Infertility

The joy and fulfillment of parenthood is inexplicable in words. It is indeed a life changing experience. However, chasing the dream of parenthood is not easy for everyone.  Dramatic lifestyle changes, increased environmental pollution, significant decline in food quality and delayed family planning are the reasons for many couples facing the ugly realities of infertility. Infertility has been a highly sensitive and delicate topic for those coupleswho suffer from it. There are even some couples who believe that the ‘gift of motherhood’ is a blessing bestowed from above. Conception is truly a miracle of life as it involves so many complex biological mechanisms. The very thought of bringing a new life into the world can make you feel on top of the world. The sad fact is that there are many couples struggling to get pregnant. As the shadows of infertility looms, couples across the globe are on the constant lookout for treatments and solutions to their plight. Luckily, the latest advancements in the field of fertility have been a godsend that makes the dream of parenthood a reality for many desperate couples.

What is infertility?
Infertility refers to the biological inability of a couple toconceivedespite having regular unprotected sexual intercourse for over a year. Infertility issues are becoming increasingly common as couples are waiting till their thirties to become pregnant. In fact, infertility rates have skyrocketed over the past several years. One in seven couples can face some problems in conceiving a baby.  In short infertility is the inability to conceive, carry it to confinement and delivery.

Medical management of infertility:
It is crucial to initially test both the partners to assess clearly the extent of infertility issues. Depending on the age and medical history the doctor may order a comprehensive medical evaluation of both the partners. After this, various infertility tests are performed to find out whether the problem is with the man or woman, or both. These testscomprise of semen analysis, bloodor urine tests, physical examination and various other special procedures. Fertility tests for women comprise of home ovulation test, ultra sound of ovaries, endometrial biopsies, hormone tests, Pap smear test, pelvic scan and hysterosalpingography. Malefertility tests comprise of semen analysis, semen culture tests, hormone tests, post ejaculation urinalysis, testicular biopsy and specialized sperm-function tests. The doctor may also recommend a scrotal ultrasound and transrectal ultrasound.

Fortunately there are safe and effective treatments to overcome infertility and significantly increase the chances of getting pregnant.