What is infertility?
- Infertility refers to difficulty achieving pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
- Infertility can affect either partner or both partners.
- In some cases, no specific cause is identified.
Female causes may include
- Ovulation disorders
- PCOS
- Endometriosis
- Fallopian tube blockage
- Uterine abnormalities
- Fibroids
- Hormonal disorders
- Age-related decline in fertility
Male factors may include
- Low sperm count
- Reduced sperm movement
- Abnormal sperm morphology
- Problems affecting sperm production or delivery
Recurrent miscarriage
- Recurrent pregnancy loss means having repeated miscarriages.
- Possible causes include chromosomal abnormalities, uterine abnormalities, certain autoimmune conditions and hormonal or metabolic disorders.
- Sometimes no definite cause is found.
Evaluation may include
- Detailed reproductive history
- Ovulation assessment
- Hormonal investigations
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Assessment of the uterus and fallopian tubes when indicated
- Semen analysis
- Additional investigations depending on individual circumstances
Both partners may need evaluation because infertility can involve male as well as female factors.
