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Pregnancy & Parenting Categories
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Planning Your Pregnancy
-
Fertility
- Ovulation and Fertility Pregnancy Planning
- Ovulation and Transport of Egg
- Find Your Ovulation Day
- Infertility: Problems With Ovulation
- Ovulation
- Superovulation
- Interactive Tool: When are you most fertile?
- Infertility
- Infertility: Emotional and Social Support
- Pregnancy after Age 35
- Infertility: Ethical and Legal Concerns
- Infertility: Factors That Affect Treatment Success
- Infertility: Setting Limits on Testing
- Infertility: Problems With the Man's Reproductive System
- Infertility: Problems With Fallopian Tubes
- Infertility: Problems With the Uterus and Cervix
- Cancer Treatment and Infertility
- Fertility Problems: Should I Be Tested?
- Infertility Tests
- Fertility Drugs
- Infertility
- Fertility Problems: Should I Have a Tubal Procedure or In Vitro Fertilization?
- Insemination for Infertility
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection for Infertility
- Infertility Treatment for Women With PCOS
- In Vitro Fertilization for Infertility
- Infertility: Setting Limits on Treatment
- Infertility: Questions to Ask About Medicine or Hormone Treatment
- Infertility: Questions to Ask About Assisted Reproductive Technology
- Infertility: Should I Have Treatment?
- Insemination Procedures for Infertility
- Gamete and Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer for Infertility
- Varicocele Repair for Infertility
- Fallopian Tube Procedures for Infertility
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone
- Luteinizing Hormone
- Progesterone
- Sperm Penetration Tests
- Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting
- Your Health When Planning to Become Pregnant
- Ending a Pregnancy
- Adoption
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Fertility
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Pregnancy
- Healthcare Providers During Pregnancy
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Your Health During Pregnancy
- Dental Care During Pregnancy
- Immunizations and Pregnancy
- Quick Tips: Healthy Pregnancy Habits
- Massage Therapy during Pregnancy
- Sex During Pregnancy
- Leg Cramps During Pregnancy
- Medicines During Pregnancy
- Swelling During Pregnancy
- Electronic Fetal Heart Monitoring
- Getting Help for Perinatal Depression
- Depression: Should I Take Antidepressants While I'm Pregnant?
- Pregnancy: Dealing With Morning Sickness
- Back Pain During Pregnancy
- Bedrest for Preterm Labour
- Abnormal Pap Test While Pregnant
- Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy
- Acupressure for Morning Sickness
- Automated Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring
- Pregnancy After Weight-Loss (Bariatric) Surgery
- Braxton Hicks Contractions
- Caffeine During Pregnancy
- Exercise During Pregnancy
- Fatigue During Pregnancy
- Fever During Pregnancy
- Pregnancy: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Pregnancy: Changes in Bowel Habits
- Pregnancy: Healthy Weight Gain
- Pregnancy: Hemorrhoids and Constipation
- Pregnancy: Hot Tub and Sauna Use
- Pregnancy: Pelvic and Hip Pain
- Pregnancy: Ways to Find Your Due Date
- Estrogens
- External Cephalic Version (Version) for Breech Position
- Symptoms of Pregnancy
- Sexually Transmitted Infections During Pregnancy
- Pre-Eclampsia: Checkups and Monitoring
- Pre-Eclampsia: Expectant Management
- Gestational Diabetes
- Insulin Injection Areas for Gestational Diabetes
- Gestational Diabetes: Checking Your Blood Sugar
- Gestational Diabetes: Counting Carbs
- Gestational Diabetes: Dealing With Low Blood Sugar
- Gestational Diabetes: Giving Yourself Insulin Shots
- Ginger for Morning Sickness
- Heartburn During Pregnancy
- Nausea or Vomiting During Pregnancy
- Urinary Problems During Pregnancy
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Body Changes During Pregnancy
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy: Varicose Veins
- Pregnancy: Hand Changes
- Sleep Problems During Pregnancy
- Managing Emotional Changes During Pregnancy
- Breast Changes During Pregnancy
- Pregnancy: Hair Changes
- Pregnancy: Belly, Pelvic and Back Pain
- Pregnancy: Stretch Marks, Itching, and Skin Changes
- Pregnancy: Changes in Feet and Ankles
- Pregnancy: Vaginal Discharge and Leaking Fluid
- Interactive Tool: From Embryo to Baby in 9 Months
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Your First Trimester
- Check-ups and Tests In the First Trimester
- Embryo and Fetal Development In the First Trimester
- Mothers' Physical Changes in the First Trimester
- Normal Pregnancy: First Trimester
- Week 8 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 8 weeks of pregnancy
- Week 12 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 12 weeks of pregnancy
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Your Second Trimester
- Mothers' Physical Changes During the Second Trimester
- Check-ups and Tests in the Second Trimester
- Normal Pregnancy: Second Trimester
- Week 16 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside /
- Fetal development at 16 weeks of pregnancy
- Week 20 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 20 weeks of pregnancy
- Week 24 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside /
- Fetal development at 24 weeks of pregnancy
- Pregnancy: Kick Counts
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Your Third Trimester
- Check-ups and Tests in the Third Trimester
- Fetal Development in the Third Trimester
- Mothers' Physical Changes in the Third Trimester
- Prenatal Classes in the Third Trimester
- Writing Your Birth Plan or Wishes
- Normal Pregnancy: Third Trimester
- Week 28 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 28 weeks of pregnancy
- Week 32 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 32 weeks of pregnancy
- Week 36 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 36 weeks of pregnancy
- Week 40 of Pregnancy: What's Going On Inside
- Fetal development at 40 weeks of pregnancy
- Pregnancy: Dropping (Lightening)
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Risks and Complications During Pregnancy
- High-risk Pregnancy
- Rh Sensitization during Pregnancy
- Post-Term Pregnancy
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
- Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion for Rh Disease
- Miscarriage
- Abruptio Placenta
- Anemia During Pregnancy
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Pregnancy /
- Asthma During Pregnancy
- Bedrest in Pregnancy
- Eclampsia (Seizures) and Pre-Eclampsia
- Ectopic Pregnancy
- Endometriosis
- Functional Ovarian Cysts /
- High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
- Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling for PCOS
- Low Amniotic Fluid
- Low-Lying Placenta Versus Placenta Previa
- Miscarriage: Should I Have Treatment to Complete a Miscarriage?
- Molar Pregnancy
- Passing Tissue During Pregnancy
- Placenta Previa
- Polyhydramnios
- Pre-Eclampsia
- Special Health Concerns During Pregnancy
- Subchorionic Hemorrhage
- Toxoplasmosis During Pregnancy
- Vaginal Bleeding During Pregnancy
- Healthy Eating and Physical Activity
- Emotional Health and Support During Pregnancy
- Alcohol and Other Drug Use During Pregnancy
- Interactive Tool: What Is Your Due Date?
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Labour and Birth
- Labour and Delivery
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Planning Your Delivery
- Childbirth Classes
- Childbirth: Labouring in Water and Water Delivery /
- Childbirth: Perineal Massage Before Labour
- Choosing Where to Give Birth Hospital or Home
- Doulas and Support During Childbirth
- Making a Birth Plan
- Packing for Birth at a Hospital
- Pregnancy: Deciding Where to Deliver
- Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC)
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Stages of Labour
- Cervical Cerclage to Prevent Preterm Delivery
- First Stage of Labour - Early Phase
- First Stage of Labour Active Phase
- First Stage of Labour Transition Phase
- Information on Fourth Stage of Labour
- Information on Second Stage of Labour
- Information on Third Stage of Labour
- Preterm Labour and Short Cervix
- Preterm Labour
- Preterm Labour: Testing for Fetal Fibronectin
- Preterm Prelabour Rupture of Membranes (pPROM)
- Telling Pre-Labour and True Labour Part
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During Labour
- Breathing Techniques for Childbirth
- Caesarean Section
- Cervical Effacement and Dilatation
- Cervical Insufficiency
- Childbirth: Epidurals
- Childbirth: Opioid Pain Medicines
- Childbirth: Pudendal and Paracervical Blocks
- Childbirth: Strep Infections During Delivery
- Comfort Positions Labour and Birth
- Epidural Anesthesia
- Epidural and Spinal Anesthesia
- Episiotomy and Perineal Tears
- Epistiotomy Vacuum and Forceps During Labour and Birth
- Fetal Monitoring During Labour HY
- Labour Induction and Augmentation
- Local Anesthesia for Childbirth
- Pain Relief Options Labour and Birth
- Postpartum Bleeding
- Postpartum: First 6 Weeks After Childbirth
- Postural Management for Breech Position
- Practicing Breathing Techniques for Labour
- Spinal Block for Childbirth
- Stillbirth
- VBAC: Labour Induction
- VBAC: Participation During Birth
- VBAC: Uterine Scar Rupture
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After Labour and Care for New Moms
- After Childbirth: Coping and Adjusting
- After Childbirth: Pelvic Bone Problems
- After Childbirth: Urination and Bowel Problems
- Childbirth Afterpains
- Help with Urination After Giving Birth
- Managing Bowel Movements After Pregnancy
- Mom and Baby Staying Together
- New Moms and Abuse
- Postpartum Depression
- Problems After Delivery of Your Baby
- Vaginal Care After Giving Birth
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Parenting Babies (0-12 months)
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Baby Care
- Birthmarks
- Biting
- Caring for More Than One Baby
- Caring for a Baby's Nails
- Circumcision
- Circumcision: Should I Keep My Son's Penis Natural?
- Cleaning Your Young Child's Natural (Uncircumcised) Penis
- Cleft Lip
- Cleft Palate
- Club Foot
- Common Types of Birthmarks
- Diaper Rash
- Infant Massage
- Oral Care For Your Baby
- Positional Plagiocephaly
- Quick Tips: Getting Baby to Sleep
- Screening for Hearing Problems
- Separation Protests: Helping Your Child
- Thumb-Sucking Versus Pacifier Use
- Using Soothers and Stopping When it is Time
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Breastfeeding
- A Video on Breastfeeding Positions
- A Video on Breastfeeding and Skin-to-Skin Contact
- A Video on Hand Expressing Breastmilk
- Breast Engorgement
- Breast Surgery and Breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding After Breast Surgery
- Breastfeeding After a C-Section
- Breastfeeding During Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding Multiple Infants
- Breastfeeding Positions
- Breastfeeding With Inverted Nipples
- Breastfeeding Your Newborn and an Older Child
- Breastfeeding a Sick Baby
- Breastfeeding and Your Milk Supply
- Breastfeeding at Work
- Breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding: Baby's Poor Weight Gain
- Breastfeeding: Planning Ahead
- Breastfeeding: Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs
- Breastfeeding: Waking Your Baby
- Breastfeeding: When Baby Doesn't Want to Stop
- Common Breastfeeding Concerns
- Common Breastfeeding Positions
- Coping With Thrush When You’re Breastfeeding
- Experiencing Let-Down Reflex
- FAQs About Breastfeeding
- Get Started on Expressing Breastmilk
- Getting Comfortable Breastfeeding in Public
- Hospital Policies and Breastfeeding
- Latching Your Baby - Video
- Learning Basics of Breastfeeding
- Learning to Latch
- Mastitis While Breastfeeding
- Medications and Herbal Products for Breastfeeding Moms
- Medicine Use While Breastfeeding
- Milk Oversupply
- Nipple Shields for Breastfeeding Problems
- Oxytocin
- Plugged Milk Ducts When You're Breastfeeding
- Poor Let-Down While Breastfeeding
- Preventing Mastitis
- Pumping Breast Milk
- Quick Tips: Successful Breastfeeding
- Signs That Your Baby Is Getting Enough Breast Milk
- Sleep, Rest, and Breastfeeding
- Storing Breast Milk
- Storing and Using Breastmilk
- Under or Over Production of Milk During Breastfeeding
- Vitamin D Supplements for Breastfeeding Babies
- What you need to Know About Supplementing Baby Formula
- Your Milk Supply
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Feeding Your Baby
- Alternative Feeding Methods for Newborns
- Baby Feeding Cues - Video
- Bottle-Feeding: When Baby Doesn't Want to Stop
- Burping a Baby
- Choosing Baby Bottles and Nipples
- Cleft Palate: Feeding Your Baby
- Combining Breastfeeding and Formula-Feeding
- Cup-Feeding Baby With Breast Milk or Formula
- Feeding Schedule for Babies
- Feeding Your Child Using Division of Responsibility
- Feeding Your Infant
- Feeding Your Premature Infant
- Getting Started and Feeding Cues
- How Often and How Long to Feed
- Introducing Solid Foods to Your Baby
- Learn More Before You Supplement Formula
- Safe Drinking Water - Your Baby's First Year
- Safe Water for Mixing Infant Formula
- Signs of a Good Feed
- Spitting Up
- Weaning
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Baby Health
- Abdominal Gas and Colic
- Basic Dental Care From Birth to 16 Years
- Bowel Movements in Babies
- Cataracts in Children
- Chronic Lung Disease in Infants
- Colic Diary
- Colic
- Colic: Harmful Treatments
- Comforting a Child Who Has a Respiratory Illness
- Common Health Concerns for Babies First Year
- Cough Symptoms in Children
- Cradle Cap
- Croup
- Croup: Managing a Croup Attack
- Crying Child That Is Not Acting Normally
- Dehydration: Drinking Enough Fluids
- Dental Care From Birth to 6 Months
- Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
- Developmental Problems: Testing
- Failure to Thrive
- Gastroesophageal Reflux in Babies and Children
- Health and Safety, Birth to 2 Years
- Healthy Hearing and Vision For Babies
- Immunization, Your Baby's First Year
- Orchiopexy for Undescended Testicle
- Reducing Biting in Children Ages 8 to 14 Months
- Reducing Biting in Teething Babies
- Teething Products
- Teething: Common Concerns
- Treating Asthma in Babies and Younger Children
- Tongue-tie and tethered oral tissues
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Baby Growth and Development
- Babies' social and emotional development
- Children's Growth Chart
- Cognitive Development 9-12 mos
- Cognitive Development First 6-9 Mos
- Emotional and Social Growth in Newborns
- Growth and Development Milestones
- Growth and Development, Newborn
- Importance of Tummy Time for Babies' Development
- Speech and Language Milestones, Birth to 1 Year
- Stimulate Your Baby's Learning
- Tooth Development in Children
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Baby Safety
- Baby's Sleep Position and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
- Baby Proofing Your Home First Year
- Choking Rescue for Babies
- Safer Sleep for My Baby
- Crib Safety
- Safe Chairs for Baby's First Year
- Safety at Home for Baby's First Year
- Shaken Baby Syndrome
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Sun Safety Babies for their First Year
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Baby Care
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Parenting Toddlers (12-36 months)
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Caring for Your Toddler
- Acetaminophen Use in Young Children
- Breath-Holding Spells
- Breath-Holding Spells: Keeping a Record
- Brushing and Flossing a Child's Teeth
- Care for Toddlers' Colds and Coughs
- Crying, Age 3 and Younger
- Dental Care and Teething in Toddlers
- Egocentric and Magical Thinking
- Hearing Health for Toddlers
- Ibuprofen Use in Young Children
- Managing Your Toddler's Frustrating Behaviours
- Positive Parenting
- Preparing Your Toddler for Health Care Visits
- Preventing Breath-Holding Spells in Children
- Promoting Positive Behaviour in Your Toddler
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Toddler Growth and Development
- Cognitive Development, Ages 12 to 24 Months
- Emotional and Social Development, Ages 1 to 12 Months
- Emotional and Social Development, Ages 12 to 24 Months
- Growth and Development, Ages 1 to 12 Months
- Growth and Development, Ages 12 to 24 Months
- Growth and Development, Ages 2 to 5 Years
- Language Development 12-18 Months
- Language Development 18-24 Months
- Language Development 24-30 Months
- Milestones for 2-Year-Olds
- Milestones for 3-Year-Olds
- Physical Development, Ages 1 to 12 Months
- Physical Development, Ages 12 to 24 Months
- Sensory and Motor Development, Ages 1 to 12 Months
- Sensory and Motor Development, Ages 12 to 24 Months
- Speech and Language Development: Helping Your 1- to 2-Year-Old
- Speech and Language Milestones, Ages 1 to 3 Years
- Toddler Play Activities
- Toddlers Language Development 30-36 Months
- Toddlers Physical Development 18-24 Months
- Toddlers Physical Development 24-30 Months
- Toddlers Physical Development 30-36 Months
- Toddlers Social and Emotional Development 12-18 Months
- Toddlers Social and Emotional Development 18-24 months
- Toddlers Social and Emotional Development 30-36 Months
- Toddlers social and Emotional Development 24-30 months
- Toilet Training
- Toilet Training: Knowing When Your Child Is Ready
- Understanding your Toddlers Development
- Toddler Sleep
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Caring for Your Toddler
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Parenting Preschoolers (3-5 years)
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Caring for Your Preschooler
- Daytime Accidental Wetting
- Dental Care: 3 Years to 6 Years
- Health and Safety, Ages 2 to 5 Years
- Preschoolers: Building Self-Control
- Preschoolers: Building Social Skills
- Preschoolers: Building a Sense of Security
- Preschoolers: Encouraging Independence
- Preschoolers: Helping Your Child Explore
- Preventing Tooth Decay in Young Children
- Temper Tantrums
- Temper Tantrums: Keeping a Record
- Thumb-Sucking: Helping Your Child Stop
- Your Child and the Dentist
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Preschooler Growth and Development
- Emotional Development, Ages 2 to 5 Years
- Encouraging Language Development in Your Preschooler
- How Reading Helps Language Development
- How to Teach Your Child by Example
- Milestones for 4-Year-Olds
- Milestones for 5-Year-Olds
- Speech Problems: Normal Disfluency
- Speech and Language Delays: Common Misconceptions 49
- Speech and Language Development
- Speech and Language Development: Red Flags
- Speech and Language Milestones, Ages 3 to 5 Years
- Stuttering
- Thumb-Sucking
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Caring for Your Preschooler
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Parenting School-Age Children (6-11 years)
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Caring for Your School-Age Child
- Bedwetting
- Building Kids Resilience
- Childhood Fears and Exposure to Violence
- Conversations that Teach Children Resilience
- Establishing Limits With Your School-Age Child
- Help Your School-Age Child Develop Social Skills
- Helping Your School-Age Child Learn About the Body
- Quick Tips: Using Backpacks Safely
- Sample School Plan
- Self-Esteem, Ages 6 to 10
- Back to School
- School-Age Children Growth and Development 6-11
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Caring for Your School-Age Child
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Parenting Teens (12-18 years)
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Teen Growth and Development
- Adolescent Sensory and Motor Development
- Cognitive Development, Ages 15 to 18 Years
- Emotional and Social Development, Ages 11 to 14 Years
- Emotional and Social Development, Ages 15 to 18 Years
- Growth and Development, Ages 11 to 14 Years
- Growth and Development, Ages 15 to 18 Years
- Menarche
- Menstruation: Not Having a Period by Age 15
- Milestones for Ages 11 to 14
- Milestones for Ages 15 to 18
- Physical Development, Ages 11 to 14 Years /
- Physical Development, Ages 15 to 18 Years
- Puberty Issues
- Teenage Sleep Patterns
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Caring for Your Teen
- Conversations that Teach Resilience
- Help Your Working Teen Balance Responsibilities and Set Priorities
- Helping Adolescents Develop More Mature Ways of Thinking
- Helping Your Child Transition Into Middle School or Junior High
- Helping Your Teen Become a Safe Driver
- How to Get Back on Track After Conflict with Teenagers
- How to Start a Conversation with Teens About Alcohol
- Medical Checkups for Adolescents
- Talking to Your Adolescent or Teen About Problems
- Teen Relationship Abuse
- Teen Substance Use: Making a Contract With Your Teen
- Teenage Substance Use: Choosing a Treatment Program
- Teenage Tobacco Use
- Teens With Diabetes: Issues for Parents
- Tips for Parents of Teens
- Your Teen's Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
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Teen Growth and Development
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Keeping Your Child Safe
- Child Safety: Preventing Burns
- Child Safety: Preventing Drowning
- Child Safety: Preventing Child Abduction
- Child Safety: Fires
- Protecting Your Child From Infections
- Child Safety: Pets
- Child Safety: Preventing Falls
- Child Safety: Streets and Motor Vehicles
- Child Safety: Washing Toys to Prevent Germs
- Preventing Choking in Small Children
- Preventing Children's Injuries From Sports and Other Activities
- Quick Tips: Helping Your Child Stay Safe and Healthy
- Child Safety: Air Pollution
- Child Safety: Bathing
- Child Safety: Bicycles and Tricycles
- Child Safety: Drowning Prevention in Pools and Hot Tubs
- Child Safety: Guns and Firearms
- Child Safety: Strollers and Shopping Carts
- Head Injuries in Children: Problems to Watch For
- Head Injury, Age 3 and Younger
- Object Stuck in a Child's Airway
- Playground Safety
- Preventing Choking
- Quick Tips: Safely Giving Over-the-Counter Medicines to Children
- Preventing Poisoning in Young Children
- Staying Healthy Around Animals
- Thinking About Child Safety
- Rule of Nines for Babies and Young Children
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Relationships and Emotional Health
- Helping Your Child Build Inner Strength
- Helping Your Child Build a Healthy Body Image
- Symptoms of Depression in Children
- Active Listening
- Aggression in Youth
- Appreciating Your Child's Personality
- Family Life Cycle
- Family Meetings
- Recognizing and Developing Your Children's Special Talents
- Sibling Rivalry: Reducing Conflict and Jealousy
- Violent Behaviour in Children and Teens
- Growth and Development: Helping Your Child Build Self-Esteem
- Effective Parenting: Discipline
- Corporal Punishment
- Talking With Your Child About Sex
- Helping Kids Handle Peer Pressure
- Substance Use Problems: How to Help Your Teen
- Helping Your Child Avoid Tobacco, Drugs, and Alcohol
- Stress in Children and Teenagers
- Stress Management: Helping Your Child With Stress
- Family Therapy for Depression in Children
- Comparing Symptoms of Normal Moodiness With Depression in Children
- Conditions With Symptoms Similar to Depression in Children and Teens
- Warning Signs of Suicide in Children and Teens
- Taking Care of Yourself When You Have a Child With Physical, Emotional, or Behavioural Problems
- Taking Care of Yourself When Your Child Is Sick
- Grief: Helping Children With Grief
- Grief: Helping Children Understand
- Grief: Helping Teens With Grief
- ADHD: Taking Care of Yourself When Your Child Has ADHD
- Baby's Best Chance
- Toddler's First Steps
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Birth Control
- Birth Control Hormones: The Pill
- Birth Control Hormones: The Shot
- Birth Control Hormones: The Mini-Pill
- Birth Control Hormones: The Patch
- Birth Control Hormones: The Ring
- Breastfeeding as Birth Control
- Birth Control: How to Use a Diaphragm
- Birth Control
- Birth Control: Myths About Sex and Pregnancy
- What to Do About Missed or Skipped Birth Control Pills
- Birth Control Pills: Missed or Skipped Periods
- How Birth Control Methods Prevent Pregnancy
- How to Take Birth Control Pills
- Birth Control: How to Use the Patch
- Birth Control: How to Use the Ring
- Hormonal Birth Control: Risk of Blood Clots
- Effectiveness Rate of Birth Control Methods
- Birth Control
- Diaphragm for Birth Control
- Spermicide for Birth Control
- Contraceptive Sponge for Birth Control
- Cervical Cap for Birth Control
- Birth Control: Pros and Cons of Hormonal Methods
- Intrauterine Device (IUD) for Birth Control
- Hormonal Methods of Birth Control
- Barrier Methods of Birth Control
- Tubal Implants for Permanent Birth Control
- Birth Control Patch
- How Pregnancy (Conception) Occurs
- Getting Pregnant After Stopping Birth Control
- Male Condoms
- Emergency Contraception
You may want to have a say in this decision, or you may simply want to follow your doctor's recommendation. Either way, this information will help you understand what your choices are so that you can talk to your doctor about them.
Fertility Problems: Should I Be Tested?
Here's a record of your answers. You can use it to talk with your doctor or loved ones about your decision.
1Get the | 2Compare | 3Your | 4Your | 5Quiz | 6Your Summary |
Get the facts
Your options
- Have tests to try to find out the cause of infertility.
- Don't have tests. To make family planning decisions, use the information you already have.
Key points to remember
- If you are younger than 35 and are trying to get pregnant (conceive), most doctors suggest trying well-timed sex for at least 1 year before thinking about testing. The best time to conceive is just before ovulation. Some people find that they have been missing their most fertile days when trying to conceive.
- If you are a woman 35 or older and have tried well-timed sex for 6 months, you might want to think about infertility testing before age-related problems make it too hard to conceive.
- Infertility tests may find what is causing the problem. Sometimes you can be treated at the same time.
- Testing and treatment can be stressful, costly, and sometimes painful. You may need only a few tests, or you may need many tests over months and years.
- If you decide to have infertility testing, talk with your doctor about how much testing you are willing to do and for how long. You may only want to have tests for problems you are willing to treat or that will help you move on to other options, such as adoption.
- Tests can't always find the cause of infertility. And not all infertility problems can be treated.
FAQs
What is infertility?
You may be infertile if you have not been able to get pregnant after trying for at least 1 year (or 6 months if you're over 35).
A woman's fertility slowly drops from her mid-30s into her 40s because of the natural aging of the egg supply. A man's fertility is not affected as much by age.
Defining infertility is a personal issue. It can depend on your age and how much time you choose to spend trying to get pregnant without medical help.
What kinds of problems lead to infertility?
Most cases of infertility are caused by a problem with the reproductive system. This can include:
- Problems with the eggs or releasing an egg (ovulating).
- Problems with the uterus or the fallopian tubes. This may be caused by things like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Problems with the sperm. These problems may include how sperm is made, how it functions, or how it moves.
- An unknown issue. Sometimes the cause of infertility is not known.
It can be stressful to find out the reason for infertility. Knowing where the problem is may create feelings of guilt and blame and may put strain on your relationship. Not being able to find any cause can also create stress. You may want to talk with a counsellor or join an infertility support group before you make your decision. Talking with other people can help you feel less alone.
What types of tests are done?
Tests for infertility can range from a simple blood test to surgery.
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Basic tests can show if there are problems with eggs or sperm. Depending on the results, the test may be repeated, or you will be treated with medicines and hormones. These tests may include:
- Basal body temperature tests.
- Blood tests.
- Semen analysis.
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Advanced tests check the reproductive organs. These tests look for diseases or fertility problems that might be treated. These tests may include:
- Hysterosalpingogram. This checks the fallopian tubes and can clear them if a blockage is found. The test may be done with or without ultrasound.
- Laparoscopy. This test looks at reproductive organs and checks for problems such as endometriosis.
- Hysteroscopy. This test looks for growths or defects in the uterus that can't be seen with other tests.
- Sperm antibody test. This test shows whether sperm have been damaged by antibodies.
How can you use the test results?
Based on your test results, your doctor can help you decide about your next testing or treatment option. Take some time to think about what you have learned from each test and what you want to do next.
For example, if your first test results are normal and no clear reason is found for your fertility problem, you may:
- Keep trying to conceive on your own, having sex just before ovulation to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
- Have advanced tests to find out a cause for your fertility problem. These tests will check your fallopian tubes to be sure that eggs can enter the tubes, be fertilized, and start to grow in the uterus. The tests may involve cutting or poking, and they have risks, such as cramping or infection.
Tests can't always find the cause of infertility. And not all infertility problems can be treated.
Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor may suggest treatment, such as:
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Insemination, with or without ovulation medicine.
- A fallopian tube procedure or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive a pregnancy.
- Laparoscopy, to look for problems with your fallopian tubes or ovaries.
Before you decide about testing, think about:
- How important is it for you to know why you haven't become pregnant?
- How will test results affect your family planning?
- How will you deal with the stress of testing?
- How much will it cost? Talk with your doctor and your health insurer about costs.
What else do you need to know about testing?
Testing and treatment can be costly, stressful, and sometimes painful. Before starting, talk about how much testing you are willing to do and for how long.
You may decide to have the basic tests only and to stop when you have enough information. Or instead of advanced testing and treatment, you may decide to keep trying to get pregnant on your own or to adopt a child. Your decision will be based on your health, age, goals, and values.
Why might your doctor recommend infertility testing?
Your doctor might advise you to have infertility testing if:
- You are younger than 35, have regular menstrual periods, and have had sex during your fertile window (the 6 days each month that you can become pregnant) for at least 1 year.
- You are 35 or older, or you have irregular periods and have had sex during your fertile window for at least 6 months.
- You are at high risk for fertility problems and have had sex during your fertile window for a few months.
- You have had several miscarriages.
- It would be easier for you to make family planning decisions with test results.
What is infertility?
You may be infertile if you have not been able to get pregnant after trying for at least 1 year (or 6 months if you're over 35).
A woman's fertility slowly drops from her mid-30s into her 40s because of the natural aging of the egg supply. A man's fertility is not affected as much by age.
Defining infertility is a personal issue. It can depend on your age and how much time you choose to spend trying to get pregnant without medical help.
What kinds of problems lead to infertility?
Most cases of infertility are caused by a problem with the reproductive system. This can include:
- Problems with the eggs or releasing an egg (ovulating).
- Problems with the uterus or the fallopian tubes. This may be caused by things like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Problems with the sperm. These problems may include how sperm is made, how it functions, or how it moves.
- An unknown issue. Sometimes the cause of infertility is not known.
It can be stressful to find out the reason for infertility. Knowing where the problem is may create feelings of guilt and blame and may put strain on your relationship. Not being able to find any cause can also create stress. You may want to talk with a counsellor or join an infertility support group before you make your decision. Talking with other people can help you feel less alone.
What types of tests are done?
Tests for infertility can range from a simple blood test to surgery.
-
Basic tests can show if there are problems with eggs or sperm. Depending on the results, the test may be repeated, or you will be treated with medicines and hormones. These tests may include:
- Basal body temperature tests.
- Blood tests.
- Semen analysis.
-
Advanced tests check the reproductive organs. These tests look for diseases or fertility problems that might be treated. These tests may include:
- Hysterosalpingogram. This checks the fallopian tubes and can clear them if a blockage is found. The test may be done with or without ultrasound.
- Laparoscopy. This test looks at reproductive organs and checks for problems such as endometriosis.
- Hysteroscopy. This test looks for growths or defects in the uterus that can't be seen with other tests.
- Sperm antibody test. This test shows whether sperm have been damaged by antibodies.
How can you use the test results?
Based on your test results, your doctor can help you decide about your next testing or treatment option. Take some time to think about what you have learned from each test and what you want to do next.
For example, if your first test results are normal and no clear reason is found for your fertility problem, you may:
- Keep trying to conceive on your own, having sex just before ovulation to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
- Have advanced tests to find out a cause for your fertility problem. These tests will check your fallopian tubes to be sure that eggs can enter the tubes, be fertilized, and start to grow in the uterus. The tests may involve cutting or poking, and they have risks, such as cramping or infection.
Tests can't always find the cause of infertility. And not all infertility problems can be treated.
Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor may suggest treatment, such as:
- Insemination, with or without ovulation medicine.
- A fallopian tube procedure or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive a pregnancy.
- Laparoscopy, to look for problems with your fallopian tubes or ovaries.
Before you decide about testing, think about:
- How important is it for you to know why you haven't become pregnant?
- How will test results affect your family planning?
- How will you deal with the stress of testing?
- How much will it cost? Talk with your doctor and your health insurer about costs.
What else do you need to know about testing?
Testing and treatment can be costly, stressful, and sometimes painful. Before starting, talk about how much testing you are willing to do and for how long.
You may decide to have the basic tests only and to stop when you have enough information. Or instead of advanced testing and treatment, you may decide to keep trying to get pregnant on your own or to adopt a child. Your decision will be based on your health, age, goals, and values.
Why might your doctor recommend infertility testing?
Your doctor might advise you to have infertility testing if:
- You are younger than 35, have regular menstrual periods, and have had sex during your fertile window (the 6 days each month that you can become pregnant) for at least 1 year.
- You are 35 or older, or you have irregular periods and have had sex during your fertile window for at least 6 months.
- You are at high risk for fertility problems and have had sex during your fertile window for a few months.
- You have had several miscarriages.
- It would be easier for you to make family planning decisions with test results.
Compare your options
Have infertility testing | Don't have infertility testing | |
---|---|---|
What is usually involved? |
|
|
What are the benefits? |
|
|
What are the risks and side effects? |
|
|
Compare
What is usually involved? |
| |
---|---|---|
What are the benefits? |
| |
What are the risks and side effects? |
|
- You have one or more infertility tests to find out why you are having problems getting pregnant.
- You keep track of how often you have sex, and you talk about this with your doctor.
- You decide how much testing to do, and you stop when you have enough information. Based on the test results, you may decide to get fertility treatment.
- You may be able to find out why you are having problems getting pregnant.
- Some tests can find the problem and treat it at the same time.
- You may need many tests over many months or years. Tests can't always find the cause of infertility. And not all infertility problems can be treated.
- Testing is stressful and can be costly.
- Basic tests, such as semen analysis and blood tests, have no risks or side effects, and they don't cause pain.
- Advanced tests or surgery may require a cut in the skin and can be painful. They have a higher chance of problems after the test, such as cramping or infection.
- You keep trying to conceive on your own, having sex just before ovulation to increase your chances of getting pregnant. Some people find that they have been missing their most fertile days when trying to conceive.
- You consider other options for parenting, such as adoption or raising a foster child.
- You avoid the cost, stress, and risks of infertility testing.
- You may have an infertility problem that can be treated, but you may not know it.
Personal stories about infertility testing
These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.
I didn't have any trouble getting pregnant with my first child. But my second husband and I have been trying to have a baby for about a year now, and I still haven't gotten pregnant. Since he doesn't have any children of his own, we can't be sure which one of us may have a problem. We have been having sex at the right times. We agree that it's time to find out whether there may be a problem.
Rosa, age 32
We've been trying to conceive for 10 months now. But since we are both still young, we aren't too worried yet. My spouse is going to try tracking each menstrual cycle to see if that helps before we take the next step. If that doesn't help, I'll consider having my sperm checked.
James, age 27, and Sabra, age 26
I've been trying now for about 5 or 6 months and still haven't gotten pregnant. But I'm not sure that I've been having sex at the right time of the month, so I got some information about how to calculate the fertile time. I'm going to see if working on the timing for a few months helps.
Lynn, age 33
I'm 35 and my partner is 38. We have been trying for 6 months, and it doesn't seem to be happening. We decided to see a doctor to talk about the next step.
Carol, age 35, and Dave, age 38
What matters most to you?
Your personal feelings are just as important as the medical facts. Think about what matters most to you in this decision, and show how you feel about the following statements.
Each pair of questions uses a 3 point scale where 3 is more important, 1 is less important and 0 is equally important. Use the right and left arrow keys to navigate the scale.Reasons to have infertility testing
Reasons not to have infertility testing
Having a biological child is very important to me.
Having a biological child is not that important to me.
I'm not worried about the cost of infertility testing.
I'm worried about the cost of testing.
I think I can handle the stress of testing.
I'm not sure that I can handle the stress of testing.
I accept that testing may not be able to find a problem or treat it if one is found.
I don't want to have a lot of tests that may not find my problem or treat it.
I know that having these tests means talking with doctors about our sex life.
I'm not comfortable talking about our sex life.
My other important reasons:
My other important reasons:
Where are you leaning now?
Now that you've thought about the facts and your feelings, you may have a general idea of where you stand on this decision. Show which way you are leaning right now.
Use the following 3 point scale where 3 is leaning toward, 1 is may be leaning toward, and 0 is undecided. Use the right and left arrow keys to navigate the scale.Having infertility testing
NOT having infertility testing
What else do you need to make your decision?
1. How sure do you feel right now about your decision?Use a 7 point scale where 1 is not sure at all, 4 is somewhat sure, and 7 is very sure. Use the right and left arrow keys to navigate the scale.
3. Use the following space to list questions, concerns, and next steps.
Your Summary
Here's a record of your answers. You can use it to talk with your doctor or loved ones about your decision.
Your decision
Next steps
Which way you're leaning
How sure you are
Your comments
Your knowledge of the facts
Key concepts that you understood
Key concepts that may need review
Getting ready to act
Patient choices
Credits
Credits
Author | Healthwise Staff |
---|---|
Primary Medical Reviewer | Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
Fertility Problems: Should I Be Tested?
- Get the facts
- Compare your options
- What matters most to you?
- Where are you leaning now?
- What else do you need to make your decision?
1. Get the Facts
Your options
- Have tests to try to find out the cause of infertility.
- Don't have tests. To make family planning decisions, use the information you already have.
Key points to remember
- If you are younger than 35 and are trying to get pregnant (conceive), most doctors suggest trying well-timed sex for at least 1 year before thinking about testing. The best time to conceive is just before ovulation. Some people find that they have been missing their most fertile days when trying to conceive.
- If you are a woman 35 or older and have tried well-timed sex for 6 months, you might want to think about infertility testing before age-related problems make it too hard to conceive.
- Infertility tests may find what is causing the problem. Sometimes you can be treated at the same time.
- Testing and treatment can be stressful, costly, and sometimes painful. You may need only a few tests, or you may need many tests over months and years.
- If you decide to have infertility testing, talk with your doctor about how much testing you are willing to do and for how long. You may only want to have tests for problems you are willing to treat or that will help you move on to other options, such as adoption.
- Tests can't always find the cause of infertility. And not all infertility problems can be treated.
What is infertility?
You may be infertile if you have not been able to get pregnant after trying for at least 1 year (or 6 months if you're over 35).
A woman's fertility slowly drops from her mid-30s into her 40s because of the natural aging of the egg supply. A man's fertility is not affected as much by age.
Defining infertility is a personal issue. It can depend on your age and how much time you choose to spend trying to get pregnant without medical help.
What kinds of problems lead to infertility?
Most cases of infertility are caused by a problem with the reproductive system. This can include:
- Problems with the eggs or releasing an egg (ovulating).
- Problems with the uterus or the fallopian tubes. This may be caused by things like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Problems with the sperm. These problems may include how sperm is made, how it functions, or how it moves.
- An unknown issue. Sometimes the cause of infertility is not known.
It can be stressful to find out the reason for infertility. Knowing where the problem is may create feelings of guilt and blame and may put strain on your relationship. Not being able to find any cause can also create stress. You may want to talk with a counsellor or join an infertility support group before you make your decision. Talking with other people can help you feel less alone.
What types of tests are done?
Tests for infertility can range from a simple blood test to surgery.
-
Basic tests can show if there are problems with eggs or sperm. Depending on the results, the test may be repeated, or you will be treated with medicines and hormones. These tests may include:
- Basal body temperature tests.
- Blood tests.
- Semen analysis.
-
Advanced tests check the reproductive organs. These tests look for diseases or fertility problems that might be treated. These tests may include:
- Hysterosalpingogram. This checks the fallopian tubes and can clear them if a blockage is found. The test may be done with or without ultrasound.
- Laparoscopy. This test looks at reproductive organs and checks for problems such as endometriosis.
- Hysteroscopy. This test looks for growths or defects in the uterus that can't be seen with other tests.
- Sperm antibody test. This test shows whether sperm have been damaged by antibodies.
How can you use the test results?
Based on your test results, your doctor can help you decide about your next testing or treatment option. Take some time to think about what you have learned from each test and what you want to do next.
For example, if your first test results are normal and no clear reason is found for your fertility problem, you may:
- Keep trying to conceive on your own, having sex just before ovulation to increase your chances of getting pregnant.
- Have advanced tests to find out a cause for your fertility problem. These tests will check your fallopian tubes to be sure that eggs can enter the tubes, be fertilized, and start to grow in the uterus. The tests may involve cutting or poking, and they have risks, such as cramping or infection.
Tests can't always find the cause of infertility. And not all infertility problems can be treated.
Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor may suggest treatment, such as:
- Insemination, with or without ovulation medicine.
- A fallopian tube procedure or in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive a pregnancy.
- Laparoscopy, to look for problems with your fallopian tubes or ovaries.
Before you decide about testing, think about:
- How important is it for you to know why you haven't become pregnant?
- How will test results affect your family planning?
- How will you deal with the stress of testing?
- How much will it cost? Talk with your doctor and your health insurer about costs.
What else do you need to know about testing?
Testing and treatment can be costly, stressful, and sometimes painful. Before starting, talk about how much testing you are willing to do and for how long.
You may decide to have the basic tests only and to stop when you have enough information. Or instead of advanced testing and treatment, you may decide to keep trying to get pregnant on your own or to adopt a child. Your decision will be based on your health, age, goals, and values.
Why might your doctor recommend infertility testing?
Your doctor might advise you to have infertility testing if:
- You are younger than 35, have regular menstrual periods, and have had sex during your fertile window (the 6 days each month that you can become pregnant) for at least 1 year.
- You are 35 or older, or you have irregular periods and have had sex during your fertile window for at least 6 months.
- You are at high risk for fertility problems and have had sex during your fertile window for a few months.
- You have had several miscarriages.
- It would be easier for you to make family planning decisions with test results.
2. Compare your options
Have infertility testing | Don't have infertility testing | |
---|---|---|
What is usually involved? |
|
|
What are the benefits? |
|
|
What are the risks and side effects? |
|
|
Personal stories
Personal stories about infertility testing
These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.
"I've been trying now for about 5 or 6 months and still haven't gotten pregnant. But I'm not sure that I've been having sex at the right time of the month, so I got some information about how to calculate the fertile time. I'm going to see if working on the timing for a few months helps."
— Lynn, age 33
"I didn't have any trouble getting pregnant with my first child. But my second husband and I have been trying to have a baby for about a year now, and I still haven't gotten pregnant. Since he doesn't have any children of his own, we can't be sure which one of us may have a problem. We have been having sex at the right times. We agree that it's time to find out whether there may be a problem."
— Rosa, age 32
"I'm 35 and my partner is 38. We have been trying for 6 months, and it doesn't seem to be happening. We decided to see a doctor to talk about the next step."
— Carol, age 35, and Dave, age 38
"We've been trying to conceive for 10 months now. But since we are both still young, we aren't too worried yet. My spouse is going to try tracking each menstrual cycle to see if that helps before we take the next step. If that doesn't help, I'll consider having my sperm checked."
— James, age 27, and Sabra, age 26
3. What matters most to you?
Your personal feelings are just as important as the medical facts. Think about what matters most to you in this decision, and show how you feel about the following statements.
Reasons to have infertility testing
Reasons not to have infertility testing
Having a biological child is very important to me.
Having a biological child is not that important to me.
I'm not worried about the cost of infertility testing.
I'm worried about the cost of testing.
I think I can handle the stress of testing.
I'm not sure that I can handle the stress of testing.
I accept that testing may not be able to find a problem or treat it if one is found.
I don't want to have a lot of tests that may not find my problem or treat it.
I know that having these tests means talking with doctors about our sex life.
I'm not comfortable talking about our sex life.
My other important reasons:
My other important reasons:
4. Where are you leaning now?
Now that you've thought about the facts and your feelings, you may have a general idea of where you stand on this decision. Show which way you are leaning right now.
Having infertility testing
NOT having infertility testing
5. What else do you need to make your decision?
Check the facts
1. If you are younger than 35 and have been trying to get pregnant for 4 months, is it time to think about an infertility test?
- Yes
- No
- I'm not sure
2. Can testing always help you find out the cause of any infertility problem?
- Yes
- No
- I'm not sure
3. Can some tests find and treat an infertility problem?
- Yes
- No
- I'm not sure
Decide what's next
1. Do you understand the options available to you?
2. Are you clear about which benefits and side effects matter most to you?
3. Do you have enough support and advice from others to make a choice?
Certainty
1. How sure do you feel right now about your decision?
2. Check what you need to do before you make this decision.
- I'm ready to take action.
- I want to discuss the options with others.
- I want to learn more about my options.
3. Use the following space to list questions, concerns, and next steps.
By | Healthwise Staff |
---|---|
Primary Medical Reviewer | Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine |
Primary Medical Reviewer | Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
Note: The "printer friendly" document will not contain all the information available in the online document some Information (e.g. cross-references to other topics, definitions or medical illustrations) is only available in the online version.
Current as of: August 2, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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