It's amazing how many things must go right for pregnancy to occur and that 90% of couples are able to have children within two years of trying.

 

For the remaining 10 percent of couples who struggle with fertility, the pursuit of pregnancy can be stressful, disruptive, and sometimes heartbreaking.

 

But there are many barriers to fertility that can be identified and overcome.

 

The following are the top five barriers to fertility among couples we have worked with.

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Top 5 Barriers to Fertility:

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1. Low Sperm Count  

 

Low sperm count or low percentage of normal sperm. This can be the sole cause or just one of several factors impeding a couple’s fertility.

 

Semen analysis should be part of any comprehensive fertility evaluation. In our experience, this is determined to be a factor about 50% of the time.

 

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2. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

 

According to the CDC, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility in women and is certainly a common cause in our practice.

 

This condition is associated with a host of problems, including abnormal ovarian function and extremely irregular or absent menses.

 

Learn about PHA’s PCOS Management here.

 

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3. Endometriosis

 

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that lines the uterine cavity grows outside of the uterus.

 

This tissue can be found anywhere within the body, but most commonly involves the walls of the lower pelvis and the surfaces of the uterus, ovaries, bowel, and bladder.

 

This condition is associated with inflammation that can ultimately impair fertility. For some women, this condition is also associated with severe pelvic and low back pain.

 

Learn about PHA’s Endometriosis Care here.

 

 

4. Hormonal Imbalances 

 

Hormonal imbalances that negatively impact ovarian function. Common hormonal imbalances include under- or over-active thyroid, too much insulin, and hyperprolactinemia.

 

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5. Anatomical Abnormalities

 

Anatomical abnormalities of the uterus and fallopian tubes that prevent the sperm from meeting the egg or prevent the embryo from implanting into the uterus.

 

These structures may be abnormal because of birth defects, sexually transmitted infections, uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, ovarian cysts, or severe endometriosis.

 

Sometimes these abnormalities can be surgically corrected.

 

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Addressing Fertility Barriers

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The fertility evaluation process, especially in the beginning, is often disorienting and confusing. Couples wonder what the problem is and try to look for answers, but aren’t sure what steps to take or who to trust for help.

 

Some women are even turned away from treatment because they are told the likelihood for success is too low.

 

At Physicians HolisticHealth Alliance (PHA), we want to help any couple who desires fertility support.

 

We believe that impaired fertility requires a comprehensive evaluation because there are usually medical conditions that need to be addressed.

 

In addition to improving fertility, treating these underlying conditions often results in better health and improved quality of life.

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Curious about our unique approach to fertility care? Click here to learn more.