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Infertility can feel like a heavy and deeply personal journey, affecting countless individuals and couples hoping to grow their families. It’s not just about the inability to conceive—it’s about the unanswered questions that come with it. Many people often feel frustrated and overwhelmed, especially when they are unclear as to why they are not becoming pregnant.

Infertility is typically diagnosed when someone has been unable to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse (or six months if the woman is 35 or older) or if they’ve faced repeated miscarriages. While many factors can contribute to infertility, it’s often tied to underlying health conditions that disrupt the complex processes of conception.

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What are the Causes of Infertility?

If you are struggling to become pregnant, it could be due to an underlying health condition that needs to be addressed before conception can occur. The below conditions are often associated with infertility:

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a bacterial infection that affects the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It often develops as a complication of untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, but it can also result from non-STI-related infections or medical procedures like childbirth or an IUD insertion.

When left untreated, PID can cause scarring and blockages in the fallopian tubes, making it difficult or even impossible for an egg to travel to the uterus. This damage can lead to infertility, as well as chronic pelvic pain or ectopic pregnancies, where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.

Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

  • Lower abdominal pain or tenderness
  • Unusual vaginal discharge with an odor
  • Pain during intercourse or pain during urination
  • Irregular menstrual bleeding
  • Fever and chills indicating an infection
  • Nausea or vomiting (in severe cases)

Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often attaching to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic walls. This tissue behaves like normal uterine tissue, thickening, and shedding during the menstrual cycle, but has no way to exit the body. Over time, this can cause inflammation, scar tissue, and adhesions, which interfere with your reproductive process by blocking the fallopian tubes or impacting egg quality.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

  • Severe pelvic pain, especially during menstruation
  • Pain during or after sexual intercourse
  • Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
  • Fatigue, nausea, or bloating during periods
  • Painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation

Digestive Issues

Digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can impact fertility by causing systemic inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, or hormonal imbalances. These conditions may also lead to chronic stress, which further disrupts reproductive health.

Symptoms of Digestive Issues

  • Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea
  • Unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Fatigue or low-energy
  • Food intolerances or sensitivities
  • Frequent nausea or indigestion
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PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects ovarian function and is one of the leading causes of infertility in women. It occurs when excess male hormones (androgens) disrupt normal ovulation, causing multiple small cysts to develop on the ovaries. It’s also closely linked to insulin resistance.

Symptoms of PCOS

  • Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
  • Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back
  • Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Hair thinning or loss on the scalp
  • Miscarriages

Dryness of the Vaginal Area

Vaginal dryness occurs when the tissues of the vagina lack sufficient lubrication, often due to low estrogen levels. It can result from menopause, breastfeeding, certain medications, or medical treatments, making intercourse painful and reducing the chances of conception.

Symptoms of Vaginal Dryness

  • Pain, burning, or discomfort during intercourse
  • Persistent vaginal itching or irritation
  • Reduced or absent natural lubrication
  • Tightness or soreness in the vaginal area
  • Frequent urinary tract infections

Chronic Issues

Chronic conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or cardiovascular disorders can negatively impact your fertility by disrupting hormonal balance, blood flow, or immune function.

Symptoms of Chronic Issues

  • Persistent fatigue or weakness
  • Recurring pain or discomfort
  • Poor blood circulation or numbness in extremities
  • Difficulty maintaining a healthy weight
  • Prolonged recovery from illnesses or injuries

Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can disrupt your fertility by interfering with hormone regulation, reducing energy for healthy ovulation or sperm production. Chronic stress and inflammation associated with CFS also affect the reproductive system.

Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue

  • Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest
  • Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
  • Persistent muscle or joint pain
  • Sleep disturbances or insomnia
  • Sensitivity to light, noise, or temperature
  • Low energy levels throughout the day

Irregular Menstrual Cycle

An irregular menstrual cycle, where the length or timing of periods varies unpredictably, often points to underlying hormonal imbalances or conditions like PCOS or thyroid dysfunction. This irregularity can prevent ovulation and reduce the likelihood of pregnancy.

Symptoms of Irregular Menstrual Cycle

  • Periods that are shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
  • Missed periods or inconsistent timing
  • Spotting or bleeding between periods
  • Menstrual cramps that vary in intensity
  • Hormonal acne or mood swings
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Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, is a sign of hormonal imbalances or reproductive health conditions such as fibroids or endometriosis. Excessive blood loss can also lead to anemia, which could affect your overall fertility.

Symptoms of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

  • Soaking through pads or tampons every 1 to 2 hours
  • Passing blood clots larger than a quarter
  • Bleeding that lasts more than seven days
  • Severe fatigue or dizziness during menstruation
  • Need to change menstrual protection overnight

Absence of Ovulation

The absence of ovulation, also known as anovulation, occurs when your ovaries fail to release an egg during the menstrual cycle. It is a common cause of infertility, often linked to PCOS, hormonal imbalances, or excessive stress.

Symptoms of Absence of Ovulation

  • Missed or irregular periods
  • No ovulation signs, such as cervical mucus changes
  • Difficulty conceiving over time
  • Persistent hormonal symptoms like acne or hair growth

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells don’t respond to insulin, leading to high blood sugar and hormone imbalances. This condition, often associated with PCOS, can disrupt ovulation and egg quality.

Symptoms of Insulin Resistance

  • Frequent fatigue, especially after eating
  • Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the midsection
  • Cravings for sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods
  • Dark patches of skin (known as acanthosis nigricans)
  • Difficulty losing weight despite a healthy lifestyle

Undiagnosed Thyroid Dysfunctions

Thyroid dysfunctions, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can interfere with reproductive hormones.

Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunctions

  • Unexplained weight gain or loss
  • Fatigue or low energy levels
  • Sensitivity to cold or heat
  • Irregular or heavy periods
  • Hair thinning or loss

Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue is believed to result from prolonged stress, which depletes the adrenal glands and disrupts your hormone production.

Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue

  • Chronic tiredness, even after rest
  • Difficulty waking up in the morning
  • Low blood pressure or dizziness
  • Cravings for salty or sugary foods
  • Reduced ability to handle stress

Cortisol Imbalance

Cortisol imbalances, caused by chronic stress, can suppress reproductive hormone production and disrupt ovulation or sperm function. These imbalances are often linked to adrenal gland dysfunction.

Symptoms of Cortisol Imbalance

  • Persistent feelings of stress or anxiety
  • Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
  • Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
  • Weak immune system, leading to frequent illness
  • Difficulty concentrating or memory problems

Gut Infections

Gut infections caused by bacteria, parasites, or fungi can wreak havoc on your gut microbiome, leading to systemic inflammation and hormone imbalances. These infections can then impair fertility by affecting egg quality or implantation.

Symptoms of Gut Infections

  • Chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Unexplained bloating or gas
  • Frequent nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue or malnutrition from poor nutrient absorption
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Vaginal Infections

Vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, can alter the vaginal pH, making it more difficult for sperm to survive or reach the egg.

Symptoms of Vaginal Infections

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge with a strong odor
  • Persistent itching or burning
  • Pain or discomfort during intercourse
  • Redness or swelling in the vaginal area

Low Sperm Count

A low sperm count reduces the likelihood of fertilization, often caused by hormonal imbalances, varicoceles, or lifestyle factors such as smoking or obesity.

Symptoms of Low Sperm Count

  • Difficulty conceiving after regular intercourse
  • Hormonal symptoms like low libido or fatigue
  • Small, firm, or swollen testicles
  • Pain or swelling in the scrotum
  • Erectile dysfunction

Hormone Imbalance

Hormonal imbalances disrupt the delicate interplay of hormones required for ovulation, sperm production, and implantation. These imbalances can result from stress, diet, or underlying health issues.

Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

  • Irregular or heavy menstrual cycles
  • Unexplained weight gain or loss
  • Persistent mood swings or irritability
  • Acne or skin changes
  • Reduced sex drive or libido

Low Testosterone

Low testosterone in men affects both libido and sperm production. This condition can result from aging, stress, obesity, or medical conditions like hypogonadism.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone

  • Low sex drive or reduced libido
  • Difficulty achieving or maintaining erections
  • Chronic fatigue or low-energy
  • Depression or mood swings
  • Loss of muscle mass or strength

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Tips for Getting Enough Sleep

Infertility isn’t always caused by a single condition; several additional risk factors can contribute to difficulties in conceiving. Some of these factors might not directly cause infertility but can exacerbate underlying issues or interfere with your reproductive health.

Age

Age plays a significant role in fertility. Women over 35 and men over 40 could experience a decline in the quality and quantity of eggs and sperm, potentially making conception more challenging.

Lifestyle Choices

Being underweight or overweight can disrupt your hormone production, leading to irregular ovulation or reduced sperm quality.

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A relaxing nighttime routine signals to your body that it’s time to wind down. Reading, drinking tea, and/or putting your phone away can help you release tension and fall asleep naturally. Avoid heavy meals or caffeine close to bedtime, as they can disrupt sleep duration.

Chronic Stress

Long-term stress can affect your hormone levels and interfere with ovulation and sperm production.

Environmental Toxins

Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals can harm reproductive organs, egg quality, and sperm production.

Medications and Treatments

Certain medications, such as those for chemotherapy, antidepressants, or long-term use of NSAIDs, can affect fertility. Cancer treatments, particularly radiation and chemotherapy, can also significantly impair reproductive health.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Untreated STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause scarring in the reproductive organs, leading to conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease.

Past Surgeries

Surgeries involving the abdomen, pelvis, or reproductive organs can leave scar tissue or adhesions that interfere with egg or sperm transport.

Family History

A family history of conditions such as early menopause, PCOS, or endometriosis might increase the likelihood of infertility.
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When To See a Doctor For Infertility

It’s natural to feel concerned if you aren’t becoming pregnant as quickly as expected. Knowing when to seek medical help can make a significant difference in identifying and addressing potential causes of infertility:

  • If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months or longer without success and you’re under 35 years old
  • After six months of trying, if you are 35 or older
  • Immediately if there are known reproductive health conditions, such as endometriosis, PCOS, or a low sperm count
  • A family history of infertility or genetic disorders
  • Recurrent pregnancy loss
  • Significant weight fluctuations or signs of hormonal imbalance
  • Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
  • Painful periods, pelvic pain, or severe cramps
  • A history of pelvic infections, STIs, or reproductive surgeries
  • Erectile dysfunction or low libido in men
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Treatment For Infertility

Infertility treatment comes in many forms, depending on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. While IVF is widely known, there are many alternative approaches that address infertility more holistically than assisted reproductive technology, focusing on identifying and treating the root causes rather than jumping directly to invasive procedures.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. While IVF can be effective for some, it is invasive, expensive, and often requires multiple cycles to achieve pregnancy. Additionally, IVF does not address any underlying health conditions that could be making it difficult for you to become pregnant.

Medication-Assisted Ovulation Induction

Ovulation induction involves using medications, such as Clomid or Letrozole, to stimulate the ovaries to release eggs. This treatment is often recommended for those with irregular ovulation. While less invasive than IVF, it still requires careful monitoring and might not address the underlying reasons behind irregular ovulation, such as PCOS or stress.

Lifestyle and Nutritional Changes

Addressing factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress can significantly improve reproductive health. This could include adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods and healthy fats, and maintaining a healthy weight to balance hormones and regulate ovulation.

Holistic and Functional Treatment

A functional and holistic approach to infertility focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of your reproductive challenges. By evaluating hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, gut health, and lifestyle factors, holistic and functional treatment works to optimize your body for conception naturally.
Once the root cause is identified—such as insulin resistance, thyroid dysfunction, chronic inflammation or other conditions—specific treatments can be tailored to correct these issues. These can include:

  • Comprehensive testing to uncover underlying health issues
  • Personalized nutrition plans to restore balance and support fertility
  • Hormonal support to regulate ovulation and menstrual cycles naturally
  • Gut health optimization to reduce inflammation and improve nutrient absorption
  • Stress management techniques like mindfulness and relaxation therapies
  • Preparing the body for pregnancy by addressing deficiencies and promoting overall health
This approach not only improves fertility but also prepares the body for a healthy pregnancy and long-term well-being.
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How To Test For Infertility

Testing for infertility can involve a series of medical examinations and evaluations conducted by a fertility specialist. After the initial consultation and medical history are conducted, some testing might include:
Physical Examination: A physical examination (such as a pelvic exam) might be conducted to identify any physical issues that could be contributing to infertility. This can help detect conditions like uterine fibroids or other structural abnormalities that might be affecting the female reproductive system and causing primary infertility.
Blood Tests: Hormone levels play a very important role in fertility. A blood test can assess hormone levels in both partners. For people assigned female at birth, this might include testing for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone, as imbalances could indicate conditions such as primary ovarian insufficiency or premature ovarian failure. For people assigned male at birth, tests might measure testosterone levels to identify potential issues within the male reproductive system.
Functional and Holistic Assessment: When testing for infertility, it can be helpful to work with a fertility specialist who considers factors beyond your physical health, such as your emotional and mental health. Lifestyle, diet, stress, and other emotional factors need to be taken into account to fully assess your entire health, rather than only one part of it.
Ovulation Monitoring:Tracking ovulation can be done through blood tests to measure hormone levels and by monitoring basal body temperature and cervical mucus changes.

Imaging Studies:Imaging studies, such as ultrasounds, can be done to check for structural abnormalities in the reproductive organs.

Diagnostic Procedures: Based on your initial assessments, further diagnostic procedures might be recommended. These can include hysterosalpingography (HSG) to check for blockages in the fallopian tubes or laparoscopy to investigate issues such as endometriosis.

Semen Analysis: A semen analysis can be conducted to evaluate sperm count, as well as the size of sperm and shape of sperm to determine if any male infertility issues exist.
Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing: In some cases of male infertility, sperm DNA fragmentation testing might be conducted to assess sperm quality at a genetic level.
Your fertility specialist will develop a treatment plan based on your results of the assessments. This could involve lifestyle changes, supplements, peptides, coaching and education, neural therapy, and more.

Benefits of Receiving Holistic and Functional Treatment for Your Infertility

Working with a holistic and functional health practitioner to address your infertility offers many advantages:
  • Identifies the root causes of fertility problems for personalized care
  • Addresses conditions a wide variety of health conditions, such as PCOS, endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, and much more
  • Supports both male and female infertility
  • Promotes optimal reproductive health through diet, stress management, and lifestyle changes
  • Improves the function of the female reproductive system naturally
  • Restores balance to reproductive hormones for healthier ovulation cycles
  • Reduces the chances of complications while pregnant, such as ectopic pregnancy, by improving fallopian tube health
  • Reduces risks of scar tissue in female reproductive organs
  • Offers an alternative to IVF and other invasive fertility treatments
  • Prepares the body for natural conception
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What to Expect with Holistic and Functional Fertility Treatment

During Your Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation at Road to Fertility, Dr. Yuabova will listen to your concerns, conduct a medical history, and perform a whole-body energy scan with your consent. The purpose is to find and address the root cause of the health problem that is making it difficult to become pregnant.

Dr. Yuabova will also use available diagnostic methods, which drive further testing so that she knows where to apply the specific testing that is needed. Once the cause of the infertility issue is determined, medical evidence will be collected in the form of a complete blood panel, and treatment can begin.

As mentioned, if you are having difficulty becoming pregnant, it is typically a symptom of an underlying issue that must be addressed in order for your body to be ready for pregnancy.

Treatment is different for every person and specific to your particular findings.

During Your Follow-Up Appointments

Your treatment plan will be unique to you and will include a variety of approaches. This can include nutritional therapy (oral or IV), neural therapy, herbs, minerals, peptides, coaching and education, and more. Ongoing support is always provided to make sure you’re following the treatment plan correctly. Dr. Yuabova and her team will check in with you every 2 to 4 weeks.

Most holistic treatment programs for infertility last anywhere from 4 to 6 months but can be longer, depending on your specific needs.

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Infertility Treatment with Road to Fertility

Road to Fertility specializes in functional and holistic medicine, helping patients achieve optimal health and sustainable wellness through natural, root-cause healing approaches. Dr. Yuabova Marina and her compassionate team focus on understanding each patient’s unique health story, treating conditions that affect natural fertility while addressing underlying imbalances that might impact reproductive health. For patients who value individualized care and natural treatments that work in harmony with your body’s innate wisdom, we hope you find a home for healing at Road to Fertility.
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