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Understanding Infertility

Infertility is a condition that affects millions of couples worldwide, leading to significant emotional and physical challenges.

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 Statistics 

1 in 6 

Couples experience infertility worldwide

20-30%

of those trying to conceive 1+ years get a diagnosis of unexplained infertility after standard testing.

40-50%

Of Infertility in couples are due to male factor infertility

Common Diagnoses Related to Infertility

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal imbalance affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age. It can cause irregular ovulation, which is one of the most common causes of infertility.
     

  • Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to pain and fertility issues. It is estimated that 30-50% of women with endometriosis may experience infertility.
     

  • Ovulatory Disorders: Conditions such as irregular ovulation, often caused by hormone imbalances, can make conception more difficult. Disorders of the thyroid (like Hashimoto's) and other endocrine issues can also contribute.
     

  • Uterine or Tubal Factors: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, fibroids, or uterine scarring can hinder the process of conception.
     

  • Unexplained Infertility: About 20-30% of couples face unexplained infertility, where all standard tests come back normal, but conception still does not occur.

Male Factor Infertility

  • Low Sperm Count: This is one of the most common issues, where a man produces fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. This can reduce the chances of sperm reaching and fertilizing the egg.
     

  • Poor Sperm Motility: Motility refers to how well sperm can swim toward the egg. If sperm movement is slow or abnormal, the likelihood of fertilization is reduced.
     

  • Abnormal Sperm Morphology: Sperm with abnormal shape or structure may not be able to fertilize an egg, contributing to infertility.
     

  • Varicocele: Enlarged veins within the scrotum, which can affect sperm production and quality. This condition is one of the most common correctable causes of male infertility.
     

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Low levels of testosterone or other hormonal disorders can affect sperm production.
     

  • Lifestyle Factors: Excessive heat (from frequent hot baths or tight underwear), smoking, alcohol consumption, and exposure to environmental toxins can reduce sperm quality.
     

Factors Influencing Fertility 

  • Age: Age is a critical factors influencing fertility. For women, fertility begins to decline after age 30, with a significant drop after 35. Men’s fertility also decreases with age, although at a slower rate.
     

  • Weight: Both obesity and being underweight can affect hormone levels, leading to irregular ovulation or lower sperm production.
     

  • Nutrition: A diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and whole foods supports reproductive health. Poor nutrition, including excessive intake of processed foods or sugars, can negatively impact fertility.
     

  • Stress: Chronic stress can affect hormone levels in both men and women, potentially delaying or preventing ovulation, and impacting sperm quality.
     

  • Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can harm fertility in both men and women, reducing egg quality, sperm production, and overall reproductive health.
     

  • Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), and untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect fertility.
     

  • Environmental Toxins: Exposure to chemicals such as pesticides, heavy metals, and pollutants can impact hormone levels and reproductive function in both men and women.

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There is Hope

Infertility can be a challenging journey, but it’s essential to remember that there is hope.

Many lifestyle factors influencing fertility are not fixed; with proactive changes, you can enhance your reproductive health. Improving egg and sperm health is achievable through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding harmful substances.

By adopting positive lifestyle changes, and seeking proper guidance and support, you can significantly increase your chances of conceiving and find renewed hope in your fertility journey.

You are not alone—many couples have successfully navigated these challenges, and you can, too!​

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Learn more about our Empowered Fertility Program to give you next steps on how to create a fertility plan that will give you more confidence to take control of your fertility journey! 

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