Infertility Q & A
What is infertility?
Infertility is a complication that can happen on the part of either partner who is trying to conceive. The definition of infertility is the inability to conceive successfully within 12 months of trying. If you’re over 35 and have been trying to conceive without success for six months or longer, you should get an infertility evaluation.
When you come to Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology for an infertility evaluation, the team takes a detailed medical history before performing a physical exam to explore possible causes behind your infertility.
They ask questions about any symptoms, especially menstrual symptoms, that could offer more information. They also ask about your habits and lifestyle, which might point to additional clues.
What causes infertility?
The exceptional team at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology considers every possible avenue when it comes to finding the cause or causes of your infertility. Certain medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and aging can all affect your fertility.
Some of the most common causes of infertility in women are:
- Endometriosis
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Tobacco or excessive alcohol use
- Infrequent ovulation
- Hypothalamus dysfunction
- Prolactin overproduction
- Age or menopause
Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology offers advanced testing, like imaging tests and hormone testing, to find answers about what’s causing your infertility. It’s also possible that you’re struggling to conceive because of your partner, such as having a low sperm count or poor motility.
How is infertility treated?
Fortunately, advancements in fertility medicine can offer you the possibility of getting pregnant in the majority of circumstances. There are three categories of fertility treatment that the experts at Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology can talk to you about:
Fertility medications
Fertility medications are drugs that regulate or trigger the ovulation cycle. They work by influencing the hormones responsible for ovulation, like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone.
Surgical options
Structural issues within the reproductive system can affect your fertility, such as uterine polyps or adhesions. Laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgeries, which are minimally invasive, can remove the obstructions.
In vitro fertilization (IVF)
IVF involves fertilization in a lab. Your provider then transfers the embryo into your uterus. Leading up to this, you need to take hormone injections and have frequent blood tests.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
Around the time of ovulation, your provider places millions of healthy sperm directly into your uterus.
Infertility can be a challenge to overcome, but plenty of fertility treatments make it more possible for you to conceive. For infertility testing and treatment, call Heartfelt Obstetrics And Gynecology at (541) 205-6890, or request a consultation online today.