Signs and Symptoms of Infertility in Men and Women

The journey to pregnancy is different for each woman and couple.

Trying to conceive can be challenging and often takes time. However, persistent effort without immediate success does not always mean infertility. Factors such as age, overall health, and lifestyle can all affect your ability to get pregnant.

Before starting on the journey to parenthood, it is best to consult with an OB-GYN.

Your health care provider can evaluate potential risks, address underlying health concerns, and help you and your partner prepare physically and emotionally.

By taking proactive measures with your OB-GYN you will enhance your chances of a successful conception and lay the foundation for a healthy and well-supported pregnancy.

Open communication with health care professionals fosters a more informed and empowered approach to family planning.

With that said, if you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a year or more, you may have some questions about infertility.

Knowing the signs, symptoms, and causes of infertility can help you recognize when to seek medical advice.

Here are some common questions about infertility.

Signs of Infertility in Women

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

The average menstrual cycle is approximately 28 days long. A consistent cycle that’s between 21-35 days is still considered normal.

If you don’t have a period or if your cycle is irregular, this could be a sign that you are not ovulating.

Various factors could be causing anovulation or the absence of ovulation. Causes include hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS, stress, excessive exercise, and certain medical conditions.

If you’re trying to conceive, it’s important to identify and address these underlying issues.

Painful Periods

During menstruation, your uterus sheds its lining. To promote the shedding of the uterus lining, the muscles in your uterus contract.

Although some pain or cramping during menstruation is normal, debilitating pain is not.

Severe menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea, could be a sign of underlying issues such as endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. These conditions could impact your ability to get pregnant.

If you experience debilitating pain during menstruation, consult with your primary care provider or gynecologist to explore your options.

Age-related infertility

As women age, fertility naturally declines because of a gradual decrease in the quantity and quality of eggs. The most significant decline occurs after the age of 35, with a more rapid decline after 40.

As you get older, the risk of complications for your pregnancy and the baby’s development also increases.

If you are 30 or older and trying to conceive, it’s important to seek fertility advice early.

Signs of Infertility in Men

Low Sperm Count

When the number of sperm is below the normal range, the chances of fertilization are small. A low sperm count does not always show symptoms. If you have been trying to conceive for more than a year, it may be worth undergoing a sperm analysis.

Understanding and addressing this issue is crucial for couples who are trying to get pregnant, as it directly impacts the likelihood of successful conception.

Seeking timely medical advice and intervention can offer valuable insights and potential solutions to enhance fertility.

Erectile Dysfunction

Difficulties during sex might signal an underlying health issue affecting fertility. Occasional erectile dysfunction can be caused by lifestyle factors such as stress, low self-confidence, anxiety, or relationship strain.

However, persistent issues may require a conversation with your doctor about treatment options.

Seeking guidance from your primary care provider can help identify the root cause and explore tailored solutions for both fertility and sexual well-being.

Testicular Pain or Swelling

Any persistent pain or swelling in the testicles may indicate an underlying health issue affecting sperm production.

If you notice anything abnormal, it’s important to get prompt medical treatment. Ignoring such symptoms may lead to complications that could further impact fertility.

Early intervention addresses potential reproductive health concerns and ensures overall well-being, offering a proactive approach for individuals seeking to optimize their chances of conception.

Seek Medical Guidance from an OB-GYN

As you navigate the complexities of fertility, taking the next steps can be challenging. To ensure you receive personalized guidance and support on your parenthood journey, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with an OB-GYN.

These doctors specialize in reproductive health and are ready to provide tailored advice based on your unique circumstances. Whether you're actively trying to conceive, have questions about fertility, or simply want to ensure a proactive approach to family planning, your OB-GYN is ready to partner with you.

Schedule your appointment today to take the first step toward navigating your path to parenthood.