April 25 begins Infertility Awareness Week this year. Nearly 20% of heterosexual women between the ages of 15 and 49 with no prior births are unable to get pregnant after a year of trying. Infertility affects people of all genders and can be a devastating struggle for those hoping to start or expand their families. In addition to physical stress, infertility can cause significant emotional trauma and deterioration for individuals and couples. 

Infertility in cisgender women can be the result of a number of factors, including anovulation, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, fallopian tube obstruction, and unique physical characteristics of the uterus. Some causes of female infertility can be treated and eliminated by an OB/GYN, but there are others that result in chronic infertility.

When a heterosexual couple experiences infertility, the male partner is the causing factor nearly 50% of the time. Cisgender men can experience infertility as a result of hormonal disorders, genetic conditions, or testicular failure due to either internal or external factors. Men who have diabetes, drink heavily, smoke often, use illicit drugs, or have certain autoimmune disorders are more likely to experience infertility. Though some of these potential causes can be avoided, others are inevitable, and should be taken into consideration when a couple is attempting to conceive. 

If a couple is struggling to conceive for over a year, both partners should be tested and evaluated for possible causes of infertility. Many factors are treatable, and modern medicine has led to a number of discoveries that allow couples to have children despite chronic fertility issues including intrauterine insemination, medication, or assisted reproductive technology. 

Our goal is to add to the conversation around fertility and provide options for those affected by it. If you are experiencing difficulty getting pregnant, schedule an appointment at one of our locations to speak with one of our providers about an evaluation and possible solutions. Contact us at 203-562-5181 or visit our infertility page to learn more.

Sources: 

https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/infertility/index.htm

https://infertilityawareness.org/about-niaw/#:~:text=Future%20National%20Infertility%20Awareness%20Week,April%2024%2D30%2C%202022

https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/features/what-is-infertility/index.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-infertility/symptoms-causes/syc-20374773