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Understanding fertility helps you as you journey toward parenthood. Zoya Preys, MD, is a distinguished OB/GYN in the Mid-Wilshire area of Los Angeles, California, who can help when you’re starting to plan your family. She offers clarity and insights to help you optimize fertility and address issues of infertility. Call today or use the online tool to book an appointment.
Fertility Q & A
What affects fertility?
Various factors affect fertility, including age, underlying medical conditions, lifestyle choices, and genetics. In general, fertility tends to decline with age, especially for women after their mid-30s.
Couples who have been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if the woman is over 35) without success should seek guidance from someone with expertise in fertility, like Dr. Preys. If you have a known medical condition that may affect fertility, you should consult with Dr. Preys before attempting to conceive.
What are some common lifestyle factors that can impact fertility?
Lifestyle factors that affect fertility include:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Poor nutrition
- Obesity
- High levels of stress
To optimize fertility, Dr. Preys recommends you quit smoking, moderate alcohol intake, maintain a balanced diet, achieve a healthy body weight, and practice stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness or yoga.
How can I track ovulation to determine optimal fertility?
Ovulation is a critical aspect of fertility; it involves the release of a mature egg from the ovaries. Tracking ovulation can help you time intercourse more effectively for conception.
Dr. Preys most commonly recommends the following to track ovulation:
- Monitoring changes in cervical mucus
- Tracking basal body temperature
- Keeping a menstrual cycle calendar
These methods help you identify your most fertile days and increase your chances of conception.
What medical interventions and fertility treatments do you offer for those facing fertility challenges?
There are various fertility treatments available, ranging from medication and lifestyle changes to assisted-reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and more. Dr. Preys recommends treatment depending on the underlying cause of fertility issues, age, and your personal preferences.
Dr. Preys works closely with individuals and couples to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their unique circumstances and goals.
How can I safeguard my fertility as I age?
While fertility naturally declines with age, there are steps you can take to optimize your reproductive health. These include:
- Regular check-ups to identify and address any underlying medical conditions
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle
- Seeking fertility evaluation or treatment if needed
If you want to delay parenthood, freezing eggs or sperm can be an option to preserve fertility potential.
Call Dr. Zoya Preys or use this website to book an appointment to discuss and address the complexity of your fertility and future family.