Starting a family is a top goal for many women and their partners — but when months of trying to conceive pass without a pregnancy, it is natural to feel a sense of anxiety. Infertility is more common than you would expect, but many couples are able to receive medical assistance that allows them to become pregnant. If you haven’t achieved a pregnancy after 12 months of trying, you should consult the Montreal fertility centre nearest you for more information. Understanding the following medical issues can help you determine if infertility could be a problem.
1. Period Irregularities
Anytime a woman consistently experiences irregularities with her menstrual cycle, there is a good chance that infertility issues will also result. While it isn’t unusual for there to be slight variations in the length of the cycle, if the cycle varies so much that it becomes impossible to estimate the start of the next period, there is likely a hormonal issue.
Extremely painful periods are also a cause for concern, as this is a common symptom of endometriosis. These severe cramps can be so painful that it is hard to perform daily tasks. On the other hand, missing a period for several months in a row without being pregnant is also a cause for concern.
2. Pain During Sex
Painful sex is not normal, and is a common warning sign of infertility. Painful sex is typically the result of endometriosis, hormone problems, or another reproductive health issue. Though this can be a sensitive topic, it is essential that you bring it up with your OBGYN, especially if you are planning to become pregnant.
3. Hormone Imbalances
As previously mentioned, hormonal issues are often to blame when a woman experiences infertility. In addition to causing problems with the menstrual cycle and normal sexual activity, a plethora of smaller issues could indicate that you are experiencing hormone fluctuations that could interfere with normal reproductive abilities.
Be especially mindful of unexplained weight gain, skin issues, lowered sex drive, or thinning hair. Some women may even experience facial hair growth. These changes don’t just affect how you feel about your physical appearance — they could be indicative of a wide range of hormonal imbalances, such as a thyroid disorder, which can result in fertility struggles.
Conclusion
If you have experienced these symptoms and are trying to get pregnant, it could be well worth it to consult with a fertility specialist. By receiving an accurate diagnosis and following a recommended treatment schedule, your dream of starting a family can get closer to reality.