10 Important Fertility Questions to Ask Your Mother Before Starting a Family
When considering starting a family, many women focus on lifestyle changes and medical check-ups, but one crucial source of information is often overlooked: their own mother. Understanding your family’s reproductive history can offer valuable insights into your fertility, potential challenges, and what to expect as you embark on your journey to motherhood. Here are a few essential questions to ask your mother if you are considering starting a family.
- Did you experience any fertility challenges?
Did you have difficulty conceiving? It might be helpful to know what issues your mother may have overcome and understand if they are genetic, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis2
2. How old were you when you got pregnant?
It is now common knowledge age plays an important role in conception. Increasingly women are having children later in life due to a multitude of reasons including career, the need for financial security or simply finding the right time to start.
3. How long did it take you to get pregnant?
Did you conceive easily? If she faced delays, it might prompt you to seek early fertility advice.
4. Did you have any pregnancy complications?
Learning about any pregnancy-related issues like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or miscarriage can help you and your doctor assess potential risks.
5. When did you go through menopause?
Menopause age can be hereditary. If your mom had early menopause, you may want to be proactive about family planning.
6. Have you or any close female relatives experienced early menopause or ovarian failure?
This can impact your reproductive timeline, as premature ovarian failure can run in families.
7. Do we have a family history of reproductive conditions?
Understanding if conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or PCOS run in the family can help you be proactive in managing your reproductive health.
8. Has anyone in our family had secondary infertility?
Though you may have your first child with ease, that may not be the case with the next so it is good to understand if there is a pattern of secondary infertility in your family.
9. Did you experience any birth complications with me or my siblings?
Knowing about complications can help you for potential risks and necessary precautions.
10. Is there a history of multiple births in our family?
If twins or multiples run in your family, your chances of conceiving multiples may be higher.
Why These Conversations Matter
While your mother’s experience won’t dictate your fertility journey, having this knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions, seek medical advice early if needed, and understand what to expect as you plan for pregnancy.
Your fertility journey is unique, but understanding your maternal history is a valuable piece of the puzzle.
Mothering Sunday
Mothering Sunday – it is not an easy day for everyone
Mothering Sunday is a day of love and appreciation, but for those experiencing infertility, it can be a difficult day to navigate. Every shop is filled with gifts, cards and reminders but we understand that for many women, they may be grappling with feelings of grief, longing, or even isolation. If this day brings a mix of emotions, know that you are not alone. Whether you choose to honour the women who have supported you, create your own traditions, or simply allow yourself space to feel, your experience is valid.
Please reach out to our support team at Complete Fertility if you are struggling.
