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ObGyn/Pregnancy issues/when should I see my doctor?

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Expert: Brenda - 6/1/2007


Question
My husband and I have been trying to conceive for the past 8 months. My cycle is 31-35 days and I we have been timing our love making in the middle of my cycle and when I have fertility signs.  I am 31 and my husband is 35. When is it acceptable to see a doctor and who is the best person to start with (GP or fertility expert).  We want three children and do not want to wait too long if there is a problem.  

Answer
Dear Maree,

It does take the average couple (who are actively trying) 5-6 months to conceive, and some as long as 12 months. It sounds like you are paying attention to your cervical mucus and other signs of fertility which would indicate ovulation. In general, ovulation is expected approximately 14 days prior to when the next period begins. For you, it sounds like this would be between cycle days 17-21.

As for the doctor choices, I would recommend that you see your regular doctor (GP or OB/GYN) first. Not only because they can usually start you out on the right track themselves, but also because you will usually need a referral from your regular doctor to the fertility specialist anyway.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda

ObGyn/Pregnancy issues

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Brenda

Expertise

I have been an R.N. since 1988 and come from a family of nurses. I have clinical experience in labor and delivery, as well as post-partum care and pre-term pregnancy complications. I have also worked in Community Health Clinics dealing with this area of expertise, including WIC (Women, Infant, & Children) clinics performing nursing evaluations and assessments in determining a need for services or intervention for pregnant women, newborns, and young children. I have worked in immunization clinics in and around my community as well. I also have several years experience in OB and Pediatric Home Care Nursing. In addition to that, I am a mother of two, ages 21 and 16, both of which I had hoped would be vaginal deliveries, but ended up being C-Sections... one of which had me in pre-term labor...another which was frank breech (bottom first)... one who rejected the breast... and so on... to list my personal experience would be a bit lengthy! I'd simply like to help anyone who might have a question or concern that I can draw on my expertise to answer!

Experience

I have been an R.N. since 1988 and come from a family of nurses. I have clinical experience in labor and delivery, as well as post-partum care and pre-term pregnancy complications. I have also worked in Community Health Clinics dealing with this area of expertise, including WIC (Women, Infant, & Children) clinics performing nursing evaluations and assessments in determining a need for services or intervention for pregnant women, newborns, and young children. I have worked in immunization clinics in and around my community as well. I also have several years experience in OB and Pediatric Home Care Nursing. My experience also includes approximately three years working in Behavioral Services.

Education/Credentials
Graduated from the Mary Lanning School of Nursing in May 1988. Have been a licensed Registered Nurse in the state of NE since 1988.

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