What is infertility?
Becoming a parent is a dream of every couple. But 15% of them are unable to bear a child. If a couple has not achieved pregnancy in one year, in spite of regular sexual relationship, without using birth control, chances are they are infertile. Due to changing lifestyle & increasing stress, infertility is becoming a rapidly growing problem.
What are the causes of infertility?
As is commonly believed, infertility is no more, just a women’s problem. Males contribute to it, in about 50% of the cases, in the form of reduced or absent sperm count or motility.
Some of the common causes among women are hormonal imbalance, fibroids, blocked tubes, polycystic ovaries, endometriosis & anatomical defects.
How is infertility diagnosed?
The first visit to the doctor consists of a complete history & physical examination. This is followed by semen analysis, ultrasound for ovulation study & routine blood tests.
Special cases may need Hysterosalpingography for tube testing & hormone levels. More advanced cases may need Hystero – Laparoscopy also called “Keyhole surgery” or “Minimally Invasive Surgery”, for direct visualization of the reproductive organs.
How is infertility treated?
Most of the patients can be treated with medicines. Few may require Hystero- Laparoscopic surgery for fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis,PCO & blocked tubes. Laparoscopic surgery is done on a day care basis, with very small scars, minimal pain & much faster recovery.
A small group of patients may need ART (Assisted Reproductive Techniques) such as IUI (Intra Uterine Insemination) or IVF (In Vitro Fertilization/test tube baby).
With modern technology, there is a definite treatment for every infertile couple.