Unexplained infertility is a diagnosis for couples who have been trying to conceive for over a year without success. It is a condition in which couples are unable to conceive even after a thorough medical evaluation has failed to identify specific reasons for their infertility. Treatment for unexplained infertility may include advanced fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization ( IVF) or multiple IUI cycles.
Causes of Unexplained Infertility
Unexplained infertility has no cause, but several possible factors could contribute to it:
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalance may be the underlying cause of unexplained infertility. Any change of hormones in the female reproductive system can disrupt ovulation, implantation, and pregnancy. Hormonal imbalances can interfere with the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin, resulting in infertility.
Egg Quality Issues
Egg issues, including problems with the number of eggs a woman produces or the quality of those eggs, may cause unexplained infertility. A decrease in egg quality can occur due to age and lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and poor diet. It can also be caused by underlying medical conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Sperm Abnormalities
Sperm abnormalities may range from low sperm count to poor sperm motility and morphology. While these abnormalities may not prevent conception altogether, they can make it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
Defective Uterine Lining
The uterine lining provides a nurturing environment for a fertilized egg to implant and grow. Inadequate or defective uterine lining may occur due to hormonal imbalances or scar tissue from previous surgeries. An insufficient uterine lining may prevent a fertilized egg from implanting properly, leading to failed attempts at conception.
Treatment
There are various treatment options available that can improve the chances of successful pregnancy. The major treatment method is Assisted Reproductive Technology(ART), which includes;
In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a well-known treatment option for fertility issues. IVF involves combining eggs and sperm outside the womb and transferring the resulting embryos to the uterus. This method bypasses possible issues with sperm quality, hormone levels, or fallopian tube blockages. It may be a safe and effective procedure if couples and medical professionals are adequately prepared. Couples undergoing infertility may consult fertility specialists to determine if IVF is the right treatment and to create a treatment plan.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a procedure that involves placing sperm directly into the uterus during a woman’s ovulation period. This increases the chance of fertilization and pregnancy. The procedure may be effective for women whose partners may have low sperm count and mobility. IUI may have a low risk of multiple pregnancies, making it safe for couples who wish to conceive cautiously. The procedure is cost-effective and non-invasive.
Other treatment options that may increase the chances of carrying pregnancy include lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management.
Learn More About Unexplained Infertility
Unexplained infertility can be a challenge for many couples, but becoming pregnant with the right diagnosis and treatment may be possible. Diagnostic tests can help identify the root cause of fertility struggles so couples can pursue the most appropriate treatment.
Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF and IUI are common options for treating infertility. Couples should discuss these options with a fertility specialist to determine which is best for them. With the right support and treatment, couples can achieve their dream of having a healthy baby. Visit a fertility specialist to fully understand the options and choose the best treatment plan suitable for your needs. Accurate diagnostic testing is an effective way to discover possible causes and treatment options for fertility issues.