About 1 in 8 couples have trouble getting pregnant. Feeling stressed or worried? It’s normal. There are several reasons you might be running into challenges, and lots of solutions.
Getting ready to start trying? Start with a preconception checkup. Your provider will look for issues that may make it harder to conceive.
Tests might include:
- A blood test to check progesterone levels
- FSH and estradiol (it checks your egg supply)
- AMH (also measures ovarian reserve)
You’ll also discuss any preexisting conditions that might impact your ability to have a baby.
If you’re having trouble conceiving, there’s usually an underlying reason why.
Common TTC roadblocks include:
- Not having sex at the right time
- Male infertility
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Untreated pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Irregular periods
- Diminished ovarian reserve or premature ovarian insufficiency
- Thyroid disorder
Sometimes, there’s no obvious reason. This is called unexplained infertility. This happens in about a third of cases.
Talk to your doctor if:
- You’re under 35 and have been trying for a year
- You’re over 35 and have been trying for 6 months
- You’re over 40
- You or your partner has a health issue that increases infertility risk
If addressing the underlying cause of your fertility struggles doesn’t help, or the root reason simply isn’t known, don’t give up hope.
Research your options, including:
- - Artificial insemination (AI) and intrauterine insemination (IUI)
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Natural cycle IVF
- Donor eggs
- Surrogacy
- Egg freezing
- Fertility drugs
- Adoption
The path to parenthood isn’t always straightforward. Infertility can make you feel a lot of powerful emotions. Grief, disbelief, anger, sadness, anxiety… Know that you’re not alone.
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