Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse. It affects an estimated 10-15% of couples globally.
Some key facts about infertility:
- It can be caused by issues in either the male or female partner. Common causes include:
- Low sperm count or poor sperm motility in men
- Damage to the fallopian tubes in women
- Endometriosis in women
- Poor egg quality or ovulation problems in women
- Both natural and assisted reproductive therapies may help couples conceive if infertility exists. These include:
- Fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation and egg production
- Procedures like intrauterine insemination (IUI)
- Advanced technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Lifestyle changes can also optimization natural fertility. Maintaining a healthy BMI, reducing stress, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and taking supplements like folic acid may support conception.
Struggling with infertility? The caring medical team at Hormone Revive provides science-based natural hormone, fertility, and wellness treatments to help you conceive. State-of-the-art IVF, egg/sperm freezing, fertility preservation, PGT testing, IUI, egg/embryo donation, surrogacy and other services offered. Compassionate mental health and nutrition support provided as part of our comprehensive fertility approach. Contact us today for a consultation.
Some key questions related to infertility:
What causes infertility in men and women?
Infertility has numerous potential causes spanning both men and women.
In men, the most common reasons are:
- Low or zero sperm production due to genetic defects, health problems, infections, toxin exposure, or unknown reasons
- Varicoceles (enlarged veins) around the testes
- Previous surgeries or trauma that impact sperm delivery
In women, top reasons are:
- Ovulation disorders caused by genetic issues, low body weight, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), primary ovarian insufficiency
- Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes
- Uterine or cervical abnormalities including scar tissue and endometriosis
In 30% of cases, infertility is unexplained meaning no clear cause can be identified. Age is also a significant factor, particularly in women over 35.
What are the first steps when dealing with infertility?
If attempting conception naturally without success after 6 months if under 35 (or earlier if over 35), the first infertility evaluation steps are:
- Fertility testing for hormone levels and ovulation
- Semen analysis to assess sperm health
- Evaluation of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries
- Assessment for illnesses, medical issues or lifestyle factors
Understanding potential underlying causes through testing allows creation of a targeted treatment plan for infertility involving medication, medical procedures, or assisted reproductive technology as needed.
When should someone see a fertility specialist?
It is recommended to consult a reproductive endocrinologist (RE) or other fertility specialist if:
- You are under 35 with no pregnancy after 6 months of trying or over 35 after 6 months of unprotected sex
- You have a history of miscarriages, menstrual cycle issues, or known fertility problems
- Your partner has identified sperm health concerns like low counts or poor motility
Specialists have advanced expertise in diagnosing and managing complex infertility cases. They can provide accurate testing, the latest treatment options, and thoughtful guidance throughout your journey to start a family.
At Hormone Revive, our board-certified REs have supported thousands of patients with customized fertility care plans including IUI, IVF, egg/embryo freezing, surrogacy, PGT, egg/sperm donation, fertility preservation, hormone therapy, nutraceuticals, mental health services and more. Reach out today to start your family building pathway.