The cause of infertility may be difficult to determine but may include inadequate levels of certain hormones in both men and women, and trouble with ovulation in women.
The main symptom is an inability to get pregnant. In many cases, there are no additional symptoms.
Many treatments significantly improve the chances of getting pregnant. They include hormone treatments, fertility drugs and surgery. In addition, assisted reproduction uses various medical techniques to fertilise an egg.
What are signs of infertility?
The main sign of infertility is being unable to get pregnant after six months or one year of regular, unprotected sex. You may not have any other symptoms. But some people may show physical symptoms such as:
- Pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Irregular vaginal bleeding, irregular periods or no periods.
- Penile disorders or issues with ejaculation.
Common causes of infertility include:
- lack of regular ovulation (the monthly release of an egg)
- poor quality semen.
- blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.
- endometriosis – where tissue that behaves like the lining of the womb (the endometrium) is found outside the womb.
Reducing Your Risk of Infertility
- Maintain a normal body weight. Weighing too much or too little can not only put your health at risk, but also can diminish your fertility.
- Exercise. …
- Don’t smoke. …
- Never have unprotected sex. …
- When you’re ready to have children, don’t delay. …
- Stay informed.
