What to Do About Unexplained Infertility

Infertility can be a deeply challenging and emotional journey for couples trying to conceive. When the diagnosis is unexplained infertility, it can be even more frustrating. This condition means that, despite thorough medical testing, doctors can’t find a specific reason for infertility. 

However, at Effortless IVF™ in Fort Worth and Bedford, Texas, Dr. Kevin Doody and Dr. Kathleen Doody offer several proactive strategies you can take to address unexplained infertility and increase your chances of having a baby. Here’s what you should know. 

How common is unexplained infertility?

Unexplained infertility accounts for about 10-20% of infertility cases. It’s diagnosed when a couple has been trying to conceive for at least a year without success, and all standard fertility tests (for ovulation, sperm quality, fallopian tubes, and the uterus) return normal results. 

While an unexplained infertility diagnosis can be perplexing, it also means there’s no identified, untreatable problem preventing conception.

Treatment options for unexplained infertility

Exploring various treatment options when facing unexplained infertility can increase your chances of conception. We recommend taking a holistic approach that combines medical interventions with lifestyle changes. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Diet and nutrition 

Adopting a healthy diet can positively impact fertility. Focus on whole foods, including lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, and if you smoke, make a plan to quit ASAP.

2. Exercise

Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress, both of which are important for fertility. However, avoid excessive or intense exercise, which can negatively impact ovulation.

3. Relaxation techniques for stress management

Yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress. High-stress levels have been linked to hormonal imbalances that can affect fertility.

4. Counseling and support groups

Talking to a therapist or joining a support group for individuals experiencing infertility can provide emotional support and helpful coping strategies.

5. Medications

Fertility drugs like clomiphene or letrozole can stimulate ovulation in women who may not ovulate regularly, even if their initial tests appear normal.

6. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) 

This procedure involves placing sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. It can increase the chances of sperm reaching the egg.

7. In vitro fertilization (IVF)

IVF is an advanced procedure where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a lab. Embryos resulting from the process are then transferred to the uterus. IVF can bypass many potential barriers to conception and is often recommended for unexplained infertility.

8. Effortless IVF™

A newer variation of traditional IVF, Effortless IVF™ uses a device called an INVOcell to allow fertilization and early embryo development to occur inside the woman’s body instead of in a lab like traditional IVF. This is a less invasive, more affordable option.

Staying positive and patient

Unexplained infertility can be a difficult diagnosis to navigate, but it’s important to remain hopeful and persistent. Keep in mind that many couples with unexplained infertility do eventually conceive, whether naturally or with the help of fertility treatments. 

Learn more about Effortless IVF™

While the journey of unexplained infertility can be frustrating, there are numerous strategies and treatments available to help you move forward. From lifestyle changes and stress management to medical interventions like IVF and complementary therapies, we can help you improve your chances of conceiving. 

Effortless IVF™ offers an affordable and more natural alternative to traditional IVF. To learn more about this option, call our team or schedule a consultation online at your nearest office in Fort Worth or Bedford, Texas.