We need to talk about infertility under 30. The media seems to paint an image that infertility is only confined to older couples but in reality, there are many women under 30 who struggle to conceive. Whilst fertilit does decline with age, infertility under 30s is not as uncommon as you may think. There are multiple common gynaecological conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis and premature ovarian failure (or premature menopause) that can women are facing fertility struggles earlier in life.
You might have heard about Emma Roberts’s fertility journey? Diagnosed with endometriosis in her late 20s, her condition forced her to fast forward her plans so she could become a mother. Her undiagnosed endometriosis had a large effect on her fertility, resulting in her having to freeze her eggs. Likewise, singer Halsey recently announced her pregnancy after going through a miscarriage and also dealing with endometriosis, like Emma. These high profile stories have shed a light on this issue of infertility under 30, and have maybe helped women experiencing the same thing feel less alone.
Trying to get pregnant under 30 – the facts
It is sometimes hard to understand how long the normal pregnancy journey takes when you hear endless stories about accidental pregnancies which makes conception seem so easy. Generally the conception journey takes about 12 months on average. Most women are encouraged to have regular unprotected sex every 2 or 3 days for about a year before consulting infertility services.
Tracking your fertility window and increasing sexual activity during this window can also increase your chances of conception. 1 year does seem like a long time, which means this can require some forward planning. So do not panic if you are not pregnant after your first few sessions of unprotected sex, make an appointment with a fertility doctor and get some tests done. Don’t forget to get your partner tested as well, the problem could lie with either of you.
If you are afraid to go to the doctor’s because you feel like you are young to be experiencing fertility struggles, you should not feel this way at all. Infertility can affect any woman at any age for a variety of reasons. So if your doctor turns you away because you are too young, it might be wise to find another doctor as they clearly do not understand the female anatomy fully.
Potential causes of infertility under 30
Gynaecological conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Endometriosis and Premature Ovarian Failure prompt women to seek fertility services earlier than others, sometimes even before they decide to have a family. As these conditions start from a young age, as soon as puberty hits, the effects it can have on fertility is large and wide.
PCOS
A defining feature of PCOS is irregular ovulation, increasing the time frame needed to get pregnant. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a good diet and regular exercise to keep your weight in the recommended range can all lead to improving your fertility chances. If you still have fairly regular periods (a sign of ovulation) and you have time on your side, your chances of conception are still high; it might just take a little longer than most but a significant proportion of women with PCOS go on to have children. Fertility services can offer you ovulation inducer medications such as clomiphene to regulate your ovulation.
Endometriosis
The science behind endometriosis and infertility is still unknown in the medical profession. It is theorised that fertility issues arise from scar tissue build up in the fallopian tubes and ovaries. A study found that 30-50% of women with endometriosis have fertility issues. Women with endometriosis might need more medical attention to help them conceive, with a popular fertility treatment of choice being IVF. Even with medical aid, a good proportion of women with endometriosis go on to start families.
Premature ovarian failure
Premature ovarian failure is known as premature menopause. Menopause is a defining point in a woman’s life when they can no longer get periods and hence no longer get pregnant. This milestone is usually reached around the 50s but women with premature ovarian insufficiency reach it before the age of 40. Egg freezing is recommended as these women are running out their ovarian reserve and this way egg freezing saves some eggs for future prospects of a family.
Ways to improve your chances of conceiving naturally
Diet
There is a saying “we are what we eat” and what we eat has a big impact on how we feel. A well balanced diet goes a long way to keeping your body happy and healthy.
What to eat:
- The good kind of fat – Omega 3 fats can be found in fatty fish predominantly. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with endometriosis, helping fight endometriosis-related pain and inflammation
- 5 a day – Fruits, vegetables and whole grain wheats are packed with vitamins, minerals and fibres. Eating a good portion of fruits, greens and whole wheats ensures your diet is packed with nutrients.
Stress
In this day and age, stress is around every corner. It can be quite difficult to run away from stressful situations but stress can be very detrimental to health in general. There are many apps and videos available free online for medication or mindfulness that teach you to expel the negative energy of the 21st century. Reducing stress levels have been linked to a healthier body and mind which in turn can improve your chances of conception. Have a day off or go get a massage. Taking care of yourself is always of the utmost importance.
Exercise
General rule of thumb, 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3-5 times a week is sufficient in keeping healthy. Start slow and go slow, there is no need to jump straight into an intensive exercise regimen. Exercise not only helps to manage a healthy body weight especially for women with PCOS, it also releases endorphins which is great for the body and brain. Exercise also can manage stress levels. It is found that a 5-10% weight loss in women with PCOS is sufficient in restoring ovulation and regulating periods.
For more tips and advice on improving your chances of conceiving and to connect with our expert led community who can support you on your journey – Join Parla for free today.
