Age is one of the major risk factors of infertility. Women are at the peak of their fertility when they are in their mid-twenties. As a woman grows older, the quality of her eggs deteriorates. Along with this, the number of viable eggs also reduces. Age also increases the chances of having trouble carrying a child to full term and giving birth to a baby with genetic abnormalities. Other health issues may also arise that cause complication. To reduce your risk of infertility, eat healthy and abstain from alcohol and cigarettes.
To be diagnosed with infertility you should have tried to conceive a child for
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If the woman is below the age of 35 years, you can be diagnosed with infertility only after having unsuccessfully tried to conceive a child for one year. However, for women over the age of 35, the time period is reduced to six months. This is because a woman s risk of infertility increases every year after the age of 30. You should also talk to your doctor if you have irregular periods, very painful periods or endometriosis. Ideally, you should talk to your doctor before your start planning a family.
Infertility affects only women
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Infertility can be defined as the inability to conceive a child despite having unprotected intercourse at the right time. Both men and women can be infertile. This is a very common issue. When it comes to women, common causes of infertility include poor egg quality, blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids and uterine problems. Infertility in men can be caused by low sperm count, poor quality sperm, varicocele or certain diseases. Even if you have been diagnosed with infertility, you can have a child of your own.
ART refers to
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ART refers to assisted reproductive technology. This is also commonly known as in vitro fertilization or IVF. This is used usually in cases where the cause of infertility is undefined. In this process the woman is given medication to regularize ovulation. Mature eggs are then harvested from her ovaries and introduced to male sperm cells in a laboratory. The fertilized zygote is then reinserted into the woman s uterus. Usually 3 fertilized zygotes are reintroduced to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Altering your lifestyle can help treat infertility.
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Apart from health issues, your lifestyle could also contribute towards infertility. Stress is a major contributing factor. Alcohol consumption, an unhealthy diet and smoking can also increase the risk of infertility. Hence, if you are planning a family, you must take a close look at your lifestyle. Do not wait to conceive a child before you start eating healthy. Also, both men and women should avoid alcohol and cigarettes. Try meditating for half an hour each morning to relieve your stress.