Understanding Infertility: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
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If you've been trying to conceive without success for over a year, infertility could be the culprit. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, 10% to 15% of couples in the United States struggle with infertility. Both men and women can be affected by infertility, which can be caused by a variety of factors including problems with ovulation, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, PCOS, premature menopause, fibroids, thyroid problems, pelvic inflammatory disease, irregular menstrual cycles, miscarriages, and low sperm count in men.
If you're concerned about infertility, seeking medical help is essential. At Pacific Fertility Center Los Angeles (PFCLA), our experienced fertility specialists provide personalized treatment options to help you start or grow your family. Infertility is ultimately treatable; there are several treatment options available for the condition.
When infertility is considered, our physicians typically order blood tests to check female patients’ ovarian reserve and look for abnormalities. Male patients will also go through blood tests, and a semen evaluation is usually required. Read on to learn more about the signs, symptoms, and how you can take action amid trying to conceive.
Timeline of Trying To Conceive and When To Go to a Doctor
A couple who has had unprotected sexual intercourse with the intent of conception for over 12 months without getting pregnant, should suspect the possibility of infertility and consult with a doctor.
Here Are Some Tips While Trying To Conceive:
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Limit caffeine intake
- Maintain regular exercise
- Reduce stress levels
- Take supplements such as prenatal vitamins
- Have sexual intercourse near ovulation
- Have sexual intercourse 2-3 times a week
- Screen for STDs
Ovulation Window
The fertility window is the five days leading up to ovulation, plus the day of ovulation and the day after ovulation. The window for ovulation is around 12 to 14 days before the start of a new menstrual cycle.
How To Track Ovulation
There are multiple applications and online calculators that you can use to track your period dates and ovulation windows. Tracking six or more periods is recommended to better predict the ovulation window, as your period can fluctuate from month to month. You can also use a predictor kit from a supermarket or pharmacy, to test your urine for signs of ovulation. If you start testing your urine a few days before the day you next expect to ovulate, a positive result means you are going to ovulate within the next 24 to 36 hours.
Learn about our Five Tips for Ovulation Tracking.
When To Be Concerned About Fertility
When you notice the signs of infertility, women should go to an OBGYN doctor for the first assessment. Men may see a urologist. After the first assessment is complete, then you can look for a Reproductive Endocrinologist that you feel comfortable with for further evaluation and treatments.
Signs of Infertility
Female Signs of Infertility:
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
- Painful or heavy periods
- No periods
- Symptoms of hormonal imbalance
- Painful sexual intercourse
Male Signs of Infertility:
- Problems with ejaculation
- Testicle pain or swelling
- Problems maintaining an erection
- Lack of sexual desire
- Small, firm testicles
Infertility Treatment Options
At Pacific Fertility Center Los Angeles (PFCLA), we offer a range of personalized treatment options for infertility. There is no one size fits all treatment and it's important to work closely with a fertility specialist to determine the most effective course of action per your situation. Our team of experienced fertility specialists utilizes the latest techniques and technologies to help our patients achieve their dream of starting or growing their families.
Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to our patients throughout their fertility journey. We understand that infertility can be a difficult and emotional experience, and we strive to make the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
If you are struggling with infertility, we encourage you to contact us today. We are here to help you achieve your goal of starting or growing your family.
Note: This is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Information provided is for general educational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. Speak to your doctor directly with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Any information contained herein does not replace any care plan as determined by a physician.
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