Early fertility education can help Canadians to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and childbearing decisions. Also, the sooner that they are aware they may have a problem with fertility, the sooner they can be referred for treatment.
One of the best ways is to learn about any risks that might affect their fertility by talking to their family doctor, nurse practitioner, naturopathic doctor or other primary health care provider. Primary care providers can and should play a key role in fertility education and monitoring. Primary care providers see patients at all ages. Women in their teens, 20s and early 30s are more likely than men to go for regular checkups. In 2006, 33% of 28 year-old women saw a family doctor for a general assessment compared to 13% of 28 yearold and 17% of 35 year-old males.
Family doctors can help to educate their patients on ways to protect their fertility. Other providers also can do this. For example, the practices of naturopathic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy focus on treatments designed to balance hormones, increase blood flow and preserve fertility.
According to a survey of Ontarians who have used infertility services, only about one in four said that their doctor initiated a discussion about fertility with them before they were trying to start a family. Few received any fertility counselling before they experienced fertility problems. Those who did usually had a health problem that affected their fertility, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, obesity or PCOS.
Right now in Ontario, the concern is that fertility is discussed and assessed too late. By the time many people have the talk with their primary care givers, they are already over 30 or experiencing trouble conceiving.
At New Life Fertility Center we understand that infertility and its treatment can be very stressful emotionally, physically, and financially. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, but there are many things you can do that can help you cope. We encourage partners to be supportive of each other and to participate in the treatment process together. You may also find it helpful to develop a network of supportive friends and family who are sympathetic to your situation.
We offer a number of support resources. In addition to talking to your physicians and nurses, we also encourage you to use the support provided by professional counselors.Our counselors are all experienced in helping couples cope with fertility issues. They can help you learn strategies for dealing with stress, managing your IVF cycle, and nurturing your relationship with your partner.
If you wish to schedule time with a counselor, please call us as any of our 5 locations and let is share your experiences together.
Primary care providers see patients at all ages. Women in their teens, 20s and early 30s are more likely than men to go for regular checkups. In 2006, 33% of 28 year-old women saw a family doctor for a general assessment compared to 13% of 28 yearold and 17% of 35 year-old males.
Family doctors can help to educate their patients on ways to protect their fertility. Other providers also can do this. For example