Infertility is a medical condition affecting the reproductive system, characterized by the inability to achieve a pregnancy after a specific period of trying to conceive.
Key points about infertility :-
Definition: Infertility is typically defined as the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. For women 35 and older, this timeframe is often shortened to 6 months.
Types:
Primary infertility: Inability to get pregnant for the first time.
Secondary infertility: Inability to get pregnant after having had at least one previous pregnancy.
Unexplained infertility: When fertility testing doesn’t identify a specific cause.
Causes: Infertility can result from factors affecting either the male or female reproductive system, or a combination of both.
Female infertility: Common causes include:
Ovulation disorders: Problems with the release of eggs from the ovaries (e.g., PCOS, diminished ovarian reserve).
Fallopian tube damage or blockage: Preventing sperm from reaching the egg or a fertilized egg from reaching the uterus (e.g., due to pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis).
Uterine or cervical issues: Problems with the uterus or cervix that interfere with implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage (e.g., fibroids, polyps, structural abnormalities).
Endometriosis: Growth of uterine-like tissue outside the uterus.
Male infertility: Common causes include:
Problems with sperm production, function, or delivery: (e.g., low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal shape, blockages in the reproductive tract).
Hormonal imbalances: Affecting sperm production (e.g., low testosterone).
Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the scrotum.
Genetic disorders:
Risk factors: Factors that can increase the risk of infertility include:
Age: Female fertility naturally declines with age, especially after 35. Male fertility also declines with age, but less predictably.
Lifestyle choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, unhealthy weight, excessive exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins can negatively impact fertility.
Medical conditions: Certain conditions like STIs, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases can affect fertility.
Diagnosis: A healthcare provider will typically take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam. Depending on the individual or couple, testing may include:
For women: Blood tests to check hormone levels, ovulation testing, imaging tests like ultrasound or hysterosalpingography.
For men: Semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and shape.
Treatment: Infertility treatment options are available and often successful, depending on the cause. Treatments can include:
Medications: To stimulate ovulation or address hormone imbalances.
Surgery: To correct structural problems or remove blockages.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART): Procedures like IVF or IUI, where sperm and eggs are handled outside the body.
Lifestyle changes: Improving diet, exercise, and reducing stress.
