How to Find the Cause of Infertility

It can take the average couple up to 12 months to conceive. Occasionally, things take a little longer. However, in most instances, doctors diagnose patients who have difficulty conceiving with infertility. It is estimated up to 25 percent of couples of childbearing age are affected by some form of infertility. Living with infertility can be heartbreaking and difficult, but are many options to help couples find and correct infertility.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Family history
• List of questions
• Fertility tests

Find the Cause of Infertiity in Women

1. Speak with your doctor about the possibility of infertility. You may want to mention any specific concerns you have, such as abnormal bleeding, heavy menstruation or irregular cycles.
2. Look at your family history. You may find your infertility has a genetic component. Studies have shown certain types of conditions which may cause infertility, such as severe endometriosis, may be hereditary.
3. Ask your doctor about infertility testing. There are a wide variety of tests, such as those which check the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and the hormone progesterone, which can help you find the cause of your infertility.
4. Chart your monthly cycle by taking your temperature every day with a basal body thermometer (BBT). This is a simple, inexpensive way to tell whether you're ovulating regularly.

Determine the Cause of Infertility in Men

5. Make an appointment with your physician. You may want to make a list of questions and concerns you have. You'll probably also want to note any past problems or sexually transmitted diseases.
6. Consider your genetics. It can be helpful to know whether disorders known to impact fertility are present in your family.
7. Keep a health journal for at least one month. In it, you may want to make a note of your daily emotions, dietary intake and sleep habits. This may help your doctor determine whether you might have a hormonal imbalance, a neurological disorder or a lifestyle conducive to infertility.
8. Expect to undergo basic infertility testing. A sperm analysis is usually the first type of test performed, due to it's simplicity, but you may also need to have a blood test done on your hormone levels.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't consult with your doctor about infertility unless you've been trying to conceive for at least 12 months. The major exceptions to this are those over the age of 35, or those who have known fertility issues. In these cases, the suggested minimum wait period is 6 months.