Getting infertility information can be an embarrassing situation for many people who have not discussed it with their physician.
Being infertile means that a couple is unable to conceive after a minimum of one year actively trying, or a woman who continues to miscarry is also considered infertile.
It has been found that in 2/3 of all cases, either partner can be traced as the cause of the problem.
However, in the remaining 1/3 of all cases, there is generally no cause found.
Speaking to a doctor about infertility information is ideal, as a physician can help to set up testing required to diagnose issues that could contribute to the lack of pregnancies.
For women, tests to check on the condition of the ovaries are generally completed first and for men a sperm count is normally completed first.
Any man or woman over the age of 30 that is having problems conceiving should consider seeing a doctor for help, especially if they have been actively trying for six months.
The chances of becoming pregnant after the age of 30 drastically drop every year.
Common problems that cause male infertility includes varicocele, which is when the testicular veins are enlarged and causes additional heat to the area; further causing harm to sperm.
For women, ovulation is the number one cause of this problem.
When this is seen, testing for PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome is required due to hormone imbalances.
Talking to a doctor about being unable to conceive can be hard, but a checkup is required to help determine causes.
The shape and movement as well as the number of sperm are checked along with ovulation tests and ultrasounds are also completed routinely.
There are different treatments that depend on the cause of the lack of conception.
Medications, artificial insemination as well as newer technologies are used to help.
Medications include Clomid, Repronex, Gonal-F, Gn-RH, Parlodel and Glucophage.
Other types of treatment include intrauterine insemination where the sperm is injected after ovulation is stimulated.
Another treatment is called assisted reproductive technology, and eggs are removed from the female and then mixed with sperm; then the eggs that are inseminated to create an embryo is inserted back into the female body.
The average number of women who have successful treatment in this manner under the age of 35 is about 40% and about 11% for women over the age of 40.
The ART treatment has a few different methods including in vitro fertilization, gamete intrafallopian transfer, zygote intrafallopian transfer and intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
To have more in depth information on these types of treatments, it is best to speak with a physician about your personal medical record and possibilities of treatments offered.
When collecting information about treatment or testing, it is always best to speak to your regular physician; as he or she will have more in depth information about your personal medical past and your current conditions.
In this way, you will have a more definite choice of treatment and testing options available in your area, and a more personalized report of options.