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Parenthood is that phase of life that brings unexpected joy. Whether or not it was planned at that time, once it arrives, it is unbelievable how much it transforms a person. But unfortunately this is not the case with everyone. While some people are gifted with the experience without actually planning it, others try for years and still can be unsuccessful in conceiving. This inability to conceive even after repeated attempts for a prolonged period of time is known as infertility. The infertility may be caused by failure in either male or female reproductive system, in some cases both.

How common is infertility?

One would think that getting pregnant is probably not that difficult, little do we know that it is actually otherwise. According to studies 1 in every 10 women is infertile and 1 out of every 6 couples suffer from infertility. This goes to show that infertility is a much bigger problem than discussed openly. As for the probability of infertility in either partners, research shows that in one-third of the couples the female is infertile, in one-third of the couples the male in infertile and in the remaining one-third both partners are infertile or some external factor is to blame. Having said all of this, infertility is not incurable. In most cases some medications and in rare cases surgery, can help the couple conceive. 

Reasons for infertility in women

Like we have already established, infertility could be borne by either partners, but in this blog we will be throwing light on causes of infertility in women. There can be many reasons both induced and genetic which cause infertility in women. Here are some of the causes:

• Ovulation issue: The first reason for infertility could be a problem with the release of eggs. This is mainly found in women who deal with hormonal problems like PCOS,  Hyperprolactinemia, thyroid etc. This is because some hormones, when stimulated, interfere with the process of ovulation thereby causing infertility. Problems with ovulation could also be due to other problems like eating disorders or tumours. 
• Fallopian tube blockages and issues: The fallopian tube is the passage through which the egg travels and reaches the uterus to get fertilised, hence a blockage or damage in it leads to infertility. Fallopian tube damages can be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, which is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection, endometriosis or adhesions. The infertility can also be caused by swelling up of the fallopian tube.
• Abnormalities in the uterus: This includes uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, tumours etc. Abnormalities in the uterus or its wall majorly affects the process of fertilisation hence contributes to infertility. Endometriosis, a condition which occurs when endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus, can also be a big factor of infertility. 
• Pelvic adhesions: Adhesions are bands of scar tissues which grow internally and cause organs to be stuck together when they are not supposed to. This also contributes to fallopian tube blockages. 
• Early menopause: If menopause or its symptoms occur before the age of 40 then more often than not the woman will be infertile. The causes of early menopause could be genetic, immuno based etc. 
• Cancer treatment: Chemotherapy and radiation treatment mostly cause infertility as radiation affects many cells in the body.

Lifestyle choices

Now that we have discussed the possible reasons for infertility in women, let’s talk about some lifestyle choices that a woman should make in order to give herself the best shot at pregnancy.

• Quit smoking: Tobacco has proven to have adverse effects on fertility. Not to mention its harmful effects on overall health or health of the foetus. Quit smoking immediately if you are considering pregnancy.
• Avoid alcohol and other drugs: Alcohol and other drugs like marijuana majorly impair your ability to get pregnant. They also interfere with the process of childbirth. So quit drinking if you are stepping towards parenthood.
• Caffeine consumption: You do not need to cut off caffeine completely from your diet but you need to limit your consumption of caffeine as it causes many nervous system related issues and anxiety/ mental health related stresses. Consult your medical health expert to know what is the right amount for you and your body.
• Exercise and weight management: Moderate exercising to maintain a stable weight is good to prepare for pregnancy. Being overweight or underweight can affect your hormone production and cause infertility. Don’t exercise too intensely though as it can affect your periods and thus fertility.

Like we already mentioned, infertility is not incurable so don’t lose heart. In order to give women their best shot at pregnancy andMe has launched the all new andMe OvaBoost. Plant-based andMe OvaBoost drink is filled with prenatal vitamins that help to conceive. It is made with the goodness of CoQ10, DHA, Shatavari, Zinc, Chasteberry, Vitamin B9 and Inositol helps with egg quality and egg health, fertilization, aids in preparing the body for pregnancy, helps to prepare uterus lining. By drinking andMe OvaBoost regularly from 8 to 12 weeks before planning to conceive helps to improve fertility. Also can be consumed in the 1st trimester which helps in preparing the body for pregnancy. Stress is a big contributor to infertility in many women so along with the andMe OvaBoost drink, our inhouse health experts recommend you to follow these tips to increase fertility. 1)Yoga and Exercise 2)Follow a healthy diet 3)Meditate to avoid stress. Get your hands on your andMe OvaBoost now and start your journey towards this new phase of life.

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