Your FAQ Guide to Fertility Solutions
Q. How many people suffer from infertility-related problems in India?
Ans. In India, an estimated 15-20% of couples of fertile age experience infertility. This number is rising due to factors like urbanization, pollution, stress, and a fast-paced lifestyle.
Q. What is infertility?
Ans. Infertility, whether male or female, refers to the inability of a couple to conceive after a year or more of regular, unprotected coital exposure.
Q. What percentage of couples are infertile worldwide?
Ans. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that around 8-10% of couples globally face infertility issues, totaling between 50-80 million people. However, the incidence may vary regionally.
Q. Despite an active sex life and good health, my partner and I haven’t conceived in two years. What should we do?
Ans. It’s essential to undergo tests to identify the underlying reasons for infertility. Consider:
- Detailed semen analysis
- Ovulation study
- HSG (Hysterosalpingography) to assess the condition of the fallopian tubes.
Q. What is timed sexual intercourse?
Ans. Timed sexual intercourse increases the chances of spontaneous pregnancy. It involves having intercourse around ovulation, the most fertile period. Methods to detect ovulation include tracking basal body temperature, urine or saliva tests, or monitoring menstrual cycles. It’s advisable to have intercourse 3-4 days before expected ovulation and every other day until a few days after, optimizing the chances of conception.
Main Causes of Infertility
Female Factors:
- Irregular ovulation or egg production, hormonal imbalance (30%)
- Tubal blockage (30%)
- Uterine problems like fibroids, adhesions, congenital anomalies (30%)
- Unexplained causes (10%)
Male Factors:
- Low sperm motility with normal or low count
- Varicocele, congenital absence of Vas deferens, testicular dysfunction, hormonal imbalance
- Obstructive & non-obstructive azoospermia
Factors Hindering Pregnancy
- Hormonal imbalance
- Intercourse during infertile phase of cycle
- Insufficient number of rapid, linear, progressive, motile sperms
- Unfavorable cervical mucus
- Mechanical barriers like blocked fallopian tubes
- Mental stress
Considering these factors, appropriate procedures are recommended based on the patient’s age.
Treatment Options for Infertile Couples:
- IUI (With husband’s sperm)
- IUI (With donor sperm)
- IVF
- IVF ICSI
- Egg Donation
- Surrogacy
- Surgery
- Hormonal Treatment