Infertility

What is infertility?

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 globally.

There are two main categories of infertility:

Primary Infertility

• This refers to couples who have never had a successful pregnancy before. The causes vary widely but often include:
  
  
  • Abnormalities or blockages in the reproductive organs
  
  
  • Hormonal imbalances
  
  
  • Poor sperm health or low sperm count in men
  
  
  • Age factors
  
  

Secondary Infertility

• This refers to difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a second or subsequent pregnancy to term, despite having had at least one previous pregnancy.

Infertility can originate from either the male or female partner, or even both in some cases. Common causes include:

• Ovulation disorders in women


• Poor sperm quality or low sperm count in men


• Damage to fallopian tubes or cervix


• Uterine fibroids or endometriosis


• Prior tubal ligation or vasectomy

After trying for a year without success, it's recommended to schedule an infertility evaluation with your healthcare provider. They can run tests to pinpoint any issues, such as:

• Hormone level tests


• Ovulation prediction


• Pelvic exam


• Hysterosalpingography

Depending on test results, treatment options include:

• Timed intercourse


• Ovulation induction medications


• Artificial insemination


• Surgery to repair reproductive organs


• Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF

The good news is infertility treatment options and success rates have improved dramatically over the past decades. Newer clinics like Harmony Hormone Center offer cutting-edge fertility solutions tailored to each couple's specific reproductive needs and targets. Their high-tech IVF lab and innovative wellness programs can help maximize your chances, whether trying natural conception or assisted reproduction.

I highly recommend having an open dialogue with your doctor if you suspect fertility issues. Be your own best health advocate! With today's holistic solutions, parenthood may be closer than you imagined.