What You Should Know About Infertility by Michael Russell
From generation to generation infertility has been a condition that plagues
couples worldwide. It is a condition that transcends race and color. Medically
speaking, infertility is a disease of the reproductive system. A couple can be
diagnosed with infertility if conception is not achieved after one year of
unprotected and well timed sexual intercourse. Infertility could also be
diagnosed if a woman had suffered several miscarriages (recurrent pregnancy
loss).
Who is at Risk? What you should know about infertility is that, it is a major
heartache and life crisis. It involves losses for both the individual and
society at large. Being a medical situation, both male and female, husband and
wife are at risk of infertility. The problems leading to infertility could
predominantly be from one of the partners, in which case it is called either the
male factor (if the problem is with the male) or the female factor (if the
female reproductive system is diseased), or it could be a combination of
problems with both partners. In some other cases, the cause could be rightly
described as unexplained.
Infertility is therefore not a 'woman's problem' as is believed in some
cultures. In fact, approximately 40% of cases of infertility are due to the male
factor, 40% due to the female factor, while in the other cases it is either a
combined factor or unexplained The cause of infertility is said to be
unexplained, if after medical examination, nothing medically serious could be
found to be wrong with either of the couple and they still cannot achieve
conception after several efforts.
Generally, most physicians advise couples not to worry yet about infertility
unless they fall into any of these categories:
- They are under 35 years old and have tried to conceive without success for
over 12months.
- They are over 35 and have tried to conceive without success for over 6months
- They are over 30 and have a previous history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID),
painful menstrual periods, recurrent pregnancy loss, irregular menstrual cycles
or a partner suffers from low sperm count.
If you fall in any of these categories, it would be wise to consult your ob/gyn
or an infertility specialist.
Can Infertility be Prevented? In every medical situation, prevention is tied to
the knowledge of the underlying cause of the particular condition. In some
cases, steps may be taken to prevent some types of infertility, especially with
respect to some established risk factors i.e. factors that induce some types of
infertility. Except in cases like this, infertility is in most cases,
unpreventable. You will understand this better, if you remember that there are
still several "unexplained" infertility problems. There isn't so much you can do
to prevent what you do not know. Some of the known risk factors that may
contribute to infertility include:
Weight problems Age Tubal diseases Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Endometriosis Smoking Alcohol
It is known that smoking and alcohol are very bad for fertility. Cutting down on
caffeine would also do you a lot of good. Fertility and healthy pregnancy (when
it does occur) requires you to maintain a healthy body and the best physical
shape possible.
Treatment Options - A variety of medication and options exist for tackling
infertility. As with other medical conditions, it is always better to research
your options, understand the medication involved and its purpose. With more
knowledge, you can better discuss with your physician the setting up of
aspecific treatment plan that addresses your particular problem.
Treatment options available for infertility include, ovulation inducers,
artificial insemination, invitro fertilization (IVF), surrogacy and surgery (in
some cases).
Always remember that infertility has no major signs or symptoms associated with
it. Paying attention to your body and getting regular checkups will be vital for
your fertility.
About the Author: Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to
Infertility
Source of Article: www.goarticles.com
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