What is Infertility

Infertility is defined as an inability to conceive an intrauterine pregnancy after a year of sexual intercourse without contraception. It is a condition that affects nearly 15% of all people at some point in their lives. There are many causes of infertility, and most can be diagnosed and treated. People with infertility can usually be treated successfully by fertility specialists who have extensive training and experience in treating this specific problem. All too often a couple may lose precious time if treatment is left in the hands of less qualified physicians, whose technical training and experience may be limited. It is important to note that appropriate fertility treatment plans for individuals and couples with ethical or religious concerns can be developed in consultation with your physician.

Infertility can be caused by medical conditions in the female partner, male partner, or both. Help typically begins with a comprehensive history and physical examination, which is followed by diagnostic testing and the development of an appropriate treatment plan in consultation with your physician. The woman’s age is the most important factor in determining a couple’s probability for a successful pregnancy. In general,fertility declines in women as age increases. For women over 35, it is very important to consult an infertility specialist – usually a reproductive endocrinologist – as soon as possible.