For many adults, starting a family is a lifelong dream. But for some, the path to parenthood is not as easy as expected. Getting pregnant can take time—and for some, it may not happen without medical help.
Infertility affects around 12% to 15% of couples, according to the National Institutes of Health. The experience can be filled with frustration, isolation, and emotional pain. Each month often brings disappointment for those hoping for a child.
At UF Health, two experts are shedding light on infertility and the treatments available to help.
When to Seek Help
Dr. Amelia Schaub, a specialist in female infertility, explains that infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant after one year of regular, unprotected sex. However, couples may need help sooner depending on medical history. Women over 35, for example, should see a fertility specialist after six months of trying due to age-related fertility decline.
“A woman’s age matters because the number and quality of her eggs drop quickly after her late 30s,” Dr. Schaub said.
It’s Not Just the Woman
Infertility is not only a women’s issue. The NIH reports that about one-third of cases are caused by female factors, one-third by male factors, and the remaining cases have unknown or combined causes.
Dr. Kevin J. Campbell, a specialist in male infertility, said more couples are seeking help, though it’s hard to say why. Better access to health care, more awareness, and improved testing options may all play a role.
“More people are learning about infertility and are getting tested earlier,” Dr. Campbell said. “There are even at-home tests now that make the process easier.”
Lifestyle Choices Matter
Both experts agree that lifestyle habits can affect fertility. Dr. Schaub lists smoking, drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, eating processed foods, and exposure to microplastics as possible risks. Poor sleep and lack of exercise can also play a role.
Dr. Campbell adds, “Fertility can be emotional. It helps to have support from a partner or even a therapist. Many people feel alone, but they’re not.”
Common Causes in Women and Men
In women, infertility may be caused by blocked fallopian tubes or lack of ovulation. One common condition is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which affects 10% of women of childbearing age.
“PCOS is common and affects one in ten women,” Dr. Schaub said. “It also raises the risk of diabetes, heart problems, anxiety, depression, and even cancer.”
In men, jobs that expose the body to high heat—such as those of line cooks, firefighters, or police officers—can hurt fertility. Irregular work hours can also disrupt hormone levels.
“Being around heat for long periods can affect sperm production,” Dr. Campbell said.
Medications can also impact fertility. These include drugs for high blood pressure, mood disorders, urinary issues, autoimmune diseases, and even some antibiotics.
How Doctors Diagnose Infertility
For women, diagnosis often starts with an ultrasound, hormone level tests, or checking the fallopian tubes. Men usually undergo a physical exam, medical history review, blood tests, and semen analysis.
There are also questions about whether new weight-loss injections, like GLP-1 medications, impact fertility.
“We don’t yet know if they’re safe during pregnancy,” Dr. Schaub said. “Women are advised to stop these drugs two months before trying to conceive. But for some, the medication helps them control diabetes and lose weight—steps that support a healthy pregnancy later on.”
Treatment Options Are Available
There are several treatments for infertility. Women may try oral medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF). Men might be given hormones, medications, or even undergo surgery.
Both doctors stress that better health can improve fertility.
“I always tell patients to focus on diet, sleep, exercise, and managing stress,” Dr. Campbell said. “Fertility reflects your overall health. Improving one may improve the other.”
Clearing Up Misconceptions
Even as awareness grows, myths about infertility remain. One common misunderstanding is that people can always pinpoint the cause.
“Many patients ask, ‘What did I do wrong?’ But often, there’s no clear answer,” Dr. Campbell said.
Others assume that because IVF exists, anyone can get pregnant through it. But success still depends on egg and sperm quality.
“With IVF, we’re still limited by the quality of the eggs and sperm,” Dr. Schaub explained. “IVF works well, but it’s not a sure thing—especially as people age.”
Looking Ahead: Preserving Fertility in Cancer Patients
UF Health is also working on preserving fertility for children undergoing cancer treatment. These treatments can affect their ability to have children later in life.
Dr. Campbell explains that in some cases, doctors can take a testicular biopsy from young boys before they start chemotherapy. The tissue is then stored in case it can be used in the future.
When to See a Specialist
Both doctors agree: don’t wait too long to ask for help.
“Your OB-GYN is a good place to start,” Dr. Schaub said. “But infertility specialists can run more advanced tests and offer more treatment options.”
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