First Things First

You may be just beginning your search for a child of your own, or you could be one of many individuals who has tried for years unsuccessfully to conceive. Whatever your situation, it is important to begin with the first steps toward learning more about what you can do to optimize your chances at conception and successful pregnancy.

There are numerous resources available for pre-pregnancy planning ~ become familiar with one or two of them, find ones that suit your taste in reading or viewing. The March of Dimes provides good basic information that all parents-to-be should know. More basic information is available by Jane Engeldinger, M.D. on the Virtual Hospital site. In order to put your best foot forward on the pregnancy path, a little pre-planning can go a long way.

Delve into the mysteries of the reproductive system; even the most educated people can be surprised to learn some of the intricacies of reproduction. As with most puzzles, resolution becomes clear if you can focus on the entire picture first. From there, you'll know the questions to which you need answers.

If you have never yet tried to conceive, invest some research time in the "how tos" of conception. If you've tried without results, a review of the basics plus some new information could help you feel more empowered in your journey. Taking Charge of Your Fertility, by Toni Weschler, is one of the most recommended starter books on knowing your body and using that knowledge to either prevent or achieve pregnancy. Getting Pregnant When You Thought You Couldn't, by psychologists Helane Rosenberg and Yakov Epstein offers helpful charts and physician-interview guides. Another online resource, "Low-Tech Ways to Help You Conceive" from Roger Hunt, helps you aim at improving your odds of conception without medical intervention.

Once you have firmly rooted yourself in the basics of human conception, you will find yourself equipped to enter your physician's office (if necessary) with a good beginning grasp on the concepts you'll be discussing.

So, you've armed yourself with information, and you're ready to go -- if, after following all of the suggestions you've read and heard, you do not become pregnant after one year (for women under 30) or six months (for women over 30), it's time to take it to a specialist.

While most women's first discussion regarding possible infertility takes place in their regular OB/Gyn's office, be prepared to seek more specialized assistance. While some OB/Gyn's may "specialize" in fertility issues, that may not mean that they are up on the latest in reproductive medicine. It could simply mean that they have attended additional seminars on related topics. Know your specialists and understand which ones are right for your needs.

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