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Couples can be frustrated when they fail to get pregnant. Aging and the woman’s physical health are some of the factors your provider may assess. Sometimes a South Charleston fertility evaluation may not find the factors causing infertility. Here is what you need to know about infertility to help you maintain your reproductive health in good shape.
What causes infertility?
The primary factor for infertility in women is age. Couples in their 20s and 30s have a 30% chance of conceiving. The number starts to rapidly decline once the woman is over age 37.
The man’s ability to produce healthy sperm can also decline with age. However, their fertility can vary considerably and is also influenced by other factors.
Lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking, and dietary choices can influence a man’s ability to produce healthy sperm. But most men can regain their fertility by making lifestyle adjustments.
Women can have problems getting pregnant if they are overweight or underweight. Hormonal imbalances may also affect your chances of conceiving.
Cervical abnormalities may affect a woman’s ability to conceive. The shape of the uterus can occur due to a growth in the uterine wall. The tumor may block the fallopian tube, which reduces the chances of getting pregnant.
What health conditions can cause infertility?
Some health conditions could be influencing a woman’s ability to get pregnant. That may include conditions that cause hormonal imbalances. There could also be scarring of the fallopian tube.
Thyroid problems can also cause infertility in women. Diminishing levels of the thyroid hormone interfere with ovulation. It prevents the release of the egg from the ovary during your menstrual cycle.
Endometriosis is another condition that often leads to infertility. It happens when the endometrial tissue begins growing outside the uterus. The endometrial tissue may spread to the fallopian tube, causing a blockage that prevents the release of the egg.
Another factor is primary ovarian insufficiency. It refers to a process where the ovaries fail to function before age 40. Primary ovarian insufficiency may be triggered by genetic problems or exposure to radiation during cancer treatment.
What to expect from fertility evaluation
If you are having problems conceiving, you should consider fertility evaluation. Women under 35 can expect to get pregnant within the first year of trying. If you are over 40, you may want to visit a fertility clinic since your chances of conceiving are low.
You can expect your healthcare provider to run several tests during your fertility evaluation. A blood test can check your prolactin levels and determine if you are ovulating. It can also determine if you have a thyroid condition which can affect your ability to conceive.
Depending on the initial evaluation, your provider may request other tests. An ultrasound is a non-invasive technique for checking the tissues within the uterus. It provides detailed images that can detect scarring.
Fertility evaluation may also involve laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, and hysterosalpingography to check for abnormalities. Your provider will discuss the most viable options after the tests. Partners should consider attending the fertility evaluation together.
Call Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc., to schedule an appointment to learn more about how to keep your reproductive health in top condition.
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