Lets talk about infertility
Let's talk about infertility in a way that's easy to understand. Infertility can be a tough topic, and it's important to remember that everyone's experience is unique. It's also a complex issue, and even the numbers can be a little confusing depending on who you ask and how they define it.
Infertility can be a really tough journey, and I know this firsthand. It's basically when getting pregnant is difficult, and doctors usually define it as trying to conceive regularly without birth control for a year without success. It's more common than you'd think, impacting millions of couples and individuals worldwide. About half the time, it's related to the woman's reproductive system, and in the US, it affects about 1 in 10 women aged 15-44 (data collected from AI)
For women, infertility can be caused by several things. Ovulation problems are the most common, meaning the ovaries aren't releasing eggs regularly. Conditions like PCOS can be a factor. Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or the fertilized egg from getting to the uterus. Sometimes, it's an issue with the uterus or cervix itself, making implantation difficult. Endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can also cause problems. And sometimes, even after tons of tests, there's no clear answer, which is known as unexplained infertility. Age also plays a role, as getting pregnant naturally becomes more difficult after 35. Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol, weight issues, and certain medications can also affect fertility, as can some STIs.
It's important to remember that everyone's different, and these are just general statistics. If you're worried, talking to a doctor is crucial for personalized advice and support. There are also support groups and mental health professionals who can help if you're struggling emotionally. It's okay to reach out for help – you're not alone.
From my own experience, I went through IVF, embryo freezing, and even used a gestational carrier. RMA of New York in Melville, Long Island was amazing throughout my entire journey. They helped me navigate everything, from the medical procedures to the legal complexities of surrogacy. I'm forever grateful for their support and expertise, which ultimately led to the greatest gift – my daughter. (And for the record, I'm not affiliated with them financially; I just genuinely had a wonderful experience.) If you're in the area and looking for fertility support, they offer a wide range of services, from egg and embryo freezing to LGBTQ+ family building and adoption. I highly recommend reaching out to a healthcare provider for guidance and support tailored to your specific situation.
