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The 7 most common signs of infertility in women

September 19, 2023
reproductive gynecology & infertility

Are you concerned about your ability to get pregnant? Have you been struggling to conceive with your partner for a period of six months or longer? It’s possible that you are one of 17.5% of adults across the world who are struggling with infertility. Infertility affects people of all ages, classes and socioeconomic backgrounds. It occurs in men about as equally as it does in women. 

What are some of the top causes of infertility in women? 

These are just a few of the most well-known causes of infertility in women. If you have any of the following conditions, you may have a higher risk of difficulty getting pregnant: 

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
  • Thyroid conditions.
  • Endometriosis.

Sometimes, there is no clear reason for not being able to conceive, which is called unexplained infertility. Meeting with a specialist who can formally diagnose you is a good idea. From there, they can develop a specifically designed treatment plan to address any issues.

What are some of the most common signs of infertility in women?

Are you concerned that you may be experiencing infertility? Here are seven of the most common signs of infertility: 

  • Irregular periods — A woman who experiences unpredictable, infrequent menstrual cycles or unusually heavy menstrual cycles has irregular periods. Excessive bleeding, dark period blood, pale period blood, severe cramping or prolonged menstrual cycles are also signs of irregular periods. If you experience any of these, you may have a higher risk of infertility.
  • Changes in hormones — A common sign of infertility in a woman is a sudden or significant change in hormone levels. Unregulated hormonal conditions can contribute to infertility in some women. Suppose you notice significant changes in your hormone levels, like new or worsening acne, facial hair, and mood changes. In that case, you may want to speak with an experienced infertility specialist who can help. 
  • Painful or uncomfortable sex — Experiencing pain or significant discomfort during sex is one possible sign of a condition that can cause infertility. Women who have been diagnosed with endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and certain infections and experience painful sex are more likely to struggle with infertility.
  • Underlying conditions — Many women who struggle with infertility have underlying conditions. The most common conditions that can affect fertility have been listed in the sections above. These include PCOS, thyroid issues, endometriosis and unexplained fertility. While these are a few of the most common conditions that can make getting pregnant difficult, infertility is not exclusively linked to these conditions. 
  • Being overweight — Research has found that women who are overweight typically have a harder time getting pregnant and are more likely to experience complications during their pregnancy. 
  • Difficulty getting pregnant — One of the biggest signs of infertility is difficulty getting pregnant after a certain period of time. Experts generally recommend that women over the age of 35 who have unsuccessfully attempted to get pregnant for over a year should seek a specialist’s help. For women under the age of 35 who are trying to get pregnant, a specialist’s treatment is generally recommended after six months of unsuccessful attempts. 
  • Several miscarriages — Another significant sign of infertility is if a woman has experienced more than one miscarriage. Miscarriages can be caused by a variety of factors but can generally signal issues with fertility. 

Find compassionate infertility treatment with Fertility Cloud

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process.

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Appointments are conducted virtually via live videoconferencing. All you need is a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. 

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

If you want more information on virtual infertility doctors and the process of getting remote infertility care, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are experienced in providing medical treatment to our patients so that they can start the families they have long dreamt of.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.

How to get pregnant with PCOS: 4 tips and treatments

August 29, 2023
Getting Pregnant With PCOS: 4 Tips | Fertility Cloud

How to get pregnant with PCOS: 4 tips and treatments

Getting pregnant isn’t always an easy journey. For some people, they weren’t ready to start a family until after the woman is over 35 and has fewer eggs. Other people have had excessive exposure to chemicals or radiation that impacts their fertility. In some cases, a medical condition is what stands in the way of successful conception.  

It can be difficult to get pregnant with a condition like PCOS, but there are options that can help your fertility journey. Not only are there tips and tricks that you can incorporate into your everyday life, but there are treatments available to help you conceive. 

In this post, you’ll learn about the basics of PCOS as well as tips and treatments that can help people with PCOS get pregnant.  

Everything you need to know about PCOS

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, often referred to as PCOS, is a common hormonal disorder that affects up to 12% of U.S. women of childbearing age, which adds up to about 5 million people. Many people don’t even know they have it, as a study showed that up to 70% of women with PCOS haven’t received a diagnosis.

Even though an exact cause hasn’t been discovered, PCOS is believed to be caused by abnormal hormone secretions. Many women with PCOS have a high number of androgens and insulin. Androgens are sex hormones that can interfere with an egg being released during ovulation if their levels are too high. Insulin is a hormone that helps convert food into energy, and high insulin blood levels can be the result of insulin resistance.

Symptoms of PCOS include:

  • Irregular or lack of menstrual periods.
  • Cysts on the ovaries.
  • Acne.
  • Excessive hair growth.
  • Weight gain.
  • Infertility.
  • Insulin resistance (which can lead to Type 2 diabetes).

4 tips to help you get pregnant with PCOS

While it may be true that up to 80% of women with PCOS have anovulatory infertility, there are a few tips and tricks that can increase your chances of conception. Tips for getting pregnant with PCOS are lifestyle changes that can help reduce the symptoms of the condition and boost the possibility of getting pregnant.

Here are four tips to help conceive with PCOS:

  1. Lose weight — A healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise can go a long way in improving your PCOS. In fact, losing just 5% of your body weight can make a significant difference in the health problems that stem from PCOS. A low-carbohydrate diet is recommended for women with the hormonal disorder.
  1. Balance blood sugar — Type 2 diabetes can interfere with fertility, and it’s common in women with PCOS due to the insulin resistance. You can balance your blood sugar levels with exercise and consuming plenty of healthy fats, protein and fiber. Your doctor may recommend medication to help your body properly use insulin.
  1. Reduce stressors — Excessive stress can impact every aspect of your life, including your fertility. Not only can stress make it harder to conceive by interrupting ovulation, it can cause high levels of cortisol, which may increase your insulin level. Learning stress management techniques, such as meditation or therapy, can make a difference.
  1. Track your period — Many women struggle to get pregnant as quickly as they would like because they aren’t sure when their menstruation or ovulation phases are. By determining when your body is most fertile (the day before and of ovulation), you can increase the chance of conception. 

4 treatment options for getting pregnant with PCOS

If you’re still struggling to conceive after testing out some of our tips, there’s still hope. There are several treatment options for women who have had infertility that comes from polycystic ovarian syndrome. Your fertility specialist will determine the best course of action to give you the highest chances of conceiving. 

Here are four infertility treatment options for women with PCOS:

  1. Ovarian stimulation (OS) — It’s important to increase the amount of eggs released during your cycle when your PCOS causes irregular periods. Your fertility specialist will provide a prescription for oral tablets of clomiphene citrate or letrozole. These prescriptions will increase the amount of mature eggs that are released from the fallopian tube. Many pregnancies from these medicines happen within the first three months.
  1. Metformin — For women with PCOS, a medication called metformin can offer many benefits. It’s mostly used as a way to treat Type 2 diabetes, but it can also lower your blood sugar and insulin levels. It can help treat infertility by stimulating ovulation, help regulate periods and reduce the risk of miscarriages.
  1. Trigger shot — If OS doesn’t help you conceive after a few months, then your fertility specialist may recommend that you couple it with an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). This hormone helps to release multiple mature eggs during ovulation. To get the best timing, the shot will be administered during an ultrasound 24 to 36 hours before ovulation, which should coincide with intercourse.
  1. In vitro fertilization — When the OS pills and trigger shots don’t seem to be working, your fertility specialist may recommend in vitro fertilization, or IVF. This process involves removing eggs from the ovaries and taking them to a lab to be fertilized by sperm. It involves multiple procedures, and it won’t be effective for everyone.

Fertility Cloud can help women with PCOS get pregnant

Infertility can be difficult, especially when it stems from a condition that already impacts your health, like PCOS. But the specialists at Fertility Cloud will do everything they can to fight against the effects of PCOS and help you on your journey to conceiving a child.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.

How to check for infertility

July 6, 2023
young-wife-husband-have-problems-fertility

Are you and your partner struggling with infertility? You’re not alone. Infertility affects couples around the world, and both men and women equally. Research estimates that about 1 out of every 3 cases of infertility are due to male infertility. Another third of those cases are due to female infertility. And the final third is because of both male and female infertility.

How to check for infertility
Worried caucasian young woman look at pregnancy test and upset due result at home. Unintended pregnancy, depression and sad face expression, infertility problems with conception and female health

If you are struggling with infertility, it’s essential that you know you have options. One such option is to visit a virtual fertility doctor. Virtual fertility specialists can offer their patients all of the same benefits as an in-person doctor. They can help diagnose the source of your infertility and address it through treatment to offer you the best chance at conceiving.

When virtual infertility doctors want to make a confident diagnosis, they’ll often order a test. Several tests can be used by virtual doctors to check for infertility in their patients. Most involve sending at-home kits to your residence or visiting a local lab that can do blood panels or other similar tests for you. Read the descriptions below to learn more about how your doctor can check for infertility.

What steps can be taken to check for infertility?

There are several ways that an infertility specialist can check for infertility, both in men and women. Although it can usually be diagnosed by certain symptoms, it can also be diagnosed through testing. Find out below how these tests can be used to check for infertility:

  • Blood testing — A common way to check for infertility is through blood tests. Your virtual infertility doctor can order blood tests for you to determine if your progesterone levels and other hormones might be affecting your fertility. It can also be used to determine if you’re ovulating, which increases your chances of conceiving.
  • Swab testing — Another common test that can be used to check for infertility is the swab test. This is used most often for those diagnosed with or who may have a sexually transmitted infection. Chlamydia is one example of an STI that can affect infertility. The swab test is used to test for cells in the body that may indicate the presence of an STI like chlamydia.
  • Urine testing — Similar to swab testing, urine testing can also be used to test for the presence of certain STIs that can negatively impact fertility.
  • Ultrasound scan — Ultrasounds can be used to check for infertility. They’re most often used to image the reproductive organs and detect the presence of any abnormalities.
  • X-ray — Special X-rays can be used to check for blockages and abnormalities in the reproductive organs that may be impacting fertility.
  • Semen analysis — Another test that can be used to check for infertility is a semen analysis, which checks the quality and quantity of sperm that might negatively affect the chances of conceiving.

Why choose Fertility Cloud to help diagnose your infertility?

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process.  

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Appointments are conducted virtually, via live videoconferencing. All that’s required of you is either a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. The typical appointment takes around 30 minutes. You’ll undergo an initial consultation, and subsequent treatment will be monitored for at least three months. We’re confident we can provide you with the answers you’re looking for regarding your reproductive health and fertility options.

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists out there to provide you with easily accessible digital services. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

Are you hoping to start the conversation about how to check for infertility? Do you want to know which test might be the right option for you? We’re open to talking with you about any questions or concerns you may have. Our team knows that infertility testing can be intimidating, and we’re committed to providing you with the utmost care and respect.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.

What infertility medications work best?

June 22, 2023

Introduction to infertility

​​Infertility is an issue that millions of people deal with. In fact, it’s estimated that about 48.5 million couples struggle with infertility globally. Are you one of the many who have trouble conceiving without assistance? There are several treatments designed to increase fertility. Of these treatments, there is hormone therapy, ovulation stimulation, at-home insemination and thyroid treatment. Many of these infertility treatments are administered via medicine.

Despite the numerous medications available to couples with infertility problems, the type of medication that you may need can depend on what exactly is causing infertility. It’s important to factor in which partner is likely to be the infertile one, what underlying health conditions they may have, family history and lifestyle.

What are some of the best infertility medications for women?

Again, the type of medication that you may be prescribed to address your infertility can depend on what the root of your infertility is. You may need medications that address any issues in other areas of your body, like thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes or obesity. These types of medications may in turn benefit fertility. However, when the cause of infertility isn’t found to be from any specific conditions, this is referred to as unexplained infertility. There are medications that are designed to boost fertility in other ways. For example:

  • Clomiphene — Clomiphene is commonly used for unexplained infertility. It’s one of the most used infertility drugs on the market. For women, it works by making the body believe that estrogen levels are low. From there, the body will release a hormone that promotes increased estrogen levels, egg maturation and eventually ovulation. This drug is approved by the FDA to treat infertility.
  • Letrozole — Letrozole is another commonly used infertility drug. This drug is not FDA approved for infertility treatment but is approved for breast cancer treatment. However, it’s frequently used off-label to help women who need extra assistance with ovulation. The end result of letrozole is similar to clomiphene, but the way the result is achieved slightly differs. Letrozole blocks the proteins that turn androgens into estrogen, creating low enough estrogen levels that it spurs the body to start estrogen production. This production can then help the body stimulate ovulation and boost fertility. 
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone — This is a type of hormone that can be prescribed to stimulate the body to produce and mature eggs inside the ovaries to then be released during ovulation. HCG is a hormone that acts very similar to the hormone that would typically be used to carry out this process, called luteinizing hormone (LH). 

What are some of the best infertility medications for men?

Interestingly enough, two out of those three previously mentioned medications for infertile women can be used to treat infertility in men too. Take a look below at how these drugs can improve fertility in men:

  • Clomiphene — Clomiphene, when given to men, can be used to treat low sperm and testosterone levels. It increases hormone production in the pituitary gland, which boosts sperm and testosterone in the testes. Increased sperm count and testosterone levels can increase male fertility. This drug is FDA approved for treating female infertility but is frequently used off-label to treat men.
  • Anastrozole — Anastrozole is another drug that was approved by the FDA for treating women. It was intended for treating breast cancer but can be used off-label to treat infertility in men. Anastrozole blocks the hormone that converts testosterone into estradiol. In turn, it increases testosterone levels, which can boost male fertility. 
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone — HCG can be used to treat women and men. For men, it functions to produce testosterone and improve sperm count by stimulating the testes. This form of hormone therapy is generally one of the least preferred because it involves injections several times a week.

Why choose Fertility Cloud?

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process. We know that infertility can cause uncertainty. That’s why we’re committed to servicing each of our clients with empathy.  

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Our appointments are conducted virtually, via live videoconferencing. All that’s required of you is either a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. The typical appointment takes around 30 minutes. You’ll undergo an initial consultation, and subsequent treatment will be monitored for at least three months. We’re confident we can provide you with the answers you’re looking for regarding your reproductive health and fertility options.

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists out there to provide you with easily accessible digital services. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

We understand that starting medications for infertility can be overwhelming. If you have any questions about a medication you’ve been recommended for a hormone imbalance, we welcome any and all concerns. We’re here to work with you and guide you through the process, from start to finish.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.

3 male infertility treatments that are shown to work

June 21, 2023

3 male infertility treatments that are shown to work

Research estimates that about one-third of infertility cases are due to male infertility. Another one-third can be due to female infertility. The last third is estimated to be because of infertility from both partners. Have you recently struggled with conception? You may want to consider starting treatment. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of male infertility and some effective treatments.

What are some common causes of male infertility that often necessitate treatment?

There are several causes of male infertility. Read through some of the most common causes listed below and learn more about each one. If you have not yet received a formal diagnosis from an infertility specialist, you may benefit from visiting a specialist near you.

  • Hormone imbalances — One common cause of male infertility is an imbalance in hormone levels. Some men have abnormal levels of testosterone or other hormones, which can negatively affect sperm count.
  • Genetics — Another factor that can affect male infertility is genetics. If someone in your family struggled with infertility, you may have a higher chance of struggling with it as well.
  • Infections, autoimmune disorders, medical conditions — Those with infections, autoimmune disorders and certain medical conditions may also have negatively impacted sperm health. Disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes are all examples of conditions that can have an effect on male fertility and subsequently require treatment.
  • Sexual dysfunction — Men who have issues with sexual function may also experience infertility. The most common types of sexual functioning issues are erectile dysfunction, hypoactive sexual desire and lack of sexual desire.
  • Certain medications — Certain medications can actually lead to male infertility. If you’re taking medications for high blood pressure, gastric ulcers, or any medication for prostate cancer, you may want to speak with a doctor.
  • Smoking and alcohol use — If you’re a frequent smoker or alcohol user, your infertility could be related to this.

What are some of the treatments for male infertility that are shown to work?

Fortunately, there are treatments for men struggling with infertility. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly used treatment methods, listed below. Each of these may be recommended by a specialist who can not only treat infertility but help you understand and prevent it too:

  • Hormonal imbalance treatment — One of the most common treatments provided to men at infertility clinics is hormone imbalance treatment. This is a type of treatment designed to correct any abnormal hormone levels and increase sperm count levels.
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle — Another treatment method that is encouraged for infertile men is maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating and taking intentional steps toward improving physical health.
  • Cutting out smoking and alcohol use — Another recommended treatment for men with infertility issues is cutting out smoking and alcohol use. 

Why choose Fertility Cloud?

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process. We know that infertility can cause uncertainty. That’s why we’re committed to servicing each of our clients with empathy.  

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Our appointments are conducted virtually, via live videoconferencing. All that’s required of you is either a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. The typical appointment takes around 30 minutes. You’ll undergo an initial consultation, and subsequent treatment will be monitored for at least three months. We’re confident we can provide you with the answers you’re looking for regarding your reproductive health and fertility options.

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists out there to provide you with easily accessible digital services. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

If you’re ready to begin your treatment for male infertility testing, we’ve got you covered. We’re ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the treatment process. Our team understands that male infertility can be difficult to navigate, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to help in any way possible. Don’t hesitate to speak with us today.

Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.

While we work hard to bring you the most accurate and relevant information available on fertility, it’s important to remember that each person’s journey is unique. The guidance provided here is intended for general knowledge and may not directly apply to your situation.

Fertility challenges should always be discussed with a licensed medical professional who can offer personalized advice tailored to your individual health history and needs. Beyond medical treatments, there are many ways to support your fertility naturally. Reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep can all play important roles in optimizing your fertility health. Simple changes such as managing stress through mindfulness, yoga, or meditation and prioritizing quality sleep can improve overall well-being and contribute to a more balanced approach to fertility. However, always consult a fertility specialist to get professional advice and recommendations suited to your personal circumstances. Your health and fertility are complex and unique, and professional guidance is essential to ensure you are on the right path for your body and your goals.

When should you see a doctor for infertility?

June 20, 2023

Introduction to infertility

Are you and your partner struggling with infertility? You’re not alone. Research estimates that approximately 1 in 6 people across the world struggle with this issue. It affects people in every country and across all socioeconomic categories. Despite this commonality, infertility treatments are not usually common knowledge. Take a look at the sections below. We’ll go over why you might want to visit a doctor for your infertility and how they can help you.

What factors might indicate that you should see an infertility doctor?

There are a few different reasons why someone might want to see an infertility doctor. If you’re considering scheduling a visit with one, here are a few of the most common circumstances that might necessitate a consultation:

  • If you’re under 35 and have been trying for one year — People under 35 years of age who have been trying to get pregnant for at least a year typically visit infertility doctors. Unsuccessful attempts at this age range may signal that a couple could use professional assistance with infertility.
  • If you’re 35 or older and have been trying for six months — Someone over 35 years of age who wants to get pregnant and has been trying to conceive for at least six months is generally recommended to see an infertility doctor. People 35 or older may sometimes experience higher infertility rates or unique conditions that may affect fertility, like early menopause.
  • If your menstrual cycles are irregular — Another reason to see an infertility doctor is if your menstrual cycles are irregular. Irregular periods often indicate that ovulation is also irregular, which can impact your fertility.
  • If you have PCOS, thyroid disease or endometriosis — There are several conditions that have the potential to impact fertility. Some of these include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disease and endometriosis. If you have any of the aforementioned and are trying to get pregnant, you may want to consult a specialist for guidance.
  • If your partner has an abnormal sperm analysis — Infertility can be traced back to poor sperm count, motility and morphology. If your partner has undergone a sperm analysis and results have come back abnormal, you may want to speak further with a fertility doctor to discuss your next steps.

How can a doctor or infertility specialist help someone struggling to get pregnant?

If you and your partner are struggling with infertility, you may find comfort in the fact that you can receive professional advice throughout your pregnancy journey. There are a few ways that an infertility doctor can help. Many fertility clinics provide services including ovarian stimulation, trigger shots, male infertility treatment, thyroid management and at-home kits.

Why choose Fertility Cloud?

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process. We know that infertility can cause uncertainty. That’s why we’re committed to servicing each of our clients with empathy.  

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Our appointments are conducted virtually, via live videoconferencing. All that’s required of you is either a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. The typical appointment takes around 30 minutes. You’ll undergo an initial consultation, and subsequent treatment will be monitored for at least three months. We’re confident we can provide you with the answers you’re looking for regarding your reproductive health and fertility options.

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists out there to provide you with easily accessible digital services. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

Have you and your partner been struggling with getting pregnant? It may be time to visit a fertility doctor who can guide you through the process and boost your chances of conceiving. A fertility specialist can help you determine the possible cause of your infertility and then address it through evidence-based treatment methods.

Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.