What are fertility issues?
Fertility issues refer to difficulties in getting pregnant or staying pregnant. These challenges can affect both men and women and may be due to a wide range of physical, hormonal, or lifestyle-related factors.
Infertility is usually defined as not being able to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected sex. For women over age 35, evaluation may begin after six months of trying.
What are the common signs of fertility problems?
In many cases, fertility problems may not cause obvious symptoms. However, some signs to look out for include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods
- Painful periods or pelvic pain
- No signs of ovulation (no changes in cervical mucus or basal body temperature)
- A history of miscarriages
- Erectile dysfunction or ejaculation issues in men
- Low sex drive or hormonal imbalances
What causes fertility problems in women?
Fertility issues in women can be related to many different factors, such as:
Ovulation disorders
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances can interfere with egg release.
Blocked fallopian tubes
Usually caused by infections, endometriosis, or previous surgeries.
Uterine abnormalities
Fibroids, polyps, or congenital uterine issues can affect implantation or cause miscarriage.
Endometriosis
This condition causes tissue similar to the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus, affecting fertility.
Age-related decline
As women age, especially after age 35, the quantity and quality of eggs decline.
What causes fertility problems in men?
Male fertility problems can also arise from a variety of causes, including:
Low sperm count or poor sperm motility
Sperm may not be produced in sufficient numbers or may not swim properly.
Hormonal issues
Low testosterone or other hormonal imbalances can affect sperm production.
Varicocele
An enlargement of veins in the scrotum, which can reduce sperm quality.
Infections
Such as sexually transmitted infections or mumps in childhood.
Lifestyle factors
Smoking, excessive alcohol use, drug use, obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Genetic conditions
Such as chromosomal abnormalities or inherited disorders.
What lifestyle factors affect fertility?
Certain habits and health choices can impact fertility for both men and women, including:
- Smoking and drug use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- High stress levels
- Poor diet or lack of physical activity
- Being overweight or underweight
- Exposure to chemicals or heat (especially for sperm health)
- Poor sleep or irregular sleep patterns
How are fertility problems diagnosed?
If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, a fertility evaluation may include:
For women:
- Blood tests to check hormone levels
- Ultrasound to examine ovaries and uterus
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG) to check if fallopian tubes are open
- Laparoscopy in some cases for a closer look inside the abdomen
For men:
- Semen analysis to check sperm count, shape, and movement
- Blood tests for hormone levels
- Ultrasound of the scrotum or testes if needed
How are fertility issues treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can vary widely. Options may include:
Lifestyle changes
Improving diet, quitting smoking, reducing stress, and achieving a healthy weight.
Medications
Hormone therapy or ovulation-inducing drugs like clomiphene or letrozole.
Surgery
To remove fibroids, unblock tubes, or treat endometriosis.
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART)
Such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Sperm or egg donation
If one partner has very low fertility or genetic concerns.
Surrogacy
Used in some cases where a woman is unable to carry a pregnancy.
Can fertility issues be prevented?
While not all fertility problems can be prevented, you can improve your chances of conceiving by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing chronic health conditions like diabetes or thyroid disease
- Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs
- Reducing stress through relaxation or therapy
- Seeking early medical help if you suspect a problem
When should you see a doctor?
You should consider seeing a fertility specialist if:
- You’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after a year of trying
- You’re over 35 and haven’t conceived after six months
- You’ve had multiple miscarriages
- You have irregular or absent periods
- You or your partner have known reproductive health issues
What is the emotional impact of fertility challenges?
Fertility struggles can be emotionally difficult. Feelings of frustration, sadness, guilt, or anxiety are common. It’s important to seek emotional support from partners, counselors, or support groups during this journey.