What is Infertility?
Infertility has been defined as "the inability
to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected
intercourse." Infertility is diagnosed
more often than you may think with approximately
15 percent or one in seven couples experiencing
infertility. Contrary to popular myth, infertility
is not a sexual or mental problem - rather, it
is a medical disorder. This medical condition
can frequently be treated; however, infertility
is often a complex issue, as many factors in
both a man and/or a woman can contribute to it.
The good news is that diagnosis and treatment
of infertility has advanced rapidly in the past
several decades. Success in treating infertility
is increasing, and researchers continue to develop
new treatment options. In this day and age, infertility
is no longer a secret to be closely guarded.
When should you see a fertility specialist?
If you've experienced the following events, it
may be time for you to schedule an appointment
with an infertility specialist:
- If you are under 35 and have been unable to
conceive after a year of trying to get pregnant.
- If you are over 35 and have been unable to
conceive after 6 months of trying to get pregnant.
- When you've lost two or more pregnancies to
miscarriage.
- When other infertility treatments have not
been successful.
If you do not have regular menstrual cycles,
or if you have had prior gynecological problems
including endometriosis, pelvic surgery, tubal
pregnancy or infections, you should seek assistance
sooner.
Read more about infertility in our Health
Encyclopedia.
For more
information, see the online Q & A Sessions.
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