Infertility: When to Seek Help After Two Years of Trying

Q: Infertility: When to Seek Help After Two Years of Trying

CH： Hello, the general definition of infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular sexual intercourse. <br>This does not necessarily indicate a problem; sometimes it may simply be a matter of timing not aligning with ovulation. <br>The analysis of infertility

Is it infertility?

If my wife and I have not used any contraceptive measures for two years and although we haven't specifically timed intercourse during her ovulation period, she still has not become pregnant, does this indicate infertility? What kind of tests should we undergo?

CH, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

CH: Hello, the general definition of infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular sexual intercourse.
This does not necessarily indicate a problem; sometimes it may simply be a matter of timing not aligning with ovulation.
The analysis of infertility causes is approximately: one-third due to male factors, one-third due to female factors, and one-third due to both genders.
In other words, both men and women have roughly a 50% chance of being involved in infertility issues.
The general examination starts with the male partner, who should undergo a semen analysis, as it is the simplest and least painful test.
If there are no issues found, the female partner will then undergo a more extensive set of tests.
This is a response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology at Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2006/07/24

More Info

Infertility is a complex issue that affects many couples, and understanding when to seek help is crucial for addressing the challenges that come with it. In your case, you and your wife have been trying to conceive for two years without success, which does indeed classify as infertility according to medical standards. The general guideline is that couples under 35 should seek evaluation after one year of trying to conceive without success, while couples over 35 should seek help after six months. Since you have already reached the two-year mark, it is advisable to consult a fertility specialist.

When you visit a fertility clinic, both partners will typically undergo a series of evaluations to identify any potential issues. For women, this may include:
1. Hormonal Testing: Blood tests to check hormone levels, including thyroid hormones, prolactin, and reproductive hormones like FSH, LH, and estradiol.

2. Ovulation Tracking: Monitoring ovulation through methods such as basal body temperature charting, ovulation predictor kits, or ultrasound to confirm ovulation.

3. Pelvic Ultrasound: An ultrasound can help assess the health of the ovaries and uterus, checking for conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or uterine fibroids.

4. Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This is an X-ray procedure that examines the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes to check for blockages or abnormalities.

5. Laparoscopy: In some cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure may be performed to look for endometriosis or other pelvic issues.

For men, the evaluation typically includes:
1. Semen Analysis: This test assesses the quantity, quality, and motility of sperm. It is often the first step in male fertility testing.

2. Hormonal Testing: Similar to women, men may also undergo blood tests to check hormone levels that affect sperm production.

3. Physical Examination: A physical exam can help identify any anatomical issues that may affect fertility.

4. Genetic Testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify any chromosomal abnormalities.

It's important to approach this process with open communication between you and your wife. Discussing your feelings, concerns, and expectations can help both of you navigate this challenging time together. Infertility can be emotionally taxing, and it's not uncommon for couples to experience feelings of frustration, sadness, or isolation. Seeking support from a counselor or joining a support group can also be beneficial.

In addition to medical evaluations, consider lifestyle factors that may impact fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can all contribute positively to reproductive health.

Ultimately, the journey to parenthood can be unpredictable, and it's essential to remain patient and supportive of each other throughout the process. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional who specializes in fertility. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and help you explore the best options moving forward.

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