Infertility Causes, Testing and Treatment
Infertility is defined as 12 months of unprotected intercourse without pregnancy. Primary infertility is infertility without any previous pregnancy. Secondary infertility is when there has been a previous pregnancy. Sterility is when there is no chance of a pregnancy and is different from infertility, which really represents a reduced potential for pregnancy.
Most childless couples with a female under 44 years of age are having problems getting pregnant are infertile but not sterile.
It is most appropriate to see a specialist for infertility after 12 months of trying to get pregnant on your own. This time can be longer or shorter.
You may be aware of a condition that predisposes you to infertility, such as irregular menstrual cycles, endometriosis, previous tubal pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc. Also, female age is an important issue. If the female partner is over 37 years old, you would want to consider seeking help sooner than 12 months (e.g., after 6 months of trying). It is appropriate and recommended that women over 40 years of age see a fertility specialist (reproductive endocrinologist) if not pregnant after 3–6 months of trying. A high percentage of women over 40 will need help in order to conceive. This is because women over 40 typically face an elevated FSH level or have other indications of significantly reduced ovarian reserve.
Causes of Infertility
The cause of infertility is sought by performing a basic infertility evaluation. These tests can be completed in one month or one menstrual cycle. Some of the most common causes of infertility are: ovulation problems, tubal infertility, sperm problems, unexplained infertility, age-related factors, egg quality and egg quantity issues, uterine problems, endometriosis, previous tubal ligation, and previous vasectomy.
Treatment Options
The following lists are available options for consideration dependent on what is determined as your cause of infertility:
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