Infertility: All We Need To Know

Infertility: All we need to know

About

Infertility is defined as the difficulty in conceiving despite having timely and unprotected sex for at least one year.

There are more than 1 million cases in India per year. (4)

Not self-treatable
Usually self-diagnosable
Lab tests or imaging are required
Medium term: can be cured within weeks or months

Caused by: Ovulation disorders, uterine or cervical abnormalities, fallopian tube damage, primary ovarian insufficiency ( early menopause), endometriosis and pelvic adhesions

It mainly affects people between 20-45 years of age. Infertility refers to problems that either interfere with conceiving or sustaining pregnancy. It can be mainly due to factors that affect men which include 45-50% cases.

Symptoms

Self diagnosable:
The main symptom is the inability to get pregnant
Irregular menstrual cycle

People may experience: stress and anxiety

Diagnosis

Diagnosis: Tests used for diagnosing infertility in women are:
Ovulation testing: it examines the hormone levels to determine whether the woman is ovulating.
Hysterosalpingography: it helps to check the condition of uterus and fallopian tube.
Ovarian reserve testing: to determine the quality and quantity of eggs available for ovulation.
Imaging tests such as ultrasound may be used to check uterus.

Treatment

Self-care: Avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine. Also, exercise regularly. Plan your intercourse within 5 days of ovulation to increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Medicines: Fertility drugs, IUI and surgeries used to restore fertility may be prescribed by the doctor. Estrogen modulator, anti- diabetic medications, IVF, assisted hatching, gestational carrier, and artificial insemination are some of the other measures that can help women to get pregnant.

Specialists: For further concerns, contact a doctor or a gynaecologist. Refer mfine for better health and proper treatment plan.