Understanding Infertility Basics: Part 1

Infertility affects more couples than you might think.

Approximately 15 percent of all couples are affected by infertility, or roughly 7 million people. That number is expected to grow to 7.7 million by 2025.

Why the increase?

Dr. Meike Uhler of Fertility Centers of Illinois, who has treated hundreds of couples with infertility, says that answers point to a variety of reasons.

“Women are waiting to have children, and delayed childbearing can present a host of infertility issues,” she explains. “There are also excellent contraception options for women, which makes deferring parenthood much easier. The increase in sexually transmitted diseases in the U.S. has also increased the prevalence of infertility issues.”

If couples have been trying without success, there are some basic infertility facts that are good to know.

5 Infertility Facts: 

1. Women and men experience infertility equally (yes, really!)
2. Age is the biggest factor with infertility for women and men
3. Ovulation is the most prevalent infertility issue for women
4. If you have been trying for one year and are under 35, or trying for 6 months and over the age of 35, you may have infertility issues
5. Stress affects fertility levels for both women and men

Did infertility fact #5 make you nervous? You’re not alone. The process of infertility treatment can be exhausting. The testing, multiple appointments, potential financial stressors, taking time off work, and the constant inquiries from family and friends are all stress factors.

Take a deep breath, we have some good news.

In a Harvard study, 55 percent of women who participated in mind and body programs got pregnant, compared to 20 percent who did not. Natural treatment can provide the relief and fertility boost you are looking for.

To learn more about understanding infertility, this YouTube video can help answer some of your questions and explain what men and women can expect in an initial consultation.

To learn more about natural treatment options that can boost fertility, read more in Part Two.