Should I give up on getting pregnant?
Dear Doc,
I have been trying since April to get pregnant. However, I am not the problem. Whenever my husband and I have sex and he discharges inside me, it is always running out. What should I do?
– Concerned
Dear Concerned,
Congratulations on your recent marriage. I notice that you have started to try for conception since April 2005. This would make approximately 2 to 3 months of actively trying.
You have nothing to be anxious about. There is usually no need to be alarmed until after one year of trying to conceive. It is advised that you practise regular sexual activity at least 2 to 3 times per week without any form of contraception for a year before becoming alarmed or concerned. Studies have shown that 75 per cent of patients are pregnant by six months, and 90 per cent are pregnant by the end of a year. It is wise to actively try for conception at approximately 14 days from the first day of the last menstrual period if you have a regular 28-day cycle.
It is not unusual or abnormal for some of the semen to leak from the vagina after intercourse. This does not interfere with your ability to conceive. You need to start taking 5 mg of folic acid daily to reduce your chance of a birth defect since you are planning to conceive soon. Relax, enjoy your marriage and sexual relationship with your husband and you will conceive in good time. Encourage your husband not to smoke, especially marijuana, to reduce his alcohol consumption, avoid tight underwear and hot baths as these will reduce his sperm count.
Best wishes and good luck!
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell is an obstetrician and gynaecologist. E-mail your health queries to Dr Mitchell at mclymonti@jamaicaobserver.com or write to Dear Dr Mitchell, c/o all woman, Jamaica Observer, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Ave, Kgn 5
