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Signs of Infertility: How to Know if You are Experiencing Infertility

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 18, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

The first and most obvious sign of infertility is the inability to achieve pregnancy. The couple may have no other signs or symptoms of infertility. They may not even have thought about it very much, but after some time come to the realization that they haven’t gotten pregnant yet. Though many women can begin improving their fertility by eating a natural fertility diet or by performing a general fertility cleanse, it’s always a good idea to learn more about your personal situation since every woman is unique in her journey towards motherhood. In this guide we’ll discuss the different signs of infertility in women and men, when to see a doctor, and how to get more information on natural fertility methods used by 1000’s of women worldwide.

What should you do if you suspect there may be something inhibiting pregnancy? What are the signs and symptoms of infertility? What are the reasons for infertility? What can I do to find out if I am experiencing infertility?

Infertility Symptoms

<center><blockquote>If you and your partner are struggling to have a baby, you’re not alone. Ten to 15 percent of couples in the United States are infertile. Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant despite having frequent, unprotected sex for at least a year for most couples. ~ Mayo Clinic</blockquote></center>

Some couples may not have obvious signs of infertility. While others know that they have been diagnosed with a fertility issue in the past. Approximately 90% of couples will achieve pregnancy within the first 12 months of unprotected intercourse. In any given month, the rate or conceiving is about 20%. Most of the remaining 10% will go on to have children either naturally or through medical assistance such as IVF.

If you suspect you may be experiencing infertility, here are signs to look for…

Signs of Infertility in Women

Irregular menstrual cycles

  • Absent menstruation (amenorrhea)
  • Short (less than 21 days)
  • Long (over 35 days)
  • Heavy or long menstruation
  • Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
  • Short menstruation time
  • Very pale menstruation
  • Clotty or very dark purple/black menstruation
  • Mid-cycle bleeding

Hormonal Imbalance
Irregular menstrual cycles may be a sign of hormonal imbalance, or other more serious fertility issues. If any of these hormones are not at the correct levels, the menstrual cycle may become irregular. Hormonal Imbalance may cause a variety of other health related issues that may affect quality of life. For example, thinning hair, heart palpitations, low libido, depression.

  • Progesterone
  • Estrogen
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
  • Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
  • Androgens for example DHEA, Testosterone
  • Thyroid hormones
  • Prolactin

Over the Age of 35
Women over 35 may experience a decrease in fertility. The average 30 year old woman has a 20% chance of getting pregnant during any one cycle, but by the age of 40 that chance decreases to only a 5% chance of naturally conceiving during any one cycle. If you are over 35 years of age and you have been trying for 6 months or more unsuccessfully, it is time to see a doctor.

Previous Fertility Related Diagnosis

  • Endometriosis
  • PCOS
  • Uterine Fibroids
  • Ovarian Cysts
  • STD’s
  • Recurrent Miscarriages (more than 3)
  • Adenomyosis
  • Blocked Fallopian Tubes
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Signs of Infertility in Men

We tend to think that if a couple is not getting pregnant there must be a problem with the female partner. In reality, there is just as much of a chance that the problem is with the male partner or even both partners. This is why it is always a good idea to have both partners get infertility testing done. In 35% of cases, there are both male and female issues that can cause infertility.

Men tend to not have as many detectable signs or symptoms of infertility, this is because they do not have a monthly menstrual cycle. It may take a bit more monitoring of the bodily functions to detect there is an issue. Sperm count tests are easy to do, and are the first step in determining if there may be male factor infertility. A complete semen analysis performed by your doctor will determine the following:

Hormonal Imbalance
There can be hormonal balance in men. The number one hormonal imbalance in men is with testosterone and estrogen. Other health related problems may contribute to hormonal balance in men. Poor diet and lifestyle choices are the most common reason for hormonal imbalance and low sperm count and health. Common signs of hormonal imbalance in men are low libido, abnormal hair growth, and erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction is inability to maintain or sustain erection during sexual arousal or activity. If erection cannot be sustained, ejaculation may not take place, which is not so good for baby making. There are a variety of reasons this may happen, including other health related problems (see below), but if this problem lasts for an extended period of time, it is time to see the doctor. This may happen as men age; men 40 and over.

The most common hormonal imbalance in men:

  • Testosterone
  • DHEA
  • Prolactin
  • Estrogen

Sperm Count, Health & Delivery Issues

  • Vas Deferens blockage-varicoceles or STD damage
  • Low sperm count (oligospermia)
  • Abnormal sperm shape (teratozoospermia)
  • Abnormal or poor sperm movement (asthenozoospermia)
  • Immobile sperm (necrozoospermia)-this is when the sperm do not move at all; the sperm may be dead, partially alive or alive, but do not move.
  • Abnormal sperm production
  • Genetic disorders
  • Retrograde ejaculation
  • Erectile dysfunction (ED)
  • Vasectomy reversal- Up to 70% of men with vasectomy develop antisperm antibodies.
  • Physical or structural abnormalities such as undescended testicle.

Thinking about sperm testing? At-home sperm tests are indeed convenient, but Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D. for the Mayo Clinic reminds us that at-home sperm tests only measure sperm count. Nippoldt says, “If you’re concerned about your fertility, get an infertility evaluation. Relying on a home sperm test might lead to delays in seeking appropriate fertility evaluation and treatment.”

Other Health Related Factors and Problems that Affect Both Women and Men

Other health related problems may cause hormonal imbalance, poor egg health, low ovarian reserve, or poor/abnormal immune response which may affect conception.

  • Thyroid issues
  • Poor Adrenal Health
  • Very low body weight
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Autoimmune disease
  • Cancer (chemotherapy and radiation may cause Premature Ovarian Failure or Low Sperm count and health)
  • Injury or trauma to reproductive organs, or one of the endocrine glands.
  • Smoking
  • Alcoholism
  • Drug Addiction
  • Hypertension
  • Long-term use of medications
  • Heavy exposure to radiation or other environmental pollution

When To See A Doctor

If you have been trying for a year or more to get pregnant, or if you are over the age of 35 and have been trying for 6 months or longer without success, it is time to see a doctor. If you suspect or have any of the above risk factors that may be a sign of infertility, it is very important to see a doctor. While your family doctor or gynecologist may be able to help with initial testing, further testing from a Reproductive Endocrinologist or even possibly a Reproductive Immunologist may be necessary.

Where Can I Get More Information?

We have hundreds of articles on most of the topics covered in this article. Instead of bombarding the entire article with links, I think you will find it very easy to perform a search at our main website www.Natural-Fertility-Info.com. Our main search menu is on the upper left hand side of the page in the green bar at the top of the page. We also have a search bar (top right hand side of the page) where you can type in any of the keywords from this article. For example, you can type in the word cleansing, this will bring up all related articles on that subject.

In addition, it is important to talk to your doctor about options specific to your needs. Clear communication with your doctor and other natural health care practitioners you may be working with will help you to receive the best care for your individual needs.

References

  • Gurevich | Reviewed by a board-certified physician, R. (n.d.). Your Guide to Male Infertility and What to Do About It. Retrieved from: http://infertility.about.com/od/causesofinfertility/a/male_infertility.htm
  • Infertility. (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infertility/symptoms-causes/syc-20354317

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About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

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Mar 24

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Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

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Mar 24

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🚩The good news is that each of these red flags can be fixed through lifestyle upgrades and natural therapies! 

Type ‘STEPS’ in the comments below if you want to learn which steps are most important for fertility and hormone health. Let’s turn those red flags green. 💚

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Mar 23

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🌱Learn how to balance your HORMONES naturally 👇

Here are 3 practical and affect ways to support your hormonal health.

One of the keys to see the best results is to stay consistent and learn as much about your body as you can.

1️⃣ Use liver supporting herbs

Herbs such as milk thistle have been shown to help the liver in it's natural ability to get rid of toxins and chemicals in the body.

This can make a big difference when it comes to hormone balance.

2️⃣ Do the Fertility Cleanse 1-2x per year

Support the body in it’s natural ability to get rid of excess hormones by doing a fertility cleanse.

3️⃣ Stop using skin care and cleaning products that contain hormone mimicking chemicals

Xenohormones mimic estrogen in the body and can cause imbalance.

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

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Mar 23

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Should men do a Fertility Cleanse as well? 💪

A common misconception when it comes to fertility is that if there is an issue it is most likely going to be with the woman. 

This is simply not true. 

Statically fertility issues impact men just as often as women and lifestyle factors can make a big difference. 

The Male Fertility Cleanse Kit helps to support men to cleanse and detox excess hormones, toxins, increase circulation and promote hormone balance. 

👇 Drop MEN in the comments below & I will send you my Male Fertility Checklist with all the details on which herbs, supplements and foods to focus on in addition to cleansing 👇

#malefertilty #naturalfertility #gettingpregnant #fertilitytips

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 22

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

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Mar 22

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☕Reproductive Support Tea contains herbs that support, tone, and nourish the female reproductive system while supporting hormone balance.
It’s a soothing and effective fertility tea that provides just the right mixture of beneficial fertility herbs designed to help:

1️⃣ Nourish the uterus*
2️⃣ Support fallopian tube health.*
3️⃣ Help maintain normal ovarian function.*
4️⃣ Encourage normal uterine health.*
5️⃣ Support hormonal balance.

This tea is one of two teas in our Fertility Cleanse Kit. 

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

What tea are you drinking today??

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing

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Mar 20

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🥚 In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🤯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➡️ Proper circulation
➡️ A healthy fertility cycle
➡️ Balanced hormones
➡️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

🙂 The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.👇👇

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Mar 20

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5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 19

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

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Mar 19

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What does the Fertility Cleanse Kit include and how to use the kit. 

A common misconception when it comes to fertility is that if there is an issue it is most likely going to be with the woman. 

This is simply not true. 

Statically fertility issues impact men just as often as women and lifestyle factors can make a big difference. 

The Male Fertility Cleanse Kit helps to support men to cleanse and detox excess hormones, toxins, increase circulation and promote hormone balance. 

👇 Drop MEN in the comments below & I will send you my Male Fertility Checklist with all the details on which herbs, supplements and foods to focus on in addition to cleansing 👇

#malefertilty #naturalfertility #gettingpregnant #fertilitytips

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Mar 18

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Is it okay to start a kit and the Fertility Cleanse at the same time?

Do you have natural fertility questions? Type them below. We are happy to help!

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Mar 18

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📈 Fertility charting will help you to better understand your current hormonal state, when or if you are ovulating and other information about your cycle that will help to bring clarity to your fertility path.

Some things you will be able to see on a fertility chart….📈

🌸Thyroid function
🌸Estrogen dominance/deficiency
🌸When and if you are ovulating
🌸Progesterone state
🌸Length of follicular phase
🌸Length of luteal phase
🌸Pregnancy

👇To begin learning how to fertility chart, type CHART into the comments below and I will share a link to my getting started to fertility charting guide. 👇 

#fertility #fertilitycharting #fertilitytips #fertilitycoach #naturalfertility

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Mar 17

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The Fertility Cleanse kit is one of the best ways to prepare for conception. 

It's the first step we suggest for most couples when they start trying to get pregnant. 

With over 680 five star reviews, the Fertility Cleanse Kit is by far a customer favorite. 

You can find the Fertility Cleanse Kit on our website. Link in the bio... @naturalfertilityinfo

Want to learn more? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪

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Mar 17

Open
🌱 Using a greens powder such as FertiliGreens daily can be an easy way to get more greens in your diet….. But if you are new to green powders the taste may catch you by surprise.

💚I do think FeriliGreens is some of the best tasting greens powder out there, but here are to some tips to make taking your daily dose tastier… especially if you are new to taking the :

✅ Mix FertiliGreens into your fertility smoothie
✅ Mix with 8 oz of water and add a little juice for taste
✅ Mix with water and some chocolate stevia drops
✅ Mix with water and some cocoa powder and vanilla stevia drops

Do you take a greens powder daily? What is your go-to method.

I personally take mine mixed in water + all my powdered and liquid supplements mixed with some cocoa powder and chocolate stevia drops 😋

👇 If you would like to learn more about foods and nutrition shortcuts specifically for fertility start a 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge. Type FOOD in the comments below and I will send you the link 👇

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Mar 16

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🧘🏽‍♀️ Rose Fertility Meditation.... Take 2 minutes to unwind and support your fertility with this gentle meditation.

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Mar 16

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Your journey towards motherhood is unique, but you don't have to go it alone 

🤍 Surround yourself with positive and uplifting people who believe in you and your dreams 💫 

#fertilitycommunity #supportsystem #inspiration

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 15

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing
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