Having unexplained infertility issues implies that standard tests don’t reveal any reason why you’re unable to conceive naturally. Communicating with your partner about the diagnosis allows you to explore solutions together. You can consult a fertility doctor to understand what the diagnosis means and how to navigate the next steps. Here are a few tips to help you communicate with your partner:
Get a Comprehensive Evaluation
Infertility refers to difficulty conceiving naturally after an extended period of trying to become pregnant. The causes may range from hormonal imbalance to underlying conditions, such as PCOS or chronic infections. Fertility doctors often do a blood test and use imaging tools to assess your reproductive health.
When standard tests don’t reveal why you’re unable to conceive, then infertility is diagnosed as unexplained. Doctors can recommend further tests following an unexplained infertility diagnosis. A BCL-6 test may help check for markers of endometriosis, which is a leading cause of infertility in women. Endometriosis occurs when endometrial cells that normally grow in the uterus appear elsewhere, such as around the ovaries or inside the fallopian tubes.
These abnormal growths may block the pathway for the sperm and egg to meet, preventing fertilization. They also affect uterine health, increasing the chances of miscarriages and failed IVFs. Doctors may also recommend a CD138 test, which checks for endometritis, a type of chronic bacterial infection. Other tests include:
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
- Thyroid function
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)
- Semen analysis
Ask About Possible Solutions
Comprehensive evaluations may help reveal hidden conditions, such as silent endometriosis or chronic infection. Doctors also identify uterine abnormalities, sperm dysfunction, and ovulatory disorders through testing. If the issue is endometriosis, solutions can include monitoring and medication to regulate ovulation and menses. The endometrial cells grow and shed naturally as part of the monthly cycle, so suppressing the process may lead to temporary relief. Fertility doctors can also recommend surgical removal of the abnormal growths or alternative treatments, such as IVF.
For chronic infections like endometritis, treatment involves identifying the bacteria and developing specific antibiotics targeting them. Other treatments include pregnancy medication, hormone regulation, and weight management. Treating underlying conditions may help optimize your fertility and overall health, increasing the chances of natural conception. If you’re unable to conceive naturally, doctors can recommend assisted reproductive technologies, donors, and surrogacy.
Attend Doctor Appointments Together
Involve your partner in communication as early as possible, preferably when seeking professional help. Bring your partner to all meetings with the fertility doctor to give them an opportunity to ask questions. If you’ve already been diagnosed with infertility, invite your partner to all subsequent appointments. Seek comprehensive evaluations together to reveal potential hidden causes.
Some forms of infertility are caused by male factors, such as low sperm count. Others stem from female factors or a combination of male and female factors. Seeking solutions and treatment together allows doctors to conduct thorough evaluations. Fertility doctors also offer insights into intercourse timing, diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes that may help optimize your fertility. Get professional advice together to reduce the need to explain things to your partner.
Explore Your Next Steps After Unexplained Infertility
Infertility may resolve with medication, lifestyle changes, and targeted treatment. Some cases require specific evaluations, such as BCL-6, to check for hidden conditions like endometriosis. Get tested today to find out if endometriosis is the reason behind your unexplained infertility.