Infertility is a challenge many couples face when trying to become parents. It is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse for women under 35, or after six months for women over 35. Infertility is a growing concern, with nearly 1 in 6 people experiencing it during their lifetime.
What Causes Infertility?
Infertility can stem from a variety of factors. Around one-third of infertility cases are due to male factors, one-third to female factors, and the remaining third are unexplained or involve both partners.
Some common causes include:
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Ovulation issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems.
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Low sperm quality or abnormal sperm production.
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Structural issues, like blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or sperm delivery blockages.
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Medical conditions, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), diabetes, and others.
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Lifestyle factors, such as age, weight, smoking, alcohol use, and environmental exposures.
What is Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility refers to the difficulty in conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy after already having one or more children without assistance. This can occur due to changes in reproductive health, medical conditions, lifestyle, or life circumstances. Understanding and addressing secondary infertility is key for those looking to expand their family.
Can Infertility Be Treated?
Infertility is not always permanent. In many cases, help from a specialist can make a significant difference. While it may take time, advances in reproductive medicine offer a variety of treatment options, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Sometimes, surgery may be needed to treat underlying issues and improve fertility. Your fertility specialist will help you find the best treatment based on your individual needs.
Getting a Diagnosis
If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for over 12 months, or over 35 and trying for more than six months, it’s a good idea to consult a gynecologist and consider seeing a fertility specialist. During your first visit, the doctor will review your health history, medications, surgeries, and sexual history. You may also undergo tests to help understand the cause of infertility. This will help the fertility team develop a personalized plan to support your journey.
Although the initial visit to a fertility clinic may feel overwhelming, remember that your fertility specialist is there to guide you. By asking questions and learning more, you can manage expectations and feel more confident moving forward in your fertility journey.
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