infertility
Question and Answer
During my miscarriage, my doctor assured me that one in four pregnancies end in miscarriage. "It's normal," he said. It sure doesn't feel normal. To make matters worse, he wouldn't even run any tests to see what went wrong. He said I'd have to have another miscarriage before they'd consider it a problem. I can't bear to lose another baby. When I want to get pregnant again, is there anything I can do to improve my chances of carrying the baby to term?
There may be nothing you can do to improve your chances, but you need a new doctor.
The traditional medical model has been not to do a workup until a woman has lost the second or third baby, but that was primarily because male doctors did not understand the pain and the impact on the emotions of going through the loss of a baby. If you want a workup into preventable causes, which are less common — most of the time it's an abnormality of the chromosomes and there's nothing you can do to prevent it — you have that right. If your doctor won't do it, find one who will! Find one who will check for infections, diabetes, thyroid disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or anti-phospholipid syndrome, rare problems that can cause miscarriages. You've got a right to have that checked.
Some women have low levels of progesterone. You have a right to have your progesterone level checked early in pregnancy. Get the information you need!
Background Information
Infertility and Adoption
Why do so many couples pursue alternatives to natural child birth?
You're Not Alone
Infertility afflicts millions. Thankfully, there are many effective treatment options.
Questions and Answers
Our doctor has access to fertilized eggs that will be destroyed unless implanted in a recipient woman. How do you think God would view our accepting the eggs and giving life to one of them?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Empty Womb, Aching Heart
Infertile. Such a cold word for such an emotional condition. For one couple, the end of the story is better than the beginning.
Am I Less of a Man?
I thought I could handle anything. After all, I was a man's man. A tackle-football, monster-truck, built-Ford-tough type of guy. But then the test results came in.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?
Related Topics
Abuse & Addiction: Pornography and Cybersex, Sexual Abuse
Parenting Children: Talking About Sex
Parenting Teens: Sexual Activity, Crisis Pregnancy, Homosexuality
Transitions: Getting Married, Adoption, Having a Baby
