Are you struggling with infertility? It may seem as though you are alone, but in fact, you are not. It was estimated, in 2015 that 48.5 million couples around the world struggle with infertility. Studies have shown that infertility in men is just as common as it is in women.

A couple is considered infertile if they have had unprotected sex consistently for one year, without a resulting pregnancy. Infertility can also mean still births and miscarriages.

Infertility is more than just not being able to conceive a baby. The complications run far deeper than that. As of 2020, it is reported that infertility is the most common cause of divorce in the United States! Nearly 60% of unfertile people also struggle with crippling anxiety and depression.

The cause of infertility is not always clear. In women, it is often due to ovulation problems such as polycystic ovary syndrome, or ovarian insufficiency. There are other causes as well, such as, uterine or cervical abnormalities, uterine fibroids, endometriosis and even early menopause. Carrying excess weight can also affect ovulation. In men, infertility can be due to enlarged vein in the testicles which can affect sperm count and shape.

Infertility is not all bad news. Science is getting closer to understanding better, all the ways a couple can be affected with infertility and so many new advances in treatment are taking place. So many couples now, are able to conceive thanks to new techniques and understanding.

Some things to help you if you are struggling with infertility…

• Seek medical care and guidance from your trusted doctor
• Communicate your feelings with your partner and don’t play the blame game. Connect with other couples who can understand what you are experiencing. Support is very important.
• Do what you can to optimize your physical and mental health
• Become more stress resilient through yoga and meditation, even daily walks will help ease your stress load
• Build a ‘toolbox’ of healthy ways you can cope with the disappointment you will experience while on this journey
• Discuss with your doctor all the varied treatment plans
• Patience is not fun but necessary. The first treatment may not work but the next one could.

Infertility is not something we wish on anyone. It’s a tough road but there are so many new ways to treat infertility and understand the root cause of problems. Don’t let this get between you and your partner or even your friends. Like any problem we face, connections we make during a crisis seem to be the thing that gets us through. Stay engaged in the process and connected to those friends and family members who understand your journey and can help you through. Finally, include your favorite provider here at Madison Women’s Clinic and we can help you navigate this new, brave world.