Female Infertility Awareness
Infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term, but infertility in women is often treatable. Most doctors suggest couples visit a doctor after a year of trying to conceive. Some may refer you to a fertility clinic for IVF treatments. The most common infertility issues for women include ovaries that do not release eggs regularly, problems in the cervix or uterus, and blocked fallopian tubes. Female infertility can be assessed as part of a thorough physical exam, which includes a medical history regarding potential factors that could contribute to infertility.
Lifestyle Changes to Boost Fertility
Studies have proven that smoking lowers fertility for women and men, so couples who are looking to conceive may want to finally drop the habit. In addition, a healthy diet makes for a healthy body, which can also boost fertility. Ask your doctor about vitamin and mineral supplements that may improve your fertility odds.
Infertility and Age
A woman is born with a set number of eggs in her ovaries. With each menstrual cycle you lose at least one egg, and the egg’s quality declines with age. This means it is harder to get pregnant the older you get. If you are worried about infertility and your age, especially if you are over 35, your reproductive specialist can help you decide the best course of action or may suggest egg or embryo adoption.
Ovulation
If you are not releasing eggs regularly, your doctor can prescribe an oral medication that works within three menstrual cycles. This medication can make the ovaries release more than one egg, which can result in multiples. Another option, which also can release more than one egg, is injectable hormones.
Blocked Fallopian Tubes and Cervix/Uterus Problems
Blocked fallopian tubes can be caused by scar tissue that doctors can remove surgically. Reproductive specialists can test for abnormalities of the uterus and cervix, complications with past surgeries, and antibodies that affect sperm.
Infertility and Men
Some infertility issues come from the male partner. Male infertility issues can include poor sperm movement, low sperm count, blocked sperm ducts, and misshaped sperm.
Charting your Fertility Pattern
Tracking your menstrual cycles may help you estimate your fertile times. The basal body temperature method can also identify changes in your body temperature after ovulation. Another method is checking the consistency of your cervical mucus to figure out your ovulation.
Infertility can be emotionally and physically challenging. Fortunately, scientific advances have helped many women overcome their fertility problems. Contact Women’s Medical Associates of Nashville to help you understand infertility and the best treatment options for your family.