Fertility is such a hot topic these days. Depending on your social circle, life stage, or family pressures, you may be feeling the heat from a variety of directions telling you to “get going” with making a baby. But it’s not always that easy…
The Stats:
Unfortunately today, 1 in every 6 couples in Canada will experience infertility, and that number has doubled since the 1980’s. Now before you panic, know that I use this statistic not to stress out my patients but to help them understand that this is a growing, significant issue in our society and most importantly, you are not alone!
Infertility can be caused by both the male or female partner, or even sometimes as a result of an issue with the couple (mixed factors), and about 10-20% of the time there is no explainable issue. This is often one of the most challenging scenarios for people because not only are your treatment options limited, but also it often leaves a couple feeling confused and unsure where to go next.
Male vs Female Infertility:
For women, there can be several areas to assess when determining the potential cause of infertility. Hormonal imbalances, egg quality, and anatomical issues are the main areas that are typically considered. For men (fortunately or unfortunately) it all comes down to sperm! Of course hormones, environment, and age impact sperm, but – good news for men – evaluating these issues is much less invasive.
The Good News:
So now that I’ve made everyone panic, know that there are LOTS of ways to support both men and women to be in an optimal state for their fertility. Whether you are considering children in the future, just started “trying”, or are perhaps working with an endocrinologist – there are ways you can optimize your body for a healthy conception.
Wondering when you should seek help?
If you have been “trying” (ie unprotected sex) for 12 months, that is when a referral to a fertility clinic is warranted. However, I love to see patients prior to that.
Especially if you or your partner have any of the following, consider seeing a Naturopath:
- Anyone in your immediate family has had fertility issues
- If you have had unprotected sex for 6 months without a positive pregnancy test
- If you have had a miscarriage
- If you are over 30 years old
- If you have any diagnosed hormonal issue such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, PCOS etc
For more details please check out part 2 and 3 of the Fertility blog or connect with one of our Naturopaths in office.
Fertility Basics: Part 2 – Female infertility
Fertility Basics: part 3 – Male infertility
In health,
Dr Chanel Cressman, ND
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