Infertility Overview

Infertility is not being able to get pregnant after a year of trying. Many factors that can lead to infertility are linked to either one partner or both partners. The human reproductive system is complex. In order for pregnancy to occur, the timing of ovulation and fertilization is important. Ovulation takes place every month. It is when the woman's brain sends follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) to the ovaries. The ovary then lets go of an egg. This is the time when a woman is most likely able to get pregnant. It occurs around day 14 of her menstrual cycle. The egg then moves to the fallopian tube where it stays for about 24 hours. This is the best time for a couple to have sexual intercourse. Here, the man's sperm must enter the egg for fertilization to happen. If the egg is fertilized, it will travel to the uterus, stick to the lining, and start to grow.

Female infertility is most commonly caused by low amounts of hormones and damage to the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or the uterus. Signs of infertility include irregular periods and pain during your period or sexual intercourse. Non-surgical treatment options for women are fertility drugs and assisted reproductive technology (ART). Fertility drugs are used for women with ovulation disorders. Some of these drugs include: oral Clomiphene citrate (Clomid®, Serophene®), injectable hormones, injectable gonadotropins, and oral Bromocriptine (Parlodel®).

Male fertility requires having the right structure and amount of sperm. The man must also be able to have an erection for the sperm to enter the vagina. Male infertility may be caused by genetics, medications, or medical conditions related to hormones. Signs of hormonal problems include changes in voice or hair growth, growth of breasts, and sexual dysfunction. The treatment for men is usually surgery or medications.

Living with Infertility

• Injectable fertility drugs may cause multiple births. Multiple births can result in premature labor and low birth weight. It can also increase the risk of health and developmental problems.
• Dealing with infertility can be hard. It is helpful to have a good support system and to consider your options.

Being educated about your treatment is important so that you can finish with good results. To learn more about infertility, please visit: http://www.4woman.gov/faq/infertility.htm

Healthy Pointers:

• Eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly.
• Do not drink alcohol. Do not smoke or do other drugs. They have been known to increase the risk of infertility.
• Learn how to manage your stress.

Questions? Call us at 1.888.282.5166 or email us.

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