To tell or not to tell?

“I am suffering from infertility and I am seeking infertility treatments.”

Do you think you should be ashamed of it?

Absolutely not!

Infertility is a common problem 1 out of 8 couples suffer from infertility globally.

What causes infertility?

There is no blame in infertility, both men and women can contribute to infertility equally. It is often thought of as only a woman’s condition. However, approximately one-third of infertility is attributed to the female partner, one-third attributed to the male partner and one-third is caused by a combination of problems in both partners or, is unexplained.

Female Infertility:

Most cases of female infertility are caused by ovulation problems are often caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), blocked fallopian tubes due to pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or surgery for ectopic pregnancy and Uterine fibroids.

Sometimes, female infertility is related to a hormone problem. In this case, symptoms can also include Skin changes, including more acne, dark hair growth on the lips, chest, and chin, loss of hair or thinning hair and weight gain. There are other symptoms like milky white discharge from nipples unrelated to breastfeeding and pain during sexual intercourse.

Male Infertility:

Infertility in men can be due to varicocele, trauma, low or absent sperm count, sperm damage, alcohol use, or certain diseases like diabetes, cystic fibrosis, autoimmune diseases, infections, hormonal disorders, and genetic disorders.

Symptoms depend on what is causing infertility, they can include Changes in hair growth, painful lump or swelling in the testicles, problems with erections and ejaculation, small testicles.

When should I see a Doctor?

If you are under 35 and have been trying to get pregnant without success for a year, see your doctor. Women 35 and older should see their doctor after six months of trying.

Infertility can be treated with medicine, surgery, artificial insemination, or assisted reproductive technology. Many times these treatments are combined.

Doctors recommend specific treatments for infertility based on Test results, how long the couple has been trying to get pregnant, the age of both the man and woman and the overall health of the partners.