Infertility is a real issue that many men and woman face. Around 6% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 struggle with infertility in the US alone. 12% of women between 15 and 44 struggle with getting pregnant and carrying a pregnancy to full-term.
What is Infertility?
Infertility is when a couple is unable to get pregnant after at least a full year of trying. For women over 35 it’s a rate of six months without success of pregnancy. When a woman continues having miscarriages it is also considered infertility. Female infertility results from physical issues, hormone imbalances, age, environmental factors, and lifestyle.
Causes of Infertility?
A majority of female infertility is a result of problems with egg production. Primary ovarian insufficiency occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop functioning before natural menopause happens. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a woman’s ovaries might not release an egg regularly as they should, or they may not be releasing healthy eggs.
A third of the time, infertility is because of an issue with the woman. On the other hand, a third of the time there is an issue with the man. In some unfortunate cases a cause cannot be found.
If you think that there’s a possibility that you or your lover are dealing with infertility issues, see a doctor and they can run some tests to find out IF there is an infertility issue and if so, how to best deal with it.
Infertility Treatments
Once you have had some tests run and it’s possible to figure out the cause of infertility, your doctor will search for the best treatments for your issue. The good news is that if they find the cause and the treatments are effective, there is a possibility that the infertility issue will subside and you may be able to get pregnant.
In some situations there may be a need for surgery. Unfortunately, there is always the possibility that the cause of infertility remains unknown which means there is no security in the treatments offered. Technology and knowledge have expanded so much that the options are more readily available and scientists and doctors are learning more about how to help.
Whatever you do, don’t lose hope! There are options including adoption. We know it’s not the same but it is a choice that’s available. Keep trying and if you’re not happy with the results remember, it’s a good idea to get a second and third opinion. Having a new set of eyes and a fresh mind can bring about different ideas.
