When you and your partner decided to start a family, you will want to achieve that goal as soon as possible. Unfortunately, you may hit a roadblock in the form of infertility. An estimated 1 out of every 6 couples has difficulty conceiving a child. Many couples have no idea that an issue exists until they try to get pregnant and don’t have any luck.
Some couples may experience early signs that something is amiss. The following factors may influence your ability to get pregnant, so talk with your physician about whether you should consider further testing and possibly explore infertility treatment.
Irregular Cycles
To get pregnant, a woman must ovulate, releasing an egg that can be fertilized by her partner’s sperm. Cycles that last less than 24 days or more than 35 days could signify ovulatory problems.
Severe Bleeding and Cramping with Your Cycle
For most women, bleeding during their periods lasts three to seven days. Intense bleeding and cramps may be symptoms of conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids, so you should have a thorough evaluation to rule out these concerns.
Male Partner with Impotence or Ejaculatory Issues
Many people assume that infertility affects only females, but approximately 40 percent of couples struggle with male factor infertility. Often, male factor infertility doesn’t present with obvious symptoms; a sperm analysis usually confirms the diagnosis. Any sexual dysfunction, however, can indicate a potential issue.
Being Underweight or Overweight
Believe it or not, staying in a healthy weight range matters when you want to have a baby. If a woman is too heavy or too thin, getting pregnant can be more difficult. Along the same lines, poor nutrition, extreme dieting, and too much exercise can impact your ability to conceive.
Chronic Illnesses
Certain conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid problems or hypertension, can interfere with conception. Let your doctor know if you or your partner have any illnesses, or are taking any medication regularly.
Three or More Miscarriages
Though most people think about infertility as the inability to get pregnant, anyone that suffers recurrent miscarriages is also considered to be experiencing fertility issues. Most Ob-Gyns recommend further testing after a third loss.
History of Sexually Transmitted Disease (STDs)
The infections and inflammation caused by sexually transmitted diseases, like Chlamydia or gonorrhea, can result in fertility issues at a later point, including scarring or tubal blockages. Often, women exhibit no symptoms when they contract STDs, so you should have a screening to be safe.
