By: Dr. Roya Rozati, Chief A.R.T. Specialist | MHRT Hospitals
Infertility is a deeply personal and often misunderstood medical condition that affects millions of individuals and couples worldwide. As a reproductive endocrinologist, I’ve walked alongside countless patients on their journeys – some filled with hope, others with heartbreak – but they all had one thing in common – the desire to start a family.
What Is Infertility?
Medically speaking, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. For women over the age of 35, we shorten that window to six months, due to the natural decline in fertility with age.
Infertility isn’t just a “female issue,” as many often assume. In fact, male factors contribute to roughly 40-50% of all infertility cases. It’s a shared condition — sometimes rooted in biology, sometimes in lifestyle, and often in a complex interplay of both.
Causes of Infertility
Infertility can stem from a wide range of causes, which we generally categorize into:
Female Factors
- Ovulatory disorders: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid dysfunction can affect egg release.
- Tubal damage: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes from infections, endometriosis, or prior surgeries.
- Uterine abnormalities: Fibroids, polyps, or congenital anomalies that interfere with implantation.
- Diminished ovarian reserve: Fewer or lower-quality eggs, often due to age or medical conditions.
Male Factors
- Sperm abnormalities: Issues with sperm count, motility, or morphology.
- Structural problems: Varicoceles or blockages that affect sperm delivery.
- Hormonal imbalances and certain lifestyle or environmental exposures.
Unexplained Infertility
Sometimes, despite comprehensive testing, no clear cause is found. This can be frustrating for patients, but it doesn’t mean treatment options are limited – quite the opposite. We often see success with tailored fertility interventions even when a specific diagnosis remains elusive.
The Emotional Toll
Infertility isn’t just a physical condition – it’s an emotional journey. The stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation are very real. I always encourage my patients to seek emotional support, whether through counseling, support groups, or simply open conversations with loved ones. Mental well-being is an essential part of reproductive health.
Diagnosing and Treating Infertility
A thorough evaluation typically includes:
- A detailed medical and sexual history
- Blood tests to assess hormone levels
- Pelvic ultrasound and imaging (e.g., hysterosalpingogram)
- Semen analysis for male partners
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may range from lifestyle modifications and medications to more advanced options like:
- Ovulation induction
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
- ICSI
- Egg or sperm donation
- Gestational surrogacy
The field of reproductive medicine has evolved tremendously. What was once considered impossible is now routine thanks to advances in technology and a growing understanding of fertility science.
A Final Word
If you’re struggling to conceive, please know you are not alone – and more importantly, there is help. Early evaluation by a fertility specialist can provide clarity, direction, and hope. Infertility is a medical condition, not a personal failure. With compassion, evidence-based care, and a personalized approach, we can navigate this path together.