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Common Infertility Issues Explained
Author: Angela Heidt
Did you know that one in five couples encounter fertility issues when they try to conceive? Don’t be scared by those numbers; just be aware. Many couples successfully overcome fertility issues and have beautiful, healthy babies. Being informed of the types of infertility issues that are out there can help you relax and take it one day (or cycle) at a time.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
This syndrome can affect up to 10% of women who are of childbearing age and involves an overproduction of insulin, which causes a host of problems from weight gain to ovulation issues. While suffering from PCOS, women may have irregular periods or no periods at all, as well as no ovulation as the egg never properly matures. Treatment for PCOS includes administering shots of Gonadotropin as well as taking clomiphene.
Luteal Phase Defect (LPD)
A woman’s Luteal Phase is the time of their cycle directly following ovulation up to the day before their next period begins. The average Luteal Phase is 14 days, although it can easily range from 10 to 16 days. Your luteal phase is the optimal time for getting pregnant, and those with a Luteal Phase Defect (LPD) have a luteal phase that is shorter than 10 days. The reason why this causes infertility is that it doesn’t give the fertilized egg enough time to embed in the uterine lining, and it also increases the chance of miscarriage. LPD can be treated with natural progesterone and vitamin B6. If this does not help then your doctor may prescribe progesterone and clomid.
Sperm Health
Fertility is a two-sided equation, and both parties have to be decently fertile for it to work. In fact, men’s fertility issues are just as likely to cause difficulty as women’s. Here are a few common men’s fertility issues:
- Oligiospermia: Indicates a low sperm count. Home testing kits are available if the couple believes this may be a problem. Depending on the root cause, a low sperm count may be able to be improved with supplements, good diet, regular exercise, and a change in sexual activity.
- Azoospermia: Occurs when no sperm is being produced, or they aren’t evident in the semen. It can be caused by a blockage or hormonal imbalance. In either case, medical intervention may be required to either clear the blockage or improve the hormonal imbalance.
- Sperm Morphology: Issues relating to the size and shape of the sperm. This can be caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits such as alcohol and fatty foods. Generally, improving overall health can improve morphology, or prescriptions drugs may be prescribed.
- Sperm Motility: Slow moving sperm will not be able to reach the egg, so sperm with poor motility can affect your ability to conceive. Studies have indicated that increasing L-Carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine (mostly found in lean red meats) can improve motility, as well as hormone treatment.
Final Thoughts
For some, getting pregnant will be a walk in the park, while for others it may be a long and daunting road. Try not to become discouraged if you encounter fertility issues; today’s medical advancements have made huge strides in overcoming nearly all fertility problems. Keep a positive attitude and remember what you are working towards – it’s absolutely worth it.
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