What is infertility? Learn how to determine if you need to seek help from a specialist.
Infertility refers to the biological inability of a man or a woman to conceive. Infertility may also refer to the state of a woman who is unable to carry a pregnancy to full term.
If a couple has not been able to conceive a child after six to 12 months of frequent sexual intercourse without using any birth control, they are considered infertile. It’s estimated that approximately 15 percent to 20 percent of couples in the United States are infertile. You’re not alone and there are many treatments that are now available to help couples going through infertility. In-Vitro Fertilization or IVF is a popular treatment. To date there have been over three million births around the world from In-Vitro Fertilization procedures since it became available in 1978.
When should I check with a fertility specialist?
You should check with fertility specialists such as those at CARE fertility:
- If you are under 35 years of age and have been actively attempting to conceive for more than one year without success.
- If you are over 35 and have been actively attempting to conceive for six months without success.
In addition, you should consult a specialist if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Blocked Fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
- Failed to conceive after three to six months of taking Clomid or Femara4
- Genetic Concerns
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Low sperm count
- Multiple miscarriages
- Ovarian Cysts
- Ovulatory problems
- Pelvic adhesions
- Uterine fibroids
If you suspect that you may be infertile, it’s always advisable to check with a fertility specialist.
Is infertility curable?
Infertility can be temporary, mainly because many of the conditions that cause infertility can be corrected. We recommend that both male and female partners be tested for infertility because in about 40 percent of the cases, the infertility is due to male factor (such as low sperm counts); in about 40 percent, the problem occurs in the female partner. The remaining cases of infertility are those of unexplained infertility, where no known cause is found.
At CARE Fertility, we’re committed to helping you overcome infertility. We offer a first free consultation with one of our board certified fertility specialists to help you determine what is the best treatment for you.