By Amy Beckley, PhD, CEO of Proov
I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that understanding one’s body can have on fertility. Fertility is a complex subject, surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can cause unnecessary stress and confusion for those trying to conceive. There are some very common misconceptions about fertility, and it is important to examine them and discuss the struggles many people face, while offering potential solutions for those encountering difficulties in their journey to parenthood.
The Importance of Knowing Your Body and Hormonal Health
Understanding your body and hormonal health is foundational to fertility. Hormones play a critical role in regulating reproductive functions. For women, hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH) orchestrate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Men rely on hormones such as testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for sperm production and overall reproductive health.
The Role of Hormones in Fertility
- Women’s Hormonal Health: Hormones regulate the menstrual cycle, which includes the follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. Imbalances in hormones can lead to irregular cycles, anovulation (lack of ovulation), or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which can affect fertility.
- Men’s Hormonal Health: Testosterone and other hormones regulate sperm production and quality. Hormonal imbalances can lead to low sperm count, poor motility, and other issues affecting fertility.
Monitoring Hormonal Health
Regular monitoring of hormone levels can provide valuable insights into reproductive health. Blood tests, at-home hormone tests, and fertility monitors can all help track hormone fluctuations and identify potential issues. For women, understanding the timing of ovulation through hormone tracking can optimize the chances of conception. Ultimately, knowing what and how your body operates is the first and biggest step to helping you understand not only your fertility journey, but your overall health as well.
However, there are many misconceptions out there about fertility and health as well.
Common Misconceptions About Fertility
1. Myth: Fertility is Only a Woman’s Issue
One of the most pervasive myths is that fertility is solely a woman’s responsibility. This misconception not only places undue pressure on women but also overlooks the crucial role of male fertility. In reality, both partners contribute to fertility, and issues can and do arise from either side. “Male factor” infertility accounts for 40-50% of infertility, despite the historical blame and psychological weight being on women to provide children.
It is essential for both partners to undergo testing and evaluation when facing fertility challenges.
2. Myth: Age Doesn’t Affect Male Fertility
While much attention is given to the impact of age on female fertility, the effects on male fertility are often underestimated. Sperm quality and quantity decline with age, particularly after the age of 40. This decline can affect the chances of conception and the health of the offspring. Awareness of this factor can encourage men to consider their reproductive timeline and seek early interventions if necessary.
3. Myth: Conception Will Happen Quickly Once You Decide to Try
Many people assume that conception will occur immediately after they start trying. However, for healthy couples under 35, it can take up to a year to conceive, and for those over 35, it might take longer. This misconception can lead to unnecessary anxiety and stress if pregnancy does not happen right away. Understanding that it can take time is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being during the process.
Common Struggles People Deal With
1. Emotional and Psychological Stress
The journey to conception can be emotionally taxing. The pressure to conceive, coupled with societal expectations, can lead to significant stress, anxiety, and even depression. This emotional toll can, in turn, affect fertility, creating a challenging cycle.
2. Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions can affect fertility in both men and women. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and hormonal imbalances are common among women, while men may face issues like low sperm count, motility problems, and erectile dysfunction. These conditions can be a source of considerable distress for those affected.
3. Financial Strain
Fertility treatments can be expensive, and not all insurance plans cover these costs. The financial burden of treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF), medications, and other procedures can add to the stress of trying to conceive. For many, the cost of these treatments can be prohibitive, limiting their options and adding to the emotional strain.
Potential Solutions
1. Comprehensive Fertility Testing
Understanding one’s fertility status through comprehensive testing is a crucial first step. Fertility testing can provide detailed insights into various factors affecting fertility, including hormone levels, ovarian reserve, and sperm quality. Early testing can help identify potential issues and allow for timely interventions, increasing the chances of successful conception.
When doing home fertility testing in men, it is important to look for tests that look at both sperm count and motility as these are the two most important factors in male fertility.
For women’s hormone testing, it is important to test for: ovarian reserve to see the number of eggs left by testing FSH (follicle stimulating hormone); find your longest (5-6 days) fertile window by testing for both estrogen and LH; check for ovulation issues by measuring progesterone or PDG (progesterone metabolite in urine) during when implantation is supposed to happen.
This testing can provide answers without the tremendous cost of other solutions, which is why it is a focal point in my studies and as the CEO of Proov.
2. Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle choices play a significant role in fertility. Factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption can impact reproductive health. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful substances can enhance fertility. Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness practices, therapy, or support groups can improve overall well-being and reproductive health.
3. Medical Interventions and Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
For those facing medical challenges, various treatments and technologies are available. Medications can address hormonal imbalances, while surgical procedures can treat conditions like endometriosis or blocked fallopian tubes. Assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and sperm or egg donation offer additional pathways to parenthood. Consulting with a fertility specialist can help determine the most appropriate course of action based on individual circumstances.
4. Support and Counseling
Emotional support is crucial during the fertility journey. Counseling and support groups can provide a space to share experiences, reduce feelings of isolation, and offer practical advice. Couples therapy can also help strengthen relationships and improve communication, making it easier to navigate the emotional challenges together.
Awareness is Power
Awareness and understanding of one’s body and fertility are vital in the journey to parenthood. By debunking common misconceptions, addressing the struggles many face, and exploring potential solutions, we can empower individuals and couples to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Proov was founded by Amy Beckley, Ph.D, the “infertile scientist,” after three years of infertility and seven miscarriages. Amy applied her own science expertise to uncover a problem with ovulation quality. With help from her doctor and progesterone support, Amy was able to get pregnant with her daughter.
Proov offers a suite of diagnostics to provide fertility insights throughout the entire menstrual cycle. When paired with the free Proov Insight app, Proov’s easy, at-home urine tests provide a science-backed fertility coach right in your hand. First, a woman can measure all of the menstrual hormones daily with Proov tests, then snap a photo of each test within the Insight app. Then, a woman can follow the in-app prompts throughout her cycle to understand ovulation status, get daily insights and an Ovulation Insights score. Finally, the app generates a personalized action plan to maximize her wellness or develop a fertility strategy.
