Infertility in Men and Women

Infertility can affect both males and females. In Canada, infertility accounts for as many as 15% of couples – that’s 1 in every 6 – making it more of a widespread problem than one might think. Infertility is characterized by the inability to achieve pregnancy/conceive after approximately 12 months of unprotected intercourse, and without the use of any oral contraceptives (birth control.) Infertility is more common in women, affecting approximately 40% to 50% percent, while it affects about 20% to 30% of men.

In this article, Dr. Ali Ghahary, a family physician in Vancouver, British Columbia, shares information on some of the most common causes of infertility in both men and women.

In women, infertility can be due to a number of different factors, such as irregular menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalances, a history of any STIs or STDs, fibroids in the uterus, blockages in the fallopian tubes, and developing early menopause. The ability to conceive also decreases after the age of 35. In men, infertility can also be the result of hormonal imbalances and a history of sexually transmitted diseases/sexually transmitted infections, as well as having a low sperm count or a poor quality of sperm. Other common, combined factors of infertility in both men and women include the use of alcohol and tobacco, being over or under weight, as well as certain chronic illnesses and treatment for cancer (such as radiation or chemotherapy.)

In order to reduce the risk of infertility and increase the chance of being able to conceive, women should check with their physician or OBGYN to make sure that a hormonal imbalance is not the cause. It’s also important that you avoid drinking alcohol or smoking, eat a healthy diet, and get regular exercise. It’s also quite common to experience a constant emotional roller coaster whenever you are dealing with fertility issues; you may feel a sense of loss, hopelessness, and social isolation. If you are experiencing these kinds of emotions or stress, it is important to speak with someone you trust. This can, again, be a medical professional, such as a family doctor, a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, friends, or family members that you trust and have a close bond with. For couples that are struggling through infertility, it is also important to do different activities together that will help to divert from the stress you’re experiencing.

To check for infertility, certain tests – such as blood tests and urine samples – may be done. Depending on your test results, those responsible for your care will decide upon the best options for fertility treatments – which can include drugs to induce ovulation, intrauterine insemination – also known as IUI, and IVF – also known as in-vitro fertilization. 

Health Dangers of Mold

Do you have a chronic cough? Do you experience unusual shortness of breath? Frequent headaches? What about recurrent sinus and respiratory infections or flu-like symptoms? These could all be indicative of exposure to mold, which can cause many of the aforementioned symptoms and pose other serious risks to your health.

Moisture is the key cause of mold. Certain molds produce mycotoxins, a toxic secondary metabolite that is produced by fungus, also known as fungal poisons. Exposure to high levels of these mycotoxins can be harmful to both humans and animals, leading to disease, neurological problems, and even death. 

Mold

Mold can be found indoors and tends to grow in places with lots of moisture. This can result from leaks in roofs, windows, and/or pipes. Mold can also enter your home from outside through open windows, doors, vents, and even heating or air conditioning systems, and can attach itself to clothing, shoes and pets. Mold can also grow in insulation, drywall, carpeting, wallpaper, paint and cardboard. While mold can be seen – usually appearing as spots – it can also be described as having a musty smell. 

Symptoms of mold exposure/sensitivity include the following:

• Chronic cough

• Sinus congestion

• Recurrent respiratory infections

• Wheezing

• Shortness of breath

• Red or itchy eyes

• Skin rash

• Headache

• Feeling lightheaded

• Joint pain

• Poor memory

• Trouble concentrating

Dr. Ali Ghahary, a family physician in Vancouver, recommends seeking medical attention if you have any of these persisting symptoms. If you are in need of the advice of a physician, Dr. Ghahary is available to see patients at Brentwood Medical Clinic on a walk-in basis every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. You can find Dr. Ghahary's full walk-in schedule by visiting the clinic’s website at http://brentwoodwalk-inclinic.com or http://www.alighahary.ca.

There are also certain tips you can follow to prevent the growth of mold and the symptoms associated to it. First and foremost, fix any leaks. As mentioned, mold likes moisture. If your home has flooded, always clean and dry the home promptly – preferably within 24 to 48 hours. It’s also important to control humidity levels and keep them as low as possible, ensuring that they do not go higher than 50%. If you see mold growth, it can be removed with household products, i.e. soap and water. You can also remove mold with a bleach solution that consists of 1 cup of bleach mixed into 1 gallon of water.

For more great health tips, follow Dr. Ali Ghahary on Twitter at @DrAliGhahary. He is also on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Additionally, Dr. Ghahary's Ask.fm page is frequently updated with health Q&A on a weekly basis and is another great source for health information.