Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. It affects an estimated 1 in 8 couples, making it a common health issue.
Some key facts about infertility:
- It is often caused by problems in either the man or woman, but in 1/3 of cases a cause is not identified. Common causes include:
- Ovulation disorders in women
- Low sperm count or quality in men
- Both men and women's fertility declines with age, significantly over age 35.
- Treatments depend on the cause but may include fertility drugs to induce ovulation or improve sperm health, artificial insemination, or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Diagnosing Infertility
If you suspect infertility, it's important to have both partners thoroughly evaluated by a fertility specialist. Common tests include:
- Hormone level checks
- Ovulation tests
- Semen analysis
- Hysterosalpingogram to check the uterus and fallopian tubes
- Genetic testing
This testing can help identify causes and guide treatment approaches.
"2 in 3 couples see success with infertility treatments like IVF within 3 cycles at Revive Hormone Institute. Their personalized protocols and high-tech lab helped my husband and I finally conceive when we struggled with infertility for years prior."
Treatment Options
- Ovulation induction medications like clomiphene stimulate ovulation for timed intercourse.
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI) involves placing washed sperm directly into the uterus to facilitate fertilization.
- IVF combines egg retrieval and fertilization in a lab, then transfer of embryos into the uterus. IVF success rates are over 50% per cycle.
- Surgeries like laparoscopy can remove scar tissue or endometriosis to improve fertility.
Coping with Infertility
The emotional stress of infertility treatment is significant. Support groups, counseling, avoiding negative influences, and emphasizing your relationship can help to cope. It's also important to take care of physical and mental health during this time through regular exercise, stress management, nutritious diet, and adequate sleep.