What causes problems with fertility?
There are several common causes of fertility difficulties, including but not limited to:
- Endometriosis
- Uterine problems, e.g. fibroids, polyps, scarring, septums
- Ovulation disorders that prevents eggs from being released from your ovaries, e.g. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Damage or blockage of your fallopian tubes
- Egg issues
- Sperm issues
- Implantation issues
- Chronic medical conditions/diseases
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
When should I see a doctor for fertility concerns?
If you and your partner have been regularly trying to conceive for six months to a year without success, we would be happy to meet and discuss your situation. Same-sex couples and those planning solo-parenting can also come and discuss their fertility goals and options.
Additionally, it is a good idea to consult with us if you are considering pregnancy and meet any of the following criteria:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Over 40 years old
- Multiple miscarriages
- Extremely painful periods
- History of endometriosis
- History of pelvic inflammatory disease or sexually transmitted infections
- History of cancer treatments
What are the treatment options for fertility problems?
A fertility assessment helps the doctors understand your overall health, and learn about any prior or current issues that may be inhibiting your ability to become pregnant. This assessment will include a detailed medical history for yourself and partner (if applicable), potentially a physical exam if necessary. You may then be asked to complete blood work and an ultrasound. If you have a partner with sperm, a semen analysis may be recommended.
Some examples of fertility treatment options are:
- Fertility check
- Recurrent pregnancy loss assessment
- Ovarian reserve testing
- Medical/surgical treatment of endometriosis
- Ovulation induction for PCOS
- Removal of polyps or fibroids
- Hysteroscopic removal of uterine septum or treatment of Asherman’s (scar tissue)
- Laparoscopy for removal of scar tissue and/or endometriosis
- Removal of hydrosalpinges (blocked, fluid-filled fallopian tubes)
- Genetic counseling
- Lifestyle counseling
Since the fertility treatment depends on the underlying cause(s), we will work with you to determine which options may work best for your individual situation. Our goal is to help educate and empower you to make the best decisions for your fertility care. We work with fertility clinics throughout the GTA and will help expedite referrals for IVF/IUI, elective egg freezing, donor egg/sperm, and fertility preservation prior to gender-confirming surgery.
If you’d like to have a fertility assessment, please have your family physician fax a referral to Open Arms OB/GYN
