Infertility

When you can't get pregnant, it seems like everyone else can. But you're not alone. As many as one in 10 couples fail to conceive within six to 12 months of trying, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Women'sLink can help. Dawn Bankston, M.D., an OB/GYN at The Medical Center of Plano, says about 90 percent of infertile couples have a problem that can be treated. To solve the infertility puzzle, Dr. Bankston and her colleagues employ a variety of diagnostic procedures. These include:

Lab work to test for hormone irregularities that could interfere with fertility
Ultrasound imaging to determine if a woman is ovulating
Hysterosalpingography, an x-ray to show blockages in the fallopian tubes or uterus
Laparoscopy, an outpatient procedure to look for a condition called endometriosis or pelvic scarring, which could prevent pregnancy

A urologist can also help determine whether the male partner has enough sperm and if they can swim freely. Most of the time, our doctors can treat infertility with drugs or minor surgery. At The Medical Center of Plano, we offer oral and injectable fertility medications that stimulate ovulation, as well as intrauterine insemination (also known as "artificial insemination").

As you pursue medical options to overcome infertility, don't forget to care for your emotional well-being too. Our Resolve Infertility Support Group meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month in the second floor of the main hospital, classrooms 1 and 2. You can unload your feelings, and learn healthy ways to cope with this struggle. For more information, e-mail ResolveDallasSuburbs@yahoo.com.

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