Are you and your partner struggling to have a baby?
Well, you are not alone, there are several other couples in Kenya and globally who are facing a similar challenge.
So what is infertility?
Infertility refers to the inability of a sexually active couple to conceive a child after regular and unprotected intercourse for a period of one year or after six months if the woman is over 35 years old.
It’s a complex medical issue that affects both men and women.
Infertility is considered primary if neither partner has achieved a successful pregnancy in the past.
Infertility is considered secondary if a couple or a patient who has achieved a pregnancy previously is currently having difficulty to conceive.
Infertility can have various causes, including:
Causes of Infertility
- Ovulation Disorders: this involves Irregular or absent ovulation which can be caused by certain health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances.
- Low Sperm Count or Quality: Issues with sperm production, mobility, or morphology can lead to male infertility.
- Tubal Factors: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or the fertilized egg from traveling to the uterus.
- Endometriosis: this is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, potentially affecting fertility.
- Uterine or Cervical Factors: Abnormalities in the uterus or cervix can hinder implantation or the passage of sperm.
- Age: Both men and women experience a decline in fertility as they get older, with a more rapid decline typically seen in women after the age of 35.
- Lifestyle Factors: Factors like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and extreme stress can contribute to infertility.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and certain autoimmune diseases can impact fertility.
- Genetic Factors: Some genetic conditions can affect reproductive health.
- Unexplained Infertility: In some cases, despite thorough testing, the cause of infertility remains unknown.
When do you need to talk to a health care provider? For a woman, if you:
- Have no periods, irregular or very painful periods.
- Have known fertility problems.
- You are age 35 or older and have tried to conceive for six months or longer.
- You have had more than one miscarriage.
- You have received cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation.
- You have endometriosis or history of recurrent pelvic inflammatory disease.
Men too should talk to a health care provider if they:
- Have had a history of infertility with a partner in the past.
- Have a low sperm count or other issues with the sperms.
- Have a history of testicular, prostrate or sexual conditions.
- Have chronic conditions e.g. chronic kidney disease, liver disease.
- Have had any pelvic or inguinal surgeries.
Infertility can be emotionally challenging for individuals and couples.
It’s important to seek medical advice if you suspect you’re facing infertility. Our team specializing in reproductive health are able to perform tests to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments. These treatments might include
Lifestyle changes
Medications
Surgical procedures
Assisted reproductive techniques like in vitro fertilization (IVF), or using donor eggs or sperm.
Book an appointment with us on https://hellodaktari.co.ke and we shall be able to guide and advice you accordingly. We also do offer Home based care services.
Counseling and emotional support are also essential, as the journey through infertility can be emotionally taxing. Couples might consider joining support groups or seeking therapy to help them cope with the stress and emotions associated with infertility.
Phone: +254 723662062
Email: info@hellodaktari.co.ke