Infertility - Peak Performance Hormone Institute

What is infertility?

Infertility refers to the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to full term after 1 year of having unprotected intercourse. It affects an estimated 1 in 8 couples in the U.S.

There are two main categories of infertility:

• Primary infertility refers to couples who have never been able to conceive.
• Secondary infertility refers to couples who have had at least one successful pregnancy but are unable to conceive again.

Common Causes

Infertility can be caused by issues with the female partner, male partner, or both.

Female Factor Infertility

• Ovulation disorders - lack of ovulation or irregular ovulation prevents pregnancy. Can be caused by issues like PCOS or thyroid problems.
• Uterine or cervical factors - structural problems or damage to the uterus or cervix.
• Fallopian tube damage or blockage - prevents the egg from moving down the tube. Often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease.

Male Factor Infertility

• Low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages - can be caused by varicoceles, infections, ejaculation issues, immature sperm cells, genetic factors.

In 30-40% of cases a clear cause is not identified after testing and is referred to as unexplained infertility.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing infertility involves assessments of both partners consisting of:

• Medical history
• Physical exams
• Hormone testing
• Ovulation testing
• Semen analysis
• Hysterosalpingography
• Laparoscopy
• Genetic testing

Treatment options depend on the cause but may include:

• Timed intercourse
• Ovulation induction medications
• Intrauterine insemination
• Surgery to repair reproductive structures
• Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF

Many couples struggling with infertility find success after seeing a reproductive endocrinologist for specialized care. Peak Performance Hormone Institute has helped numerous couples finally conceive and start their families through individualized testing and treatments. Schedule a fertility consultation today for personalized care from top experts.

I hope this gives you a helpful overview on the key aspects of infertility. Please let me know if you have any other questions!