Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse (or six months for women over 35) and can affect both men and women. Let’s take a look at the usual steps on evaluating a patient and the various treatment options available to tackle infertility.

Infertility Evaluation:

1. Medical History:

   • The healthcare provider will gather detailed information about both partners’ medical histories, including any previous pregnancies, surgeries, or existing health conditions.

2. Physical Examination:

   • A physical examination may be conducted to assess overall health and identify any physical factors that could contribute to infertility.

3. Ovulation Monitoring:

   • For the female partner, monitoring ovulation through methods such as tracking menstrual cycles, basal body temperature charting, and ovulation predictor kits may be recommended.

4. Semen Analysis:

   • A semen analysis is a standard test to assess the quantity and quality of sperm in the male partner’s semen.

5. Hormonal Testing:

   • Blood tests may be conducted to measure hormone levels, including those related to ovarian function (e.g., FSH, LH), thyroid function, and testosterone levels.

6. Imaging Studies:

   • Imaging studies, such as pelvic ultrasounds, hysterosalpingography (HSG) to evaluate the fallopian tubes, or transvaginal ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterus, may be performed.

7. Hysteroscopy or Laparoscopy:

   • In some cases, minimally invasive procedures like hysteroscopy or laparoscopy may be recommended to directly visualize the reproductive organs and identify any abnormalities.

Infertility Treatment:

1. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding substances like tobacco and excessive alcohol, can have a positive impact on fertility.

2. Ovulation Induction:

   • Medications such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women who are not ovulating regularly.

3. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):

   • ART includes procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs and sperm are combined outside the body and the resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus.

4. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI):

   • IUI involves placing sperm directly into the uterus during the woman’s fertile window to improve the chances of fertilization.

5. Surgery:

   • Surgical interventions may be considered to correct anatomical issues, remove blockages, or address conditions such as endometriosis.

6. Donor Gametes or Surrogacy:

   • In cases where there are severe issues with egg or sperm quality, using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos, or considering surrogacy, may be options.

The choice of treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis, the age of the individuals involved, and their preferences.