Understanding Infertility

What is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. For women over 35, this timeframe is reduced to 6 months.

Common Causes

Female Factors:

• Ovulation disorders
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Premature ovarian failure
• Structural issues
  • Blocked fallopian tubes
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Endometriosis

Male Factors:

• Sperm problems
  • Low sperm count
  • Poor sperm motility
  • Abnormal sperm shape
• Structural issues
  • Varicocele
  • Blocked ducts

Diagnosis

Initial Testing

1. Medical history review
2. Physical examination
3. Basic fertility testing

Specific Tests

• For women:
  • Ovulation testing
  • Hormone level analysis
  • Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
• For men:
  • Semen analysis
  • Hormone testing

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatments

• Lifestyle modifications
• Timing optimization
• Nutritional supplements

Medical Interventions

1. Medications
   • Ovulation induction drugs
   • Hormone treatments
2. Surgical Procedures
   • Laparoscopy
   • Hysteroscopy
3. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
   • In vitro fertilization (IVF)
   • Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

When to Seek Help

• Under 35: After one year of trying
• Over 35: After six months of trying
• Immediately if known reproductive issues exist

Support and Resources

• Fertility specialists
• Support groups
• Counseling services
• Educational resources