Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant or carry a pregnancy to full term after one year of having unprotected sex. It affects an estimated 1 in 8 couples in the U.S.
There are two main categories of infertility:
There are many potential causes of infertility in both men and women:
* Ovulation disorders - failure to ovulate or irregular ovulation * Tube blockages - often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis * Uterine problems - fibroids, adenomyosis, congenital abnormalities * Age - fertility declines significantly after age 35
* Sperm disorders - low sperm count, poor sperm motility/function * Varicoceles - enlarged veins in the scrotum * Infections - gonorrhea, chlamydia, mumps virus * Chromosomal or genetic causes - Klinefelter syndrome
If a couple has not gotten pregnant after trying for 1 year (or 6 months if the woman is over 35), they should see a fertility specialist. Common diagnostic tests include:
First-line treatments depend on the cause but may include:
The good news is that the majority of couples will eventually get pregnant with treatment. With a step-wise approach, fertility rates can exceed 70% within 2 years. Getting an early and accurate diagnosis is key, as is finding a fertility specialist you trust. Be your own best advocate and don't hesitate to get a second opinion. With persistence and the right medical care, parenthood can still be in your future!