Hearing there’s no medical reason for not getting pregnant when you have had a battery of tests, exploratory surgery and become an expert all things fertility is not always a welcome relief. Many women who come to see me actually find it incredibly frustrating not to have a definite diagnosis and treatment plan ahead. ‘There’s nothing wrong with either of us, so why can’t we get pregnant?’ It would be easier to start treating a definite problem.
It is said that 40% of infertility is male factor, 40% female and 20% is unexplained. This may in fact be due to insufficient investigation. There may be immunological factors or under- diagnosis of endometriosis.
The good news is that many couples go on to defy the odds and conceive spontaneously.
Infertility affects every couple differently. It’s sometimes a combination of factors from both parties. Maybe a slightly low progesterone level coincides with decreased sperm motility – on their own they mightn’t have been so problematic.
What Can I do?
The point is that if you’ve been told it’s unexplained infertility, then there is plenty you can do to maximise your chances of getting pregnant. While you are deciding which options to choose, you can continue with your wellness programme. Make sure that the diet is top quality, avoiding fast-food, resisting the urge to drink too much, and continue your supplements. Being able to exercise freely will keep you fit, and help with sleeping well. Your sex life can enjoy a boost, too.
While you are doing all this good preconceptual stuff, it might be worthwhile to also consider the Mind Body and emotional part of the equation. After all, many women tell me that they feel that it’s some sort of mental block preventing their conceiving. Fertility mindfulness deals with stress, and the effects emotions have on fertility.
Studies show that people using Fertility Mindfulness can double their IVF success. You can boost your natural fertility, too, and improve sperm counts. You get a chance to deal with the emotional impact infertility has on you and your relationship.
