Knowing When to Seek Fertility Treatments

Irregular hormone production throughout the reproductive system is typically the most common cause of infertility for women. Quite often, hormone imbalances are a result from a condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) where small cysts form on the ovaries, which can disrupt ovulation cycles and functionality. On the other hand, hormone imbalances without any signs of cystic growth can lead to abnormal ovulation patterns, irregular or absent periods, and in extreme cases, polycystic ovarian insufficiency (POI).

Contracting an STD or infection can be common for either gender, but specifically for women, any kind of infection to the reproductive system can create blockages that prevent the release of eggs or implantation of an embryo. Research shows that women with gonorrhea or chlamydia are likely to develop infertility issues from the disease, and if it's left untreated, scar tissue or adhesions can cause other complications for vital parts.

Just like women, men can experience a variety of hormonal imbalances that can disrupt fertility. Issues like abnormal facial hair growth, undescended testicles, swollen lymph nodes, or low testosterone levels can all be indications of an underlying problem with the thyroid, hypothalamus, pituitary, or adrenal glands.

According to the Office on Women's Health (OWH), men make up one-third of infertility causes for hopeful couples, and of that amount, varicocele is often the condition to blame. Essentially, varicocele represents a swelling of the veins that allow sperm to flow throughout the reproductive organs. In other cases, swollen or painful testicles could also indicate an STD or infection, such as epiaditimytis or orchitis.

Men who have a history of surgeries in pelvic or reproductive areas may be at risk of developing fertility issues. For example, the removal of a testicle, hernia repair, prostate procedures, or a vasectomy will significantly impede one's ability to conceive. 

Fertility can be negatively impacted for both genders if certain lifestyle factors are not made a top priority when trying to conceive. If you and your partner are overweight, maintain unhealthy diets, refrain from physical activity on a regular basis, or consume drugs and alcohol, your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy will greatly decrease. Keep in mind, infertility is generally caused by hormone imbalances, and correcting your personal health will have a tremendous effect on your reproductive health. Stress is also something that can make conception harder (both physically and emotionally), so finding ways to deal with stress in healthy ways is important.

Less commonly associated with infertility are certain environmental factors that may contribute to its onset. Instances of extreme radiation, exposure to chemicals, or contact with heavy metals can lead to reproductive issues, so being aware of your surroundings and maintaining your personal safety are always important.  Also, since the egg (oocyte) is the largest cell in a woman's body, living in an environment that has poor air quality (here's looking at you, NYC) can also affect the quality of your eggs.