Infertility Specialist

What is infertility?

Infertility means you’re unable to get pregnant or stay pregnant after one year of trying or six months of trying for women 35 years of age and older. 

Conception is a complex process with many steps. A problem that affects one or more of these steps may cause infertility. 

Infertility isn’t just a woman’s problem, however. Your difficulty getting pregnant may also occur due to infertility issues related to your partner. 

What causes infertility in women?

Many factors may cause infertility in women, such as:

Disrupted ovulation

A problem with ovulation is the most common cause of infertility in women. If your ovaries don’t release an egg, then there’s nothing for sperm to fertilize.

Many gynecological conditions affect ovulation, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

Fallopian tube swelling or blockage

Your fallopian tube carries the fertilized egg from your ovaries to your uterus. Swelling or blockage in one or both of your fallopian tubes may prevent the movement of the egg.

Changes in the structure of your fallopian tubes may occur from pelvic inflammatory disease or scar tissue from endometriosis. Prior pelvic surgery on or near your fallopian tubes may also affect the structure of the tubes and the movement of your eggs that leads to infertility. 

Uterine dysfunction

Your uterus nurtures the fertilized egg as it develops into a fetus. Uterine dysfunction from fibroids or endometriosis may disrupt the structure or function of your uterus and affect your ability to get or stay pregnant. 

Menopause

Menopause is the natural decline of ovarian function that marks the end of a woman’s fertility. Menopause typically occurs around age 50. 

What happens during an infertility evaluation?

When you visit Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates for an infertility evaluation, the team conducts comprehensive exams to find the underlying cause of your infertility. 

To determine if an ovulation problem is the root cause of your infertility, the team may have you use a home ovulation test kit, perform a blood test, or conduct an ultrasound. 

If they rule out an ovulation problem, the team performs diagnostic tests such as hysterosalpingogram or laparoscopy to look for structural problems related to your fallopian tubes or uterus. 

How is infertility treated?

The team at Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates develops individual treatment plans for infertility based on the underlying cause, your age, and your personal preferences.

Treatment options include medication to increase ovulation, surgery to fix structural abnormalities, or reproductive assistance.

Finding the cause of your infertility can be a long and emotional process. For compassionate care, call Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, or book an appointment online today.