Infertility - Hormone Health Center

What is infertility?

Infertility refers to the biological inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to full term. It is defined clinically as not being able to get pregnant after having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for one year.

There are two types of infertility:

• Primary infertility refers to couples who have never been able to conceive.
• Secondary infertility refers to couples who have had at least one successful pregnancy in the past but are unable to conceive again.

What causes infertility?

There are many potential causes of infertility in both men and women:

In women, common causes include:

• Ovulation disorders
• Blocked fallopian tubes
• Endometriosis
• Poor egg quality
• Abnormalities in the uterus or cervix

In men, common causes are:

• Low sperm count
• Poor sperm motility/function
• Varicocele
• Genetic issues
• Undescended testicles

In 30-40% of cases, infertility is caused by both male and female factors or the underlying cause is never determined (unexplained infertility).

How is infertility diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosing infertility begins with a medical history, physical exam, and blood tests to evaluate hormones and ovarian reserve. Further testing might include:

• Semen analysis to assess sperm
• Hysterosalpingogram to check the fallopian tubes
• Laparoscopy to examine the pelvic region

Treatment options depend on the cause but may involve:

• Fertility drugs to regulate ovulation
• Surgery to repair anatomical abnormalities
• Assisted reproductive technology (ART) like IVF

What is the emotional impact of infertility?

Coping with fertility struggles can negatively impact one's mental health and relationships. Many couples describe profound disappointment, envy, social isolation, and loss related to their infertility diagnosis.

Seeking emotional support is important. Consider joining in-person or online support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges on their path to parenthood.

How common is infertility?

• Approximately 1 in 8 couples (or 12% of married women) have trouble conceiving or sustaining a pregnancy in the U.S.
• Male factors contribute to infertility around 30% of the time.
• Rates of infertility are increasing as more couples delay childbearing.

I hope this overview on infertility was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Wishing you the very best in your fertility journey.