Supermodels SA June 2013 | Page 34

Infertility Infertility is when you cannot get pregnant after having unprotected, regular sex for six months to one year, depending on your age. The main symptom of infertility is not getting pregnant. You may not have or notice any other symptoms. Symptoms can also depend on what is causing the infertility. Many health conditions can make it hard to get pregnant. Sometimes no cause is found. Infertility Symptoms in Women In women, changes in the menstrual cycle and ovulation may be a symptom of a disease related to infertility. Symptoms include: • Abnormal periods. Bleeding is heavier or lighter than usual. • Milky white discharge from nipples unrelated to breastfeeding • Pain during sex • Many other things can lead to infertility in women, and their symptoms vary. Why od ri e P • Irregular periods. The number of days in between each period varies each month. • No periods. You have never had a period, or periods suddenly stop. • Painful periods. Back pain, pelvic pain, and cramping may happen. Sometimes, female infertility is related to a hormone problem. In this case, symptoms can also include: • • • • • Other symptoms include: Skin changes, including more acne Changes in sex drive and desire Dark hair growth on the lips, chest, and chin Loss of hair or thinning hair Weight gain