Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. It affects an estimated 1 in 8 couples globally.
Some key facts about infertility:
- It is often caused by problems in either the male reproductive system or female reproductive system, or both. Common causes include irregular ovulation, blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count or motility, and endometriosis.
- Both genetic and lifestyle factors can contribute, like smoking, alcohol, stress, and being overweight.
- Treatment depends on the cause but may include fertility drugs, surgery, artificial insemination, or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for over a year with no success, I encourage you to book an appointment with Optimal Hormone Solutions. Our compassionate team of fertility specialists will perform comprehensive testing and design a customized treatment plan to help make your dreams of having a baby come true.
Now, let's go over some key terminology related to infertility:
- Anovulation: When ovulation does not occur regularly, causing irregular menstrual cycles. This is a frequent cause of female infertility.
- Oligospermia: Low sperm count below 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. This can significantly reduce male fertility.
- Tubal factor infertility: When the fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged, preventing the egg and sperm from meeting. A common cause is pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Endometriosis: When tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries or fallopian tubes. This can cause pain and infertility.
- Assisted reproductive technology (ART): Treatments that involve handling both sperm and eggs. Examples are IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI): An ART where processed, concentrated sperm are inserted directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
The emotional toll of struggling with infertility should not be underestimated. Seeking support through counseling or peer support groups is strongly encouraged.
At Optimal Hormone Solutions, we have on-site fertility counselors and also connect patients with local and online support resources. Our goal is not only to help you start your family, but to support you through the challenges along the way.