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Fertility and Disabilities

A Profile of Dr. Mitchell S. Tepper

By Jennifer M. Paquette

Even with technology, though, the Teppers knew their chances were slim, so they were both open to adoption. Tepper believes this is crucial; at his Web site, he emphasizes realistic "expectations, an understanding of other fertility options and a discussion of your reactions if there's no pregnancy ... in reducing the potential for stress."

When he and Cheryl decided to make a baby, they spelled out goals explicitly. "We decided to try at-home insemination for two years," Tepper says. "This decision was based on my sperm analysis, Cheryl's age and our general state of readiness to add a child to our family."

As with any couple trying to conceive, the next months were stressful ones. But even with all the gadgetry, they tried to "maintain a sense of humor throughout the process." Once, while Cheryl used a syringe to inject his sperm, they played the Rolling Stones in the background. As Tepper writes at his Web site, "Mick Jagger and I serenaded Cheryl and cheered my sperm along."

Keeping a sense of perspective is key. Even if ovulation timing hinders spontaneity, there are still "usually a couple of nights [to] try. So if one night it's not working, just postpone a day or two," he says. "You don't want to get into battles or blaming anybody ... If he din't have an erection or ejaculate, you can still pleasure each other and not get into 'who failed this time.'"

Want to see more?

• Male Factor Infertility: Infertility from His Perspective
• Infertility Insurance Coverage: Basics Tips When You're Trying to Conceive
• Self-insemination: Using Self-insemination as a Private Conception Alternative
• Join the discussion on our Family.com community!

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