Infertility is a challenge many women face, often defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. Female infertility can stem from a wide range of issues, including hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, structural concerns, or underlying health conditions.
Because fertility is closely tied to overall wellness, effective treatment requires examining the whole body, not just the reproductive organs. This is the approach that Dr. Kimberley Shine, a board-certified family medicine practitioner, takes at Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA.
With her expertise in integrative and functional medicine, Dr. Shine helps women uncover the root causes of infertility and provides compassionate, individualized care.
Common Causes of Female Infertility
Infertility in women may be related to one or more of the following:
- Ovulation Disorders: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disease can disrupt regular ovulation.
- Hormone Imbalances: Fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, or cortisol levels can disrupt reproductive cycles.
- Fallopian Tube Issues: Blockages caused by pelvic infections, endometriosis, or prior surgeries.
- Uterine Conditions: Fibroids, polyps, or structural abnormalities that impact implantation.
- Age: Fertility naturally declines with age, particularly after the age of 35.
- Lifestyle Factors: Poor nutrition, stress, smoking, and obesity can also play a significant role.
Symptoms and Signs of Infertility
Women may not realize there is a fertility problem until they begin trying to conceive. However, some signs may suggest underlying issues:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Heavy or painful periods
- Hormonal symptoms such as acne, excess hair growth, or weight changes
- Pelvic pain
- Difficulty maintaining pregnancy (recurrent miscarriages)
How Female Infertility Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, evaluation begins with a detailed review of medical history, lifestyle factors, and reproductive health. Diagnostic tools may include:
- Hormone Testing: Measuring estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, and others.
- Ultrasound: Checking ovarian function and identifying cysts, fibroids, or other abnormalities.
- Ovulation Tracking: Monitoring cycle patterns to confirm ovulation.
- Additional Lab Work: Evaluating metabolic and immune factors that may impact fertility.
By considering the entire picture, Dr. Shine and her team create a personalized plan that addresses both reproductive health and overall well-being.
Treatment Options for Female Infertility
Treatment at Shine Health and Wellness extends beyond symptom management to address the root causes. Options may include:
- Hormone Therapy: Restoring balance to regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation.
- Nutritional Counseling: Diet plans and supplements to support fertility and overall health.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Stress reduction, exercise recommendations, and sleep support.
- Medication Management: When appropriate, prescriptions to help stimulate ovulation or address underlying conditions.
- Functional Medicine Approaches: Addressing inflammation, gut health, and autoimmune issues that can affect fertility.
- Collaborative Care: Referrals to fertility specialists when advanced reproductive technologies may be needed.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, believes the doctor-patient relationship is the foundation of care. She takes the time to listen, validate concerns, and collaborate with her patients. By looking beyond short-term fixes, Dr. Shine helps women build sustainable health improvements that support fertility and long-term vitality.
Patients also benefit from the support of the Shine Health and Wellness team, which includes experienced nurses, a lifestyle coach, and a licensed acupuncturist. This multidisciplinary environment provides women with the tools and support they need to address both the physical and emotional aspects of infertility.
Start Your Journey Toward Parenthood Today
If you are struggling to conceive, you don’t have to face infertility alone. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team provide compassionate, personalized care to uncover the root causes of infertility and create tailored treatment plans. Contact us at 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.