Expert fertility care with Dr Mark Livingstone, Sydney fertility specialist

Fertility refers to the ability to conceive a baby. Though the human body was designed to reproduce, we know that it doesn't always work the way we want it to. You and your partner may have been trying for months to fall pregnant or to maintain a healthy pregnancy through to term, or you may be an individual dreaming of beginning your journey to single parenthood.

Through modern medicine and technological advancements, fertility specialists can offer hope for couples struggling with infertility and individuals wishing to have children.

In Australia, infertility affects 1 in 6 couples trying to conceive.

What causes infertility?

Problems with infertility may be due to general health conditions such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism; injury, infection, or inflammation of the reproductive system; or anatomical and functional abnormalities. Genetics, ageing, or lifestyle factors could also play a role in reduced fertility. In some cases, no cause of the fertility problems can be identified.

Causes of female fertility challenges

Factors that may contribute to female infertility can include:

• Ovulation disorders, including premature ovarian failure and polycystic ovary syndrome
• Endometriosis
• Uterine conditions, such as fibroids or polyps
• Hormonal imbalances
• Damage or obstruction of the fallopian tubes

Causes of male fertility challenges

Factors that may contribute to male infertility can include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Problems with sperm count, shape, size, or motility
• Obstruction of the ejaculation ducts
• Injury or abnormalities of the testicles, such as undescended testes
• Sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation

How can infertility be treated?

A comprehensive assessment with Mark at his fertility clinic in Sydney CBD can help to reveal the underlying causes of your and/or your partner’s fertility concerns. Because a large proportion of infertility situations involve both male and female partners, we recommend you attend with your partner if you’re trying to conceive as a couple.

Tests to investigate infertility include:

• Hormone tests, such as for progesterone or testosterone
• Imaging scans, including ultrasound
• Semen analysis for men
• Genetic testing

Lifestyle changes to boost your fertility

A percentage of people are able to improve their fertility through lifestyle modifications to the point where they can conceive naturally.

You can maximise your natural fertility through healthy lifestyle choices, such as:

• Ensuring your body weight is within a healthy range through eating well and exercising regularly
• Avoiding recreational drugs, excessive alcohol intake, and tobacco smoking or vaping
• Checking with your GP that your over-the-counter or prescription medications aren’t interfering with fertility
• Avoiding environmental hazards and toxins, such as radiation, pesticides, or prolonged exposure to heat

IVF and assisted reproductive technologies

Mark offers a comprehensive range of assisted reproductive technologies to help you on your way to making your dream of parenthood a reality. After your consultation and analysis of your test results, he will be able to advise on which fertility treatment will be the best option for you, which is not always IVF. Learn more about fertility treatments here