What Is Infertility?
If you’re having difficulties conceiving, you aren’t alone. Approximately 1 in 6 couples in Canada experience infertility. It’s recommended to seek a referral to undergo fertility testing if you’re under the age of 35 and haven’t gotten pregnant after six months to one year of having regular unprotected sexual intercourse or donor sperm inseminations.
Infertility can be due to problems with ovulation, fallopian tubes, uterus or sperm. It often may involve multiple factors or may be unexplained after all investigations are complete. There are several tests for infertility to provide more information. During your initial consultation at RFP, our team will review your complete fertility and medical history to determine which investigations are appropriate specifically for you. Common testing may include blood work for hormone assessment, uterine cavity and tubal patency check and semen/sperm analysis. Our team will review each test with you in detail at your appointment to ensure you understand the investigations and have the opportunity to ask any questions about the testing.
Fertility and Age
Age is one of the main factors that impacts fertility, primarily for females/people with ovaries. By the late 30’s/early 40’s, the quantity of eggs becomes significantly depleted and the eggs become more abnormal and decrease in quality. This can make it challenging to get pregnant. Age can also impact males/people with sperm but to a much lesser degree as sperm continues to be newly produced throughout life.