Fertility challenges are far more common than many realize.

• 13.4% of women aged 15–49 and 11.4% of men aged 15–49 in the U.S. experience fertility difficulties.
• 42% of U.S. adults have either used fertility treatments or personally know someone who has—up from 33% just five years ago (PEW Research).

These numbers show that if you or someone you know is navigating fertility struggles, you’re not alone. Understanding what’s going on with your body is the first step.

Where to Start

Men and women can both face fertility challenges, but testing for men is less invasive and more affordable. Start by having your partner tested to rule in or out potential issues. However, both partners can experience fertility concerns, so it’s ideal to test together.

Fertility Testing for Men

1. Semen Analysis:

• Sperm count: Number of sperm in the sample.
• Motility: Percentage of sperm that move effectively.
• Morphology: Shape and structure of sperm.
• Semen volume and pH.

2. Hormonal Blood Tests:Testosterone, FSH, LH, prolactin, and estradiol to assess sperm production and hormonal balance.

Fertility Testing for Women

1. Hormone Blood Tests:FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, AMH (ovarian reserve), prolactin, thyroid hormones, testosterone, and androgens.

2. Ovulation Testing:LH surge detection (home kits).
Progesterone levels during the luteal phase (day 21 of a typical cycle).

3. Imaging Tests:

• Ultrasounds: Transvaginal or saline-infused sonohysterography to examine reproductive organs.
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): X-rays with dye to check for blocked fallopian tubes.

4. Laparoscopy:Detects and treats endometriosis, pelvic scarring, fibroids, and ovarian cysts.

Beyond Standard Testing:

Test for estrone (E1), estriol (E3), cortisol, and DHEA.
Metabolic testing can reveal systemic inflammation, a key factor in unexplained fertility challenges.

Treatment Options

1. Medications:

• Clomifene or tamoxifen: Stimulates ovulation.
• Metformin: Helps women with PCOS.
• Gonadotropins: Stimulates ovulation in women or improves fertility in men.
• Dopamine agonists: Regulates hormone imbalances.

2. Surgical Procedures:

• Fallopian tube surgery: Repairs blockages or scarring.
• Laparoscopy: Treats endometriosis, fibroids, or PCOS (ovarian drilling).
• Epididymal blockage: Corrects sperm transport issues in men.

3. Assisted Conception:

• IUI: Places sperm directly into the womb.
• IVF: Fertilizes eggs outside the body and implants embryos.
• Egg or sperm donation: For couples with severe fertility challenges.

Costs to Consider

Fertility treatments can cost tens of thousands of dollars, with an average out of pocket of $15,000 even with insurance. Multiple cycles may be needed, and success isn’t guaranteed.

Functional Health: A Natural Approach to Fertility

Addressing the root causes of infertility can significantly improve your chances of conception and may even eliminate the need for invasive treatments. Functional health focuses on optimizing your overall well-being, creating a fertile environment for natural conception or enhancing the success of fertility treatments.

Key Areas to Focus On

 Comprehensive Hormone Testing

• Saliva testing for cortisol, DHEA, estrone (E1), estriol (E3), progesterone, and testosterone gives a complete picture of hormonal balance.
• These insights help identify adrenal fatigue, estrogen dominance, or other imbalances that may be affecting fertility.

 Metabolic Testing

• Assesses systemic inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic health—all critical factors for fertility.
• Inflammation and metabolic issues are often overlooked yet are common causes of unexplained infertility.

 Targeted Solutions

• Supplementation: Address deficiencies with vitamins, minerals, and adaptogens tailored to your needs.
• Bioidentical Hormones: Support hormone levels naturally to restore balance.
• Nutrition: A personalized diet plan reduces inflammation, regulates blood sugar, and supports reproductive health.

 Stress Management

• Chronic stress can deplete progesterone and disrupt ovulation. Learn tools to manage stress daily, such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or yoga.
• Develop routines for asking for help and building a supportive network to reduce emotional strain.

 Fitness

• Incorporate daily movement to rebalance your body, improve circulation, and support healthy hormone production.
• Focus on activities that feel good and reduce stress, like walking, strength training, or restorative exercises.

The Power of Functional Health

By addressing the whole body, functional health empowers you to take control of your fertility journey. Whether you’re aiming for natural conception or preparing for treatments, this approach ensures your body is in its best shape—physically, hormonally, and emotionally.

Functional health not only optimizes your chances of conceiving but also saves you thousands of dollars by potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures. It provides sustainable, long-term health benefits that extend far beyond fertility, creating a foundation for a healthier you and a thriving future. By focusing on balancing your body, reducing stress, and supporting overall wellness, functional health can lead to the ultimate goal—the start of your family.