Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse. This condition affects both female and male partners equally. In women, it may also mean the inability to carry a pregnancy to term.
What are the causes of Infertility?
There are many potential causes of infertility. Male infertility, which is attributed to one-third of infertility cases, may be caused by a variety of factors including low testosterone levels, low sperm count, sperm abnormalities, or blockages in the reproductive system. The cause of male infertility is unknown in nearly 50% of cases.
In women, infertility may be caused by ovulation disorders, early menopause, uterine or cervix abnormalities, endometriosis, or blockages in the fallopian tube. Female infertility accounts for one-third of all cases of infertility. Other cases are linked to both male and female infertility or unidentified issues.
However, infertility is not always a result of a medical condition. Fertility gradually declines with age; in women, the ability to conceive drops significantly after the mid-30s. In comparison to younger males, men over 40 are thought to be less fertile.
Certain lifestyle habits may also play a role in it: stress, depression, obesity, excessive alcohol and coffee intake, and smoking can all have a detrimental effect on fertility. Cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy can also affect fertility both in men and women. Consult with our best gynaecologist in Bangalore to have more clarity.
What are the symptoms of Infertility?
There are no other specific symptoms of infertility than not being able to get pregnant. Other common signs and symptoms may include are irregular or absent menstrual periods, changes in the frequency or duration of menstrual bleeding, pain during intercourse, and excessive hair growth.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a gynaecologist to rule out other causes and discuss your treatment options. You can book an appointment with a Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Manipal Hospital Miller’s Road.
Treating Male & Female Infertility
Your gynaecologist will likely perform a physical examination and order blood tests to check for hormone levels. In women, a pelvic ultrasound, hysterosalpingography (HSG), or ovarian reserve testing can be performed to check the ovaries and uterus. In men, a sperm analysis, hormone testing, genital ultrasound, or genetic testing will be made after an initial physical exam and overall health history.
Treatment for infertility typically depends on the underlying cause. Some causes of infertility are non-treatable. Common treatments include fertility drugs, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Surgery is recommended if there are blockages in the fallopian tube (for women) and blocked vas deferens or enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. Medications can treat issues such as hormonal imbalances and erectile dysfunction and improve sperm count. Visit our gynaecology hospital in Millers Road, Bangalore for the best treatment.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) is often used to treat male and female infertility who are unable to conceive through traditional methods. It is a type of fertility treatment that involves the manipulation of eggs and sperm outside of the body. Common types of ART include in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and embryo transfer. IVF is the most common type of ART. It involves the retrieval of eggs from the ovaries, fertilization of the eggs in a laboratory, and transfer of the resulting embryos into the uterus. ICSI is a type of IVF that involves the injection of a single sperm into an egg. Embryo transfer is a type of IVF that involves the transfer of embryos that have been created in a laboratory into the uterus.
Visit Manipal Hospital Miller’s Road today to consult with a Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology and get the treatment initiated.
Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Manipal Hospitals, Millers Road, Bangalore