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Infertility

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Infertility means not being able to become pregnant after a year of trying. Recurrent miscarriages is also called infertility. About a third of the time, infertility can be traced to the woman. In another third of cases, it is because of the man. The rest of the time, it is because of both partners or no cause is found.

If you think you might be infertile, tell your doctor. For a man, a first step is often a sperm test. For women, doctors run tests to see if their ovaries work properly. Women in their 30s who have been trying to get pregnant for six months should consider seeking help. A woman's chances of having a baby drop rapidly every year after age 30. Although physical defects affecting fertility--such as blocked fallopian tubes--cannot be assisted by diet, endocrine issues can.

Research shows that when ovulation-an endocrine issue- is the culprit, as it is in 25% of infertility cases, lifestyle can play an important role in achieving pregnancy.

References

National Women's Health Information Center: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/infertility.html

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