Category: Infertility

If a woman is unable to conceive despite having unprotected sex regularly for a period of one year, it could mean that she is infertile. Are there are other signs of infertility?  Here is all about infertility symptoms in women.

It is important for ever individual of childbearing age to know the major infertility symptoms to solve the infertility issue. So, what are the signs you can’t get pregnant, and you may require assistive reproductive technology? Let’s find out.

Symptoms of Infertility in Women

What, according to doctors, are the early signs of infertility?

1. Implantation failure

The main symptom of infertility is the inability to make a baby. If you have been consistently trying to get pregnant for at least 12 months, the underlying cause may be unexplained infertility or something else. So, quickly book an appointment with a reputed gynecologist for a detailed check-up of your entire female reproductive system.

2. Irregular periods

Regular menstruation is the obvious sign that a person’s reproductive health is fine. Naturally, the connection between irregular periods and infertility cannot be denied. So, if you miss your periods sometimes or it happens at odd times, these are alarming signs. As it contributes to infertility, you should not delay your visit to the doctor.

3. Ovulation problems

Every month, one of the ovaries release a mature egg and it should happen at fixed time in your cycle (on the 14th day – for 28-day menstrual cycles). However, ovulation infrequency accounts for a majority of infertility cases around the globe.

What you need to realize here is that the mature egg cannot survive beyond 24 hours and the sperm must do its job within those 24 hours. Now if you have ovulation disorders, how will you track your ovulation and have intercourse when your body’s most fertile?

Some signs of ovulation problems are pain in the abdomen or pelvis, oily skin, acne, depression, and restlessness.

4. Painful intercourse

Can painful periods and infertility be linked? Absolutely yes! Having coitus is a pleasurable experience for adults. Occasionally, you may experience pain during sex if your vagina is not properly lubricated or if you aren’t aroused. But if there is a painful sensation whenever you get intimate with your partner, it cannot be neglected. This condition is termed dyspareunia and there has to be an underlying cause.

Painful intercourse is a clear indicator of infertility. You may have endometriosis, fibroids, or some vaginal infection. Hence, you need to visit a fertility specialist at the earliest.

5. Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalances affecting fertility is not an uncommon occurrence. If the balance of hormones in the body gets disrupted, it can cause infertility in women and male infertility. Furthermore, hormonal imbalances may be responsible for complications at the time of labor.

6. Hair growth in unusual places

Have you suddenly started noticing more hair growth on the chest, the area around the lips, back, face, or arms? Unexplained growth of hair happens in women only when the body ends up producing more testosterone than is necessary. When your body is busy overproducing a male reproductive hormone, it is natural to have fertility problems. So, this too is among the infertility symptoms in women.

7. Pale and thin menstrual blood

Premature menopause is one of the age-related infertility signs. If your menstrual cycles have become shorter or the blood is too less, you may also have an inability to get pregnant. Sometimes, this is your body’s way of letting you know that you have entered perimenopause or early menopause.

8. Obesity

While obesity is not a side effect of infertility, there is a link between infertility and obesity. When there is excessive weight gain, the fertility levels of the person also go down. Similarly, being underweight can also stand in your way of getting pregnant. So, if you have been trying to conceive for some time now and you also happen to be an obese person, note that obesity is reducing your chances of becoming a mother.

Causes of Female Infertility

Now that you have learnt the infertility symptoms in women, have a look at the major risk factors:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common cause of infertility.
• Women who underwent cancer treatment in the past can have low levels of infertility as cancer treatments take a toll on the body.
• Age 40 or more can have issues to conceive naturally as the fertility levels decline drastically after the late 30s.
• Primary ovarian insufficiency
• Endometriosis and uterine fibroids may cause infertility
• Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia
• The entry of environmental toxins into the body
• Blocked fallopian tubes don’t let the eggs reach the uterus for implantation. Hence, watch out for symptoms of blocked fallopian tubes.
• Poor lifestyle choices like smoking, having processed food daily, not exercising, consuming alcohol frequently, and not having regular sleep cycles affect sperm quality and egg quality.

Fertility Tests for Women: Infertility Diagnosis

The above-mentioned signs and symptoms of infertility might give you some idea that you need to see your gynecologist. However, to know the exact cause that’s making pregnancy difficult for you, both you and your partner should go for a check-up.

For evaluating infertility, imaging tests, ovulation tests, and blood tests are performed. The imaging tests are pelvic ultrasound and hysterosalpingography and these give a vivid picture of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Doctors also check the ovarian reserve to assess the quality and quantity of eggs.

After all these, begins the process of treating infertility. There are various assisted reproductive technologies and lifestyle modifications that you can opt for.

Tips to Improve Female Fertility

To improve female or male fertility naturally, eat lots of fresh fruits, veggies, and lean meat. Keep your body adequately hydrated. Practice stress management techniques (like meditation and yoga) to keep stress at bay. Lastly, maintain a healthy weight and sleep 7-8 hours at night to notice a natural increase in fertility levels and your overall well-being.

Parting Thoughts

If you have recently learned that you are infertile, you must not lose hope. Infertility in men and women is a common problem these days for infertile couples trying to get pregnant. However, after identifying the cause of infertility and receiving advanced fertility treatment, many women become pregnant. So, you too can deliver a healthy baby in the future with the help of in vitro fertilization or some other advanced infertility treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions I Infertility FAQs

Q. What are the warning signs of infertility in women?

Some usual warning signs of infertility in women are painful intercourse, low libido, hair growth in the chin, neck, arms, and back, irregular menstrual cycles, and irregular ovulation.

Q. When should you consult a doctor about fertility issues?

If you are keen to become a parent and you have been having unprotected sex for at least a year, consulting a doctor makes sense. Either you or your partner could be infertile.

As per secondary infertility statistics, a leading cause of unsuccessful pregnancies, secondary infertility affects nearly 11% of US couples. This means that 1 in 10 couples who are already biological parents experience difficulty when they try to conceive the second time. However, despite being as common as cases of primary infertility, secondary infertility is not often discussed. Naturally, it’s shrouded in misconceptions and stigma and couples experiencing it feel stressed and uncertain. Here is all about causes of secondary infertility.

So, in today’s blog, you will learn what is secondary infertility, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and ways of overcoming secondary infertility.

What Is Secondary Infertility? Types of Infertility

When a woman (who has given birth before without opting for any fertility treatment) fails to get pregnant or carry a second baby to term even after having unprotected intercourse for 12 months – this condition is termed secondary infertility.

These are the two types of secondary infertility: 

1. Permanant secondary infertility: Permanent secondary infertility is a long-tasting, complex issue and can be due to chronic illness, advanced age, etc.
2. Temporary secondary infertility: Sometimes, couples face difficulty to conceive the second time for a limited period. This can be due to stress, poor lifestyle choices, etc. This is called temporary secondary infertility.

Difference Between Primary and Secondary Infertility

The only difference between primary infertility and secondary infertility is that primary infertility is for someone who has never experienced pregnancy before. Secondary infertility affects people who have been pregnant at least once.

Symptoms of Secondary Infertility in Females

What is the main sign of secondary infertility? Let’s find out:

If you and your spouse have been trying to make a baby for almost a year and the pregnancy tests results are always negative, this is an indication that you may experience secondary infertility.

Secondary Infertility in Males

Gone are the days when only women were blamed for their inability to become a mother. Now everyone knows that infertility affects both men and women.

Secondary infertility occurs in men as well. That’s because a man who was fertile in his 30s may not be as fertile in his 40s. So, although he earlier fathered a child effortlessly, this does not guarantee that impregnation will be equally easy the second time. The underlying causes for secondary male infertility are listed below.

Causes of Secondary Infertility in Males and Females

Before knowing how to treat secondary infertility, it’s crucial to understand what can contribute to secondary infertility in women. Many factors can cause secondary infertility in women, such as:

1. Age: There is a connection between age and secondary infertility. As women grow older, the fertility levels naturally decline as a part of the aging process. So, most women planning their pregnancies in their 40s need to undergo fertility treatments.
2. Pelvic inflammatory disease: Untreated PID or being affected with PID in the past can cause potential damage to one fallopian tubes. Then the eggs cannot reach the woman’s uterus, resulting in implantation failure.
3. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances and secondary infertility can be inter-connected. After 35, hormonal imbalances are not uncommon.  Hormonal imbalances can also be a side effect of polycystic ovary syndrome (abbreviated as PCOS) or thyroid disorders that reduce the secretion of female reproductive hormones and increase the secretion of male reproductive hormones.
4. Uterine conditions: Several uterine conditions can stand in the way of embryo implantation, resulting in secondary infertility after a healthy pregnancy. Polyps and fibroids are examples of such abnormalities.
5. Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle choices can be among the causes of female secondary infertility. Secondary infertility may be due to excessive consumption of alcohol, obesity, stress, improper sleep, and a poor diet lacking vital nutrients.

Following are the causes of secondary infertility in men:

1. After 40, testosterone levels and semen quality decline rapidly in men.
2. Testicular varicocele is a condition that impacts male fertility.
3. Genetic conditions like cystic fibroids can also be responsible.
4. Alcohol abuse and smoking damage sperm.
5. Exposure to some industrial chemicals can lead to secondary infertility in men.
6. Obesity also lowers the levels of testosterone (the primary male reproductive hormone).
7. If a man underwent prostate removal, the sperm may flow backwards.
8. Genitourinary infections (like prostatitis and epididymitis) can cause temporary infertility in men.

Diagnosis of Secondary Infertility

To arrive at the cause of infertility, fertility experts check the medical histories of both partners and perform a series of tests. Hormone testing, laparoscopy, ultrasound, and ovulation tracking are standard tests for the female partner. These tests give the doctor a clear picture of the woman’s reproductive health.

For secondary infertility diagnosis in men, semen analysis is done for assessing sperm motility and sperm count.

Can You Get Pregnant with Secondary Infertility?

The answer is yes. If you think you have secondary infertility, you should not lose hope as you can become pregnant. It can take some time as first the doctor will identify the infertility causes. Medical assistance (like ICSI or IVF) might be necessary. However, with the right treatment, you can again enjoy a secondary pregnancy and deliver a healthy child.

Treatment for Secondary Infertility

Fertility specialists curate a treatment plan based on the root cause of primary or secondary infertility in a couple. These are the secondary infertility treatment options:

1. Lifestyle alterations: First, doctors encourage couples to switch to a healthy lifestyle as this can significantly improve fertility. If you are experiencing infertility, eat nutrient-rich foods, stay away from processed food, trans fat, and junk food. Quit smoking and drinking alcohol, exercise regularly, and lose weight (if you are overweight).

2. Medications: Some women need medicines/ fertility drugs that can stimulate the ovaries, helping it release multiple mature eggs. You should not take any fertility medication unless it is prescribed by your fertility specialist.

3. IVF: IVF or in vitro fertilization in an advanced procedure with a high success rate. In IVF, sperm and eggs are combined in a lab and once the eggs are fertilized, they are carefully placed back into the uterus.

4. IUI (Intrauterine insemination): Intrauterine insemination means placing sperm into a woman’s uterus and it’s done when there is an issue with sperm motility. For IUI to be successful, the sperm needs to be placed when the woman is ovulating.

5. Operation: Surgical interventions correct multiple issues like uterine fibroids, blockage in the fallopian tubes, and polyps, making it possible for the woman to cherish motherhood again.

6. Donor Options: If the male partner’s sperm is of low quality, doctors suggest using donor sperm. One can also opt for donor eggs if necessary.

To Sum Up

Lastly, the emotional impact of secondary infertility can be overwhelming for couples who are eager to welcome a second child. So, this blog intends to spread awareness about the fact that it is treatable.

Presently, there are excellent assistive reproductive technologies to treat infertility issues. Hence, when you experience secondary infertility, you should consult a reputed fertility treatment center.

Q. What are the main causes of secondary infertility?

Secondary infertility happens for various reasons like chronic stress, age, hormonal imbalances, excessive smoking, and not making healthy food choices.

Q. How is secondary infertility treated?

The treatment options for secondary infertility are assistive reproductive technologies (like IVF or IUI), surgery (removal of polyps or fibroids), fertility medications, and lifestyle modifications.

References:

What is Secondary Infertility? Causes, Treatment Options, and More

Infertility – NHS

Infertility

Secondary Infertility | Reproductive Science Center of NJ

Orchitis or inflammation of the testicles is a painful condition. It can be caused by various reasons like a viral infection. However, as it affects the testicles, most people feel too shy to contact a doctor or speak about it. So, it is natural to not know much about what can cause orchitis and how to treat it. In this article, you will get all the information about the symptoms, causes, prevention, and orchitis treatment.

Orchitis: An Overview

The testicles are among the most important male reproductive organs as they are responsible for making testosterone and sperm. The testicles are present inside a protective sac known as the scrotum. Orchitis can affect both testicles or just one.

The most common type of orchitis is epididymo-orchitis. The epididymis is a narrow tube that stores and carries sperm and epididymitis means swelling of the epididymis which also results in testicle pain.

Every year, nearly 600,000 men and boys have epididymitis. Around 6 out of 10 cases of epididymitis is accompanied by orchitis.

Causes of Orchitis

Bacterial or viral infection can lead to orchitis. In most cases, doctors discover that UTI or epididymitis is the underlying cause. Sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia can also cause bacterial orchitis.

Viral infections that may end up causing orchitis are:

• Chickenpox
• Rubella
• Prostate infections
• CMV
• Urinary Tract Infection

Orchitis Symptoms

Before reading about acute epididymoorchitis treatment, have a look at the major symptoms of it.

If someone develops orchitis, the most obvious sign is swelling and pain in the testicles. Some other symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
• Headaches
• Fever
• Muscle pain

Diagnosis of Orchitis 

Diverse diagnostic tests can be performed to be certain that a person has orchitis:

• Ultrasound: Doing an ultrasound of a person’s inflamed testicle can determine if the pain and inflammation are due to testicular orchitis or some other medical condition.
• Urine test: Sometimes, orchitis can be detected through a simple urine test. First, your urine sample will be collected. Then, it will be tested in a lab to check for sexually transmitted infections that may have caused the orchitis.
• Rectal examination: If there is a prostate infection, a rectal examination becomes necessary.
• Blood test: Doctors also perform a blood test to test for HIV and syphilis (if they suspect the individual’s orchitis might have been sexually transmitted).

Orchitis Treatment Options 

Whether you have mumps orchitis or viral orchitis, testicular orchitis treatment ideally involves administering antibiotics. However, for the swelling to disappear completely, you may have to wait for weeks or months.

Besides orchitis treatment antibiotics, applying cold packs is one of the best home remedies to reduce the pain. You can also apply a heating pad to your scrotal area. It will also be better if you refrain from performing sexual activities as having sex might cause more discomfort.

You should also not lift heavy items when you are getting treated for orchitis. Take rest and stay away from strenuous activities to get cured soon.

How to Prevent Orchitis?

Now that we have discussed epididymal orchitis treatment, wouldn’t you like to find out if there’s a way to prevent it in the future?

The following are the risk factors for orchitis:

We conclude by saying that if you have orchitis, don’t neglect it. If both the testicles are affected, sperm count may be decreased. Shrunken testicles or testicular atrophy is another rare complication.

With timely orchitis treatment, you can keep complications at bay, and you’ll quickly get relief. Therefore, get in touch with an experienced doctor as soon as possible.

All couples dream of becoming parents someday, but not all can get pregnant so easily. If you are unable to conceive even after having coitus regularly for months, infertility can be the reason. If you think you or your partner can be infertile, it is better to visit an IVF hospital to know the cause of infertility and begin the treatment at the earliest. And when you start looking for a fertility clinic, you will be surprised to learn that there are many IVF treatment centers.

However, the abundance of fertility clinics does not guarantee that all will provide quality treatment. So, how do you know which one is the best hospital for infertility treatment? Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure you have picked a reliable IVF center in India.

Tips to Choose the Best IVF Centre in India

If you have been struggling to make a baby, then perhaps it is time to receive secondary infertility treatment. But before the treatment commences, you must be sure that you are going to one of the best IVF clinics in your city. Wondering how? Here are some important points to remember when picking a fertility center:

1. Know their success rate

The first thing that a couple needs to consider is the IVF success rate of the clinics shortlisted. The success rate reflects how efficient their IVF doctors are. So, if a clinic is confident about its success rate, it will flaunt the results on the official website. You should always go ahead with such an IVF clinic as they are more capable of providing the best IVF treatment.

2. Ask about their treatment options

There are various kinds of advanced treatments to assist infertile couples become pregnant. After doing the necessary tests, they decide what treatment will be most effective. While in some cases, IUI needs to be performed, for other patients, IVF can come to the rescue.

Hence, whichever clinic you select, their fertility specialists should be experts in doing treatments such as Intra Uterine Insemination, In Vitro Fertilization, and Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection. You can refer to their website to have a clear idea about their specialized treatment options for male infertility.

3. Enquire about their doctors

A well-known fertility hospital has the best set of doctors. Their doctors are highly educated and have years of experience. They also have a high success rate of IVF, and they curate a treatment plan based on the requirements of each patient.

So, what you can do is go through the list of doctors and check their credentials. Then you will feel confident that the male/ female infertility specialist is trustworthy and so is the clinic.

4. Observe their overall behavior

Your IVF journey will be full of ups and downs. Some days you will be extremely excited and on other occasions, you can be depressed. Many patients require multiple IVF cycles, and a failed cycle means crushed hopes. When you are going through so much, you need people who will understand and empathize with your situation.

It goes beyond saying that the best fertility centers have approachable and supportive staff who are happy to answer your questions, solve your problems, and explain in detail their treatment options for female infertility.

5. Check the distance

The best fertility clinic for you is also the one that isn’t too far from your place. That’s because if it is located far away, traveling to the clinic will become a hassle.

So, always see the location on Google Maps before you finalize an IVF hospital in Bangalore or any other city. Just type ‘Infertility treatment near me‘ on Google and all the top clinics in your area will be shown to you.

6. Know the expenses

Getting affordable IVF treatment is a matter of concern for many couples as the IVF procedure can be expensive. Knowing the expenses beforehand will make it easy for you to plan your finances. Moreover, the costs might add up based on how long it takes for you to conceive. Any best IVF hospital is transparent about the costs, and they won’t shock you with an unexpected bill in the end.

7. Scrutinize the technologies used

There have been commendable breakthroughs in the field of medical science and the latest technologies increase the chances of conception significantly. Top clinics are equipped to provide the newest unexplained infertility treatment to their patients.

For instance, if the fertility center has facilities and in-house staff to carry out complex procedures like Blastocyst culture, Laser Assisted Hatching, and Cryopreservation, you can be relieved that they will take good care of you.

To Sum Up

We may conclude by saying that saying yes to fertility treatment is overwhelming for anybody. The right treatment center and an accomplished IVF specialist will offer you the best possible fertility care. Then the chances of having a successful IVF baby will increase for you. Therefore, take your time, acquaint yourself with the infertility treatment process, and then finalize a clinic.

Gone are the days when women were held accountable for being unable to conceive. Medical research has proved that male infertility is as common as female infertility. From age to lifestyle choices – there can be many reasons why a man is infertile. There can also be problems like sperm disorders and varicoceles. Another such condition is aspermia which can stand in your way of becoming a parent. So, any individual who is trying to make a baby should know about this, its major symptoms, and how it can be cured.

Aspermia Meaning

If a man cannot ejaculate semen or ejaculates very little semen after enjoying sexual union with his partner, the condition is called aspermia. The other name for it is dry ejaculation.

Aspermia can be of two types: complete and partial. Complete aspermia means when no semen can be found in the ejaculate. Partial aspermia is when there is semen but its volume is very less.

Are Aspermia and Azoospermia the Same?

Many people assume that there is no difference between azoospermia and aspermia. However, these are two different conditions and they both can contribute to infertility in men. According to doctors, azoospermia is more severe than aspermia. If there is zero presence of spermatozoa in multiple semen specimens of a person, the condition is termed azoospermia. Aspermia, on the other hand, is dry ejaculation.

Symptoms of Aspermia

Aspermia’s primary symptom is alarmingly low volume or no presence of semen at the time of ejaculation. Individuals can experience other symptoms like:

• dryness when having an orgasm
• hazy or cloudy urine after intercourse
• reduced volume of semen
• less satisfaction after engaging in coitus
• emotional and mental problems after feeling less pleasure when having sex

What is the Cause of Aspermia?

One can have aspermia due to various reasons that are stated below:

1.      Blockages of the Seminal Ducts: 

Obstructions or blockages in a man’s seminal ducts don’t allow seminal fluid to come out during ejaculation.

2.      Post-Surgical Complications: 

Operations related to the reproductive system or organs surrounding the male reproductive organs can lead to aspermia.

3.      Retrograde Ejaculation: 

If the semen does not get ejaculated out of the body but ends up entering the urinary bladder during an orgasm, the condition is known as retrograde ejaculation.

4.      Certain Medications: 

Aspermia can also be a side effect of some prescribed drugs. A man can become infertile after consuming specific medicines, especially medications that doctors prescribe to treat prostate conditions.

5.      Neurological Disorders: 

Some conditions that affect a person’s nervous system may disrupt the brain signals needed for the seminal fluid’s release during ejaculation.

6.      Inflammation and Infections:

Inflammation or infections in a man’s reproductive system may interfere with the production of semen and ejaculation.

7.      Psychological Factors:

Did you know that factors like anxiety and stress can also be responsible for causing temporary aspermia?

   8.      Congenital Aspermia:

Some people are born with underdeveloped genitalia. The outcome is an inability to produce semen and sperm.

   9.      Hormonal Imbalances:

Due to fluctuations in the levels of male reproductive hormones, a man can suffer from aspermia for a brief period. Androgen deficiency is the biggest reason behind it. This will be resolved if the hormonal balance is restored.

Diagnosing Aspermia

1.      Physical Examination and Medical History

Studying the patient’s medical history and performing a detailed physical examination can help physicians identify potential causes and determine the course of treatment. 

2.      Imaging Studies

When it comes to discovering blockages in the ejaculatory duct, imaging techniques may be helpful. So, your doctor may conduct an ultrasound to detect abnormalities or obstructions in your reproductive system.

3.      Semen Analysis

The main method preferred by doctors to diagnose is collecting seminal fluid to do semen analysis. This diagnostic test is necessary to evaluate the quantity, presence, and quality of sperm and semen. So, semen analysis helps IVF doctors understand the type and severity.

Treatment Options for Aspermia

Now that you know the link between aspermia and male fertility, the next question that comes to mind is: ‘Is there any treatment for aspermia? The answer is yes and these are the ways of treating it:

1.      Fixing the underlying issues

Based on the underlying cause, adjusting medications and treating infections can help resolve or improve aspermia. For instance, for retrograde ejaculation, medicines can be prescribed to shut the urinary bladder’s mouth. Medications, exercising, and eating a balanced diet can also cure hormonal imbalances.

2.      Surgical procedures

TURED (Transurethral Resection of the Ejaculatory Ducts) is a common treatment. This procedure is done to fix any obstruction in the person’s ejaculatory duct.

3.      Sperm retrieval

If medications and dietary changes do not resolve the issue, assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization can come to the rescue. During IVF, doctors remove the sperm surgically and use it to fertilize the mature eggs in a lab. The process of retrieving sperm is called TESE (testicular sperm extraction) and it means collecting the sperm from the testicles.

The Bottom Line

We may conclude by saying that with medications and some lifestyle changes, it is curable. Now that you understand the causes, diagnosis process, and treatment, it will be easy for you to seek medical attention. So, make sure you receive reliable treatment from a well-known fertility clinic to manage the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How to diagnose aspermia?

Aspermia is diagnosed through a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Key diagnostic methods include semen analysis to confirm the absence of ejaculation, hormonal testing to check for underlying endocrine issues, and imaging studies like ultrasound to identify structural abnormalities. A thorough patient history and physical exam help in identifying potential causes.

What is the difference between aspermia and azoospermia?

Aspermia and azoospermia are both conditions affecting male fertility, but they differ in their characteristics. Aspermia refers to the complete absence of semen ejaculation. In contrast, azoospermia is a condition where semen is present but contains no sperm.

What is the meaning of aspermia?

Aspermia is a medical condition characterized by the complete absence of semen ejaculation during orgasm. This condition can result from various causes, including hormonal imbalances, blockages in the reproductive tract, or nerve damage. It leads to infertility since there is no semen to carry sperm for fertilization.

Know about: whose sperm is used in ivf

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is a man’s inability to have and hold an erection after having sexual intercourse. This health condition is encountered by nearly 30 million men around the globe, and it can be a warning sign of serious illnesses like cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, it is still a taboo and most men dealing with erectile dysfunction hesitate to accept it and receive treatment. So, this article intends to share all the necessary information on erectile dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction: Definition

During the sexual union between a man and a woman, chemicals are released by the brain to stimulate more blood flow into the man’s penis and that’s what keeps it firm. But if the penis is limp and soft even when a person is aroused and in the middle of coitus, it is called erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction, abbreviated as ED, is a kind of penile disorder and millions of men suffer from this condition.  It affects the ability of a person to maintain a firm erection while having sexual intercourse and as a man ages, his ability to perform in bed keeps decreasing gradually. While this is completely normal, having ED when you are young means something is wrong, and you should go for a check-up. Luckily, it is not that difficult to treat erectile dysfunction and better erectile function if the cause of ED can be detected.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

The common symptoms of erectile dysfunction include:

• Reduced sexual urges
• Trouble getting an erection
• Trouble maintaining an erection
• Requiring too much stimulation to keep the penis up

Other than the above-mentioned bodily symptoms, ED has some psychological side effects:

• Low self-esteem
• Distress
• Depression

Erectile Dysfunction Causes

As ED can be linked to prostate cancer and heart attacks, anyone with erectile dysfunction should understand the underlying cause and go to an ED specialist. The following have been identified by doctors as the physical causes of erectile dysfunction:

• High BP
• Atherosclerosis (clogging of blood vessels)
• Diabetes
• High levels of cholesterol
• Multiple sclerosis
• Obesity
• Parkinson’s disease
• Some prescription medications
• Use of tobacco
• Metabolic syndrome — a medical condition that involves high levels of insulin, increased BP, high cholesterol, and accumulation of body fat around a person’s waist
• Sleep disorders
• Low levels of testosterone
• Alcoholism/ substance abuse
• Receiving treatments for enlarged prostate or prostate cancer
• Scar tissue development inside the penis — a condition known as Peyronie’s disease
• Injuries or operations that may have affected the spinal cord or pelvic area

Erectile Dysfunction Emotional Causes

For sex to be pleasurable, the body and mind must work in harmony. Studies have revealed that many men have erection problems for brief/ prolonged periods when they are emotionally unstable. Some emotional issues that can cause ED are:

• Relationship conflicts
• Work stress
• Depression
• Financial burdens
• Anxiety
• Going through a major personal crisis
• Stress due to social, religious, or cultural conflicts
• Worrying about performance in bed

So, if you are suddenly having issues maintaining your erection, could there be some emotional cause of ED in your case?

ED Risk Factors

It is natural to wonder which people have more risk of erectile dysfunction. The following risk factors may contribute to ED:

• Being 40 years old or older
• Having heart ailments or diabetes
• Smoking regularly
• Having a BMI (Body Mass Index) exceeding 25
• Clinical depression
• Lack of physical activity
• Being a heavy drinker
• Obesity

How Do Doctors Diagnose Erectile Dysfunction?

Your healthcare provider will ask several questions regarding your lifestyle and health history. You must remain truthful about the drugs you consume or if you drink alcohol/ smoke regularly. They would also like to know about any stressors that may cause ED.

These are the usual questions your doctor will ask:

• What supplements, over-the-counter drugs, and prescription drugs have you taken recently?
• How frequently do you drink alcohol?
• Do you take recreational drugs?
• Are you a smoker?
• Do you suffer from urinary problems?
• Did you ever have surgery radiation therapy or surgery in the pelvic region?
• Do you have any illnesses (untreated or treated)?

Speak openly with your urologist so that they can suggest the best ED treatment options.

Doctors also perform blood tests and urine tests to diagnose ED. For instance, Nocturnal penile tumescence is an overnight test that checks one’s erection during sleep. In rare cases of cancer and trauma, pelvic X-rays such as arteriography, CT scanning, or MRI scanning are needed to check the severity of ED before commencing the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

If ED has become a bothersome problem and is affecting your emotional well-being and your conjugal life, visit an ED specialist to restore ED function.

In some situations, curing an underlying condition is the simplest kind of erection treatment. So, when it comes to treating ED, non-invasive treatment is the first preference. Treatment for erectile dysfunction can also be done through medications. These are the common treatments:

• Penile implants have a great success rate.
• Oral pills/ drugs (phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors, to be specific) are often given in the United States and other countries for fixing ED. These include Viagra, Stendra, Cialis, and Levitra.
• If the blood tests reveal that low levels of testosterone are responsible for causing erectile dysfunction, testosterone therapy is the best ED treatment.
• Penile Injections can also be effective.
• Vacuum Erection Devices are among the newest treatments.
• Administering intraurethral medication is another alternative treatment.

ED treatment is generally considered safe, but you should still ask your doctor about the possible side effects. For instance, treating ED in older men through penile vascular surgery or some other surgery can be critical.

Tips to Improve Erectile Function

• Do cardiovascular exercises daily.
• Bid adieu to smoking.
• Talk to a sex therapist.
• Manage chronic health conditions.
• Refrain from using illegal drugs.
• Address your relationship problems and mental health issues.
• Some men say that using vacuum pumps helps them immensely.

The Takeaway

We may conclude by saying that male sexual dysfunction can be stressful. But you should not allow ED to affect your quality of life and mental peace. Instead of feeling shy, patients with erectile dysfunction should opt for ED treatment near me to commence the treatment for ED at the earliest. Additionally, you should eat a balanced diet, quit smoking and drinking, exercise regularly, and stay happy to improve erectile disorder.

Have you been struggling to conceive for more than a year and your doctor is unable to detect an obvious problem? Are the fertility test results normal and yet the fertility specialist cannot find a detectable cause? This condition is called unexplained infertility and millions of couples around the globe are dealing with this. Does this mean you can never have a biological child or is there a way to treat this? From diagnosis to treatment to lifestyle changes – we will tell you all about unexplained infertility.

Unexplained Infertility: An Overview

Infertility in men and women can be of various types. While sometimes, doctors can easily identify the causes and provide the treatment, other times the causes remain elusive. Unexplained infertility means when it is difficult to find out why a couple is unable to conceive. The other name for it is idiopathic infertility and in such cases, the tests reveal:

• There is no blockage in your fallopian tubes.
• You ovulate at regular intervals.
• There isn’t any uterine abnormality or structural issue with the uterus.
• The semen analysis of your partner is normal in terms of amount, shape, count, and motility.
• The levels of reproductive hormones in your body are normal.
• You have a good ovarian reserve (egg count).

Note: 43% of couples get pregnant after opting for fertility treatment.

Causes of Unexplained Infertility

Technically, the cause of unexplained infertility is not known. However, there can be some unexplained infertility reasons that are delaying your journey of parenthood. Healthcare providers list these as the possible causes:

An undiagnosed underlying condition:

It can be challenging to be completely sure about how certain conditions impact fertility. Scientists are constantly studying to know more about how human bodies function. For instance, did you know that celiac disease is a kind of gluten allergy that can contribute to a person’s infertility? Thyroid and diabetes are underlying health conditions that too can affect fertility.

Endometriosis:

Endometriosis may have some or no symptoms at all. Even endometriosis can stand in your way of becoming pregnant.

Learn more about Endometriosis And Fertility

Cervical mucus:

The cervical mucus plays a key role in implantation as it allows sperm to swim up and get united with the egg when you are ovulating. If the cervical mucus is not transparent and watery but thick, sperm might fail to travel through the cervix and vagina to finally reach the uterus.

Sperm quality:

The quality of the sperm is also a contributing factor to infertility. So, a sperm analysis is necessary if there is any problem with the sperm. There can be other sperm-related issues that are making implantation impossible.

Egg quality:

With the help of an ultrasound, your healthcare provider can see your number of eggs. However, ultrasound gives no information about the quality of eggs. Blood tests in addition to ultrasound will give some idea about egg quality, but even this isn’t considered a definitive diagnosis.

Uterine lining:

The lining of the uterus is known as the endometrium. For implantation to be successful, the embryo needs to attach itself to the uterine lining. If your endometrium cannot thicken, then it is not prepared to accommodate a fertilized egg. In a thin uterus lining scenario, even if the sperm fertilizes the egg, the egg cannot implant as your endometrium is too thin. Hence, the pregnancy test results will be negative.

Poorly timed sexual intercourse:

Having coitus won’t get you pregnant unless you do it strategically. The timing, frequency, and position are all important aspects to keep in mind when having intercourse with the purpose of making a baby.

Sometimes, the cause of unexplained secondary infertility is too hard to detect and therefore, treat. While some people can get pregnant without much effort, for others, many things need to happen simultaneously to achieve results.

Diagnosis of Unexplained Infertility

Doctors perform a series of tests to diagnose the irregularities that are causing infertility. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the following should be included in fertility testing:

• A detailed physical exam
• A complete sexual and medical history
• Testing the ovarian reserve
• Semen analysis
• Blood tests that show hormone levels
• Keeping track of ovulation
• Assessment of the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes through ultrasound or the latest imaging tests such as laparoscopy and hysterosalpingogram

Treatment for Unexplained Infertility

If unexplained infertility exists, so does its treatment. Hence, without further ado, let us find out the best treatment for unexplained infertility.

1. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

IUI is one of the assisted reproductive technologies that can increase the chance of pregnancy for an infertile couple. This kind of artificial insemination follows diverse steps like concentrating sperm and placing the sperm directly in the uterus at the time of ovulation. Many fertility specialists prescribe Clomid with IUI for the best results.

2. IVF 

Although expensive, IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a reliable treatment option for a couple with unexplained infertility. When none of the other treatments work, fertility doctors suggest IVF for unexplained fertility and it has a high success rate.

During the treatment, the doctor will collect mature eggs from the ovaries and bring them into contact with sperm in the lab. When the eggs are fertilized, multiple embryos will be placed in the uterus.

One complete IVF cycle takes 2-3 weeks and it can be done with the couple’s sperm and eggs or with eggs and sperm from a fertile donor. Don’t panic if you do not see results as most patients require multiple IVF cycles.

3. Medications

There are many medications for stimulating egg production and facilitating ovulation. Your doctor may prescribe medications only or give them along with IVF and IUI treatment. Clomiphene and gonadotropins are the usual medications and sometimes, letrozole is also given.

Gonadotropins have hormones that are necessary for egg production and treating issues like low sperm count. On the other hand, clomiphene stimulates the ovaries and encourages the production of more eggs. When more eggs are produced per cycle after using the medicines, the chances of having multiple babies also increase.

4. Timed intercourse 

Since you are trying to conceive, make sure you are doing it right to maximize the chances of conceiving. You might be having sex regularly, but what if you miss the 48-hour window when the chances are the highest? Your fertility specialist will tell you how to time coitus so that it coincides with your ovulation.

There are excellent ovulation tracking kits that can assist you in tracking your ovulation. There are also other ways of understanding that you are ovulating if you notice the changes happening in your body. A few days before ovulation, the vaginal mucus becomes slippery and clear like the white portion of an egg. There can also be a spike in your libido and take this as a clue to have sex.

Lifestyle Changes to Make Infertility Treatment More Effective

Several of your lifestyle choices have long-term implications on your reproductive health. So, if you have made up your mind to become a parent, both you and your partner should do the following.

• Bid adieu to obesity by exercising daily (for at least 30 minutes) and cutting down on unhealthy foods.
• Try to limit contact with any kind of toxic chemical in home and work environments.
• Besides exercising regularly, eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to become more fertile.
• Take an iodine and folate supplement to get rid of deficiencies (women only).
• Manage stress and sleep well at night.
• Avoid smoking and the consumption of alcohol.
• Have less caffeine.
• If you suspect inflammation or infection, see a doctor at the earliest.

Read to know more: secondary infertility

The Bottom Line

We may conclude by saying that infertility can be an emotionally taxing and challenging journey for many couples who are eager to start a family. But you must not lose patience as thousands of couples with unexplained fertility issues are now leading a happy life with their healthy babies born with the help of IVF treatment or naturally.

So, although it seems challenging to get pregnant at the moment, there is no need to feel despondent. Consult an accomplished fertility expert in your city to receive quality unexplained infertility treatment.

Best Fertility Specialist in Jaipur

Infertility in a man or a woman is a health issue that decreases the chances of a woman getting pregnant. Almost 13 out of every 100 couples struggle to get pregnant even after having unprotected sex consistently. During diagnosis, doctors discover that in nearly one-third of the cases, the problem lies with the man – be it related to sperm delivery or sperm production. This proves that infertility is a matter of concern for both genders and so, in this article we will tell you all about male infertility treatments so that you can soon welcome your little one home.

Cause of Male Infertility

Before knowing about male infertility treatments, you should understand what is the cause of infertility. Many environmental and biological factors can cause infertility in men and the common ones are listed below:

• Medical conditions like autoimmune disease or diabetes can deteriorate sperm health
• Varicoceles or swollen veins in an individual’s testicles
• Cancer treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy
• Orchiectomy (removal of the testicles through operation)
• Sperm problems like malformed sperm, oligospermia (low sperm count), and azoospermia (no semen in the sperm)
• Myotonic dystrophy, Klinefelter syndrome, or other genetic disorders
• Infections such as orchitis and epididymitis
• Testicular trauma
• Sexually transmitted infections like HIV, gonorrhea, etc.
• Hormonal disorders affecting pituitary glands or hypothalamus

Symptoms of Male Infertility

The inability to have an erection is known as impotence and this is one of the biggest signs of infertility in men. If a couple enjoys having sex regularly and yet the pregnancy test results are negative, one or both could be infertile. Another sign of male infertility is retrograde ejaculation or dry orgasm, which means the semen does not enter the female body. If male infertility is because of chromosomal or genetic disorders, there may not be any symptoms and only a male infertility test can reveal the truth.

While all these are the obvious signs of infertility, infertility also leads to emotional and psychological side effects like feeling depressed or stressed. If you or your spouse experiences these negative feelings, you must not delay talking to a psychiatrist or therapist.

Diagnosis of Male Infertility

Different infertile couples have diverse infertility issues. So, doctors may perform multiple tests to detect the issue accurately and give proper reproductive medicine or begin azoospermia treatment. Diagnosis of male infertility issues usually involves:

1.      Physical examination

On the first day, the doctor will examine your genitals and ask about chronic ailments, surgeries, injuries, or inherited conditions that could have affected your fertility. Your doctor would also like to know about your sexual practices as well as sexual development at the time of puberty.

2.      Semen analysis

Obtaining semen samples can be done in various ways. You can masturbate and ejaculate into a container. There are alternate methods like using a special kind of condom while having intercourse.

3.      Hormone testing

Hormones that the pituitary glands, testicles, and hypothalamus produce play a major role in a person’s sexual development and also sperm production. If there are abnormalities in organ systems, you may have to deal with infertility. A blood test will measure if the levels of testosterone and other hormones are adequate.

4.      Scrotal ultrasound

Sound waves of high frequency are used during this test to generate images inside the patient’s body. By performing a scrotal ultrasound, your doctor will be able to see if your testicles and its supportive structures are fine.

5.      Transrectal ultrasound

This diagnosis method involves inserting a narrow, lubricated wand into the rectum. With the help of the wand, the doctor checks the prostate and searches for blockages of tubes responsible for carrying semen.

6.      Testicular biopsy

Testicular biopsy means collecting samples from a man’s testicles by inserting a needle. The results will show if there is an issue with sperm production or something else.

7.      Post-ejaculation urinalysis

Sperm present in the urine can be an indication that your sperm travels backward into the urinary bladder. This phenomenon is called retrograde ejaculation and post-ejaculatory urinalysis can detect the condition.

8.      Sperm function tests

A range of tests can be done to understand how long a man’s sperm can survive after ejaculation. Other factors that doctors consider are: How well the sperm can penetrate the egg? Does it have issues attaching itself to the egg?

9.      Genetic tests

Extremely low sperm concentration can be due to genetic reasons. A blood test can prove if there are some changes in the person’s Y chromosomes (which is a sign of genetic abnormality). Various inherited and congenital syndromes can also be detected through genetic testing.

Treatment for Male Infertility

Looking for a male fertility center near me? Have a look at these treatment options before visiting a fertility clinic for men:

1.      Assisted reproductive technology

When it comes to treating infertility in men, assisted reproductive technology has already proved its excellence. During ART treatments, the sperm will be obtained via surgical extraction, normal ejaculation, or from a donor individual. After that, they will remove an egg from the ovary of your partner and combine it with the sperm in a laboratory.

The sperm is inserted into the genital tract of the woman, or it is used to perform intracytoplasmic sperm injection or in vitro fertilization. When a healthcare provider injects a sperm cell into the egg physically, it is called intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The alternative of it is IVF for male fertility. In vitro fertilization involves injecting the female with medications that can turn multiple eggs mature at the same time. When the eggs are completely mature, the doctor will collect them and allow the sperm to fertilize them in the lab. The moment an egg is fertilized, the doctor will place the embryo (fertilized egg) back into the uterus.

2.      Surgery

In some cases, surgical intervention can get rid of male infertility and the top surgical procedures include:

• Vasectomy reversal: A person who has undergone vasectomy cannot impregnate their partner. So, if you regret your decision of opting for vasectomy, you may consider vasectomy reversal which means reconnecting the vas deferens so that pregnancy can be possible once again.
• Sperm retrieval: This process involves performing a biopsy after retrieving sperm from the epididymis or testicles.

• Vasoepididymostomy: Some men have a blockage in their epididymis which is the coiled tube lying against the testicle responsible for maturing sperm. As this blockage does not let sperm enter the person’s semen, surgery will remove the blockage.
• Varicocelectomy: If there is pooling of blood in a person’s testicles because of varicose veins present in the scrotum, this condition is called varicocelectomy. It can adversely impact sperm quality and so, removing varicose veins will be wise to increase the chances of conception.

3.      Hormone therapy

Many men have noticed great results after saying yes to hormone therapy. As both low and high levels of hormones can affect fertility, hormone therapy can balance the hormone levels to assist the body in producing quality sperm. You should also stop using medicines such as:

• Anti-androgens
• Calcium channel blockers
• Tricyclic antidepressants

4.      Treating sexual intercourse issues

Medication and education can improve fertility conditions in both men and women. Many couples don’t realize that having coitus is not enough to conceive. Sexual intercourse needs to be performed during ovulation to get the desired outcome. Additionally, if your premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction is the reason why your partner can’t get pregnant, medicines and practice can make these problems disappear.

Lifestyle Changes to Make Male Infertility Treatment Successful

Depending on the cause behind your infertility, it is possible to produce healthy sperm by making the following lifestyle alterations:

• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Consume a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables as they are incredible sources of vitamins and minerals.
• Stay away from unhealthy and junk foods as they affect sperm count in men.
• Engage in physical activities like walking, jogging, bicycling, dancing, or lifting weights.
• Practice meditation and other self-relaxation techniques to keep stress at bay.
• Sleep well at night as your body also needs sufficient rest to produce high-quality sperm.
• Quit drinking, smoking, and using nonprescription/recreational drugs.
• Avoid using sexual lubricants while having sexual intercourse.

Parting Thoughts

We may conclude by saying that having infertility does not mean one can never become a biological father. There are many treatment options to help you fulfill your dream of holding your baby in your arms.

All you have to do is book an appointment with an esteemed fertility specialist to receive quality treatment. Just type ‘male fertility doctor near me’ or ‘male fertility clinic near me’ on Google to find the best fertility clinics in your locality.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services discovered that pelvic inflammatory disease affects nearly 5% of the US women. However, a lot of women don’t know about this condition and that leads to complications in the long run. So, it is important to be aware of the causes and symptoms of PID. When diagnosed on time, it becomes easy for doctors to provide pelvic inflammatory disease treatments. So, in this article, we will tell you all about PID, its risk factors, and ways of preventing it.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: An Overview

Pelvic inflammatory disease is one of the common infections occurring in the female reproductive organs that can cause heavy and painful periods and pain during intercourse. The infection can be in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the womb. It occurs when bacteria (transmitted sexually) spreads from a woman’s vagina to her uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

What Causes PID?

In most cases, bacterial infection spreading from the vagina/ cervix to the woman’s reproductive organs is what causes PID. STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia can also be responsible.

Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Condition

Not all women with PID experience symptoms and in such cases, it can remain undetected for a long time. Other women complain of the following PID symptoms:

• Irregular bleeding
• Painful urination
• Heavy periods
• Pain sensation in the lower abdomen
• Discomfort in the upper abdomen
• Painful sex
• Fatigue
• Unusual (green or yellow) and foul-smelling discharge from the vagina

Some people who are severely ill can also experience some other symptoms like:

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Fainting
• Vomiting
• Fever

If the above-mentioned symptoms persist, you should consult a doctor to receive treatment.

Note:
Several of the pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms are the same as the symptoms of UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). So, it is better if you don’t try self-medication and opt for early treatment from an experienced doctor.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Diagnosis

There is no single test for accurate diagnosis of PID. So, doctors rely on the following methods to accurately diagnose PID:

Knowing the patient’s medical history: The doctor will ask if you had sexually transmitted infections in the past and if you have unprotected sex.

Observing the symptoms: The symptoms you are experiencing will give your doctor some idea about the type of infection.

Conducting a pelvic exam: A pelvic exam reveals if your pelvic region has swelling or tenderness. The doctor may wear gloves and insert two fingers through the vagina to examine the ovaries and uterus. Another method is using cotton swabs and taking fluid samples from the cervix and vagina. Testing the samples will disclose if you have chlamydia or gonorrhea.

Performing urine and blood tests: Urine and blood tests are used for HIV, pregnancy, and STIs.

Doing an ultrasound: This means using sound ways to get images of the reproductive system.

If the diagnosis is not clear, doctors perform some additional tests like:

Endometrial biopsy: This procedure is about inserting a tube into the uterus and removing a sample of the patient’s endometrial tissue. Testing the tissue will reveal if there is inflammation or infection.

Laparoscopy: It involves making a tiny hole in the abdomen and inserting a thin instrument with a camera to view the pelvic organs.

Treatment for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Prompt PID treatment with appropriate medicine will cure pelvic inflammatory disease. However, there is no way of reversing the damage or scarring to the person’s reproductive tract caused by PID. Treatments for PID include the following:

Antibiotics

A healthcare provider prescribes different antibiotics that must be started immediately. They decide the medications and their dosages after studying the lab test reports. You will have to go for a follow-up after a few days to make sure the treatment is effective. Even if the pain subsides, you should not stop taking the medicines without your doctor’s permission.

Temporary abstinence

You should refrain from getting intimate with your partner until the treatment is over and all the symptoms go away.

Treating your sexual partner

Preventing reinfection is as crucial as getting timely treatment. If an STI is the reason behind your PID, your partner too should go for medical examination and treatment even if they don’t have noticeable symptoms.

If you are seriously ill, pregnant, have an abscess, or aren’t responding to oral medications, hospitalization might be necessary. The doctor may give intravenous antibiotics along with antibiotics to be taken by mouth.

While most people do not require surgery, draining the abscess is the only option if it ruptures or is on the verge of rupturing. Your healthcare provider might also recommend pelvic reconstructive surgery if the antibiotics fail to get rid of the pain and infection.

Complications of PID

Pelvic infection, if left untreated, can cause abscesses and scar tissue, thus resulting in permanent damage to the individual’s reproductive system. Complications include:

1. Infertility

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 1 out of 8 people having a history of PID have trouble getting pregnant. However, you must remember that there are excellent treatments for infertility and so, all you need to do is get in touch with an infertility specialist.

2. Intense abdominal pain

PID can cause pelvic pain that might become unbearable and affect your quality of life. The pain can last for months, even years. Then you won’t be able to enjoy intercourse.

3. Ectopic pregnancy

One of the leading causes of ectopic/ tubal pregnancy is PID. Sacr tissues can develop in your fallopian tubes because of PID. The scar tissue does not allow the fertilized egg to reach its goal: implantation in the uterus. On the contrary, the implantation takes place in the fallopian tube. This condition is known as ectopic pregnancy, and it can trigger life-threatening bleeding. So, you must rush to the emergency room.

4. Tubo-ovarian abscess

An abscess is a pocket containing pus/ infected fluid and multiple abscesses can form in the reproductive tract. They mostly affect the ovaries and fallopian tubes but can also be found in the uterus and some other pelvic organs. If not treated with proper medication, the infection of the female reproductive organs from the abscesses can be life-threatening.

Tips to Prevent PID

Now that you know about the treatment of PID, are you wondering if it can be prevented? You can lower your chances of developing PID infection if you:

• Practice safe sex by using barriers (like condoms) to minimize the risks.
• Get tested for sexually transmitted infections from time to time.
• Encourage your partner/ spouse to get tested.
• Don’t douche (as it upsets the bacterial balance in your vagina).
• Always clean from front to back after passing stool so that bacteria cannot enter your vagina

To Sum Up

We may conclude by saying that PID is a treatable condition, and you can be certain of complete recovery. So, even if the pelvic exam reports confirm that you have PID, there is no reason to panic. Just look for PID testing near me to bid adieu to the symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease.

A lot of couples have problems getting pregnant again. It means they can’t have a second child after having one or more children successfully. This is a difficult and emotional issue. It can be only as upsetting to deal with this issue because of the shame and false beliefs surrounding it. What does secondary infertility really mean? Who can it affect? What are the different types, causes, symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments for female infertility condition? Let’s take a look at that.

Understanding Secondary Infertility

Sometimes people with one or more biological children can’t get pregnant again. They may have been pregnant before with no major issues. But their infertility doesn’t allow them to become pregnant. This is the scenario of secondary infertility.

Which People Can Get Secondary Infertility?

Secondary infertility can happen to any couple, even if they have been able to have children before. Couples who already have one or more biological children and want to have more may have to deal with secondary infertility. It is important to know that this condition doesn’t care about age, race, or anything else; it can happen to both men and women.

Which Types of Secondary Infertility are the Most Important?

Secondary infertility has two main groups:

1. Temporary Secondary Infertility:

Couples may have trouble conceiving or carrying for a short time, usually because of stress, changes in lifestyle, or short-term health problems. After fixing these issues, fertility can return.

2. Permanent secondary infertility

Individuals may experience permanent secondary infertility due to factors like aging, dealing with a significant medical condition, or undergoing irreversible surgery. These circumstances create complexities that hinder the ability to achieve pregnancy

What are the Primary Causes of Secondary Infertility?

To know the actual thing that causes infertility and its treatment, it’s important to know what common causes secondary infertility in the first place. These are some common reasons:

Type of Age: Age is the main factor contributing causes of female infertility. This might make it harder for them to have a second child.

Hormonal Imbalances: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems can throw off the balance of hormones, which can make it harder to get pregnant.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Untreated infections or a history of infections may damage and scar the fallopian tubes. It creates challenges for eggs to reach the uterus

Male Infertility Factors: The causes of infertility in men, like a low sperm count or bad sperm quality, can make it harder for women to get pregnant again.

Problems with the uterus: Fibroids, polyps, and other problems with the uterus can make it hard for the embryo to implant.

Lifestyle Factors: Both men and women can lose their fertility if they smoke. Drink too much alcohol, are overweight, or don’t do much physical activity.

Have a Look at the Symptoms of Secondary Infertility

Secondary infertility may not have any clear signs, unlike primary infertility. Couples who want to have a second child might not notice any specific signs that they are having trouble getting pregnant. So, it’s important to think about fertility testing after trying to get pregnant for a long time. Usually, it takes one year for couples under 35 and six months for those over 35.

Find out if you have Secondary Infertility with this Test

A thorough medical history and a test battery can determine infertility effects. Some test which is done to know the reason which affects fertility are:

1. Hormone Testing: This involves drawing blood to check the levels of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in both partners.

2. Ovulation Tracking: Keeping an eye on a woman’s menstrual cycle to see if she ovulates regularly.

3. Semen Analysis: The number of sperm production, how fast they move, and their shape are all measured from a sample of semen.

4. Hysterosalpingography: Hysterosalpingography is an X-ray test that checks the health of the uterus and fallopian tubes.

5. Ultrasound: Imaging tests can be used to look for problems in the reproductive organs.

6. Laparoscopy: It is an invasive surgery used to look for problems like endometriosis or scarring in the pelvic organs.

What Are Treatments for Secondary Infertility?

The best way to treat secondary infertility in women depends on what caused it in the first place. Some common types of treatment for trying to conceive are:

Changes to your lifestyle: Eating well, working out regularly, and avoiding smoking, and alcohol can help you get pregnant.

Drugs: Fertility drugs can be used to stop ovulation, fix hormonal problems, or make more eggs.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): For better chances of getting pregnant, sperm are put directly into the uterus during ovulation.

In vitro fertilization (IVF): This is the more advanced way to get pregnant. Eggs and sperm are mixed outside of the body, and the embryos that are made are then put into the uterus.

Surgery: Uterine fibroids, polyps, and blocked fallopian tubes are some of the problems that can be fixed through surgery.

Donor Options: Using eggs, sperm, or embryos from a donor may be a good option in some situations.

If you experiencing infertility check our latest blog:  Premature Ejaculation: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

Conclusion

Couples who have had successful pregnancies rarely consider secondary infertility. Though upsetting, many couples can overcome infertility and have more children with the right diagnosis and fertility treatment. Consult Ritu IVF fertility specialists to navigate this difficult process.