Despite affecting over 10% of women in the United States each year, infertility is a significant aspect of women’s reproductive health that is often overlooked and under-discussed.
We’re regularly having infertility conversations with patients in our clinic, and wanted to take that conversation online. We recognize the importance of addressing this topic and normalizing the conversation around infertility, empowering women with information and resources that help them feel supported and less alone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of infertility, its emotional impact, and the various treatment options available to support women on their journey. Join us as we delve into this crucial conversation and provide resources to help you navigate infertility with confidence and knowledge.
Infertility: Normalizing The Conversation
A particular part of womanhood that is spoken about often and highly celebrated is motherhood. From a young age, women find themselves being cast in the role of a mother (whether they’d like to be or not). From being gifted baby dolls as toddlers and playing ‘house’, to learning about our reproductive systems in grade school health classes, pregnancy and motherhood are frequent topics of conversation continuing into adulthood.
However, a side of womanhood that is not often acknowledged and discussed is infertility. While the stigma around infertility is slowly decreasing, especially with celebrities like Chrissy Teigen, Gabrielle Union, Nicole Kidman opening up about their experiences, discussing it can still be considered somewhat taboo, especially in certain cultures or social circles.
It’s vital that we continue this trend, as open conversations can lead to greater understanding and support for those facing fertility challenges.
How Infertility Affects Women in The U.S.
Infertility in the United States is a widespread issue that affects over 10% of women each year. According to Dr. Carranza-Chahal, “Primary infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of trying for women under the age of 35, or after six months for women over 35.”
Despite the prevalence of fertility issues, many women face infertility in silence due to societal stigma and a lack of open dialogue. We seek to change this narrative by normalizing discussions around infertility, offering valuable information, and providing support for those affected.
By bringing infertility into the spotlight, we aim to empower women to define motherhood on their own terms, educate and inspire younger generations, and foster a community where women can openly share their experiences and find the support they need.
Causes of Infertility
Infertility can be caused by a number of factors, from structural problems of the reproductive system such as polyps and scarring in the uterus, to menstrual cycle problems such as failure to ovulate.
“One of the most common causes of infertility is due to ovarian and diminished ovarian reserves which means you aren’t ovulating regularly enough, or due to your ovarian reserves diminishing as you get older or from long term chronic illnesses,” shared a Copperstate Physician on Facebook Live.
Fertility issues can also be a result of a number of diseases and health conditions including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and autoimmune disorders. There are also lifestyle and environmental factors that can increase the likelihood of fertility issues such as substance abuse and obesity.
Infertility and Redefining Motherhood
Being a mother does not have to look the same for everyone. We encourage women to find and embrace motherhood in different ways in their daily lives. Whether that’s being a nurturing figure as a friend or partner, or to mother yourself both physically and emotionally.
Motherhood comes in different forms and each should be celebrated and acknowledged the same.
Educating and Empowering Our Youth On Infertility
One of the most important ways to normalize infertility conversations is to start the discussion and ensure awareness during adolescence.
As young women learn about their bodies, menstrual cycles, and reproductive systems, infertility should be part of the conversation. It’s important for children to grow up with the understanding that infertility issues are not uncommon and should not affect their sense of womanhood, femininity, or self-esteem.
Find Comfort in Uncomfortable Conversations
Encouraging women to share their journeys with infertility and listening from a perspective of acceptance and neutrality as opposed to overwhelming sympathy can encourage others to speak up and join in the conversation.
It is our hope that women can find comfort in having these conversations that may feel uncomfortable at times, until they are normalized.
I Am Woman: A Celebration of Womanhood
This blog post was originally published in 2022 as a part of our I Am Woman series, and in acknowledgement of 30 years in practice.
In March 1992, Dr. Karen Addis and her husband Dr. Walt Patton opened Copperstate OB/GYN, a premier women’s healthcare facility focused on providing exceptional care and guidance to women of all ages. This year, Dr. Addis & her team celebrate 30 years of empowering and supporting women throughout every stage of life by launching I Am Woman: A Celebration of Womanhood.
Infertility Support in Tucson
Are you looking for an OB/Gyn you can trust in the Tucson area? Let us support you in achieving true health and wellness. Call (520) 721-8605 to book your appointment today.