Infertility

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Pelvic laparoscopy

Female reproductive anatomy

Male reproductive anatomy

Infertility

Alternative Names:

Barren; Inability to conceive; Unable to get pregnant
Treatment:

Treatment depends on the cause of infertility for any given couple. It may range from simple education and counseling, to the use of medications that treat infections or promote ovulation, to highly sophisticated medical procedures such as in vitro fertilization.

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It is important for the couple to recognize and discuss the emotional impact that infertility has on them as individuals and together, and seek medical advice from their health care provider.

As new treatments are announced, couples may either experience new hope or have to deal with old wounds being reopened. Support groups for infertile couples may be an important source of strength and comfort.

Support Groups:

RESOLVE, a national organization, provides both informal support and serves as a referral base for professional counseling specific to infertility issues. See infertility - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

A probable cause can be determined for about 85% to 90% of infertile couples. Appropriate therapy (not including advanced techniques, such as in vitro fertilization) allows pregnancy to occur in 50% to 60% of previously infertile couples. Without any treatment intervention, 15% to 20% of couples previously diagnosed as infertile will eventually become pregnant.

Complications:

Although infertility itself does not cause physical illness, the psychological impact of infertility upon individuals or couples affected by it may be severe. Couples may encounter marital problems, as well as individual depression and anxiety.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are unable to achieve a desired pregnancy.