Fertility, Infertility, Pregnancy & Parental Health
Definition
Female infertility, male infertility or a combination of the two affects millions of couples in the United States. An estimated 10 to 15 percent of couples are classified as infertile, which means that they’ve been trying to get pregnant with frequent, unprotected intercourse for at least a year with no success.
Generally, infertility results from female infertility factors about one-third of the time and male infertility factors about one-third of the time. In the rest, the cause is either unknown or a combination of male and female factors.
The cause of female infertility can be difficult to diagnose, but many treatments are available. Treatment isn’t always necessary: Half of all infertile couples will go on to conceive a child spontaneously within the next 24 months.
Symptoms
The main symptom of infertility is the inability of a couple to get pregnant. An abnormal menstrual cycle that’s too long (35 days or more) or too short (less than 21 days) can be a sign of female infertility. There may be no other outward signs or symptoms.
When to see a doctor
If you’re in your early 30s or younger, most doctors recommend trying to get pregnant for at least a year before having any testing or treatment.
If you’re age 35 to 40, discuss your concerns with your doctor after six months of trying.
If you’re over 40 or have a history of irregular or painful periods, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), repeated miscarriages, prior cancer treatment or endometriosis, your doctor may want to begin testing or treatment right away.
Fertility
Getting pregnant can be an exciting time. For some, getting pregnant seems to happen simply by talking about it. For others, getting pregnant takes plenty of patience and perhaps a bit of luck.
Understanding when you’re most fertile can make getting pregnant easier. It’s also important to consider simple do’s and don’ts of conception. For example, maintain a healthy weight, eat a healthy diet and have sex regularly — especially near the time of ovulation. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol. Of course, healthy sperm counts, too.
With frequent unprotected sex, most healthy couples conceive within one year. If you have trouble getting pregnant, don’t go it alone. A fertility specialist or other health care provider may be able to help. Infertility affects men and women equally — and treatment is available.
Parental health
Parental health is key to a healthy pregnancy. After all, healthy parents are more likely to have healthy babies. Start with parental health basics, such as updating your vaccines, eating healthy foods, taking prenatal vitamins and exercising regularly.
Parental health takes on additional significance if you have a chronic medical condition that may affect your pregnancy. Work with your health care provider to manage your condition both before and during pregnancy. Remember, taking good care of yourself is the best way to take care of your baby.
Parental health includes considerations about age, too. If you’re older than 35 and hoping to get pregnant, understand the issues older mothers face — and know what it takes to have a healthy pregnancy.
