FAILURE TO CONCEIVE – WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Repeated attempts at conceiving are frustrating for any couple trying to get pregnant. Failure brings up a variety of self-doubt, insecurities, and fear in men and women. But what does the failure to conceive really mean?

Couples often underestimate the time it takes to get pregnant. After a few months of trying, frustration sets in and couples begin to think they have failed. In reality, it often takes couples over 6 months to conceive. Sure there are those exceptions where the woman gets pregnant on her first try, but those cases are not the norm. In fact, it is now taking many couples longer to conceive because women are waiting until they are in their late 30’s and  40’s to try and have kids. It’s a fact of nature that fertility declines as women age.

Couples that have been trying unsuccessfully for 12 months or more should seek advice from an expert fertility doctor. Women who have irregular menstrual cycles, a history of pelvic infections, a history of endometriosis or GYN problems should see a fertility specialist after 6 months of trying to conceive. Infertility is complex, and has several causes including:

• Anatomical abnormalities – this type of issue includes structural anomalies in the uterus, tubes and other reproductive organs adversely affecting fertility. Many of these issues can be solved with a simple outpatient procedure.

• Unknown reasons – the vast majority of infertility issues are for causes unknown. While this is frustrating, the overwhelming majority of couples are able to have a successful pregnancy due to the advancement in treatment options and pathways to biological pregnancies. Data estimates that between 40-50% of infertility cases are due to unknown causes.

• Pelvic Infections or a history of pelvic infections  can contribute to infertility. These causes can be diagnosed through cervical cultures, and treated with antibiotics over the course of a few weeks.
• Male infertility – many men suffer from infertility issues such as low sperm count or malformed sperm. A semen analysis should be conducted to test for possible male infertility issues.

• Environmental factors – factors such as exposure to certain toxins and substances can lead to infertility. Individuals that smoke or drink on a consistent basis are especially at risk of having a more difficult time conceiving.

• Medical history – a history of personal health problems or problems in the family can increase the risk the difficulty of getting pregnant.

While there is an abundance of information available on fertility issues, it is best to speak with an expert on possible reasons for failure to conceive. Dr. Deborah Smith at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options, which may include Denver IVF treatment or any number of possibilities.