How Do I Know if I Am Infertile?
Dealing with infertility – a situation that many women find challenging! Overwhelmed with questions – how did this happen to me, why me, what if it doesn’t work out, if it doesn’t happen, when will I be able to conceive – these thoughts frequently weigh heavily on the mind of most women!
Every woman, regardless of her physical ability to conceive, can never be considered “infertile”. The mere desire to have a baby empowers a woman in every aspect!
Let’s explore the physical aspect of “infertility” and address the pressing questions surrounding it – how, why, and when?
So, how can I determine if I have fertility issues?
Attempting to conceive through unprotected, frequent sexual relations for a minimum of eight months to a year without result is known as infertility.
What causes infertility?
Factors that contribute to infertility in women include ageing (particularly beyond the age of 35), having a medical condition that prevents ovulation, having a hormonal imbalance, or being born with a reproductive system defect, damaged fallopian tube, family history of infertility, poor egg quality, PCOS,
In recent years, the rates of infertility have been on the rise due to the prevalence of unhealthy habits such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and leading sedentary and stressful lifestyles. Medical conditions like endometriosis, obesity, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts are some of the factors that may also contribute to infertility.
Many young women often approach me seeking guidance on tests to identify infertility and its treatment. Here’s what you need to know –
Consult with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will require a comprehensive understanding of your medical history, including details about your
- menstrual cycles such as duration and the level of bleeding.
- Previous pregnancies, including miscarriages.
- Experiencing discomfort in the pelvic region.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.
- Previous abdominal or pelvic surgeries.
- History of uterine or vaginal infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Your doctor may also recommend a series of blood tests, including hormonal tests, a transvaginal ultrasound, and specific tests that are typically performed during menstruation. Getting all the test reports verified by a certified doctor is crucial to accurately understand the results. It is advisable to refrain from searching for the results of your tests online, as this can often lead to incorrect conclusions and incomplete or misleading diagnoses.
I am aware that I require treatment for infertility; however, what should I do?
It is advisable to prepare for an early pregnancy if you know that you have a family history of health problems like diabetes, hypertension, or early menopause. This applies to both male and female infertility.
If your doctor has recommended advanced treatment options like IUI or IVF, it is important to carefully plan your treatment after conducting thorough research and considering joining support groups. Support groups can assist you in making informed decisions regarding selecting a suitable doctor for advanced treatments like IVF and IUI. This will assist you in making well-informed decisions regarding your treatment.
What should I anticipate if I experience infertility?
The prognosis for female infertility varies depending on the individual and the root cause of the condition. When the cause of infertility is related to ovulatory disorders or abnormalities in structure that can be treated, the outcome tends to be quite positive. Certain reproductive conditions, such as uterine factor infertility, pose greater challenges in terms of treatment.
Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your family history, risk factors, and any underlying medical conditions to gain a better understanding of your prospects for a successful pregnancy.
Is it possible to prevent female infertility?
Most types of female infertility are difficult to predict or prevent. Nevertheless, it is possible to mitigate certain risk factors associated with infertility through lifestyle adjustments, like good diet, healthy weight, good sleep, quit smoking etc.
Regularly visiting your healthcare provider and discussing any other risks of infertility is crucial. It is advisable to make regular appointments with a gynaecologist after you start being sexually active. This will enable your healthcare provider to identify any potential conditions that could impact your fertility down the line.
Dealing with infertility can be stressful. Consulting with a healthcare expert can assist in identifying the underlying cause and developing an appropriate treatment plan. Keep a positive mindset. With the appropriate care, the majority of people can become pregnant.
Remember – “You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.” — Margaret Thatcher
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