[CharmingMoore]

My husband & I have been trying to conceive for almost 2 years now. I've had every test/procedure possible run on myself and my husband has had 3 semen analysis' done (count of 1!) as well as blood tests (still waiting on results). We went to the urologist today and he said he would need to see the blood test and probably get another semen sample (a whole other issue!) but that nothing seemed to be anatomically wrong. We went to see a fertility specialist & had a really bad experience (the doctor -whom we later found out was not even board certified! - immediately put us on an IVF schedule without even seeing my husband's medical record, he also suggested my husband's brother & father as backup donors without even asking us if we had considered any of these options). I feel like IVF has become the "go-to" answer for all infertility issues. We've still yet to get an explanation of what could be wrong (with either one of us). I've been on clomid and it has seemed to do it's job, but without knowing what's going on with him, how can we make any decisions about IVF?! I'm not saying I would never consider it, but I'd like to know my other options - and have some answers first!

Everytime the thought enters my mind that I may not be able to get pregnant naturally, I break into tears - it could be the middle of the day at work, while I'm eating dinner, trying to go to sleep...it's really interfering with my life & I WANT ANSWERS!

My husband has had a really difficult time "producing" the semen samples at home and then taking them to the lab and now they're wanting him to do one at the clinic and I'm scared he won't be able to.

Basically I'm just waiting on the blood tests so we can find out the FSH levels and have an answer and this seemed like a good place to come for support...I'm kind of randomly rambling but it's making me feel a little better so...thanks for anyone who took the time to read/respond. Wish us luck!

[daisy2006]

I am so sorry to hear that you are having such a difficult time getting answers. I think first and foremost, you need to find out the details of the semen analysis. There many other parts to it other than the sperm count. They also take into account, the shape and motility of the sperm. My husband has a normal count, but the shape of the heads make it difficult for them to penetrate an egg. I would recommend seeing a differant doctor to discuss his results if you are not understanding what the problem is. I definitely would not jump into IVF w/out knowing exactly what is going on.

I know how you feel about not being able to conceive "naturally". I was an absoulute complete mess when when we found out about our issues. I cried driving to and from work, in the middle of the night, at dinner. It was endless. I finally accepted the fact that if we wanted children, this is what we needed to do. It still sucks and is a major stress, but it gets better. I think right now you just really need to understand exactly what is going on with the both of you so that you can come to terms w/ what the next step will be.

I wish you the best of luck, hang in there and be strong. It's not easy but if you want it badly enough, you will get through. Also, don't be afraid to ask your doctors all the questions that you need until you understand. That is their job!