Infertility

​What are the symptoms of infertility?

Both men and women may not have obvious symptoms as listed below, and the list is non exhaustive. Hence, a comprehensive medical evaluation is recommended for those facing difficulties in conceiving.

Symptoms in women include:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Very painful periods
• Hormonal imbalances: skin changes, thinning hair or weight gain
• Underlying conditions: history of fibroids, ovarian cysts, pelvic infections or blocked fallopian tubes
• Sexual dysfunction: vaginismus, low libido
  

Symptoms in men include:

• Sexual function issues: difficulty with ejaculation or sustaining an erection, low libido
• Pain, swelling or lumps in the testicular region
• Hormonal imbalances: changes in hair growth or other symptoms
• Underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure, low sperm count or poor sperm motility [identified through previous semen analysis])
  

When should you see a doctor?

It is essential to see a doctor if you have been trying to conceive for a year without success if you are under 35, or after six months if you are over 35. It is natural for fertility to decrease with age. As such, it is recommended to seek advice sooner for women over 35.

Women who have undergone previous operations particularly to the ovaries, fallopian tubes or uterus should have an early appointment with the fertility specialist. Women who have experienced miscarriages and wish to conceive again should also consider seeing a fertility specialist.

For men, seeing a doctor is recommended if there are concerns about ejaculation, erectile ejaculation, low libido or if there is pain and swelling in the testicles. If either partner has a history of sexually transmitted diseases, cancer treatments, surgeries or other health conditions that may hold back chances of conception, consulting with a doctor early in the process is crucial.

Early intervention increases the chances of diagnosing and addressing any underlying issues.