Infertility, a problem with a solution - Dr. Carlos Zorro, gynecologist in Bogota
Gynecology
Author: Carlos ZorroModified date:
How do I know if I am infertile?
According to the World Health Organization, a couple is considered infertile if they have had more than 1 year of unprotected sex without achieving pregnancy. Likewise, if a woman is over 35 years of age with only 6 months of exposure to the pregnancy without achieving it, she would be considered infertile and should seek specialized help.
I have been trying to get pregnant for more than 1 year and I have not succeeded. What should I do?
It is important to consult a gynecologist specializing in human reproduction to evaluate the possible causes of the fertility problem and consider possible treatments. There are diseases that warrant an even earlier consultation such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, a history of gynecological surgery, among others. Likewise, age is critical and every woman over 35 should be given special consideration and agility in studies.
What are the most common fertility treatments?
The most common fertility treatments are ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization, and egg donation.
Does exercising help with fertility?
Aerobic exercise 3 to 5 hours a week has been associated with improvement in the chances of achieving a pregnancy and even increases the chances of success of fertility treatment.
What foods are not recommended to eat when I’m trying to get pregnant?
Fast foods with high amount of calories based, flours, sugars and high fat foods are associated with an increase in free radicals and oxidative stress that interferes with normal hormonal function and therefore alters ovulation and decreases fertility. Likewise, the consumption of coffee in amounts greater than two cups of coffee per day have been associated with decreased fertility and an increased probability of abortion.
How often should I attend gynecological control if I want to get pregnant?
A preconception consultation with the gynecologist should be carried out to detect possible risk factors for infertility and, if so, refer to a gynecologist specialized in human reproduction to optimize the time of achievement of a pregnancy. If this consultation shows normal results, it should be consulted again if pregnancy has not been achieved in 6 months to assess the need for an evaluation by the specialist in human reproduction and if necessary to begin a more in-depth study.
Do I have to take any kind of supplements to get pregnant?
The only supplement necessary for a woman who is seeking a pregnancy is folic acid in an amount of 400 µg / day, as it has been shown to decrease the risk of malformations in babies' nervous systems. The efficacy of other supplements has not been widely demonstrated.
How often should I have sex if I’m trying to get pregnant?
There is no ideal frequency of sexual intercourse, however having intercourse two to three times a week may be enough to have a high probability of pregnancy. In some cases having intercourse in the fertile period in a gynecologist-directed manner may increase the chances of pregnancy.
How to calculate my fertile day to have sex?
Fertile days can vary among women. It is only possible to calculate these days when the periods are regular between 21 and 35 days long between period and period. Normally and although it is not a rule for all women, fertile days start from the 10th day of the cycle until the 14th or 15th of the cycle. We recommend, however, the use of some apps to perform this calculation or request the evaluation of the doctor or gynecologist or specialist in human reproduction for this purpose.
What gynecological diseases are associated with infertility?
Generally they are those associated with alterations of the uterus, tubes or ovaries. The most common examples are polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory infection, fibroids, endometrial polyps, adenomyosis, uterine malformation, antecedent of gynecological surgeries, among others.
Is it true that coffee causes infertility?
Excessive coffee consumption more than two or three cups a day if it has been associated with fertility problems, abortions and intrauterine growth restriction.
What causes infertility?
Various gynecological diseases that affect the tubes, ovulation and the uterus, for example endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid problems, fibroids. Excessive weight gain or weight loss. Smoking, unhealthy lifestyle habits without diet or exercise considerations. Likewise we must remember that men despite collaborating in the causes of infertility in 50% of cases.
What tests should I do to know if I am fertile or not?
There is no magic fertility test. The basic examinations in the consultation are: a transvaginal ultrasound to determine the ovarian reserve and the state of the uterus, the Hysterosalpingography that evaluates the state of the tubes, the progesterone that helps us to evaluate if there are ovulation problems and the Spermogram that evaluates the male favor.
What are the recommendations to get pregnant quickly?
The best recommendation is to have a healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise that allow adequate nutritional support and maintain a healthy weight. Avoid smoking. Consult in time and do not let the age advance, which is the main enemy of fertility.