Infertility can be a challenging and emotional journey for many couples. Knowing the causes of infertility can help couples navigate their options for conception and seek medical advice. In vitro fertilization (IVF), an assisted reproductive technology, is a common treatment route for infertility. Here are some possible reasons for unexplained infertility and treatment options:
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones control reproductive functions, and the body’s inability to produce these hormones can make it harder to conceive. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may cause irregular menstrual cycles and affect ovulation. Thyroid disorders might also affect fertility by changing the menstrual cycle and hormone production in the thyroid glands. Couples experiencing conception challenges can undergo hormonal testing to determine which hormones are insufficient. Doctors often prescribe medications to restore reproductive hormones to their natural levels.
Environmental Factors
Pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals are agents that can disrupt the reproductive health of individuals. These substances can affect the normal working of the endocrinological system and cause hormonal disturbances. Medicines that treat bacterial infections, depression, and high blood pressure may negatively impact sperm production. Limiting exposure to these substances can help couples maintain their reproductive health.
Lifestyle Choices
Lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and substance use, may impact fertility. Nutritional imbalances cause obesity or underweight complications that affect the body’s hormonal and reproductive systems. Tobacco, alcohol, and other substances have also been associated with issues to do with fertility. Smoking may lower the chances of conception, increase the risk of miscarriage, and reduce sperm count. Making healthy lifestyle choices helps improve overall health and increase the chances of conception.
Age-Related Factors
Female fertility usually declines with age and is often caused by reduced quantity and quality of eggs. Men over 40 may also be less fertile than younger men. The production of reproductive hormones often decreases with age, affecting the body’s ability to conceive.
IVF Treatment as a Solution
In vitro fertilization is the collection of a woman’s eggs for fertilization by sperm outside the woman’s body. The process allows for better control over the fertilization process and can address infertility issues in the following ways:
Overcoming Hormonal Imbalances
During IVF treatments, hormonal treatments are often used to encourage egg production. This makes it easier for doctors to retrieve eggs from the ovaries for external fertilization. It also increases the chances of successful fertilization and implantation, particularly for women with conditions such as PCOS.
Addressing Male Factor Infertility
In vitro fertilization might also help couples face male-factor infertility. Techniques such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) allow a single sperm to be injected directly into an egg. This helps increase the possibility of fertilization for male partners with low sperm density or sperm with low motility.
Genetic Testing
IVF also enables preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), a procedure for screening embryos for genetic disorders before implantation. For couples with a history of genetic diseases or those of advanced maternal age, it may increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy. PGT is often recommended for couples who have experienced miscarriage or are using donated eggs.
Consult a Physician for IVF Treatment
Infertility can stem from a variety of unexpected factors, and knowledge of possible causes may enable couples to seek proper assistance. Hormonal medications and lifestyle changes can help improve fertility, but for a prolonged infertility journey, IVF might be right for you. Some doctors offer alternative in vitro solutions, allowing mothers to grow the embryo in their bodies from fertilization. Consult a physician today to learn more about infertility treatment options.
