Q: I've been trying to have a baby for five years. My friend told me to see a specialist, but I feel like if it is meant to happen, it will happen. Am I right?
A: This is the most commonly asked question for infertility specialists. Our response is this: If you had diabetes or cancer, wouldn't you seek care? The answer is universally yes. Regrettably, infertility carries a stigma as being a condition that doesn't have to be treated. The lack of many insurers to cover infertility treatment reinforces this notion. However, infertility often stems from an underlying disease that needs treatment. Even when infertility is unexplained, exceptional treatments are available to help couples realize their dreams. Infertility causes tremendous stress and negatively impacts the body, mind and soul. There is no reason infertility should be approached in any way other than a medical condition that absolutely deserves treatment.
-- Dr. Jessica Scotchie, Tennessee Reproductive Medicine; member,
Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
Readers: To submit a question for a medical doctor, e-mail it to Clint Cooper at ccooper@timesfreepress.com. See this space each week for answers.