Infertility is common. Whether you’re trying to conceive for the first time, or you’re already a parent wanting more children, infertility can be a stressful and frustrating experience for everyone involved.

What is infertility?

Many people take time to become pregnant.

But doctors call it infertility if a woman is not pregnant after 12 months or more of regular unprotected intercourse.

what are the reasons?

There are many causes of infertility.

Sometimes it’s a problem with the woman, sometimes with the man, sometimes with both and sometimes there’s no apparent reason for it.

For example, a woman may have:

• hormonal disorders
• Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes
• Endometrial
• Too thick cervical mucus

A man may have:

• Low sperm count
• Poor sperm motility or shape
• Lack of sperm release due to obstruction or failure of ejaculation

Age is an important factor. From the age of 32, a woman’s chances of conceiving begin to decline, and from the age of 35, the rate of this decline increases rapidly. Men at age 35 are half as fertile as they were at age 25, and starting at age 55, their fertility drops dramatically.

Your weight will also affect your fertility. Both women and men who are overweight experience changes in their hormones that make it difficult for them to conceive.

Smokers are more likely to suffer from infertility than non-smokers.

The more alcohol men and women drink, the less likely they are to have a successful pregnancy.

Certain sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can reduce fertility in both men and women.

Discuss infertility with your partner

For couples trying to conceive, it is normal for them to experience feelings of uncertainty, disappointment, and anxiety. It may affect both spouses in the same way or in different ways.

It’s a good idea to talk about any issues and have both of you talk about how you’re feeling.

If there are difficulties between the two of you, talk to your doctor as a couple. Your doctor may refer you to a counselor if necessary.

You can also call Pregnancy, Childbirth and Baby at 1800882436 to discuss your options and speak with a MCH nurse.

Infertility options

If you are infertile and want to have a baby, there are many options.

You may increase your chance of getting pregnant if you know your most fertile days.

You can treat any underlying causes such as endometriosis or sexually transmitted diseases. You can adopt a child. You can use IVF or you can look for a fertility treatment such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

When do you visit your doctor?

If you are under 35, you should consider seeing your doctor if you have been trying without success for 12 months or more.

If you are over 35 years old, you should consider seeing your doctor if you have been trying for 6 months.

But you should see your doctor right away if you want to have a baby and you think you or your partner may have fertility problems due to endometriosis, testicular problems, or something else.