Infertility

What is infertility?

Infertility is the inability to get pregnant or stay pregnant after a full year of trying. Or six months of trying for women 35 and older.

Infertility is common. Though women often feel responsible for the inability to conceive, infertility affects men and women about equally. In men, infertility occurs because of problems with sperm production or function. 

When struggling with infertility, both partners benefit from an evaluation to determine the underlying cause. 

What causes infertility in women?

Infertility in women may occur because of ovulation problems or structural abnormalities involving the reproductive organs.

Ovulation problems

Ovulation problems are the most common cause of infertility in women. Ovulation is the release of an egg from an ovary. Your ovary releases one egg during your menstrual cycle. 

If you have a condition that affects ovulation, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), then you may not ovulate regularly, decreasing your chances of getting pregnant.

Structural abnormalities

You may also have infertility from structural abnormalities that affect your reproductive organs. For example, a blockage in the fallopian tube may prevent egg fertilization. Or, a uterine fibroid may interfere with the implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus. 

Age, stress, and alcohol consumption may also affect fertility.

What happens during an infertility evaluation?

When you visit Women's Care of Beverly Hills for an infertility evaluation, you can expect a comprehensive exam. Your OB/GYN asks detailed questions about your menstrual cycle, gynecological history, sexual history, and family history.

They perform a pelvic exam and may do an ultrasound test and run bloodwork to determine the underlying cause of your infertility. The team may also recommend infertility testing for your partner. 

What are the treatments for infertility?

The Women's Care of Beverly Hills team customizes treatments for infertility based on the cause. For women with ovulation problems, the team prescribes medication to stimulate ovulation. 

They may also recommend intrauterine insemination (IUI) during ovulation to improve your chances of conception. During this procedure, your OB/GYN injects specially prepared sperm from your partner or a donor into your uterus. 

The team may also perform surgery to correct any structural abnormalities. Women's Care of Beverly Hills also works closely with some of the finest infertility specialists in Los Angeles and makes referrals when appropriate.

To schedule your infertility evaluation, call Women's Care of Beverly Hills or book an appointment online today.