Ovulation induction
Ovulation induction uses medication to stimulate egg production and induce ovulation, enabling timed intercourse during the fertility window to boost pregnancy chances.
Understanding unexplained infertility
Unexplained infertility can be especially frustrating when testing doesn’t reveal a clear reason why pregnancy isn’t happening. But not having an answer doesn’t mean you’re out of options. We look closely at your full individual fertility picture to find the treatment paths that give you the strongest options to grow your family.
What is unexplained infertility?
Unexplained infertility is diagnosed when standard fertility testing doesn’t reveal a clear reason why pregnancy isn’t happening. Your fertility specialist will evaluate common causes of infertility, including hormone levels, ovarian reserve, the uterus and fallopian tubes, and sperm health.
When these results appear normal, there may still be factors affecting conception that routine testing can’t identify. Many people experiencing infertility may receive an unexplained infertility diagnosis. But “unexplained” doesn’t mean there isn’t a cause or that there aren’t treatment options.
Treatment options for unexplained infertility
People who are diagnosed with unexplained infertility typically progress through treatments beginning with the most minimal intervention available first.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) assists in conception by carefully placing concentrated sperm directly into the uterus during peak fertility, increasing the chances of fertilization.
In vitro fertilization (IVF)
If other treatments have not resulted in pregnancy, IVF may offer the highest chance of success. It can be an effective option for individuals with unexplained fertility, particularly when ovulation induction alone or with intrauterine insemination (IUI) have not been successful.
Conceiving with unexplained infertility
Unfortunately we didn’t really get an answer and were diagnosed with unexplained infertility. It seemed like all of our friends and family were having children and we were being left behind. Dr. Korkidakis’s team was so helpful and supportive as we decided to pursue IVF."
Erin & Devon
Experience you can trust
When you’re navigating unexplained infertility, having the right team matters. We take a holistic, personalized approach that considers your hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive health. As part of a collaborative network of fertility specialists, you’ll receive individualized care backed by decades of expertise.
Four decades of experience
We’ve cared for individuals going through unexplained infertility, developing the clinical expertise to provide accurate diagnoses, thoughtful treatment recommendations, and compassionate care.
Research-driven care
Our physicians stay at the forefront of reproductive medicine through ongoing research, collaboration, and continuous education, bringing the latest evidence and treatment advances directly to our patients.
Holistic, personalized support
Fertility is connected to your overall health. Our holistic approach considers factors such as nutrition, metabolic health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being alongside your fertility care, helping create a plan that supports you as a whole person.
Your guide to understanding unexplained infertility
What are the warning signs of infertility
What should I know about infertility?
How common is male infertility?
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How does unexplained infertility affect conception success?
Most people with unexplained infertility who go through fertility treatment will successfully conceive - 92% according to one study. The lack of an explanation for infertility doesn’t appear to be an obstacle to getting pregnant in many cases, once fertility treatment is initiated.
Also, data shows that up to 64% of people with unexplained infertility for one pregnancy may eventually conceive spontaneously for a subsequent pregnancy.
What are some potential causes of unexplained infertility?
By definition, unexplained infertility does not have a known cause. While it can be frustrating to not know the underlying issue, it often makes sense to shift resources toward treatment rather than continuing down the path of finding an explanation.
Historically, some people with mild or asymptomatic endometriosis would be told they have unexplained infertility. Today, however, we know to look for and rule out endometriosis.
Some causes of unexplained infertility fall outside of what we’re able to test for. For example, the true quality of eggs or sperm can’t be determined using diagnostic testing. Another example is that while we can check that the fallopian tubes and uterus are free of obstacles, that doesn’t necessarily tell us that these organs are working in the precisely orchestrated way that they need to support conception and pregnancy.
Or, there may be an underlying fertilization issue, poor embryo development, an implantation issue, or age-related subfertility, resulting in chromosomally abnormal embryos.
How is unexplained infertility diagnosed?
At Everleap Fertility, all new patients go through a standard set of diagnostic tests. Plus, additional testing is done if your doctor determines it to be necessary.
For people with female reproductive organs, these tests will look at menstrual hormones and ovulation, ovarian reserve, and whether the uterine cavity is normal and the fallopian tubes are open. A complete health history will indicate important symptoms like very painful periods or pain with sex, which could merit further investigation.
For people with male reproductive organs, a semen analysis gives us an idea of the quantity, shape, and movement of the sperm. Their health history would indicate other potential issues, or erectile dysfunction.
If these tests do not give a clear answer, your doctor may determine that your infertility is unexplained. A diagnosis can also help guide conversations with your insurance provider about coverage for fertility treatment.