Understanding Fertility Options: Dr. Bana Kashani Offers Expert Insights During National Infertility Awareness Week
'Fertility isn't always a straightforward journey, and understanding your options early can make a meaningful difference,' says Dr. Kashani.
'Fertility isn't always a straightforward journey, and understanding your options early can make a meaningful difference,' says Dr. Kashani. 'Whether you're thinking about starting a family soon or just want to keep your options open for the future, being proactive about your reproductive health empowers you to make informed choices that align with your goals and lifestyle.'
Below, Dr. Kashani shares her expert insights on understanding fertility options and preservation, as well as how to effectively navigate conversations with healthcare providers.
What tests are available to understand fertility?
Fertility testing varies based on your needs. At-home tests help track ovulation and peak fertility days, while in-office tests can identify causes of infertility and guide treatment. For women, testing often includes checking hormone levels, ovarian reserve, and ultrasounds. For men, common tests include semen analysis, hormone tests, and testicular ultrasounds.
Do my lifestyle choices impact fertility?
Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress can influence fertility by affecting hormone balance and egg and sperm quality. Eating a healthy, nutrient-rich diet supports reproductive health, while poor nutrition, along with excessive alcohol and caffeine intake, may lead to imbalances. Smoking and vaping can also harm fertility by affecting hormone levels and reproductive function. While moderate exercise is beneficial, excessive physical activity can disrupt ovulation or lower sperm quality. Additionally, high stress levels can affect hormone regulation and make it harder to conceive.
Does birth control affect fertility?
It's a common misconception that birth control can cause long-term fertility issues, when in reality, it doesn't permanently affect fertility. Hormonal birth control methods, like the pill, patch, or IUD, prevent ovulation and endometrial implantation, and once you stop using them, your fertility usually returns to normal within a few months. However, it can take longer for some people, especially after long-term use, as it may take time for your menstrual cycle to fully regulate.
What is the difference between IUI and IVF?
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) involves directly inserting sperm into the uterus during ovulation and is commonly used for mild infertility issues like unexplained infertility or mild male factor problems. IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization) involves retrieving eggs, fertilizing them in a lab, culturing embryos in the lab and then transferring embryos into the uterus. IVF is typically used for more severe infertility issues, such as blocked fallopian tubes, significant male factor infertility or advanced maternal age and tends to have higher success rates than IUI.
At what age and under what circumstances should someone consider egg freezing?
Egg freezing is a viable option for women who want to preserve fertility for future use, particularly if they're not ready for children now but may want them later. The best time to freeze eggs is typically in the late 20s to early 30s, when egg quality and quantity are still high. It's also recommended for women facing medical treatments like chemotherapy, those with reproductive health issues, such as endometriosis or PCOS, or those with a family history of early menopause. Additionally, women who delay parenthood due to career or personal goals may consider egg freezing to keep their options open.
What advice do you have regarding navigating conversations about fertility with your healthcare provider?
Knowledge is power, so it's essential to do your research before talking to your healthcare provider and come prepared with questions. Take time to evaluate your fertility goals, including how many children you'd like and any ethical or personal preferences for treatments. It's also helpful to provide detailed information about your menstrual cycle, including any pain or irregularities that could point to an underlying condition. Lastly, consider discussing the option of meeting with a fertility specialist for a more detailed conversation and to complete preliminary fertility testing.
Dr. Kashani also encourages individuals to take advantage of the growing resources available for those navigating fertility.
'RESOLVE offers free support groups and other resources to empower people through every stage of their fertility journey. First Response also offers community support through The Pregnancy Hub, an online space designed to connect and inspire those navigating fertility and parenthood. Accessing these resources can help individuals feel less alone, make more informed decisions, and find emotional support during what can often be a complex and challenging time,' adds Dr. Kashani.
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