Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse (or 6 months if the woman is over 35 years old). It affects both men and women and can result from various medical, genetic, hormonal, or lifestyle factors. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the chances of conception.

Causes of Infertility

In Women:

• Ovulatory Disorders: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, premature ovarian insufficiency.
• Tubal Factors: Blocked fallopian tubes due to infections (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis).
• Uterine Factors: Fibroids, polyps, congenital uterine abnormalities.
• Cervical Factors: Mucus abnormalities preventing sperm passage.

In Men:

• Low Sperm Count or Poor Motility: Due to hormonal imbalances, infections, or varicocele.
• Erectile or Ejaculatory Dysfunction: Diabetes, psychological stress, or neurological conditions.
• Genetic Disorders: Klinefelter syndrome, Y-chromosome microdeletions.

Diagnosis

For Women:

• Hormonal Tests: FSH, LH, AMH (to assess ovarian reserve), Prolactin, Thyroid function tests.
• Ovulation Monitoring: Ultrasound follicular tracking, LH surge detection.
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): Checks for tubal blockages.
• Hysteroscopy/Laparoscopy: Identifies uterine or pelvic abnormalities.

For Men:

• Semen Analysis: Sperm count, motility, morphology.
• Hormonal Tests: Testosterone, FSH, LH levels.
• Scrotal Ultrasound: Detects varicocele or structural abnormalities.
• Genetic Testing: If azoospermia (absence of sperm) is present.

Treatment For Infertility

• Laparoscopic Surgery: Removes endometriosis, fibroids, or ovarian cysts.
• Tubal Surgery: Unblocks fallopian tubes.
• Varicocelectomy: Treats varicocele in men to improve sperm quality.
• Exercise & Stress Management: Yoga, meditation, and reducing alcohol/smoking.

Prevention of Infertility

• Early Diagnosis and Regular Screenings
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Early diagnosis and management PCOS is a leading cause of infertility, but early detection allows for the implementation of lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) and medications like Clomiphene Citrate, Metformin, or Letrozole to regulate ovulation and improve fertility.
• Alcohol moderation: Heavy drinking is associated with ovulatory disorders in women and reduced sperm quality in men.
• Preventing and Managing Infections: Timely screening and treatment for STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can prevent pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to tubal infertility.
• Age-Related Fertility Considerations

From a medical perspective, preventing infertility involves a multi-faceted approach that includes early diagnosis, management of health conditions, lifestyle modifications, and addressing any risk factors that might interfere with reproductive health. By focusing on early intervention, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical care, many individuals can avoid infertility or improve their chances of conceiving.