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Infertility

Infertility is a condition that happens when a couple is not able to get pregnant despite regular unprotected intercourse. 

Infertility treatments

Fertility treatments:

  • Medical treatments for lack of standard ovulation
  • Surgical procedures—endometriosis (repair of fallopian tubes) or removal of scarring within the abdominal cavity or womb.
  • Assisted conception 

The treatments depend on the causes of infertility issues, and there is no guarantee for the treatments. Certain treatments, like IVF, can also cause complications.

Infertility causes

There are multiple causes of infertility that can affect either partner. The common causes are:

  • Lack of standard ovulation
  • Low-quality semen
  • Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes
  • Endometrium 

Infertility risk factors

  • Fertility reduces with age
  • Obesity can reduce fertility and affect ovulation
  • Sexually transmitted diseases can affect fertility
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Exposure to certain environmental factors
  • Loss of sex drive caused by stress
Infertility causes

Infertility help

Some couples can get pregnant quickly, but it might take a bit longer for others. It’s good to consult a doctor if you are not pregnant after trying for over a year. Women who are 36 and older, or anyone who thinks they might have a fertility problem, should consult a doctor. 

Doctors will check the common causes of infertility and suggest treatments accordingly. There are two types of infertility:

    • Primary infertility: When someone has never been pregnant having difficulty conceiving for the first time.
    • Secondary infertility: When someone had one or more pregnancies previously but currently having difficulties in getting pregnant.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 23 JUNE 2022