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Infertility refers to the inability to conceive a child or carry a pregnancy to full term after 1 year of having unprotected, regular sexual intercourse without birth control. It affects an estimated 1 in 8 couples in the United States.
There are two main categories of infertility:
- Primary infertility refers to couples who have never been able to conceive.
- Secondary infertility refers to couples who have had at least one successful pregnancy but are unable to conceive again.
Some key facts about infertility:
- It can be caused by issues in either the man or woman, or both. Common causes include ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, low sperm count or quality, and uterine or cervical issues.
- Rates of infertility are rising along with the postponement of pregnancy. Fertility gradually declines with age, especially after 35.
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol use, stress, and being overweight or underweight can impact fertility.
- There are various treatment options depending on the cause, including fertility drugs, surgery, assisted reproductive technology, or lifestyle changes.
- Coping with infertility can be very difficult emotionally. Support groups and counseling help many couples.
The bottom line is that infertility refers to difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a baby to term for a year or more. It's a common issue with numerous potential causes. Seeking timely evaluation and treatment from a reproductive endocrinologist at Rejuvenate Clinic gives couples the best chances for success.