If you have been trying to get pregnant for over a year without success, you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 10 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 44 struggle with fertility problems.
Fertility issues can occur in both men and women. For men, infertility can be caused by sperm abnormalities or low/no sperm production. Overall health and lifestyle – such as smoking, drug use, and health problems – can affect sperm production.
The main cause of fertility problems in women stems from ovulation. If eggs are not being released, the woman is not ovulating normally. Ovulation issues can be caused by a hormone imbalance, known as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Other reasons for infertility can be blocked fallopian tubes and uterine issues. As with men, health and lifestyle can affect a woman’s fertility. Stress, poor diet, weight, and other factors can have an affect on ovulation and fertility.
Age also plays a factor in fertility. As a woman ages, it becomes more difficult for her to become pregnant due to the number and health of eggs. In fact, about one third of women over age 35 face fertility issues.
Those facing fertility issues have many options. The first step would be an evaluation, which would include physical examination, semen/sperm analysis, ovulation check, and other standard tests. It’s important to remember that infertility can be caused by more than one factor and sometimes the cause cannot be identified. When fertility treatment is recommended, your physician should discuss the options, success rates, and cost.
To learn more about improving your chances of getting pregnant, fertility testing, and treatment options, visit our Infertility page or contact a Capital Women’s Care provider.
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