What is Unexplained Infertility?

Unexplained infertility refers to cases where standard fertility tests fail to identify the cause of infertility in either partner. Despite normal results, conception challenges persist, which can be emotionally and physically taxing.

How Common is Unexplained Infertility?

Unexplained infertility affects approximately 10% of couples experiencing infertility. It is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning it is determined after ruling out known causes.

What are Normal Fertility Indicators?

• Sperm Health:

  • Count: At least 20 million per ml.
  • Motility: 60% or more actively moving.
  • Morphology: At least 40% normal shape and size.
  • Note: Abnormal results often require follow-up testing.

• Ovulation Indicators:

  • Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Tracking temperature shifts can confirm ovulation.
  • Blood Tests: Hormone levels, especially progesterone, help confirm ovulation.
  • Endometrial Biopsy: Assesses whether the uterine lining aligns with the menstrual cycle.

• Fallopian Tube Functionality:

  • Hysterosalpingography (HSG): X-ray imaging to evaluate the openness of fallopian tubes.
  • Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure for a detailed view of reproductive organs.

Could Anything Have Been Missed?

While unexplained infertility lacks an identifiable cause, rare conditions could contribute:

• Minimal Endometriosis
• Luteal Phase Deficiency (Low Progesterone)
• Uterine Adhesions
• Mycoplasma Infection
• Sperm Antibodies

Is Stress a Factor?

Stress and lifestyle factors can influence fertility, but no conclusive evidence links psychological causes directly to unexplained infertility. However, reducing stress through counseling, yoga, or mindfulness can be beneficial for overall well-being.

Treatment Options for Unexplained Infertility

1. Lifestyle Adjustments:

   • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs.
   • Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
   • Minimize caffeine intake.
   • Improve timing of intercourse using ovulation predictor kits or tracking apps.

2. Fertility Medications:

   • Clomiphene (Clomid®): Stimulates ovulation.
   • Letrozole (Femara®): Often used off-label for ovulation induction.
   • Gonadotropins: Hormone injections to enhance egg production.

3. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART):

   • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Concentrated sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation.
   • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized in a lab and transferred to the uterus. IVF often includes Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) for sperm quality issues.

4. “Watchful Waiting”:
   For younger couples, sometimes waiting and trying longer is a viable option, as spontaneous conception can still occur.

What are the Chances of Conceiving?

Without treatment, about one-third of couples with unexplained infertility conceive naturally within three years. Treatment can significantly improve these odds:

• IUI with Medication: Increases the likelihood of pregnancy.
• IVF: Offers a 50% success rate per cycle, depending on age and overall health.

Prevention Tips

While not all factors causing infertility are preventable, you can improve your chances by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol.
• Protecting yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

When to Seek Help

• If under 35, consult a fertility specialist after 12 months of trying to conceive.
• If 35 or older, seek help after six months.

Final Thoughts:

Unexplained infertility can feel frustrating and uncertain, but many couples eventually achieve their dream of starting a family. With treatments ranging from medications to advanced reproductive technologies like IVF, there is hope. Work closely with a trusted healthcare provider visit Australian Concept to explore the best options for you.