Fertility Problem
Could I have a fertility problem?
If you’re under 35 and have been trying to get pregnant for less than a year (or fewer than six months if you’re over 35), you have no reason to be concerned yet. To make sure you’re doing all you can to enhance your chances of getting pregnant, see our articles on the importance of timing intercourse, detecting ovulation, and tracking your basal body temperature and cervical mucus.
If you’re under 35 and have had frequent unprotected sex for more than a year (or at least six months if you’re over 35) without conceiving, there’s a good chance you or your partner may have a condition that’s interfering with your chances of conceiving — but only a doctor can diagnose a fertility problem for sure. Researchers estimate that as many as one in ten couples has trouble getting pregnant. If you’re one of them, that doesn’t mean you’ll never have children. Many struggling couples (some estimate 50 percent) go on to have children, but they often need extra time or medical intervention to get pregnant. Read on to learn more about conditions that can lead to impaired fertility.
What factors are linked to fertility problems?
If any of the following conditions or activities applies to you or your partner, tell your doctor. Waiting a full six months or a year to try to conceive naturally may be a waste of your time.
For women:
A history of:
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Blocked fallopian tubes from an infection or previous surgery
• Sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
• Painful or irregular periods
• Excessive facial and body hair
• Pelvic or abdominal surgery
• DES exposure in utero (a drug given to pregnant women between 1941 to 1971 to prevent miscarriages)
• Chronic illness such as diabetes, cancer, or thyroid disease
Or if you currently:
• Smoke
• Are more than 25 percent under- or overweight
For men:
A history of:
• Infection with the mumps virus after puberty
• Chronic illness such as diabetes, cancer, or thyroid disease
• Undescended testicles
• Testicular tumors, cysts or cancer, varicoceles
Or if you currently:
• Take medications such as some steroids or antihypertensives
• Smoke tobacco or marijuana
• Use a hot tub or sauna regularly
• Go on frequent long-distance bike rides
Learn more about what causes fertility problems, in men and women.
What should I do if I suspect a problem?
Talk to your primary care doctor or gynecologist. You should feel free to bring up any concerns or fears no matter how long you’ve been trying to get pregnant. Your doctor should be able to answer your questions or, if necessary, refer you to a fertility specialist for a complete workup. If you’d like to find a specialist on your own, see our fertility resources article for links to organizations with referral services.
Other Articles of Interest
Therapists’ Top Ten Tips For Coping With Fertility Problems: The pressure to raise a family can be enormous, and the thought of not being able to can make many people feel something is wrong
Can Foods Increase Your Fertility?: More and more experts agree that certain foods may help boost both male and female fertility. Discover which natural foods and supplements can help you
Pregnancy rates over the course of one year: Source: Management of the Infertile Woman by Helen A. Carcio and The Fertility Sourcebook by M. Sara Rosenthal Both of the above line graphs are for