Trying to Conceive? What to Know About Fertility First

When you're hoping to grow your family, there's often a lot to track, from nutrition and stress levels to doctor appointments and everything in between. You do your best to care for your body and stay hopeful, but sometimes, things don't go as planned—and that's okay!

Many people face fertility challenges for various reasons, and while the journey can be emotional and uncertain, understanding the possible causes can offer clarity. Here are some things to consider when trying to conceive or simply looking to understand your reproductive health better.

ALSO READ: 6 Fertility Pamahiins and Getting Pregnant the Right Way

Are Fertility Issues Genetic?

People may have said, "My mom had trouble getting pregnant, so I probably will too." But is fertility something that runs in families?

The answer is yes; genetics can affect both male and female fertility. Certain inherited conditions can affect ovulation, hormone production, or reproductive anatomy.

According to Betty Swope, a licensed genetic counselor, "there are some genetic syndromes that can impact fertility, such as cystic fibrosis (CF), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and Fragile X syndrome."

"Individuals with a personal or family history of these conditions may have impacted fertility due to reduced or absent sperm (such as males affected with CF) or premature ovarian failure (POI) (in some females that are carriers of Fragile X)." These conditions often present with other symptoms, so while they can affect fertility, they are typically part of a broader clinical picture that family members may already know.

Other genetic or hormonally influenced conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and Turner syndrome, can also impact reproductive health. PCOS is a common cause of ovulatory dysfunction and infertility in women and has a genetic component, often seen in multiple family members. Turner syndrome, a chromosomal condition where one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing, frequently leads to ovarian insufficiency and infertility in affected individuals.

If you suspect that your family history might be influencing your fertility, genetic counseling or fertility testing can help uncover underlying causes. Knowing your background is a helpful first step, not a life sentence. There are many ways to address these challenges with medical guidance.

Can Hypothyroidism Cause Fertility Issues?

Thyroid health is one of those topics that doesn't always come up until something's wrong, but it plays a critical role in reproductive function. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, can have a direct impact on fertility for both men and women.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, "having low thyroid hormone levels can cause problems with becoming pregnant. It can also be a cause of miscarriage, as well as raising the risk for a cesarean birth and increased bleeding after delivery." In men, hypothyroidism may reduce testosterone levels and impair sperm production, potentially contributing to fertility challenges.

The good news is that hypothyroidism is typically manageable with medication. A simple blood test can provide valuable information if you're trying to conceive and haven't had your thyroid checked. Adjusting your thyroid hormone levels can sometimes restore fertility without further intervention.

Can Low Iron Affect Fertility?

Iron is key in overall health, including hormone production and oxygen transport. Low iron levels, or iron deficiency anemia, can affect ovulation and reduce your body's ability to support a pregnancy.

For women, low iron is often caused by heavy periods, dietary deficiencies, or pregnancy-related blood loss. Symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin, but it's possible to have low iron and not notice it.

If you've been trying to conceive and feel unusually tired or lightheaded, talk to your doctor about checking your iron levels. Eating iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, red meat, and fortified cereals can help; supplements are available if needed. Just be sure to take them under medical supervision, as too much iron can cause problems.

Other Key Factors to Consider

While genetics, thyroid health, and iron levels are essential, they are just part of the bigger picture. Here are a few other areas to pay attention to when it comes to reproductive health:

1. Stress and Mental Health
Stress doesn't just affect your mood. High-stress levels can disrupt hormone production and ovulation. If you've been under a lot of emotional strain, it may be worth exploring relaxation techniques like meditation, gentle exercise, or therapy.

2. Body Weight and Nutrition
Being either underweight or overweight can impact fertility. Fat cells produce estrogen, and too much or too little can interrupt your cycle. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and protein. Moderate exercise can also help regulate hormones.

3. Age
Age is a natural part of the fertility conversation. While it's entirely possible to have a healthy pregnancy in your 30s or 40s, fertility generally starts to decline after age 35, more rapidly after 40. Why is this? According to IVF Australia, a woman is born with about 2 million eggs, all she will ever have. By the time she reached puberty, that number had already dropped to around 400,000.

If you're in your mid-30s or older and trying to conceive, it's a good idea to check in with a fertility specialist sooner rather than later.

4. Environmental Factors
Toxins in our environment, such as pesticides, plastics, and industrial chemicals, may affect fertility. Choosing organic produce when possible, using glass or stainless-steel containers, and avoiding harsh cleaning products can make a difference over time.

5. Male Fertility Matters Too
Fertility is a two-way street. While much of the focus tends to be on women, up to half of infertility cases involve male factors. Sperm count, shape, and motility all play a role. Lifestyle choices like smoking, alcohol, and poor diet can affect male fertility, as can underlying medical conditions.

6. Tracking Ovulation
Sometimes, fertility issues come down to timing. Now is a good time to start if you're not already tracking your ovulation. Many tools are available, from simple calendar methods to ovulation predictor kits.. Getting to know your body’s natural rhythm can help optimize your chances.

When to Seek Help

If you've been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if you're over 35), it might be time to consult a fertility specialist. Even if everything seems "normal," a deeper look can uncover issues that aren't obvious. Fertility testing for both partners can give you a roadmap and help guide your next steps.

Finally, always remember that infertility is more than just a medical issue. It also affects emotional well-being and social relationships. In Filipino culture, where family and childbearing are highly valued, the pressure to conceive can feel especially intense. This can lead to feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and isolation. Women often face the most scrutiny, with constant questions and unsolicited advice that only add to the emotional weight.

This is why it's so important to view infertility as a health condition rather than a personal failure. Understanding your body, exploring your options, and seeking support early gives you the best chance to move forward confidently.

Click here for five tips on supporting friends trying to conceive.