Our Trustee, Professor Tim Child, spoke to us about whether there are any signs to suggest may have fertility issues.
What are the key signs to look for?
If you’re in a heterosexual relationship, if you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant for more than six months, it’s worth having a chat with your GP.
If you have irregular periods, this can be a sign that there may be problems with producing eggs (or ovulating). If you have very painful periods, that could also suggest possible fertility issues.
If you’ve had surgery around your reproductive area, or if you have any longstanding medical problems, this can have an impact too.
Remember most people with these issues won’t have a problem, but it may be worth talking to a doctor about starting tests earlier.
Should you have tests to check your fertility before you start trying to get pregnant?
Some clinics offer fertility MOT tests. If you’ve been trying to get pregnant, paying for these tests can speed things up. If you have an MOT test before you’ve started trying to get pregnant, it may find things that won’t cause problems. This may make you worry when you don’t need to.
The first tests should include a sperm test for a heterosexual couple. For women, you should have an ultrasound scan to look at the womb (uterus). This may be used to check the number of follicles in the ovaries too. They may also do a blood test to see if you are producing eggs, or ovulating.
What is a regular cycle?
What matters most with periods is that they are regular. The length of the cycle can vary. Anything from 25 – 35 days is normal and counts as a regular cycle. A regular cycle can still vary by a few days every month. Once periods are more than six weeks apart, they are irregular.
Is there anything you can do?
Lifestyle is important, and being very overweight or underweight may affect how you produce eggs. Eating healthily is important, so try to eat a variety of freshly-cooked food. Smoking is not good for male and female fertility. Be sensible with alcohol and caffeine. Women who are trying to get pregnant should take folic acid and Vitamin D. A multi-vitamin won’t do any harm. It is not clear whether other vitamins will help. Cycling and lots of saunas or very hot baths may not be good for sperm.
Tim’s key points
- Take a step back and look at your lifestyle
- Make easy changes like eating more healthily
- If you smoke, stop smoking and don’t vape
- Consider a multivitamin
- Getting informed about your fertility can help
- Remember 80% of people get pregnant in the first 12 months of trying.
You can find the full Q & A with Tim on our YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChnd8CKASBpAcJvwl3PqBQw