What should couples do if they are struggling to have a baby?

Written by: Dr Irfana Koita
Published:
Edited by: Conor Lynch

Infertility is the latest topic up for discussion today in one of our latest medical articles below. Here, Dr Irfana Koita, a revered London-based fertility specialist, talks to us at length about infertility, including the causes, and what couples should do if they are finding it difficult to conceive.

What is infertility?

Infertility is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is defined as the inability to conceive after having unprotected sex for at least a year. There are many reasons why couples may experience infertility, and these can be attributed to either partner or a combination of factors.

 

What are the main causes?

In men, infertility can be caused by conditions that affect sperm production or quality, such as undescended testicles, genetic defects, hormone problems, and infections. In women, ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, and uterine or cervical abnormalities are common causes of infertility. Age is also a significant factor in infertility, as women's fertility slowly declines with age, especially in the mid-30s, and drops quickly after the age of 37.

 

What lifestyle factors can contribute to infertility?

Lifestyle factors such as tobacco and marijuana use, alcohol consumption, and obesity can also contribute to infertility. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and sexually transmitted infections can affect fertility.

 

What should couples do if they are struggling to have a baby?

If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying cause of infertility and recommend appropriate treatment options. These may include medications, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

 

It is important to remember that infertility is a common condition and that many safe and effective treatments are available. With the right care and support, many couples can overcome infertility and achieve their dream of starting a family.

 

To schedule in an appointment today with Dr Irfana Koita, head on over to her Top Doctors profile. 

By Dr Irfana Koita
Fertility specialist

Dr Irfana Koita is an expert fertility specialist in London who specialises in fertility diagnostics, egg freezing, IVF, preimplantation genetic diagnoses, polycystic ovaries and endometriosis. She also treats patients with fibroids and experiencing recurrent miscarriage. Dr Koita is a fertility consultant at LycaHealth and IVF Matters Fertility Clinic, where she is also a director.

Since achieving her medical degree from Grant Medical College in 1998, she has gained over 18 years of experience as a fertility specialist. She trained at King's College Hospital London NHS Trust and has achieved both membership and fellowship of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). She also holds a Master's in Healthcare Leadership from the prestigious Cornell University.

Dr Koita is the founder and director of IVF Matters, the UK's first online fertility clinic. She offers both video consultations and in-person consultations within the clinic at Harley Street and Canary Wharf, London for all fertility issues. Throughout her career, she has arranged numerous events spreading awareness of fertility issues and empowering women. Her health advice has been featured in The Times, Daily Mail and Grazia.

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