What if I don’t get pregnant right away?
When you start a fertility treatment you might feel that you will fall pregnant on the first attempt. When this doesn’t happen you start feeling doubtful and anxious with thoughts like: do I have fertility issues? Am I sick? These thoughts are common in not just lesbian couples but in any woman that is trying to get pregnant and is having some trouble doing so right away.
The success rate of different fertility treatments varies: artificial insemination is around 20-25% (going up to 60% by the third attempt), in vitro fertilisation is 70% and the ROPA method is closer to 90%. Even though the ROPA method has the highest success rate in fertility treatments, a truly successful pregnancy is linked to other factors such as:
The ovarian reserve: every woman is born with a limited number of oocytes. This number decreases in both quantity and quality after a woman turns 35 which makes becoming pregnant more complicated.
The condition of the uterus: the following fertility tests can be useful for lesbian couples in determining the morphology of their uterus and ovaries: transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, and endometrial biopsy.
The condition of the Fallopian Tubes: is another reference of your fertility. Appendicitis, peritonitis or varying levels of endometriosis may have affected the fallopian tubes.
There can also be issues with the pregnant mother’s endometrium.
All these risks factors are screened for in the initial fertility tests. There is also genetic testing in order to ensure the highest compatibility with the sperm donor. The sperm’s quality controls are very strict.
There’s no magic wand that will make sure you are successful but you can prepare yourself physically and emotionally for this journey. A well-balanced life and diet is very important. Some things you can do: reduce caffeine and alcohol, get enough sleep and exercise regularly.
If your particular situation is getting the best of you, don’t hesitate in getting in touch with a specialist who can help reduce your anxiety. Undergoing a fertility treatment is an emotional roller coaster. Do things that make you happy: exercise regularly, go for walks, read, do yoga. Avoid any and all situations that produce stress. Treat yourself!
Shall we start project baby? Get in touch with us and we’ll answer all your questions.
