Dr. Mira Aubuchon, M.D.

There isn’t a reliable way to select for a baby’s gender by natural conception/timing. Use of in-vitro fertilization with screening of the embryos with genetic testing prior to placing them in the uterus can give you information on the embryo’s gender though. This service is provided by physicians trained in reproductive endocrinology/infertility (REI).

This seems urgent enough to allow you to come out of quarantine to have care. Please contact your ob/gyn to explain the situation- you need to be evaluated.

Depends on the length of the menstrual cycle (day 1 of bleed to day 1 of the next bleed). Generally, start trying from about 10-18 days prior to the expected period. In a 28-day cycle, this means from day 10-17 of the menstrual cycle.

Yes you can get pregnant 2 days after ovulation. The most fertile days are generally about 4 days prior to and 1-2 days after ovulation.

A C-section is major abdominal surgery and as such there is surgical risk. Additionally, it can lead to higher risks for future deliveries or higher risks for future surgery including repeat C-sections due to build up of scar tissue. However, there are circumstances when C-section is the safest option for either the baby, mom, or both. It’s best to discuss with your ob physician to determine what the best route of delivery is for you.

You don’t need to hold your legs up to get pregnant. The sperm swim where they need to go very rapidly so you don’t need to try to hold the liquid in.

Almost immediately after ejaculation during vaginal sex, sperm have gone into the female uterus and tubes. Even when liquid leaks out after, most of the sperm have swim up already. So you don’t need to stay in any particular position for a prolonged time afterwards.

There are many ways to do a hysteroscopy that minimizes discomfort. Your doctor can give local numbing medication along with you taking some pre and post procedure medications. Depending on how extensive the procedure sometimes they are done with IV or full sedation. Vast majority of patients do great and have a very good experience.

If you are otherwise healthy, the pregnancy is going well, and you are accustomed to lifting heavy things you can probably continue, but be aware that the changes of your body may put you at more risk for muscle or joint strain. 15-20 pounds weight maximum is reasonable.

First of all, I am so very sorry this happened to you. I do hope that you are coping and that you have some support. Pain that persists for 2 months following a miscarriage should really be evaluated soon by your ob/gyn physician with an exam, lab work, and a pelvic ultrasound to look at the uterus and ovaries. I also would like to make you aware of a free phone app developed by very respected reproductive psychologists and my patients have found it to be a helpful resource: http://ferticalm.com/. Although words provide little comfort, nonetheless I wish you some peace as you heal.

This could be irritation from soaps, detergents, contraceptive barriers, menstrual care products, vaginal gels/lubricants, semen, urine or feces following wiping, or clothing material or clothing fit/tightness. Sweating may also cause some irritation if the symptoms occur after strenuous activity. Dryness of the area such as that due to low-estrogen conditions (premature menopause or certain medications) are possible. Yeast infections and sexually transmitted infections could cause itching. Some patients can experience changes of the vulvar skin due to immune-related conditions as well.
For 2 weeks I advise avoidance of: scented detergent (use baby-friendly detergent) and dryer sheets, tight fitting underwear (don’t wear any underwear at night), tight pants/pantyhose/leggings, soaps to the vulva, vulvar fragrances, sexual intercourse and douching, scented toilet paper, and aggressive wiping of area after toilet use.
If the symptoms persist you should see your gynecologist for an exam.

The major symptom of early pregnancy is a missed period in someone with typically regular monthly periods. The best test to make sure is a blood pregnancy test.

Typically, the ultrasound is repeated after an appropriate interval usually 4-8 weeks. If cysts are related to a particular time in the menstrual cycle like after ovulation, then those typically resolve within 3 months and are not of concern. Other cysts depending on appearance may be left alone and observed. In others, additional testing such as lab work for tumor markers may be done. Depending on your age, appearance of cyst, whether or not menopause has occurred, family history, and symptoms is what determines whether a cyst is serious enough to have surgery.

If you have a uterus that is healthy then it is possible to have a child. The neobladder shouldn’t affect that.