Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant after having regular, unprotected sex for at least a year if you're under 35, or for 6 months if you're over 35. About 10-15% of couples in the US struggle with infertility.
There are many potential causes of infertility in both women and men:
Female infertility causes:
- Ovulation disorders - issues with releasing eggs
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Uterine problems like fibroids or endometriosis
- Poor egg health
Male infertility causes:
- Low sperm count or quality
- Abnormal sperm function
- Sperm transport issues
- Hormone imbalances
Diagnosing infertility involves:
- Tracking the menstrual cycle and timing/frequency of sex
- Fertility testing for both partners
- For women: ovarian reserve testing, HSGs, hormone panels
- For men: semen analysis, hormone tests
- Ruling out sexual issues
- Evaluating lifestyle factors
There are various ways to treat infertility based on the cause, like:
- Fertility drugs to improve ovulation
- Surgery to fix structural reproductive issues
- Assisted reproductive technology (ART) like IVF
- Lifestyle changes
Coping with infertility can be very difficult emotionally. It's important for couples to:
- Communicate openly with each other
- Seek emotional support from professionals, friends/family
- Give themselves permission to feel a range of complex emotions
- Reaffirm their commitment to become parents, with or without biological children
The journey through infertility can be exhausting and frustrating, but support and various family-building options exist. Reach out for help - you don't have to go through this alone!