Infertility

What is infertility?

80% of couples of reproductive age, who have regular intercourse without birth control will become pregnant in less than twelve months. By definition, infertility is the inability to get pregnant after one full year of trying to become so. However, this definition can be modified based on the age of the potential mother. Women over 35 years of age should seek a fertility consultation if they do not become pregnant after six months and women over 40 years of age should be evaluated before attempting pregnancy.

What causes infertility?

A woman’s fertility typically begins to decrease at age 32 with a sharp decline in the ability to become pregnant after age 37. At this age, the number of eggs available for fertilization is much lower simply because the woman has ovulated thousands of times more than counterparts in their 20s. But age alone does not account for many fertility problems in women. Ovulation disorders, such as those caused by an over- or under-active thyroid may result in infertility. Endometriosis, polyps, or ovarian cysts may affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant as do physiological problems with a woman’s reproductive organs. Scar tissue, fallopian tube blockage, or uterine abnormalities can all affect different stages of conception.

How is infertility diagnosed?

Blood tests measure hormones during specific times in a woman’s menstrual cycle that will let the doctors at Newport Beach OB/GYN Medical Group, Inc. know if there are hormonal deficiencies preventing pregnancy. Ultrasound imaging may be conducted to look at the reproductive organs to determine any abnormalities. Male partners will have their semen analyzed for motility (movement), number, and morphology (make-up). Once the evaluation process is complete, a comprehensive plan for pregnancy is created by Dr. Ricci that is tailored to each couple.

For more information on infertility diagnosis or treatment, contact Newport Beach OB/GYN Medical Group, Inc. for a consultation.