Infertility–The Basics

Based on the data from the World Health Organization (WHO), around 8%-10% of couples are currently experiencing infertility problems. What is infertility? Is there a treatment for such a case? What are the symptoms of infertility in women? All these questions will be answered and discussed as we go along this article.

Infertility is primarily defined as the inability of a person to conceive. To some extent, this can also be noted when a woman is not able to carry a pregnancy up to full term. Based on the description of reproductive endocrinologists, doctors who specialize in infertility or basically infertility specialists, couples are considered infertile if they have not conceived for the past 12 months or 1 year based on a contraceptive-free intercourse, depending on their age.

There are a lot of known causes in relation to infertility. The most common causes include ovulation problems, male associated infertility, age-related factors, previous tubal ligation, tubal blockage, previous vasectomy and unexplained infertility.

In recent studies, it was proven that a certain virus specifically an Adeno-associated virus may contribute to male infertility. In male infertility, the most probable factor why infertility occurs is the sperm count. Hormonal and environmental factors also contribute to this condition since it affects the production of sperm and semen. Meanwhile, female infertility may be related to a lot of contributing factors. This could include malfunctioning or damaged organs such as the fallopian tubes; or if organs are normal, the hormonal feedback system, which is necessary for ovulation and the implantation of the embryo.

Other factors which contribute to infertility include body weight. Overweight or underweight individuals usually have difficulties in pregnancy. Diet and exercise is another factor. Poor intake of Vitamin D may contribute to infertility. Smoking, drugs and alcohol, STDs and pelvic inflammatory diseases, and stress and eating disorders also cause infertility.

Even with the said conditions, there are still methods for infertility treatment. An at-home conception kit is an example of such. This is a medical device which is aimed at conception. This is usually done through a prescribed cervical cap. Another method is through intrauterine insemination wherein the sperm is introduced through a catheter insertion. Other medical infertility treatment involve IVF and other related techniques such as ZIFT, GIFT, ICSI. IVF or In vitro fertilization is a process wherein the egg cell is fertilized by the sperm cells in a controlled environment or basically outside the womb. There are also a number of alternative infertility treatments such as acupuncture and manual physical therapy.

Overall, infertility is indeed a serious concern amongst couples who wish to conceive, fortunately, there are still a number of infertility solutions which are accessible and readily available. For best results, it is always recommended to visit your doctor or an infertility specialist for a more precise professional help.