Motherhood is a dream that many women long to fulfill; however, for some, this path can be filled with unexpected obstacles. If you have been trying to get pregnant without success for a year or more, you are not alone. Female infertility is more common than you might think, and today we want to talk to you about this topic with empathy and hope.
Imagine for a moment that your body is like a garden. Sometimes, for reasons we don't always understand, the seeds don't bloom as we expect. But that doesn't mean your garden can't flourish; perhaps it just needs some special care.
Infertility can have many causes, ranging from hormonal factors to structural problems in the reproductive system; the important thing is to understand that each case is unique, just like each woman is unique.
Let's start by understanding, what is infertility?
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse. Although it can result from problems in the woman, the man, or both, we will focus on the causes and solutions specific to women.
It is important to remember that normal aging reduces a woman's ability to become pregnant. Starting at age 30, ovulation becomes slower and less effective, and pregnancy rates decline significantly after age 44.
Symptoms and causes of female infertility.
The main symptom of infertility is the difficulty in getting pregnant. However, there are other signs that may indicate problems:
Ovulation problems.
- Infrequent ovulation: If your period does not come every month, you might have infrequent ovulation. This can be caused by eating disorders, excessive physical training, rapid weight loss, low body weight, or even obesity.
- Hormonal abnormalities: Problems with the thyroid, pituitary, or adrenal glands, and polycystic ovary syndrome can interfere with egg release. Symptoms such as unexpected weight loss or gain, fatigue, excessive hair growth, or acne can suggest these issues.
Other causes.
- Ovarian cysts: These can cause pelvic pain and affect normal ovulation.
- Scarring in the fallopian tubes: It can prevent the egg from reaching the uterus, resulting from previous surgeries, ectopic pregnancies, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory diseases.
- Uterine abnormalities: Fibroid tumors, uterine polyps, and scar tissue can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain, affecting the ability to conceive.
Diagnosis of infertility.
Diagnosing female infertility involves a series of tests to determine if ovulation occurs regularly. Here are some common tests:
- Basal body temperature: Measuring your body temperature every morning can help detect a slight increase after ovulation.
- Ovulation prediction tests: These over-the-counter urine tests can predict egg release.
- Cervical mucus analysis: Changes in the consistency of cervical mucus can indicate ovulation.
Additionally, the doctor may perform physical exams and blood tests to confirm ovarian and hormonal function, and use procedures such as hysterosalpingography and ultrasound to examine the structure of the pelvic organs.
- Hysterosalpingography: This is a radiographic study in which a liquid dye is injected into the uterus. It reveals problems such as polyps and fibroid tumors in the uterus, and can also reveal a partial or total blockage of the fallopian tubes.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound reveals the shape and size of the uterus and provides information about the uterine cavity or lining. Ultrasound can identify the shape and size of the ovaries and the presence of developing cysts.
- Hysteroscopy and laparoscopy: These are surgical procedures performed by a gynecologist. In both procedures, a small video camera is used to visualize the pelvic organs.
Treatments:
The treatment of infertility depends on its cause, with some options including:
- Fertility medications: Drugs or hormone injections can stimulate ovulation.
- Surgical procedures: These may be necessary to remove cysts, polyps, or scar tissue that interferes with conception.
- Assisted reproductive techniques: Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are viable options for many couples. These techniques can help overcome physical and hormonal obstacles, allowing for conception.
Prevention and self-care.
Although not all causes of infertility are preventable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve your chances of conceiving.
- Moderate exercise: Avoid excessively intense exercises that could affect your menstrual cycle.
- Maintain a healthy weight: A BMI between 20 and 27 is ideal.
- Avoid smoking and limit caffeine: Both can negatively affect fertility.
- Healthy diet: Including plant proteins, whole grains, and full-fat dairy can be beneficial.
Female infertility can be an emotional and physical challenge, but with the right support and treatment, many women achieve their dream of becoming mothers.
The key is to stay informed, seek medical help when necessary, and adopt a lifestyle that promotes fertility. You are not alone on this journey; there are resources and professionals ready to support you every step of the way.
At Mater Clinic, we remind you that your worth as a woman is not defined by your ability to conceive. You are strong, resilient, and deserve all the love and support in the world as you navigate this challenge. The path may be different from what you imagined, but it can lead to an equally beautiful destination.
If you suspect that you might be dealing with fertility issues, don't hesitate to contact us. One of our specialists can guide you through the diagnostic process and discuss treatment options with you. Remember that at Mater Clinic, we always respond to all of your questions, and we are always willing to provide free consultations. Write to us on WhatsApp at 645 096 548 or you can book an appointment with us through Doctoralia or via your preferred contact method. We would be delighted to speak with you!
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