Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive a child after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. Infertility can be caused by various factors, including problems with ovulation, sperm quality, hormonal imbalances, and other medical conditions.
Infertility can be diagnosed through a series of tests and exams. For women, the tests may include pelvic exams, blood tests to check hormone levels, and imaging tests like ultrasound. For men, fertility tests may include semen analysis, genetic testing, and hormonal tests.
A fertility assessment includes a series of tests and exams to determine a patient’s suitability for fertility treatments. The tests may include ovulation testing, pelvic ultrasound, ovarian reserve testing, hormone testing, viral screening tests, and others. For men, the tests may include a general physical examination, semen analysis, hormonal testing, and viral screening tests.
Lifestyle changes that can help improve fertility health include maintaining a healthy diet and BMI, taking folic acid, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco.
Approximately 20-25% of patients with infertility have normal initial testing results, which is referred to as “unexplained infertility.” This may be due to an age-related decline in fertility. Further monitoring may help determine the underlying cause and treatment may be recommended.
The most common causes of infertility in women include problems with ovulation, hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Yes, a woman’s weight and body mass index (BMI) can affect her fertility. Being underweight or overweight can disrupt the normal ovulation process and affect fertility. Women with a BMI over 35 are considered to be at a higher risk of infertility.
There is no absolute age limit for fertility treatments, but success rates tend to decrease with age. Most fertility clinics do not offer treatments to women over the age of 45, as the chances of a successful pregnancy are low.