Infertility
Infertility, the inability to reproduce by natural means, is a problem for at least 8 percent of couples worldwide and affects both women and men. Let’s take a look at infertility.
Primary & Secondary Categories of Infertility
Under primary, a couple has tried to conceive but failed. Under secondary, a couple has conceived at least one child, but currently, they cannot.
Causes of Infertility For Women
Age is a primary reason for infertility. However, some women reach menopause as early as 25.
Medical conditions and procedures represent reasons, such as chemotherapy and radiation treatment of reproductive tumors, anemia, thyroid disorders, Cushing Syndrome, diabetes, genetic mutations, damage to the fallopian tubes, and ovarian disorders.
Lifestyle causes such as sexually transmitted diseases, obesity, a poor diet, excessive smoking, alcohol consumption, and substance abuse (particularly marijuana and cocaine) are also factors.
Causes of Infertility For Men
Causes for men include low sperm count or no sperm production, abnormal sperm that does not contain a normal head and tail, erectile dysfunction and ejaculation disorders, having three sex genes (Kleinfelter’s Syndrome), low testosterone hormone levels, problems with the epididymis (a part of the testicles) and sexually transmitted diseases.
Medical conditions and procedures such as chemotherapy, radiation treatment, anabolic steroids, sulfasalazine (used for Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis) can cause impotence. Anemia, thyroid disorders, Cushing Syndrome, and diabetes can also cause impotence.
Diagnosis of Infertility
To diagnose infertility in men, various tests are conducted included a physical exam, blood tests, semen analysis, etc. For women, the tests include a physical exam, blood tests, ultrasound, urinalysis, and more.
Fortunately, there is help for infertility. Treatment will depend on what your doctor chooses. However, approaches include medicinal, surgery, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), assisted reproductive technology as well as surrogacy.
