From our work with women, we have found that if some of them, who are finding it hard to conceive, knew some things early, they would get pregnant and give birth effortlessly.
You see, struggling or finding it hard to conceive can be an emotional and overwhelming experience for many women.
While some conceive effortlessly, others face unexpected hurdles.
This article explores common reasons why some women find it hard to conceive and provides actionable insights to address these challenges.
1. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal health plays a key role in fertility both in male and female. For a woman, conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can disrupt ovulation, making it harder to conceive.
Signs To Watch For:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Excessive hair growth or acne
- Sudden weight changes
Solution: A visit to a doctor for hormonal tests and lifestyle adjustments like regular exercise and a balanced diet can help regulate hormones.
2. Age And Fertility
Indeed, this is one of the reason women need to begin to seek solution early.
A woman’s age significantly affects her fertility (1).
Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and both the quantity and quality of eggs decline with age.
So, all of the eggs you need to give birth with come with you at birth and as you age, they decline in quality.
Key Facts:
- Fertility peaks in the 20s and begins to decline around age 35.
- After 40, conception becomes more challenging.
Solution: If age is a factor, consulting a fertility specialist early can help explore options like egg freezing or assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
3. Lifestyle Factors
Unhealthy lifestyle choices can also impact fertility. Here are some factors that may contribute:
- Smoking: Damages egg quality and affects hormone production.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol can interfere with ovulation.
- Stress: Chronic stress disrupts hormone levels and menstrual cycles.
Solution: Adopting a healthier lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and practising stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, can enhance fertility.
4. Medical Conditions
Several underlying medical conditions can interfere with a woman’s ability to conceive, including:
- Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and fertility issues.
- Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Prevents the egg from meeting the sperm.
- Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can impact implantation. For instance, a study found that removing the fibroids increased the pregnancy rate from 25% to 42% (2).
Solution: Early diagnosis through ultrasound or laparoscopic surgery and appropriate treatment can increase the chances of conception.
Also Read: Pelvic Adhesion: Natural Remedy For Fallopian Tube Blockage
5. Partner-Related Fertility Issues
Fertility isn’t just about the woman; male fertility plays an equally important role.
Low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or hormonal imbalances in the male partner can also make it harder to conceive.
Unfortunately, some men are rigid when it comes to going for text to ascertain their status.
Solution: Both partners should undergo fertility testing to identify and address potential issues.
6. Weight Issues
Being above your Body Mass Index (BMI) or underweight can disrupt ovulation.
- Women With Excess Body Fat: Indeed, excess fat can lead to an overproduction of oestrogen, affecting ovulation.
- Underweight Women: Insufficient body fat may result in irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
Solution: Maintaining a healthy BMI through balanced nutrition and regular exercise can improve fertility.
7. Environmental Toxins
Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins in the environment can harm reproductive health.
- Common Culprits: Pesticides, BPA in plastics, MSG in seasoning cubes and heavy metals.
- Impact: These toxins can disrupt hormonal balance and reduce egg quality.
Solution: Limit exposure to harmful chemicals by choosing organic foods, making your own seasoning, using glass containers, and avoiding harsh household cleaners.
8. Unexplained Infertility
Sometimes, couples face unexplained infertility, where no specific cause is identified despite thorough testing. This can be frustrating but doesn’t mean there’s no hope.
Solution: Many couples with unexplained infertility succeed with treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI).
What You Can Do Today
If you’re finding it hard to conceive, here are immediate steps you can take:
- Schedule a preconception check-up with your doctor.
- Track your ovulation cycle using apps or ovulation kits.
- Make lifestyle changes, including a nutrient-rich diet that boost fertility (super foods) and regular exercise.
- Seek emotional support from loved ones or support groups to cope with stress.
Final Thoughts
While the journey to conception can be challenging, understanding the possible barriers is the first step toward finding solutions.
Modern medicine, combined with healthy lifestyle changes and fertility coaching offer hope to many women and couples.
If you’re struggling to conceive, remember: you’re not alone, and help is available.
Reach out to us to explore your options and take steps toward building the family you dream of.