If you are experiencing fertility problems, you are not alone! Millions of women in the United States have difficulty conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to full term. Whereas most fertility difficulties stem from ovulation problems, there are numerous other potential causes of infertility as well. So, how do you unleash these causes?
University Reproductive Associates helps establish the underlying cause of infertility and suggests appropriate therapy. If you are wondering when to see a fertility specialist, here are some telltale signs to watch out for. Continue reading to learn more.
- You Have Suffered Multiple Miscarriages
A significant number of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. While these losses are hard to deal with, miscarriages do not reflect infertility. If you experience multiple miscarriages, you should consider seeking a consultation with a fertility expert to determine if an underlying condition is responsible for your losses. There are numerous potential causes of miscarriages, including genetic problems, anatomic issues, altered hormone levels, cervical infection, and more.
- You Are Diagnosed with Cancer
Cancer therapy can affect a woman’s ability to conceive based on her age, type of therapy, and dosage. Therefore, if you have recently received a cancer diagnosis, you should take proactive measures to preserve your fertility. However, if you have already undergone therapy, a fertility doctor can provide an assessment that helps determine if your fertility was affected.
- You Have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS, the most prevalent cause of female infertility, is a hormonal disorder that affects the ability of a woman to ovulate regularly. If a woman fails to ovulate regularly, it becomes hard to conceive. Some telltale signs of PCOS include irregular periods or no periods entirely, trouble getting pregnant, unexplained weight gain, and excessive hair growth. Therefore, if you suspect you might have this condition, see a fertility specialist.
- You Have Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that occurs once the tissue that typically lines the uterus develops elsewhere, such as in the fallopian tube, ovaries, and other pelvic areas. These growths cause complications like the blockage of the fallopian tubes, or the development of scar tissue that renders it hard to conceive. If you notice any warning signs of endometriosis, such as painful periods, pain during intercourse, and excessive bleeding, see a fertility specialist.
- You Are Above 40
Thanks to advancements in medical technology, it is now pretty safe to conceive after 40 years. However, some issues and risks might arise when attempting to get pregnant. Aging affects egg quality and quantity. The egg quality drop makes it more likely to suffer a miscarriage than in older women. Therefore, you should consider talking to a fertility specialist before trying to conceive to discuss the risks.
- You Have a Thyroid Condition
A huge percentage of women develop thyroid problems during their lifetimes. One of the most prevalent thyroid issues is an underactive thyroid, which results in hypothyroidism. Reduced thyroid hormone levels can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and even affect ovulation. Therefore, if you have an identified thyroid problem, it is important to see a fertility specialist. Your doctor can help you monitor your thyroid hormone levels to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy and a reduced risk of miscarriage.
Planning for pregnancy could be challenging. If you are ready for a child but are experiencing one or more of the issues highlighted above, you should consider visiting a fertility specialist. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause of your fertility problems and suggest the most suitable care plan.
In most cases, fertility problems are treatable with medications or surgery. However, if your doctor determines you are not eligible to carry a pregnancy, your doctor may suggest other alternatives, such as surrogacy.
