Just how many people are experiencing this, you ask? Approximately 7.3 million American couples of child-bearing age have trouble conceiving a child. This means reproductive concerns affect one out of every eight couples. The reasons for reduced fertility are numerous and increasing, especially given that many young couples are having to put off starting a family because they are busy pursuing their academic careers and entering into the workforce much later than their parents or their grandparents.
My wife is going through fertility treatments, what can I do?
Your partner needs you! Your involvement is key, even if you are not the one undergoing a treatment. Depending on the fertility treatment your wife is undergoing, the procedure can be more invasive. An easy way to offer support is by attending medical appointments with your partner as a lot of information can be disseminated in an appointment and can be overwhelming for one set of ears to absorb it all in one sitting! Learning how to administer medications if required can go a long way in terms of support, as well as taking the time to just simply understand what your partner is being prescribed. Be an informed consumer and do your own research about various fertility tests and procedures. Local fertility support groups are valuable resources you may also wish to attend together.
I’m already seeing a Fertility Specialist, can I still work with a Naturopathic Doctor?
Yes! Your Naturopathic Doctor is quite happy to work with you and all other members of your healthcare team, so you can achieve all your goals. The real benefit to seeking Naturopathic medical care even if you are skeptical, is that we can discuss strategies to improve your overall health, which in turn can only improve your chances of conceiving.
Dr. J. Ancheta Goguen, BSc (Hons), ND 