Causes of Infertility

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse in women under the age of 35, or 6 months in those aged 35 and above. Those who have reason to suspect an underlying disorder may seek consultation even sooner. Infertility affects 10-15% of all couples, and can be due to a many different factors, including decreased quality or quantity of sperm, problems with ovulation, endometriosis, blockage of one or both fallopian tubes, or uterine issues. Women are also more likely to have difficulty conceiving as they age, due to a decline in the quality and quantity of eggs in the ovaries. In about 30% of infertility patients, no specific causative factor is identified, and a diagnosis of unexplained infertility is made, which generally carries a favorable prognosis. Some patients have difficulty becoming pregnant after a previous successful pregnancy, which is called secondary infertility. Others are able to become pregnant but struggle with recurrent miscarriages.

At Greenwich Fertility, your physician will recommend diagnostic testing based on your history and evaluation. A work-up may include hormonal assessments, pelvic ultrasound, semen analysis, genetic testing, ovarian reserve testing to determine the quantity of eggs in the ovary, and a hysterosonogram or hysterosalpingogram to evaluate the uterus and/or fallopian tubes. Once a cause of your infertility has been determined, your physician will create an individualized treatment plan to help you achieve your goal of becoming a parent.