My wife and I got married in 2003, but we haven’t been able to successfully conceive yet. All our reports are fine. I have found that we share the same blood group. Can this cause problems?
Definitely not. People with the same blood group have the same success rate in begetting a child as people with different blood groups. Primary infertility is defined as failure of conception even after one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. The causes for primary infertility are attributed to the male partner in 40 per cent of cases, to the female partner in another 40 per cent of cases and to both partners in 10 per cent of cases. However, for the remaining 10 per cent, no cause can be detected. These are the so-called idiopathic cases of infertility. Few couples conceive without any intervention. However, in a majority of couples, intervention by a doctor is a must. As both of you are interested in starting a family, a regular follow-up with an infertility specialist is highly recommended.

I am 40 years old and overweight. My gynaecologist has advised the removal of my uterus. Will this affect my weight?
There are absolutely no reports linking the operation of hysterectomy with weight. During the perimenopausal years, a majority of females put on weight due to the interplay of various hormones. Even the reduction in the body basal metabolic rate becomes prominent at this age. It is very easy to blame external factors for weight gain. With a balanced diet and regular exercise, it can be kept under control. Always follow the doctor’s advice when in doubt. Taking a second opinion may help in clearing the confusion. The operation is absolutely safe if performed by a competent doctor.

Mail your queries to:
Dr Kavan Lakdawala at:
HT Media Limited,
2nd Floor, Mahalaxmi Engg Estate, Mahim (W), Mumbai: 400016; email:
lakdawalakavan@gmail.com