Who is at risk of infertility?
Anyone can struggle with infertility, including both men and women of childbearing age. Factors that may put you at higher risk of infertility include:
- Being overweight or underweight
- Smoking
- Being of advanced age
- Having a history of sexually transmitted diseases (or current infection)
- Having a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or other tubal diseases
- Endometriosis
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
What are the signs and symptoms of infertility?
There are no signs and symptoms of infertility outside of not conceiving after 12 months of intercourse that is both unprotected and well-timed. Having a regular annual physical can assist you in identifying any underlying health problems that may impact your fertility.
When should I see a doctor about infertility?
Although even one month can seem like an eternity when you’re trying to start or grow your family, infertility isn’t diagnosed until you have been trying to conceive for at least 12 months. If you have been trying to conceive without luck for 12 months or more, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor who specializes in infertility treatment.
What options do I have to improve my chance of conceiving?
Your doctor at Fernando Bueso, M.D., P.A. and Francisco J. Bueso, M.D. might recommend a few solutions to try if you are having trouble conceiving:
- Maintain a healthy weight; gain or lose weight if necessary
- Stop smoking
- Limit or discontinue alcohol intake
- Track your menstrual cycle and time intercourse accordingly
It’s important to note that if the underlying cause is not related to any of these factors, observing these may not improve your chances of becoming pregnant. However, all of these measures are still important to ensure maximum health for conception, a healthy pregnancy, and fetal development.
How is infertility treated?
Fernando Bueso, M.D., P.A. and Francisco J. Bueso, M.D. offer a variety of infertility treatments. Following an exam and review of your medical history, they might recommend:
Fertility medications
If you’re infertile due to an ovulation disorder, your provider might recommend prescription fertility medications. These drugs help regulate or induce ovulation, increasing your chances of conception. There are several types of fertility medications. Your provider can explain the benefits and risks of each one.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
During IUI, your provider places healthy sperm into your uterus at the same time your ovaries release eggs for fertilization. Your provider can coordinate the timing of IUI to compliment your natural fertility cycle or the use of fertility medications.
Ovulation induction (OI)
Ovulation induction is a fertility treatment that uses prescription medications to increase the number of eggs you produce each cycle. The more eggs you produce, the more likely it is to become pregnant.
If you’re struggling with infertility, schedule an appointment at Fernando Bueso, M.D., P.A. and Francisco J. Bueso, M.D. today. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member or book a consultation online.
