Different couples face different challenges. While some are able to become pregnant and to have children without any problems, others struggle. Among couples in the United States, as many as 10% to 15% are infertile and may need to seek infertility treatments Dallas TX. Problems with either partner may prevent pregnancy, or a combination of issues can result in infertility.

What Is Infertility?

For most couples, infertility means being unable to become pregnant despite engaging in frequent, unprotected sex for at least a year. In addition to the obvious, main symptom of not becoming pregnant, other symptoms of infertility exist. In the case of women, periods may be irregular or absent, and in the case of men, hormonal problems that manifest themselves as changes in sexual function or hair growth may be indicative of infertility.

What Are Some Risk Factors?

Females and males share many of the risk factors for infertility. Some factors include age, since fertility generally declines with age, and weight, since being overweight or underweight can contribute to infertility. In addition, those who do not exercise regularly are at greater risk of becoming obese, and obesity puts individuals at a greater risk of infertility. Finally, alcohol use and tobacco use are associated with fertility issues; heavy drinking is particularly problematic, and smoking can make pregnancy less likely and can decrease the effectiveness of treatments for fertility.

How Is Treatment Determined?

Various factors are considered when determining the appropriate treatment for fertility. How long the individuals have been infertile and what is responsible for the infertility are taken into account. The age of each person and any personal preferences also play a role in the determination.

In some instances, the problems leading to infertility cannot be resolved, and spontaneous pregnancy is not expected. Assisted reproductive technology can be used in such cases to allow a couple to achieve a successful pregnancy. It is important to understand that treatment for infertility might involve significant investments of time and finances plus physical and psychological commitments. Finding specialists with whom both partners feel comfortable can improve the process.