Infertility is a common condition that many couples experience. The most prominent symptom of infertility is the inability to conceive while trying to become pregnant for at least a year. This may not be the only sign that you’re struggling with infertility.
First Fertility has fertility specialists across the country who can identify the causes of infertility and help you begin your journey to parenthood.
Symptoms of Infertility in Women
While the most common symptom of infertility is the inability to conceive after trying for a year, there are other signs that may indicate women may be experiencing infertility, such as:
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Irregular periods or no periods
- irregular ovulation or no signs of ovulation
These symptoms can be signs of hormone imbalances or other gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), that can come with a risk of infertility.
To identify potential causes of infertility, your fertility specialist may perform a pelvic exam and request hormone-level tests. If your fertility specialist needs more information, they may recommend imaging tests, like a transvaginal ultrasound or an x-ray called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). Another option your provider may recommend is laparoscopy, which allows your provider, via minimally invasive surgery, to look around your reproductive system with a small camera to look for potential structural issues that may impact fertility.
Symptoms of Infertility in Men
Trying to conceive a child for over a year is a symptom of infertility for both partners involved. It can be difficult to detect infertility in men since there are not many outward symptoms.
Symptoms men may notice that can be signs of infertility are penile disorders as well as difficulty ejaculating or difficulty achieving an erection. Your fertility specialist will review your medical history and perform hormone tests to determine what may be the cause of potential fertility issues. A semen analysis can help your fertility specialist check your sperm count and mobility.
Factors That Can Affect Fertility
There are many factors that can affect fertility for both partners, including:
- Excessive alcohol or drug use
- Chronic health conditions and treatments
- Over-exercising
- Environmental toxins like lead or pesticides
- Eating disorders
Your fertility specialist will review these factors, as well as any other lifestyle or genetic considerations, when diagnosing your fertility issues. We may recommend lifestyle or diet changes as well as other medical interventions to help you have the best possible chance of conceiving.
When Should I See a Fertility Specialist?
Fertility specialists recommend couples seek out fertility evaluations and treatment if they have not gotten pregnant after one year of regular intercourse without using birth control.
If you are over 35, that timeframe shrinks to six months. If you’re older than 40 years of age, schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist after three months of trying without success. Your fertility specialist can also conduct a fertility evaluation before you begin trying.
Discuss Your Symptoms With a Fertility Specialist
If you or your partner have been struggling to conceive and are experiencing any signs of infertility, our fertility specialists are here to help. We can help determine the cause of your infertility and create a treatment plan that’s personalized to your family goals.
Contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our First Fertility centers today.
