Infertility
While it is a blessing to be a mother do not fret if you are not able to get pregnant. These days a myriad of technologies are available which can help you full fill your desire
Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant after having regular unprotected contact. Almost 15 % of the couples have fertility issues. Either or both partners may have fertility issues.
The common causes of infertility are
FEMALE CAUSES
- PCOD – a condition in which there is a hormonal imbalance resulting in anovulation, that is the egg is not released resulting in infertility. There may be other symptoms of PCOS as well and this may require proper treatment in terms of diet, regular exercise, ovulation inducing agents.
- GENITAL TUBERCULOSIS – genital tuberculosis results in blocked fallopian tubes and poor growth of the endometrium. Often, it is first diagnosed when the patient comes with the inability to conceive.
- ENDOMETRIOSIS – endometriosis is a condition where the endometrial tissue is found outside the endometrium. It often causes intense pain in the periods, pain during intercourse, altered menstrual cycle etc.
- HYPERPROLACTINEMIA – increased prolactin levels don’t allow pregnancy
- THYROID PROBLEMS – hypothyroid or hyperthyroid can cause fertility issues and require proper treatment
- POOR OVARIAN RESERVE – age more than 35 causes a decline in the quality of eggs reducing the chances of pregnancy. Sometimes premature ovarian failure, a condition in which the ovaries stop functioning before the age of 40 can also be responsible for infertility.
- PREVIOUS PELVIC SURGERY – this may result in intense adhesions, scarring etc which can cause blocked tubes, decreased ovarian reserve etc.
- FIBROIDS AND POLYPS – can cause infertility and may require surgery
- BLOCKED TUBES DUE TO PID – sometimes a chronic pelvis infection can result in blocked tubes and this may require surgery or other fertility treatment.
MALE CAUSES
- Low sperm count due to undescended testes, genetic defects, childhood mumps, gonorrhea or medical conditions like diabetes can cause low sperm count
- Problems with delivery of sperm due to premature ejaculation, infrequent sexual contact genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis etc can cause blockage of the male reproductive organs
- Environmental toxins like cigarette smoking, hot saunas, alcohol, certain medications etc can cause an issue with fertility
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO IMPROVE FERTILITY
- Diet – give up junk food! Have a diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
- Exercise – regular moderate exercise helps !
- Maintain optimum weight – both underweight and excess weight can cause problems!
- Reduce stress – stop thinking about infertility constantly. While you should try for a baby do not make it the sole reason of your life. Stress infertility is a known cause for fertility issues.
- Stop smoking
- Stop alcohol
- Fertility window – you can track your ovulation. Make sure to have intercourse around your ovulation
WHEN TO CONTACT A DOCTOR
- If you have been unable to get pregnant after 1 year of unprotected intercourse
- If you are over 35 and have been unable to conceive after 6 months of trying
- If you are a known case of endometriosis, genital tuberculosis it is better to seek help early
- If you have any problem with your menstrual cycle etc
WHAT TO EXPECT
The doctor will take a detailed history, do a comprehensive physical examination and order investigations based on this assessment.
