Unable to get pregnant for a long time

Mar 28, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhao Xiaodong

Introduction

Infertility refers to the inability to conceive after a prolonged period of trying. It may be caused by factors such as advancing age, psychological stress, unhealthy lifestyle habits, blocked fallopian tubes, or endometritis. A woman's fertility gradually declines with age. Typically, female fertility begins to decrease after the age of 30 and drops significantly after 35.

Generally, being unable to conceive refers to the failure to achieve pregnancy over a prolonged period. This may be caused by factors such as aging, psychological stress, unhealthy lifestyle habits, blocked fallopian tubes, or endometritis. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

A woman's fertility gradually declines with age. Typically, fertility begins to decrease after the age of 30 and drops significantly after 35. Age-related infertility may result from a reduction in both the quantity and quality of eggs. This is a normal physiological phenomenon. Women who wish to become pregnant are advised to consult a doctor.

2. Psychological Factors

Excessive stress from daily life and work, along with prolonged anxiety or emotional instability, can negatively affect fertility. Additionally, not having intercourse during the ovulation period or consistently using contraception may make conception difficult. It is recommended to learn stress management techniques, track your ovulation cycle, and time intercourse accordingly to increase the chances of pregnancy.

3. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and chronic stress may reduce fertility. Moreover, irregular eating patterns and lack of physical activity can also adversely impact reproductive health. Developing healthy lifestyle habits in daily life can improve the likelihood of conception.

4. Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Partial or complete blockage of the fallopian tubes—caused by infections, injuries, inflammation, or pelvic adhesions—can lead to female infertility. In some cases, laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgery may be required to restore tubal patency.

5. Endometritis

Inflammatory changes in the endometrium due to various factors can result in infiltration of inflammatory cells into the uterine lining. These cells may kill or engulf sperm, preventing fertilization. As directed by a physician, oral medications such as doxycycline hydrochloride tablets, metronidazole tablets, or levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules can help eliminate secondary bacterial infections and promote resolution of inflammation.

If pregnancy is not achieved after an extended period, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under medical guidance.

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Why can't I get pregnant despite being in good health?

In general, a healthy individual may still have difficulty conceiving due to factors such as poorly timed intercourse, stress, improper diet, poor sperm quality, or a thin endometrial lining, and treatment should be based on the specific cause. During preconception preparation, it is recommended that both partners regulate their emotions, engage in moderate exercise, travel, and other relaxing activities to improve mood, which may increase the chances of pregnancy.

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How long after taking emergency contraception is it safe to become pregnant?

After taking emergency contraceptive pills, it is generally advised not to get pregnant within three months. These medications typically contain high concentrations of estrogen and progestin, which can disrupt a woman's endocrine system, potentially causing menstrual irregularities such as early or delayed periods or abnormal bleeding. Therefore, pregnancy within three months is usually not recommended to allow the uterus sufficient time to fully recover and to avoid any adverse effects on fetal development.