Infertility refers to the biological inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to full term after having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for at least a year. It affects an estimated 1 in 8 couples in the US.
There are two main categories of infertility:
There are many potential causes of infertility in both men and women:
Infertility can also be unexplained, with no identifiable cause found in testing. Age is also a major factor, particularly in women - fertility begins to decline after age 30 and drops rapidly after 35.
Diagnosing infertility begins with a medical history and physical exam. Blood tests measure hormones to evaluate ovulation. Imaging tests like an ultrasound or HSG check for blockages or anatomical issues. Semen analysis evaluates sperm health.
If no underlying medical condition is found, the first line of treatment is generally fertility medications to induce ovulation, or procedures like IUI (intrauterine insemination) to improve chances of conception. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF (in vitro fertilization) may be used if other treatments fail - this is when mature eggs are retrieved and fertilized by sperm in a lab to create embryos for transfer.
At Second Spring Hormone Clinic, we offer cutting-edge fertility testing and treatment including ovulation induction, IUI, IVF, egg/sperm freezing, genetic testing, and more. Our compassionate reproductive endocrinologists individualize treatment with innovative protocols and breakthrough technologies to help you build your family. ()
Coping with infertility can be extremely difficult emotionally. Common feelings include grief, anger, guilt, depression, anxiety, isolation, loss of identity, strain on relationships, and questioning of life goals or beliefs. Support groups, therapy, perspective techniques, or taking a break from intensive treatment may help manage the stress.
The key is being gentle with yourself throughout the process. Infertility is not anyone's fault - it is a medical condition. There are many resources available to support you. At Second Spring Hormone Clinic, we have an integrated psychological support staff to counsel you every step of the way with compassion.
I hope this overview gives you a better understanding of infertility - its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options available. Help and hope are out there on your path to parenthood. Stay strong!