What is infertility?
Infertility refers to the biological inability to conceive and give birth to a child after having regular unprotected sexual intercourse for at least a year. It is estimated to affect 8-12% of couples globally.
There are several potential causes behind infertility:
- Hormonal imbalances - Irregularities in reproductive hormones like estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and testosterone often disrupt ovulation and sperm production
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) - A hormonal disorder causing irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation problems
- Endometriosis - Uterine tissue growing outside the uterus, causing inflammation and scarring
- Pelvic inflammatory disease - Often caused by STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhea, it damages the fallopian tubes
- Structural problems - Issues with the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes or vas deferens obstructing eggs, sperm or embryo transport
- Unexplained infertility - No identifiable cause in nearly 30% cases
Diagnosing the underlying cause is critical for appropriate treatment. After evaluation of medical history and some basic lab tests, doctors may recommend imaging tests and specialized fertility tests like:
- Hysterosalpingography - Checks uterus and fallopian tube anatomy using X-Rays and contrast dye
- Laparoscopy - Views pelvic organs with a fiber optic camera inserted through a small incision
- Ovulation prediction - Measures hormone levels to determine ovulation timing
- Post coital test - Checks sperm viability in cervical mucus post intercourse
- Semen analysis - Evaluates sperm count, morphology and motility
Based on test results, treatment options may include:
- Timed intercourse - Tracking ovulation to pinpoint fertile days
- Ovulation induction medications - Clomiphene or gonadotropins to stimulate ovulation
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI) - Inserting processed sperm directly into the uterus
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) - In vitro fertilization (IVF) to achieve external fertilization and embryo transfer
Struggling with infertility? The caring specialists at Balance Health Clinic offer cutting-edge fertility testing and treatment protocols tailored to your unique reproductive needs. With the latest IVF lab infrastructure and innovative hormone therapies, we have helped over 500 couples realize their pregnancy dreams. Schedule a consultation today to start your joyous parenthood journey!
I hope this gives you a good overview of infertility - its causes, diagnosis and treatment options. Feel free to ask any other questions!