How to Get Pregnant with Unexplained Infertility
You have been trying to have a baby for a while now. You have a suspicion that something may be impacting your ability to conceive. You have spoken to your family doctor and now a fertility specialist. You have done the ultrasounds, the bloodwork, and the sperm analysis. All those fertility tests, anticipating an answer as to why it has been so hard to get or stay pregnant, just to receive the diagnosis of “unexplained infertility.”
As scary as receiving a diagnosis can be, there is a sense of relief when you finally know what is wrong. If we know what the problem is we can then start on a solution, right?
When you are given the diagnosis of “unexplained infertility” it can be very disappointing, frustrating, and unsettling news to process. You mean nothing is wrong? Without skipping a beat, you are advised to jump right into assisted fertility treatments without a clear answer as to why it has been so difficult to conceive in the first place.
What is Unexplained Infertility?
Unexplained infertility is a term that is used when there is no obvious cause for infertility. The initial tests done with a fertility clinic often include:
- Day 3 hormonal bloodwork
- Public Health testing (Sexually Transmitted Infections & immunity to infections)
- Sonohysterogram (Shape/size of uterus & Tubal Patency)
- Ultrasounds to monitor ovulation
- Post-ovulation bloodwork
- Basic semen Analysis
If these tests come back normal, it can tell us the following information:
- No uterine abnormalities or structures such as fibroids or uterine polyps that are impacting conception
- Your fallopian tubes are open
- You are ovulating
- Your ovarian reserve aligns with your current age
- Of the hormones tested, you are producing normal hormone levels
- There are no glaring concerns with the semen analysis
How Common is Unexplained Infertility?
The diagnosis of unexplained infertility is quite common. In Canada, approximately 50% of those seeking fertility care are diagnosed with unexplained infertility, making it the largest category of infertility.
What does the Diagnosis of Unexplained Infertility tell us?
Unexplained infertility tells us that:
- Based on the basic testing there are no major reasons why you cannot get pregnant
- The basic testing lets us know if we need to go straight to IVF or can try cycle monitoring and IUI first
- We need to look beyond the basic testing and assess what could be contributing to infertility
- Reproductive care & treatment is a comparatively new field of medicine, we need much more funding, research & treatment options
It may be time for you to look beyond basic fertility testing.
Reasons for Unexplained Infertility:
- Nutrient Deficiencies (Vitamin D, B12, Iron)
- Thyroid conditions
- Autoimmune conditions
- Blood clotting disorders
- Celiac disease
- Insulin Resistance & Metabolic Dysfunction
- Inflammation
- High Sperm DNA Fragmentation
- Immune System Dysfunction (high NK cells, high histamine, MCAS)
- Uterine Microbiome (low lactobacillus bacteria, endometritis, high NK cells)
How Can a Naturopathic Doctor Help You Overcome Unexplained Infertility?
Assessment & Lab Testing
If you have been given the diagnosis of unexplained infertility we should look for answers beyond your basic fertility testing. In our initial consult, we go through your whole health history and see if any symptoms stand out that we should investigate further.
Patient Advocacy
As a fertility-focused Naturopathic Doctor, I am well-versed when it comes to the processes, procedures, and treatment options provided by fertility clinics. To receive the best and most thorough care we often have to advocate for ourselves. My role in working with you is to provide you with the information and resources on how to work most effectively with your fertility team.
Treatment
Once we have assessed your overall health, symptoms, and test results, we can create a fertility treatment plan specific to you. I know how stressful it can be to do more assessments and try to find answers. The great news is that from all the possible contributors to infertility that we would be assessing for, there is always a treatment option available.
I would love to support you, advocate for you, and find answers to your diagnosis of unexplained infertility.
Contact us to learn more!
