Why Am I Not Getting Pregnant When Everything Is Normal?

It can be very frustrating for a couple when they are trying to conceive, especially when they are doing everything right and the results are not showing. While some couples get pregnant on their first try, the journey can last much longer for others. This can also be overwhelming, especially if the couple have tried all the conventional methods to maximize their chances, like using ovulation kits and strip to time their ovulation and having intercourse frequently during the fertile window. The prolonged frustration can lead to asking: “Why am I not getting pregnant when everything is normal?” In this case, it can be essential to know the causes and to realize what can be done to improve the situation.

What is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. If the woman or her partner is over the age of 35, they should seek the services of a fertility specialist after six months. After the age of 40, it is recommended that the couple seek help immediately, as fertility rapidly decreases with age. Infertility is more common than many people realize. It affects one in eight heterosexual couples that are trying to get pregnant. Overall, 12-15% of couples are infertile.

What are some reasons a person is not getting pregnant when everything is normal?

Some of the common reasons why a couple may be struggling to conceive and some of the ways to fix it are:

Timing 

While it is assumed that everyone knows the proper thing to do, and the assumption that people can get pregnant at any moment, conception can only occur during the most fertile days, which is about five days out of the cycle. Peak fertility occurs on the days leading up to and the day of ovulation. The tracking of this peak fertility is essential to timing intercourse to conceive. It can solve the issue of ovulating but not getting pregnant. Several methods can be used to track fertility, including monitoring cervical mucus, luteinizing hormone tests, or tracking the body’s basal temperature. Regardless of the method chosen, once the peak fertility is properly observed, the individual can ensure that they will have the best chance at conceiving.

Male factor 

This has to do with low sperm production, abnormal sperm function, or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. This male factor accounts for about a third of the infertility causes in couples. The quickest way to determine this is by using an at-home sperm test kit. Also, it is important to check for sperm motility as well as the sperm count. In the case that a problem is discovered, there are many ways to improve the quality and quantity of the sperm. Some ways include the changing of lifestyle habits, quitting harmful habits like smoking and alcoholism, taking supplements and eating healthier. It is important to consult a fertility specialist before taking any supplements. Also, many lubricants contain spermicidal elements, or have a pH that is harmful to sperm, so a change in lubricants may lead to better results. Tight underwear can also inhibit sperm production.

Improper ovulation

Ovulatory issues account for 1 out of 4 infertility issues. While many women may seem to have a regular cycle, it does not always mean that they are ovulating or that the ovulation is healthy. This is why it is vital to confirm that a successful ovulation has taken place. Successful ovulation is said to have occurred after an egg has been released, and post-ovulatory hormones remain at an adequate level long enough to allow for the best chance of conception. While confirmation of ovulation can be done via progesterone blood tests and other tests, confirming a successful ovulation involves tracking the progesterone metabolite (PdG) levels over time. If a woman is tracking her ovulation and not getting pregnant, they should consider conducting the test for these hormones. In the case of a disorder in the hormone levels, the woman should consult with a fertility specialist who will provide solutions.

Elevated cortisol levels 

Cortisol is the stress hormone. Increased levels of cortisol can disrupt the production of other hormones. The production of cortisol, which the body considers the hormone vital for survival, is prioritized over less vital hormones like the reproduction hormones. When the body is battling with stress from different sources like work, excessive exercise, and other things, it increases cortisol production. The body, to produce enough cortisol, uses progesterone from the reproductive system to meet up. This shorts the supply of progesterone that is needed in the reproductive process, making conception difficult. Managing stress by whatever means has been known to improve the chances of women getting pregnant. There are different ways to do this, either by getting stress management therapy, through yoga, or other methods.

Other underlying issues 

If all the above points have been addressed and the individual is still having issues with pregnancy, there may be a need to check for other underlying issues that may be affecting their conception chances. Underlying issues like uterine factor infertility, tubal factors and genetic issues are some of the underlying less common causes of infertility.

Uterine factor infertility 

It is usually a result of anatomical abnormalities of the uterus, and they can prevent conception and pregnancy. A uterine ultrasound can reveal any of these issues and come up with ways of solving them.

Tubal factor infertility 

The fallopian tube is the site of egg fertilization. From there, it travels down to the implant into the uterus. If the tubes are blocked, the sperm may never be able to reach the egg, which will prevent any fertilization from occurring. A tubal evaluation to verify will be conducted by a doctor and subsequent solutions can be proposed.

Genetic issues 

Genetic factors affect a lot of women, preventing them from conceiving. These factors can include inherited chromosomal abnormalities or a single-gene defect. Issues like PCOS, or even premature menopause can be inherited as well. Genetic testing can highlight any of these issues, and this is carried out by a doctor.

Medical tourism via a medical health travel or meditour agency is an excellent way to seek overseas medical treatment from fertility specialists. This is especially the case when the individual who is affected by infertility is suffering from an uncommon condition whose treatment or solution is not available in their country. This act is what is referred to as health tourism.