What is Infertility?

Infertility is the condition that is diagnosed when a couple is unable to conceive after a full year of unprotected sexual intercourse. If the woman is over age 35, infertility can be diagnosed after six months of unprotected sexual intercourse rather than a full year. Women who are under the age of 35 who have suffered several miscarriages may also be diagnosed with infertility. Infertility can be a very upsetting and frustrating issue, but patients who work closely with their OB/GYN can often overcome it and have a child.

Who is Likely to Suffer From Infertility?

Infertility appears to strike men and women about equally. There are also many cases where it is uncertain why infertility happens. There are a number of different risk factors for infertility. People over 35 are more likely to be infertile, and people who are overweight or obese are more commonly infertile than those who maintain a healthy weight. Other possible risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, endometriosis, and sexually transmitted disease.

What Are the Treatments for Infertility?

There are many different options for treating infertility today. The OB/GYN will often start by prescribing the least-invasive infertility solution first. The doctor may recommend that women closely track their fertile periods using ovulation predictor tests. The doctor may also recommend some lifestyle changes that can help a woman to conceive. Hormone therapy and ovulation induction are helpful for many patients who are otherwise unable to conceive today. There are also options like intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization, and egg donation. For women who are unable to have a child with the other methods, surrogacy may be a viable option. No matter what the cause of infertility, a patient who has an experienced and compassionate OB/GYN will be able to find a solution.