Infertility

What is Infertility?

You’re going through infertility if you can't conceive despite having frequent, unprotected intercourse for at least a year. Infertility may be traced to you, your partner or a combination of factors.

While the obvious symptom of infertility is an inability to conceive, many women might notice an irregular or absent menstruation, hormonal problems, and changes in hair growth or sexual function.

What Causes Infertility?

There are numerous causes or contributing factors of infertility, including:

• Abnormal sperm production or function in men
• Damage related to cancer and cancer treatments
• Overexposure to certain environmental factors, such as pesticides and chemicals
• Endometriosis — when the tissue that typically lines a woman’s uterus grows elsewhere
• Other medical conditions and complications, such as hormonal disorders and autoimmune diseases
• Blockage or damage of the fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, and uterine or cervical abnormalities in women
• Primary ovarian insufficiency in women — when the ovaries stop working and menstruation ends early, such as before age 40

What are the Risk Factors for Infertility?

The risk factors for infertility are similar for men and women and include:

• Aging
• Tobacco use
• Excess alcohol use
• Obesity and excess body weight

What are the Different Types of Infertility Testing?

Before testing and treatment, your doctor works to understand your sexual habits and makes recommendations. Numerous tests are available, including a general physical exam and an examination of your genital area.

Specific fertility tests include:

• Genetic testing
• Semen analysis
• Hormone testing
• Testicular biopsy
• Ovulation testing
• Ovarian reserve testing
• Sonohysterography to view the uterus
• Hysteroscopy to look inside the uterus
• Imaging studies, such as an MRI, X-ray, or a pelvic ultrasound

In some cases, more extensive infertility testing might be necessary, such as a laparoscopy.

What are the Treatments for Infertility?

The right treatment for infertility depends on what’s causing your infertility, how long you’ve been infertile, your age, and other factors. Treatments for infertility include:

• Surgery
• Sperm retrieval
• Altering lifestyle factors
• Intrauterine insemination
• Medications and fertility drugs

Many couples can eventually conceive with or without treatment. Some people might be able to get pregnant through assisted reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

If you’re struggling with infertility, visit the Louisiana Women’s Healthcare Specialists.