Fertility

What is fertility?

Fertility refers to your ability to get pregnant. By 30, a woman’s fertility begins to decline. But infertility can occur earlier or later for many women. Many things affect your fertility, and the sooner you uncover those obstacles, the more likely you are to conceive.

At Aurora OB/GYN, the providers work with you to determine the cause of your fertility problems.

What causes fertility problems?

Common things that can affect a woman’s fertility include:

Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop during your childbearing years. Though they aren’t likely to develop into cancer, uterine fibroids can cause heavy menstruation and lower your fertility.

Ovulation disorders

Ovulation disorders affect how often your ovaries release eggs. Normally, your ovaries release an egg once a month, allowing you to conceive. Ovulation disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure, and menopause prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg monthly.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

PID is an infection that can develop in any of your reproductive organs — the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

Primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency, also called early menopause, means your ovaries aren’t releasing eggs or the hormone estrogen as frequently as they should before age 40.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that makes up your uterine lining grows outside the uterus. Along with bloating, pain, cramps, and irregular menstruation, endometriosis can affect fertility.

How do I know if I have fertility problems?

Fertility problems affect every woman differently, but common signs include:

• Difficulty getting pregnant within six months before age 35
• Difficulty getting pregnant within one year after age 35
• Menstrual cycle that lasts longer than 35 days or less than 21 days
• Having a history of irregular menstruation

If you’re over 40, the fertility specialists at Aurora OB/GYN will recommend a fertility evaluation before you try to conceive.

What are the most common fertility treatments?

After a series of fertility tests, which can include ovulation and hormone testing, imaging scans, and ovarian reserve testing, your provider could recommend:

• Medication
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
• Laparoscopic surgery
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
• In-vitro fertilization (IVF)

Research indicates that lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight, and managing stress can improve fertility.

Call Aurora OB/GYN today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about fertility.