Infertility affects roughly 1 in 6 people globally. During Infertility Awareness Month, it is important to recognize both the medical and emotional realities of trying to conceive. While you may be experiencing feelings of frustration, grief, isolation, and uncertainty, it is important to know you are not alone. There are answers, options, and people who want to help.
What is infertility?
Infertility is defined as trying to conceive for 12 months without success, or 6 months if over the age of 35. It can affect anyone and is not always a female-only issue. Contributing factors may include:
- Ovulatory disorders
- Fallopian tube issues
- Endometriosis
- Hormonal imbalances
- Male factor infertility
- Unexplained infertility
For many patients, infertility is not caused by one single issue, but a combination of factors. Understanding the why is often the first step toward a path forward.
When should you see a provider?
If you have been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months for those 35+) and haven’t had success, it may be time to have a conversation with your provider. You may want to come in sooner if you have irregular or absent periods, known conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, a history of pelvic infections or surgery, or recurrent pregnancy loss.
You don’t need to wait to see a provider if something feels off. Early evaluation can provide clarity and direction.
How is infertility assessed?
Fertility evaluation is typically done step by step and is tailored to your individual situation and health history.
For women, this may include:
- A detailed medical history and cycle tracking
- Bloodwork, particularly to look at hormone levels (thyroid function, ovarian reserve, and ovulation markers)
- Ovulation assessment and tracking
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Imaging of fallopian tubes (HSG test)
For partners, evaluation often includes a semen analysis to assess count, movement, and shape of sperm.
The goal of testing is to better understand your body, identify any potential barriers, and guide next steps.
What are your options?
Treatment options depend on the cause, and for many patients, multiple approaches will be considered.
Medical management may include ovulation induction medications, like letrozole or clomiphene, and hormonal regulation. Minimally invasive procedures can also be an option, often treating endometriosis or fibroids, or conducting tubal evaluation and correction.
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF), are also common treatment options. Additional paths to parenthood include donor eggs or sperm, gestational carriers, or adoption.
There is no one “right” path. Every journey to parenthood is unique, and the decisions you make are deeply personal and supported by your care team.
The Emotional Side of Infertility
Infertility is an emotional experience, just as much as it is a medical one. It’s common to feel stress, anxiety, grief or loss, isolation, frustration, or strain in relationships. All of these feelings are valid, and you are not alone in them.
Taking care of your emotional health is just as important as addressing the medical side of things. Whether this means talking with your partner, connecting with others who understand, or working with a mental health professional, support can make a meaningful difference.
At Essex County OB/GYN, we often serve as the first step in your fertility journey. Our team can begin the initial evaluation process, help identify potential contributing factors, guide you through testing, and coordinate care with fertility specialists when needed. Most importantly, we are here to listen, support, and provide care personalized to you. If you’re ready to learn more, schedule an appointment today.