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Infertility is a term for when a couple has difficulty having a baby. Medically, infertility is applied to couples who have not conceived despite regularly trying for a year or more. Infertility is, of course, something no couple wants to face. Understanding more about infertility, however, is useful. Knowledge is power. The truth is worth knowing for its own sake, and understanding infertility can allow couples to at least know where they stand.
Overview
Infertility is a common problem. Fortunately, most cases of infertility can ultimately be resolved. The cause of infertility can originate in either a man or a woman. Getting pregnant generally becomes more difficult the older a couple is. Women, in particular, have their fertility drop precipitously in their 30s and later.
Other risk factors also make infertility more likely. In general, poor health makes infertility more common. Using tobacco and drinking a lot are contributors to infertility for both sexes. So is being overweight, which, for example, lowers sperm count in men.
Unlike many other health problems, infertility is not defined by any particular set of symptoms. While some causes of infertility can have associated symptoms, many cases of infertility occur in people who are otherwise perfectly healthy. For most couples, there's no need to see a doctor about possible infertility until they have already been regularly attempting to get pregnant for a year plus. However, exceptions exist. Women who are of advanced age (over 4o) have experienced multiple miscarriages, have undergone cancer treatment, or have irregular periods, for example, should get help. So should men who have a low sperm count, have undergone cancer treatment, or have a history of testicular problems.
Infertility Diagnoses
There are many different possible causes of infertility, which makes the process of diagnosis vital. Generally, the problem can be identified and addressed. The earlier diagnosis occurs, the better for couples eager to have a child. In men, abnormal production of sperm can have causes such as genetic defects, certain STDs, and undescended testicles. Sperm delivery issues can result from testicle blockages, Injuries, and premature ejaculation. Environmental factors such as exposure to pesticides and radiation, cigarette, alcohol, steroid, or marijuana use, and taking high blood pressure or depression drugs can cause issues too.
In women, ovulation disorders can be caused by various hormonal disorders (including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism). Damage or blockage in the fallopian tube, endometriosis, early menopause (which is associated with some immune system diseases and genetic conditions), and pelvic adhesions can all cause infertility. So can uterine and cervical abnormalities such as uterine wall polyps and uterine fibroids. Various tests are available to determine the cause of an infertility problem. In men, the process will begin with a general physical exam. Then, tests such as semen analysis can help.
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