Infertility

When should I see a doctor about infertility?

If you’re younger than 35 and been actively trying to conceive for one year, or for six months if you’re 35 or older, you’re diagnosed with infertility. Even if you were able to get pregnant, but suffered a pregnancy loss, you may also be considered infertile.

You may see us sooner if your inability to get pregnant is accompanied by:

• No menstrual periods or irregular periods
• Painful periods
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

If you’re having trouble conceiving and have experienced more than one miscarriage in the past, it’s a good idea to consult with our practice.

Is the woman always the reason for infertility?

In about one-third of cases, the woman may be the reason for infertility, but the man can also have a problem in about one-third of cases. The final third of cases are undiagnosed or caused by a combination of male and female factors.

What problems can lead to infertility?

In a woman, the most common reason for infertility has to do with ovulation problems – meaning you don’t release a viable egg. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormone imbalance that often interferes with ovulation. Primary ovarian insufficiency is another possible reason for ovulation issues. In this condition, your ovaries stop working as they should before the age of 40.

Other possible causes for infertility in a woman may include:

• Blocked fallopian tubes
• Physical problems with the uterus
• Uterine fibroids

Endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease may cause the blockages preventing the release of an egg.

In a man, infertility may be caused by an inadequate number of viable sperm. A man may also produce irregular sperm that don’t move normally and have trouble making their way to the egg during conception.

How is infertility treated?

The treatment for infertility depends on the cause. In many cases, fertility medications (such as Clomid®) can help with ovulation and help you achieve a viable pregnancy. In other cases, you may require injections of gonadotropins, surgery, intrauterine insemination, or the man may need treatment in order for pregnancy to occur. These conditions are best treated by a sub-specialist - reproductive endocrinologist.

To learn how you can successfully overcome infertility troubles, call the office or book an appointment online.