What is infertility?
A woman who has been trying consistently to become pregnant for 12 consecutive months but has been unable to conceive is considered infertile.
Women who are 35 years of age and older are considered infertile if they don’t become pregnant after 6 months of trying.
However, many women seek treatment after a few months of unsuccessful pregnancy attempts just to rule out potential underlying issues that could be interfering with conception.
What are the primary causes of infertility?
Fertility and conception can be affected by many factors, including illness and chronic stress. In women, the main causes of infertility include:
- Older age
- PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or other irregularities in ovulation
- Hormone disorders
- Uterine fibroids
- Structural issues with the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or uterine lining
- Scar tissue (adhesions) in the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
Infertility can also be a male problem, usually caused by problems with sperm production or motility. Some medical treatments can also interfere with fertility.
How is the cause of infertility determined?
The team at Austin Springs Women's Health uses advanced, state-of-the-art approaches to identify the cause of infertility, including:
- Blood tests
- Minimally-invasive diagnostic exams
- Ultrasound exams
- Genetic testing
Once the cause is determined, the team can provide tailored treatment options for you.
How is infertility treated?
Infertility treatment varies depending on the issue that’s interfering with conception.
In most patients, Austin Springs Women's Health begins by addressing issues like scar tissue, fibroids, or endometriosis, usually with minimally invasive procedures or medications designed to regulate and promote ovulation.
For women with PCOS, ovulation induction with special drugs can be very effective.
When these approaches aren’t effective, your provider may discuss other options like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
To learn more about treatments for infertility, call the office or book online today.
