{"href":"http://player.captivate.fm/services/oembed?url=http%3A%2F%2Fplayer.captivate.fm%2Fepisode%2F8caa5f0b-43a3-46ed-8ed9-4071b15b9f1c","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Captivate.FM","provider_url":"https://www.captivate.fm","width":600,"height":200,"type":"rich","html":"","title":"What should you ask your GP?","description":"This week, on the pod, we\u2019re talking about that conversation with your GP. It can be difficult to make this first step when trying to conceive and you often don\u2019t know when you should go and what to ask. Plus we often hear from you that you don't feel heard or taken seriously when having these initial conversations. \r\n \r\nWhen you\u2019re struggling to conceive there is no reason why you can\u2019t access your GP as soon as you wish. If you\u2019re lucky, your GP may suggest some blood tests and, if you\u2019re in a heterosexual relationship, a semen analysis for your partner. When it comes to a referral to fertility doctors. This is done at the 12-month point if you\u2019re under the age of 35 or at 6 months if you\u2019re over the age of 35.\r\n \r\nSo, what do you need to ask? Kate recommends writing down all your questions, so you make sure you remember everything you want to ask. You may like to ask for some blood tests and a sperm test. Results are generally back pretty quickly. A semen analysis may take a little longer. You can also look at home testing for both blood tests and semen analysis.\r\n \r\nHopefully, your results will be absolutely normal but common abnormalities could be with your hormones, your thyroid, and progesterone. It\u2019s worth noting that sometimes the incorrect timing of progesterone can result in an abnormal result \u2013 so make sure it\u2019s done 7 days before your next period (difficult without a crystal ball we know!).\r\n \r\nBe prepared if you are either overweight or underweight, this might form part of the conversation with your GP. We know that it\u2019s not always easy to hear that your weight is not in the ideal range but hopefully your GP will offer you some guidance on how you can either gain weight or lose weight to optimize your fertility.\r\n \r\nIf you\u2019ve had a previous pregnancy, then don\u2019t be scared to still approach your GP for these initial tests. You are still entitled to these and as secondary infertility is really common, it\u2019s important not to delay.\r\n \r\nSadly, when it comes to fertility, we often need to advocate for ourselves.\r\nSometimes it can take a long time for women to receive a diagnosis of conditions such as endometriosis and PCOS.\r\nSo be empowered and persistent and feel confident to ask for what you need.\r\n\r\n\r\nCome and join our closed facebook group and let us know more about your experience\r\n\r\n\r\nSOCIALS:\r\nFertility Poddy on Insta \r\nKate on Insta \r\n See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://artwork.captivate.fm/a88999a4-137d-44fb-8d5e-49d285fe0bd1/cover-image-kmj3ji0s-the-fp-editable-logo-jan21-rs-02-1.png"}