c2c | expecting Alcohol Use Alcohol use can lead to infertility for women, and heavy alcohol use can lead to decreased sperm count and motility. Women are advised to avoid alcohol use altogether during conception and pregnancy.
{PREGNANCY}
The Ups and Downs of Fertility Issues BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES
According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 10-15% of American couples experience infertility, defined as having frequent unprotected sex for at least a year that does not result in pregnancy. About one-third of infertility cases are due to an issue with the man, about one-third are due to an issue with the woman, and the final third are either issues with both partners or no cause can be determined. Most couples eventually conceive, with or without treatment, but some cases may need the help of a reproductive endocrinologist. Risk Factors There are many potential causes of infertility that may need assessment by a professional. There are certain risk factors that can potentially increase the possibility of experiencing infertility problems. Getting these factors in check before trying to conceive can improve the odds of a successful pregnancy.
Tobacco and Marijuana Use Smoking tobacco or marijuana can increase the likelihood of experiencing fertility issues as well as decreasing effectiveness of fertility treatment. Miscarriages are more common in women who smoke, and smoking may reduce sperm count and increase risk of erectile dysfunction in men.
Weight Extremes Being overweight can impact fertility in women as well as reduce sperm count in men. Being underweight or experiencing eating disorders can also impact fertility in women. If you are considering conception, working towards establishing a healthy weight may improve your chances of conception. Exercise Inactivity can contribute to obesity, which impacts fertility. Staying active also helps your body be in optimal health. Regular activity can improve pregnancy symptoms and help facilitate a smoother delivery. Age As we get older, our fertility declines. For women, fertility starts to decline during the mid-30’s, with a steeper decline after age 37. Men’s fertility starts to decline after the age of 40. While many couples conceive after this age, it may require medical intervention and treatment would likely start sooner in the process. Other Medical Conditions There are many other medical conditions that can impact fertility. History of cancer treatment can impact both male and female fertility. Women with endometriosis, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), early menopause, scar tissue, ovulation problems, blocked fallopian
tubes and many other conditions can experience more difficulty conceiving. Men may have low sperm count or low sperm motility, which could be impacted by many factors such as frequent exposure to heat, other medical conditions like diabetes or certain sexually transmitted infections, overexposure to damaging environmental factors and more. When to Seek Help Many couples choose to discuss their family planning with their providers at the onset. Your doctor can help provide specific recommendations for optimal chances at conception. If you and your partner have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for a year, or for at least six months if you’re 35 years or older, talk to your doctor about your unique situation. They may refer you to a specialist to do some additional investigation into what may be preventing pregnancy. If you are experiencing difficulty conceiving, you are not alone. Talk with your partner about your concerns. Many couples also find it helpful to participate in online forums to connect with other parents in various stages of their journey. Seek the advice of a counselor to discuss your fears or frustrations. Most importantly, make sure you are taking care of your physical and emotional health. Continue pursuing your other passions and do your best to not allow the conception process to take over your life. Continues on page 64
GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021
63
