Why Subfertility And Not Infertility?
Some may notice difficulties getting pregnant as couples attempt to start and grow a family. The challenge may not be infertility but subfertility. Infertility is defined as the medical inability to get pregnant naturally. Subfertility happens before this condition is defined as difficulty getting pregnant after at least 12 months of consistent effort. What sets subfertility apart is that doctors believe the possibility of natural conception still exists. However, the individual or couple may need assistance, such as fertility medications. The right fertility drugs and support from the medical team can set the stage for increased conception rates and happier couples.
What causes subfertility?
Both women and men can struggle with subfertility. Statistics show that subfertility rates are equally distributed, and sometimes, treating both parties can improve overall pregnancy outcomes. Women may be struggling with ovulation disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or hormone imbalances. Age also plays a major role in subfertility, with older women having a diminished ovarian reserve. Thyroid disorders and other chronic conditions can also be linked to subfertility. Men can also experience this issue due to unhealthy sperm, hormone imbalances, stress, or physical disturbances. Sometimes, subfertility is simply unexplained, where there is no apparent reason why the couple cannot conceive.
The role of fertility medication
Fertility medication is a range of drugs that mimic the hormones necessary for reproduction. Men and women depend on a delicate balance of hormones to produce eggs and sperm and to conceive naturally. Should an imbalance occur, subfertility is the likely result. A fertility specialist can recommend the appropriate drug based on the underlying factors behind subfertility. The goal of fertility medication is to trigger the release of the hormones that produce follicles, trigger ovulation, or regulate menstrual cycles. Men can also benefit from fertility medications that increase sperm production or improve sperm quality. Fertility medication is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at increasing the chances of pregnancy.
Can fertility medication increase conception rates?
The proper fertility medications in the right combination can set the stage for better conception rates. For instance, certain medicines stimulate the release of follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH), which is necessary for ovulation. Others called gonadotropins directly stimulate the ovaries to mature and release eggs. The fertility team and pharmacy may also combine these with other drugs to reduce prolactin levels or improve insulin sensitivity, improving fertility. Men can also benefit from similar fertility drugs to enhance fertility. Studies show that these drugs are effective in improving fertility and conception rates. Furthermore, many of these drugs are necessary for advanced fertility treatment, like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Working with your fertility pharmacist
For the best results, fertility medications require strict adherence, timing, and support. Some couples would require gonadotropins and ovulation-inducing medications. Therefore, a fertility pharmacist or other medication specialist should work with the hopeful individual or couple. The pharmacist will guide on administering the drug, while supplying the necessary doses needed over a given period. Pharmacists also manage doses based on recommendations by the fertility team by creating custom solutions. With consistent use, the couple may be able to conceive thanks to more optimized hormones.
Start your parenthood journey with fertility medications
Subfertility can be a confusing and frustrating period for hopeful parents. The couple can try conceiving for months without success, but there’s an underlying issue impacting fertility. With the right fertility drugs, the chances of conceiving increase significantly. By enhancing the production and release of follicles or improving sperm health, fertility drugs can be a game changer. Work with a fertility doctor and pharmacist to develop a plan and the necessary fertility medications needed for starting or growing a healthy family.