I was 35 when I had my first baby. It took me two years to get pregnant. The second one at 38 took me 5 months to get pregnant and with the third one at 41 years old I got pregnant on the first try. The last one resulted in the easiest birth (at home in a big warm tub), the biggest baby at 9lbs 4oz and the quickest recovery. Each time I got healthier and saw how much control I had over the outcome. I became fascinated with fertility and love to help when people are having trouble getting pregnant.
Infertility IS NOT Just a Female Issue
Many people assume infertility is mostly a female issue, but that’s not true. Male and female infertility rates are nearly the same. About 35% of infertility cases are due to male factors, another 35% are due to female factors, and the remaining 30% involve both partners or are unexplained.
If you’re struggling to conceive, understanding the causes and signs of infertility in both men and women can help you take the next steps.
What Is Female Infertility?
Female infertility means a woman has trouble getting or staying pregnant. This can be due to hormonal imbalances, structural issues, or underlying health conditions.
Common Causes:
- Ovulation Disorders: Conditions like PCOS or thyroid imbalances can prevent egg release.
- Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Often caused by infections, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Uterine Abnormalities: Fibroids or scar tissue can interfere with implantation.
- Age-Related Decline: Egg quantity and quality decrease with age.
Signs to Watch For:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pain during intercourse
- Unexplained weight gain or hair growth (hormonal imbalance)
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility occurs when sperm quantity, quality, or function is impaired. This can be due to lifestyle factors, medical conditions, or genetic issues.
Common Causes:
- Low Sperm Count: Fewer sperm lower the chances of fertilization.
- Poor Sperm Motility: Sperm must swim effectively to reach the egg.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone or other hormone disruptions affect sperm production.
- Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the testicles can reduce sperm quality.
Signs to Watch For:
- Low libido or erectile dysfunction
- Testicular pain or swelling
- Difficulty maintaining an erection
- Changes in body hair or muscle mass
How to Identify Fertility Issues
If pregnancy hasn’t happened after a year of trying (or six months if over 35), it’s time to check fertility health. Testing options include:
- For Women: Blood tests (hormones), ultrasounds, and ovulation tracking
- For Men: Semen analysis, hormone tests, and physical exams
Lifestyle factors like diet, stress, smoking, and alcohol use also impact fertility. Addressing these can improve reproductive health.
Final Thoughts
Infertility is not just a female issue—both men and women contribute equally. Recognizing the signs and seeking medical advice early can make a difference. If you’re facing challenges, talk to a doctor to explore testing and treatment options.
You’re not alone, and there is hope.