Infertility in women is a very sensitive issue. In India, there has been an increased incidence of infertility by 20-30% in the last 5 years. Causes of infertility include the age factor or lifestyle changes that cause stress and obesity. These are a result of lack of physical exercise, changes in eating habits and pollution associated with conditions like diabetes etc.

Infertility Symptoms in Women:

Let's get to know what are the symptoms seen in infertility. The most significant sign of infertility is not able to conceive. Infertility in women could be associated with any one of the following symptoms:

• Absence of or irregular periods
• Painful menstruation
• History of multiple miscarriages
• History of endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
• History of cancer treatment

Diagnosis of Infertility

The evaluation and diagnosis of infertility are expensive and at times can make the couple really uncomfortable. Also, it's sad that after doing all these tests, there is no guarantee that you would conceive. Initially, for the diagnosis of Infertility in women there is a physical examination that is conducted. Some of the health checkup for infertility are:

• Ovulatory Study:

  A blood test measures hormone levels to determine whether you're ovulating.

• Hysterosalpingography:

  This test is done for the structural and functional evaluation of the reproductive organs like uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

• Ovarian Reserve Fertility Test:

  This test helps to determine the quality and quantity of the ova/female eggs for ovulation.

• Hormonal Tests:

  Hormonal levels that control reproduction are evaluated.

• Genetic Testing:

  To detect a genetic defect causing infertility.

• Imaging Tests:

  Pelvic USG is done for finding out the presence of uterine or fallopian tube disease.

• Hysteroscopy:

  Based on the seriousness of the symptoms, a hysteroscopy can be done for detecting the abnormalities in the uterus or fallopian tube disease.

• Laparoscopy:

  Is a minimal surgery used for examining the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

Infertility Treatment:

Now after knowing the infertility causes, symptoms and how infertility can be diagnosed; let's discuss the methods used in infertility treatment and management of infertility.

• Altering lifestyle factors
• Stimulating ovulation with fertility drugs
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)/Surrogacy
• Surgery to restore fertility
• In vitro fertilization

Can Infertility be Prevented?

Let's discuss further on whether infertility can be prevented or not? A woman who is planning to conceive in the near future should follow some simple prevention tips:

Regularize Your Healthy Weight:

Being overweight or underweight will put at an increased risk of infertility.

Quit Smoking:

Tobacco has multiple negative effects on fertility.

Avoid Alcohol:

Heavy alcohol consumption may lead to infertility.
 

Becoming a mother is the most beautiful feeling; hence all women should take care of their reproductive health. Women should keep in mind that with a healthy body and mind you can give birth to the most beautiful and a healthy baby.