Infertility is the inability to conceive a child or carry a pregnancy to full term after a year or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility can affect both men and women.
Common Infertility Conditions
Ovulation disorders: These occur when a woman's ovaries do not release eggs regularly. Common causes of ovulation disorders include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances.
Fallopian tube damage or blockage: This can occur due to pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or previous surgery.
Endometriosis: This is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and possibly infertility.
Uterine or cervical abnormalities: These can include abnormalities of the uterus or cervix, such as uterine fibroids, cervical stenosis, or scarring from past surgeries.
Male factor infertility: This can occur due to a low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or an abnormal sperm shape.
Age-related infertility: As women and men age, the quality and quantity of their eggs and sperm decrease, making it more difficult to conceive.
Unexplained infertility: In some cases, the cause of infertility cannot be identified despite thorough testing.
Diagnosis
Medical and sexual history: Your doctor will ask you and your partner about your medical history, sexual history, and any previous pregnancies or fertility treatments.
Physical examination: A physical examination may be done to evaluate the reproductive organs and identify any abnormalities.
Blood tests: Blood tests may be ordered to measure hormone levels and check for any underlying medical conditions that may affect fertility.
Ovulation testing: Women may undergo ovulation testing to determine if they are ovulating regularly.
Semen analysis: Men may undergo a semen analysis to evaluate the quantity, quality, and movement of sperm.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, hysterosalpingography, or laparoscopy may be ordered to evaluate the reproductive organs and identify any abnormalities or blockages.
Genetic testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify any inherited conditions that may affect fertility.
The diagnosis of infertility requires a thorough evaluation of both partners, as infertility can affect both men and women. It can be complex, and it may take time to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment
Medications: Medications may be used to stimulate ovulation in women, or to treat underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or endometriosis, which may not require a recovery period.
Surgery: Surgical procedures may be used to correct structural abnormalities or blockages in the reproductive organs, such as blocked fallopian tubes, uterine fibroids, or ovarian cysts.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART): ART includes a variety of techniques used to help couples conceive, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and intrauterine insemination (IUI).
Donor eggs or sperm: Donor eggs or sperm may be used if one partner has a fertility issue that cannot be treated, or if both partners have fertility issues.
Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and quitting smoking, may improve fertility in some cases.
Alternative therapies: Some people may choose to try alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal remedies to improve fertility, although the effectiveness of these therapies has not been well-established.
It is important to see a Reproductive Endocrinologist, as they have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and treat infertility conditions. The doctor will likely ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam and tests to evaluate your hormone levels, ovulation, and semen analysis.
Apollo Fertility specialises in getting parents a healthy pregnancy and satisfying anxious couples. You can request an appointment easily at Apollo Fertility, for a consultation by calling 1860-500-4424.
The main causes of infertility can include hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, structural problems with the reproductive organs, or other medical conditions that affect fertility. Lifestyle factors, such as excessive alcohol or drug use, smoking, and exposure to environmental toxins, can also contribute to infertility.
Infertility can be diagnosed through a series of tests and examinations, including a thorough medical history, a physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests, and semen analysis. Depending on the individual case, other specialised tests may be recommended to diagnose the underlying cause of infertility.
The treatment options for infertility depend on the underlying cause of the condition. Treatment may include medications to stimulate ovulation, surgery to correct structural abnormalities or blockages, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as IVF. Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and reducing alcohol or drug use, may also be recommended.
Prevention of infertility may not always be possible, but steps can be taken to reduce the risk. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding sexually transmitted infections, limiting exposure to toxins, managing chronic medical conditions, and seeking prompt medical care can help reduce the risk of infertility.
It is generally recommended to see a doctor if you have been trying to conceive for 12 months or more without success, or sooner if you are over 35 or have a known medical condition that may affect fertility. Your doctor can perform tests to diagnose any underlying fertility issues and recommend appropriate treatment options.
