Infertility

What is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse.

Causes of Infertility

Common causes of infertility include:

• Age
• Ovulation disorders
• Endometriosis
• Uterine or cervical abnormalities
• Low sperm count or motility

Diagnosis

Diagnosing infertility involves a series of tests including physical exams, blood tests, semen analysis, and imaging tests.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for infertility may include fertility drugs, surgery, assisted reproductive technology such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), or sperm/egg donation.

Prevention

Some ways to potentially prevent infertility include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, and managing stress levels.

FAQ

1. What is the most common cause of infertility?

Answer: Ovulation disorders and low sperm count are among the most common causes of infertility.

2. At what age does female fertility decline?

Answer: Female fertility typically starts to decline around age 35.

3. How does lifestyle factors impact infertility?

Answer: Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity can negatively impact fertility.

4. Can infertility be treated?

Answer: Yes, infertility can often be treated with various medical interventions.

5. How common is infertility?

Answer: Infertility affects about 12-15% of couples worldwide.

6. Is infertility more common in men or women?

Answer: Infertility affects men and women equally, with each contributing to about 40% of cases.

7. What is the difference between primary and secondary infertility?

Answer: Primary infertility refers to couples who have never been able to conceive, while secondary infertility occurs in couples who have previously conceived but are unable to do so again.

8. Can stress cause infertility?

Answer: While stress can impact fertility, it is usually not the sole cause of infertility.

9. Are there any natural remedies for infertility?

Answer: Some natural remedies such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, and lifestyle changes may help improve fertility in some cases.

10. When should couples seek fertility treatment?

Answer: Couples should consider seeking fertility treatment if they have been unsuccessfully trying to conceive for over a year.