When you get a “Not Pregnant” message with every pregnancy test, month after month — or year after year — it leaves you with more questions than answers. You’re trying everything you can think of, so what’s the problem? Why is it so hard for you to conceive?
Dr. Jon T. Ricks, combines medical expertise with individualized care to support women facing fertility challenges. Named “Best Frisco OB/GYN” by Frisco Style Magazine, Dr. Ricks is known for his empathetic approach, actively listening to your concerns and developing comprehensive plans that consider medical, lifestyle, and emotional factors.
In this blog, we’re compassionately exploring the causes of infertility. We understand that it can be stressful and scary, but when you familiarize yourself with the possible causes — and solutions — it can help you feel more relaxed, hopeful, and confident.
Infertility can stem from a wide range of factors, including:
Hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid dysfunction can disrupt ovulation. When you don’t ovulate normally, there might not be an egg available to fertilize, thus preventing pregnancy.
Age is the most significant factor in fertility. By age 30, you start producing fewer eggs, and those eggs have a higher chance of having abnormal chromosomes. At around age 35, this process intensifies, so egg quality problems are often at least part of the reason for difficulty conceiving around this time.
Endometriosis, in which the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus, can affect the uterus, ovaries, and other parts of your reproductive system. Up to half of women who struggle with infertility have endometriosis, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Pelvic inflammatory disease is commonly a complication of sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. It can damage the fallopian tubes, causing scarring that blocks eggs from reaching the uterus.
Issues such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility are the sole cause of about two in 10 infertility cases. Many couples have infertility due to several things, including male factors.
A number of other factors could cause or potentially contribute to infertility, such as uterine fibroids, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle factors like carrying extra weight and smoking.
Pinpointing the underlying cause of infertility requires a detailed evaluation. Dr. Ricks uses advanced diagnostic tools — including blood tests, ultrasounds, and specialized procedures — to provide a clear understanding of your fertility health.
Infertility diagnosis and treatment should never follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. Ricks works hand in hand with each patient to develop unique solutions.
Some of the most common treatment approaches include ovulation induction using medication, lifestyle guidance, minimally invasive procedures, and intrauterine insemination (IUI). We design treatment plans to prioritize your health and comfort while giving you the highest chances of success.
If infertility has been weighing on your mind, our team is here for you. Call Jon T. Ricks, MD, at 972-377-6800 to book your visit.
