Infertility

Approximately 10-15% of couples in the United States experience infertility, but if you’re among those affected, Schubert Atiga, MD, FACOG can offer solutions. At Lifetime Women’s Healthcare, Dr. Atiga and his talented team work closely with women in the San Diego area to manage their reproductive health. If you’re having difficulties getting pregnant, call Lifetime Women’s Healthcare in Chula Vista, California or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

Infertility Q & A

What is infertility?

Infertility is the inability to conceive children. A couple typically receives this diagnosis after at least one year of trying unsuccessfully to become pregnant.

Approximately one-third of the time, infertility is due to the man, one-third of cases are because of the woman, and the remaining one-third of cases are due to a combination of factors relating to both partners or have an unknown cause.

What causes infertility in men?

The most common cause of infertility in men is abnormal sperm production in which they produce too few or no sperm cells. In some cases, sperm cells might be poorly formed or die before reaching the egg.

Additional causes of male infertility include:

  • Being over 40 years of age
  • Sexual problems like premature ejaculation
  • Damaged sperm production due to cancer treatment
  • Overexposure to environmental conditions like heat, pesticides, or alcohol

What causes infertility in women?

In approximately 25% of all infertility cases, women experience ovulation disorders that prevent the release of eggs from the ovaries. Additional causes of female infertility include:

  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Scar tissue in the pelvis
  • Being over 35 years of age
  • Fallopian tube blockage or damage
  • Cancer treatment or other medical conditions
  • Congenital anomalies involving the uterine or cervix

Both women and men are at higher risks of infertility if they use tobacco or alcohol, are either underweight or overweight, or have sedentary lifestyles.

How is infertility diagnosed?

Dr. Atiga and his team at Lifetime Women’s Healthcare evaluate women for fertility issues through physical examinations and testing. Your comprehensive exam includes discussing your personal and family medical histories to help Dr. Atiga identify potential risk factors for infertility.

Additional screenings might include:

  • Hormone testing
  • Pelvic ultrasound imaging
  • Ovulation or ovarian reserve testing
  • Hysterosalpingography to evaluate your uterus and fallopian tubes

Male infertility testing generally includes semen analysis, hormone testing, genetic testing, and examination of the genitals.

How is infertility treated?

Some infertility is untreatable, but Dr. Atiga offers a variety of options depending on your unique condition.

Common infertility treatments for women include medications to stimulate ovulation, intrauterine insemination, and surgery to restore your fertility. For couples dealing with male infertility, Dr. Atiga might suggest lifestyle modifications, medications or supplements, sperm retrieval, or surgery.

If you’re experiencing infertility, call Lifetime Women’s Healthcare or schedule an appointment online today.