it will have no impact.
- How long had been using contraception?
Once again, this relates primarily to the use of the Pill. The longer the female has been using hormone affecting contraception, the longer it will take her body to recover. Please try to be as specific as possible, perhaps even consulting your regular doctor for dates.
- General lifestyle questions
Several lifestyle factors can impact on fertility, including whether you smoke, consume alcohol, your BMI and your levels of stress. These are all relevant, and you should once again give truthful answers.
Contact Us
If you would like more information about having a fertility check in Bangkok, we would invite you to contact us and a member of our friendly team will be able to assist you.