Infertility

The condition where pregnancy does not occur within one year despite regular and unprotected sexual intercourse is called infertility. If pregnancy has not occurred within a year or more, infertility should be considered.

To avoid delaying treatment, the waiting period, set at one year above, can be reduced to six months for patients over 30 years old. If there is irregular menstruation or a pre-existing infertility issue in one of the partners, treatment can begin sooner. Infertility is a global problem.

In the United States, 8.4% (5 million) of married couples aged 15-44 suffer from infertility. Infertility is observed in 7% of women aged 20-24 and 29% of women aged 40-44.

Causes of Infertility:

• Lack of ovulation: 10-15%
• Uterine (intra-abdominal) factors: 30-40%
• Cervical factors: 10-15%
• Male factors: 30-40%
• Unexplained: 10%

Evaluation of the Condition

Both the male and female should be evaluated together. Examinations and details, as well as medical histories, are assessed. The frequency of sexual intercourse, whether it is done correctly, difficulties during intercourse, male sexual problems, and the use of lubricants (Labrihan) during intercourse should be investigated. In 5-10% of infertility patients, no cause can be found. This is referred to as unexplained infertility. Evaluations related to egg quality, tubal functionality, or sperm will guide the treatment process.