Sterility and infertility
Sterility is the inability to conceive spontaneously. Infertility is a temporary inability to conceive spontaneously.
Sterility and infertility
Sterility and infertility are conditions in which spontaneous conception does not occur. The cause is looked for in both partners, and the treatment is chosen once the cause is known.
Basic terms
Primary infertility
We speak of primary infertility when there has never been a spontaneous pregnancy, even though the couple has been trying with timed intercourse for at least a year.
Secondary infertility
We speak of secondary infertility when the patient has previously had a spontaneous pregnancy or a birth, but for a year, with timed intercourse, a new pregnancy has not occurred.
Possible solutions
In modern medicine both sterility and infertility can be addressed, once the cause has been identified and an appropriate treatment chosen.
Finding the cause
Careful review of the complete health of both the woman and the man can reveal the causes of sterility. Some problems require treatment that may make spontaneous conception possible.
Examination of both partners
Alongside the examination of the woman, the partner must be examined as well. The gynaecologist should view the body as a whole, with an individual approach to each patient and respect for modern medical practice.
Infections
Specific infections of the reproductive system are investigated and treated.
Hormonal imbalance
Hormonal imbalances are identified and appropriate therapy is determined.
Patency of the fallopian tubes
The tubes are checked to see whether they are open.
The uterine cavity
The appearance and quality of the inside of the uterus, where the embryo needs to implant, are assessed.
Choosing treatment
The problem is not at the same stage of the conception process in every couple. Once the right cause is found, it is easier to arrive at a suitable solution.
Choosing the right approach
Knowing the cause makes it possible to avoid procedures that expose a woman’s body to repeated “stress”. This is one way of avoiding complications for her health.
This approach can allow spontaneous conception, and also a correct choice of the type and method of in vitro fertilisation.
Preparation for insemination
Insemination is one way of achieving a pregnancy. It requires careful preparation of both partners.
The procedure involves a specialist in the preparation of semen, and single-use, sterile equipment is used.
Preparation for IVF
Preparation for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) should ideally be done in good time. This leaves time to treat certain conditions and to stabilise the body.
Completing the treatment
In practice the choice of medication is sometimes right but the dose is not. Such “incomplete” treatment can give an unfavourable result, as if it had never been started.
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