It is indeed a crippling process that many couples have to face, and definitely physically as well as emotionally exhausting. The problem can be understood better by looking into the underlying causes and the available treatment options for clear insight into individuals and couples. This article shall provide an in-depth guide in uncovering the most prevalent cause of infertility and will give an overview of the treatment options that help several couples conceive.
Infertility-What is It?
Generally, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse. A number of factors in either partner may cause infertility. While infertility may be depressing, fortunately, a variety of treatment options are available, ranging from medications to advanced reproductive technologies.
Common Causes of Infertility
A lot of factors can lead to infertility in both men and women. Here are some of the common causes:
1. Ovulation Disorders
Ovulation disorders are one of the top causes of infertility in women. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome or hypothyroidism may interfere with normal ovulation, thus making conception a little difficult. The treatment generally involves medications for the induction of ovulation, one common drug being Clomiphene Citrate.
2. Age
With time, fertility naturally decreases for women. Big declines in fertility due to low quality and quantity occur for women over 35 years. Whereas age-related infertility is more common in women, the fertility of men also declines with age – although less dramatically.
3. Tubal Blockages and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Blockage of the fallopian tube creates conditions whereby the egg cannot meet the sperm, hence causing infertility. Often, the setting of blocked tubes is usually due to PID, which is resultant from sexually transmitted infections. Such blockages, however, may need surgery depending on the severity.
4. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found outside the uterus. It may cause pain, inflammation, and scarring, which can affect fertility. It can be treated with medication to reduce symptoms or, in some cases, surgery to remove excessive tissue.
5. Male Factor Infertility
Infertility is not solely a woman’s problem; in approximately one-third of the cases, the causes are found in the man. Common causes include low sperm count, poor motility, and abnormal morphology. Treatments range from medical to life-style adjustments, including advanced reproductive techniques like IUI and IVF.
Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact on Fertility
Certain lifestyle factors can significantly impact fertility. These factors involve tobacco use, excessive alcohol intake, excess fat, and stress. Evidently, lifestyle modifications can have a beneficial effect on the general health of an individual and, in this regard, can help improve fertility as well.
Infertility Treatment Options
Treatment options are available, which depend on the causes. Below are some of the most commonly used treatments:
1. Medication
Other medicines, such as Clomiphene Citrate and Letrozole, can be prescribed to women with ovulatory disorders in order to stimulate ovulation. Drugs can be administered to men to enhance the quality and quantity of sperm production.
2. Surgery
Surgery can correct physical issues that may interfere with fertility. For instance, surgery can remove fibroids, treat endometriosis, or repair damaged fallopian tubes. Varicoceles affecting sperm production in men can also be treated through surgery.
3. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Assisted reproductive technologies, or ART, are effective when other treatments have not worked. The two most common ART procedures are:
- Intrauterine Insemination: This is a procedure in which sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. It’s often used in cases of mild issues regarding sperm count or motility.
- In Vitro Fertilization: It is the procedure in which the egg is collected from the ovaries and then allowed to be fertilized with the sperm in the laboratory. The embryo formed is then placed in the uterus. IVF is usually used when all other forms of treatment have failed or in severe cases of infertility.
4. Lifestyle Modifications and Counseling
In cases where lifestyle factors are believed to be contributing to infertility, positive change through measures such as the adoption of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lessening of stress can result in positive effects. Positive results could also be achieved by counseling couples on ways of managing the emotional stress associated with infertility.
When to Seek Help
You can consult a doctor if one has been trying for over a year and still fails to conceive. However, if the woman is above the age of 35 years, one can seek help even after trying for six months. A fertility specialist is going to diagnose the cause of infertility and recommend the best treatment options available.
Although the prospect of infertility may be daunting, some couples find their way through with a little help to understand common causes and treatment options. Many couples, through the advances in medicine and reproductive technology today, are able to overcome the inability to conceive and make their dream of parenthood come true.
