Infertility Specialist
Genesis Natural Medicine Center
Integrative Oncology & Naturopathic Medicine located in Tucson, AZ
Throughout young adulthood, most couples are more concerned about preventing pregnancy than having a baby, so they’re surprised when they decide to get pregnant and aren’t successful. It turns out that about 10-15% of all couples fail to conceive after a year of trying, which is the definition of infertility. The skilled team at Genesis Natural Medicine Center in Tucson, Arizona, has worked closely with several men and women struggling with infertility. To schedule an evaluation, use the online booking system or call the office today.
Infertility Q & A
When should I have an infertility evaluation?
Most women should have an infertility evaluation after having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for a year without getting pregnant. However, that guideline doesn’t apply to all women.
If you’re 35-40 years old, you should consider scheduling an infertility evaluation after six months of trying to get pregnant.
Women over the age of 40, or who have a condition that affects their fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome or endometriosis, should have a full gynecological exam as soon as they decide to have a baby.
Why does age affect my fertility?
Fertility declines in men and women as they get older, but age is a significant concern for women because the number and quality of their eggs diminish over time. Your fertility peaks in your 20s, then slowly declines between the ages of 30-35 years.
After a woman reaches 35, her fertility drops more rapidly, and after 40, your ability to get pregnant rapidly drops every month.
What causes infertility?
When couples can’t get pregnant, one-third are infertile due to a male-factor problem and one-third learn the problem is with the woman’s reproductive tract. The cause of infertility can’t be identified in the remaining third.
In women, the most common causes of infertility are:
- Ovulation problems
- Fallopian tube blockage
- Endometriosis
Many health conditions can also affect your ability to get pregnant, including:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Uterine fibroids
- Pelvic adhesions
- Cancer treatment
- Autoimmune disease
- Poorly controlled diabetes
When male-factor infertility is found, it’s often due to a low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormally shaped sperm, blockages, and enlarged veins in the testes.
How do you diagnose infertility?
For women, the process begins with a pelvic exam and ultrasound imaging. Women also need a variety of blood tests to determine hormone levels and testing to see if they’re ovulating. When the baseline tests in women are all normal, your provider talks with you about other diagnostic options.
For men, the process also begins with a thorough examination followed by semen testing. Men may also need a scrotal ultrasound, blood tests for hormone levels, and specialized sperm function tests.
How do you treat infertility?
Infertility treatment could be one of a vast array of options depending on the cause of your infertility. Ultimately, some couples may need to consider options like intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilization.
You can depend on your provider at Genesis Natural Medicine Center for ongoing emotional and physical support throughout your infertility treatment.
To schedule an infertility evaluation, call Genesis Natural Medicine Center or use the online booking feature.