As we know, human fertility is a complex and delicate matter. Many factors impact your fertility, including age, lifestyle, and medical conditions.

Here, we will discuss some of the common questions surrounding fertility and the female reproductive system.

What is Fertility?

Fertility refers to your ability to conceive and produce a viable offspring in a given period.

Your fertility depends on many factors, including the number and quality of your eggs, the hormonal balance in your body, and the health of your reproductive tissues, uterus, and fallopian tubes.

What is the Menstrual Cycle?

The menstrual cycle is the regular, cyclical hormonal process that allows for the preparation and release of an egg for fertilization each month. The menstrual cycle typically lasts between 28 and 32 days (though it can vary).

It is divided into three phases:.

Follicular Phase

The follicular phase begins on the first day of your period and lasts until ovulation occurs. Your body produces Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), which causes the follicles in one of your ovaries to develop.

One of these follicles will become the ‘dominant’ follicle and continue to grow until it releases a mature egg during ovulation.

Ovulation

Ovulation is the process of the dominant follicle releasing a mature egg into the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilized by sperm. Ovulation typically occurs on day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle (though it can vary).

Signs of ovulation can include changes in cervical mucus and a spike in basal body temperature.

Luteal Phase

The luteal phase is characterized by the development of the corpus luteum, a glandular structure that produces progesterone. Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps to maintain it if conception occurs.

If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum will break down, and the uterus will shed its lining, leading to the menstrual period.

Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period?

It is possible to get pregnant during your menstrual period, although it is less likely. Sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you have sex during your period and ovulate within a few days, conception is possible.

It is essential to use contraception if you do not want to become pregnant.

How Do I Know If I am Ovulating?

There are several indicators that you may be ovulating, including:.

An increase in basal body temperature
Changes in cervical mucus (it becomes clear and stretchy)
Pain or discomfort on one side of your lower abdomen
Increased libido

What is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive naturally after one year of regular, unprotected sex. In women over 35, this period may be shortened to six months. Infertility can be caused by many factors, including:.

Advanced maternal age
Hormonal imbalances, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Blocked fallopian tubes
Endometriosis

When Should I See a Doctor?

If you have been trying to conceive for a year (six months if over 35), it is recommended that you see a doctor. They may conduct various tests to determine the cause of your infertility and recommend treatment options.

Common Fertility Treatments

There are several fertility treatments that can be used to improve your chances of conceiving, including:.

Fertility drugs that stimulate ovulation
Intrauterine insemination (IUI), where sperm is injected directly into the uterus
In vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a lab before being transferred to the uterus

Conclusion

Fertility is a complex and sensitive topic that can bring joy and frustration. Understanding your menstrual cycle and the factors that impact your fertility can help increase your chances of conceiving.

If you have concerns about your fertility, it is important to talk to your doctor.