Infertility Specialist

What is infertility?

Infertility affects the male or female reproductive system and is defined as the inability to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, timed, unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility falls under two categories: primary or secondary. Primary infertility happens when a person has never achieved a pregnancy. Secondary infertility happens when a person has achieved at least one prior pregnancy.

There may be no obvious symptoms of infertility besides not getting pregnant. Some women with infertility experience irregular or absent menstrual periods, while some men with infertility experience signs of hormonal problems, such as changes in sexual function.

Most couples can usually get pregnant, either with or without fertility treatment.

What causes infertility?

In women, infertility can be caused by:

• Blocked fallopian tubes caused by untreated sexually transmitted diseases or pelvic/abdominal surgery
• Uterine disorders, such as fibroids or endometriosis
• Ovarian disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome
• Reproductive cancers
• Endocrine system disorders causing reproductive hormone imbalances
• Early menopause

In men, infertility can be caused by:

• Obstruction of the reproductive tract
• Hormonal disorders
• Varicoceles in the testicles
• Reproductive cancers
• Abnormal sperm function and quality
• Overexposure to environmental toxins

When should I see a doctor for infertility?

If you haven’t gotten pregnant within a year of unprotected intercourse, it’s recommended you talk to your health care provider. However, you may want to see them earlier if you:

• Are over age 35 and have been trying to conceive for six months or longer
• Are over age 40
• Have irregular, painful, or absent periods
• Have known fertility problems
• Have endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
• Have had multiple miscarriages
• Have had cancer treatments

Your partner may want to reach out to a doctor if they have:

• An abnormal or low sperm count
• Cancer treatments
• A history of testicular or sexual problems
• Swelling in the scrotum

Assisted-reproductive technology has helped millions of couples get pregnant. This includes treatment, such as intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilization. There are many options available for couples struggling with infertility.

If you’re interested in finding out about your options for infertility, call our office today or schedule online. One of our providers will be happy to help you.