Summary about Disease
Unexplained infertility, also known as idiopathic infertility, is diagnosed when a couple has been unable to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse (or six months if the woman is 35 or older) and standard fertility testing on both partners reveals no apparent cause. This means the woman is ovulating, has open fallopian tubes, and the man has a normal sperm count and motility, but pregnancy still does not occur.
Symptoms
Unexplained infertility, by definition, presents with the absence of specific identifiable symptoms that would indicate a cause. The primary "symptom" is the inability to conceive despite consistent efforts. Other signs of fertility (regular menstrual cycles, ovulation) are typically present.
Causes
The causes of unexplained infertility are, well, unexplained. Possible contributing factors that current diagnostic tests may not detect include:
Egg quality issues: Subtle problems with egg development or maturation.
Sperm quality issues: Minor sperm abnormalities not detected by standard semen analysis.
Fertilization problems: Issues with the egg and sperm uniting.
Implantation failure: Problems with the fertilized egg implanting in the uterus.
Endometrial receptivity: Issues with the uterine lining not being receptive to implantation.
Subtle hormonal imbalances: Minor hormonal fluctuations that aren't easily detected.
Genetic factors: Undetected genetic issues.
Lifestyle factors: Stress, diet, and environmental factors may play a role.
Medicine Used
Treatment for unexplained infertility typically involves assisted reproductive technologies (ART) or medications that stimulate ovulation:
Ovulation Induction Medications: Clomiphene citrate (Clomid), letrozole (Femara), or injectable gonadotropins (Follitropin, Menotropin). These stimulate ovulation.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilized with sperm in a lab, and then transferred back to the uterus.
Metformin: Sometimes prescribed if insulin resistance is suspected.
Is Communicable
No, unexplained infertility is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent unexplained infertility, as the underlying cause is unknown. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can positively impact overall fertility:
Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being underweight or overweight can affect fertility.
Regular Exercise: Moderate exercise can improve overall health and fertility.
Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption: These can negatively impact fertility for both men and women.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect hormone levels and fertility.
How long does an outbreak last?
Unexplained infertility is not an "outbreak". It's a diagnosis given after a period of trying to conceive without success. The duration of unexplained infertility can vary significantly; some couples conceive naturally after the diagnosis, while others require medical intervention.
How is it diagnosed?
The diagnosis of unexplained infertility is made after excluding other known causes of infertility. The diagnostic process typically involves:
Medical History and Physical Exam: Review of both partners' medical history and a physical examination.
Semen Analysis: To evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Ovulation Testing: To confirm regular ovulation, often through basal body temperature charting, ovulation predictor kits, or blood tests.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): An X-ray test to evaluate the patency (openness) of the fallopian tubes.
Hormone Testing: To assess hormone levels, including FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, and thyroid hormones.
Endometrial Biopsy: (Less Common) To evaluate the uterine lining.
Laparoscopy: (Rarely Used) A surgical procedure to directly visualize the reproductive organs. Used only when other tests suggest a problem.
Timeline of Symptoms
As mentioned previously, unexplained infertility doesn't have distinct symptoms. The "timeline" is simply the period of time a couple has been actively trying to conceive without success (typically one year or six months if the woman is 35 or older) despite having regular menstrual cycles and ovulation.
Important Considerations
Emotional Impact: Unexplained infertility can be incredibly frustrating and emotionally challenging. Seeking support from a therapist, counselor, or support group is important.
Second Opinions: Consider getting a second opinion from another fertility specialist.
Thorough Testing: Ensure all standard fertility tests have been performed and interpreted correctly.
Treatment Options: Understand the available treatment options and their potential risks and benefits.
Time Sensitivity: Age is a significant factor in fertility. Delaying treatment can decrease the chances of success, especially for women over 35.
Acceptance: Sometimes acceptance of the situation may occur.