Why Am I Struggling to Conceive? Causes & Solutions for Infertility

If you’re asking, “Why can’t I get pregnant?” you’re not alone. Nearly 1 in 6 Indian couples face fertility challenges, and for women, this often involves navigating hormonal imbalances, age-related declines, or conditions like PCOS. Let’s break down what fertility issues mean, why they happen, and how modern solutions like Arva Health’s at-home fertility tests and personalized care can help.

Understanding Fertility Issues in Women

Fertility issues refer to difficulties in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term. For women, these challenges often stem from:

• Hormonal imbalances (like irregular ovulation)

• Structural issues (blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids)

• Lifestyle factors (stress, weight, smoking)

• Medical conditions (PCOS, hypothyroidism, endometriosis)

Are Fertility Issues Becoming More Common?

Yes. Delayed pregnancies (many women now start families after 30), environmental toxins, and rising stress levels contribute to this trend. For instance, 34% of urban Indian women in their 30s show low ovarian reserve levels, a key fertility marker.

The Importance of a Fertility Evaluation

A thorough fertility assessment usually involves several steps:

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your menstrual cycle, previous pregnancies, medications, and lifestyle factors.

2. Physical examination: This may include a pelvic exam to check for any visible abnormalities.

3. Blood tests: Hormone levels are checked to assess ovarian function and overall reproductive health.

4. Imaging tests: Ultrasounds or X-rays may be used to examine the reproductive organs.

5. Specialized tests: These may include a hysterosalpingogram to check fallopian tube patency or laparoscopy to look for endometriosis or other pelvic issues.

Common Diagnostic Tests

• Pap smear: Screens for cervical abnormalities that could affect fertility.

• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) test: Assesses ovarian reserve and function.

• LH (Luteinizing Hormone) test: Helps determine ovulation patterns.

• Progesterone test: Confirms if ovulation has occurred.

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) test: Indicates remaining egg supply

Coping with Fertility Struggles

Lifestyle Tweaks That Matter

• Diet: Add iron-rich spinach and zinc-packed nuts.

• Exercise: Yoga reduces stress, which boosts ovulation.

• Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours nightly to regulate hormones.

Emotional Support

Join Arva’s private community to connect with others facing similar challenges. Their fertility health consultations also pair you with non-judgmental specialists who listen.

IVF Without Fertility Issues: Who’s Eligible?

IVF isn’t just for those with diagnosed infertility. Arva Health’s experts recommend it for:

• Same-sex couples

• Women preserving fertility via egg freezing

• Genetic disorder screening

Common Causes of Fertility Issues

After 30: The Biological Clock Reality

Female fertility drops sharply after 35 due to fewer healthy eggs. Arva Health’s fertility tests measure AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) to assess ovarian reserve, giving clarity on your reproductive timeline.

PCOS and Thyroid Troubles

• PCOS: Affects 1 in 5 Indian women, causing irregular ovulation.

• Hypothyroidism: Slows metabolism, disrupting cycles.

Arva’s Take: Struggling with irregular periods or weight gain? Start with a home fertility test. It checks 12 hormones (including thyroid and AMH) in 48 hours, so you can spot issues early.

Comprehensive Fertility Evaluation

A thorough fertility assessment usually involves several steps:

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your menstrual cycle, previous pregnancies, medications, and lifestyle factors.

2. Physical examination: This may include a pelvic exam to check for any visible abnormalities.

3. Blood tests: Hormone levels are checked to assess ovarian function and overall reproductive health.

4. Imaging tests: Ultrasounds or X-rays may be used to examine the reproductive organs.

5. Specialized tests: These may include a hysterosalpingogram to check fallopian tube patency or laparoscopy to look for endometriosis or other pelvic issues.

Common Diagnostic Tests

• Pap smear: Screens for cervical abnormalities that could affect fertility.

• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) test: Assesses ovarian reserve and function.

• LH (Luteinizing Hormone) test: Helps determine ovulation patterns.

• Progesterone test: Confirms if ovulation has occurred.

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) test: Indicates remaining egg supply

Coping with Fertility Struggles

Lifestyle Tweaks That Matter

• Diet: Add iron-rich spinach and zinc-packed nuts.

• Exercise: Yoga reduces stress, which boosts ovulation.

• Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours nightly to regulate hormones.

Emotional Support

Join Arva’s private community to connect with others facing similar challenges. Their fertility health consultations also pair you with non-judgmental specialists who listen.

How Arva Health Simplifies Your Journey

1. At-Home Testing, No Guesswork

Arva’s Complete Fertility Test covers:

• Thyroid function

• Ovarian reserve (AMH)

• PCOS markers

• Progesterone & estrogen

Costs 60% less than traditional clinics, with lab-certified accuracy.

2. Expert-Backed Consultations

Not sure about IVF or egg freezing? Arva’s fertility specialists explain options without bias.

3. Egg Freezing Made Clear

Considering delaying pregnancy? Arva’s egg freezing guide breaks down costs, success rates, and the process.

4. Beyond Medicine: Community & Care

“I feel like it’s important for women to know what’s going on with their own bodies without the pressure of whether they’re planning on having a family or not.” – Aaliya, 29.

Fertility struggles can feel isolating, but solutions exist. With Arva Health’s mix of tech-driven tests, empathetic experts, and clear guidance, you’re not navigating this alone. Whether you’re exploring egg freezing or just want to understand your hormones better, take that first step – knowledge is power.