Infertility
There are many factors that contribute to conception, including healthy sperm and eggs, unblocked fallopian tubes, the sperm’s ability to fertilize the egg, the egg’s ability to implant in the uterus, embryo quality, and an adequate hormonal environment. If any of these factors are dysfunctional, the result is infertility.
It is important to remember that infertility is a disease of the reproductive system that impairs the body’s ability to perform the basic function of reproduction. In the United States alone, it affects approximately 6.7 million women and their partners; approximately 1 in 10 couples.
Infertility affects men and women equally, and can be caused by many factors, including:
Infertility in men:
- Low to no production of sperm cells
- Sperm cells that are unable to reach the egg
- Genetic diseases
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Exposure to potentially toxic substances in diet or environment
- Patterns of sexual behavior
Infertility in women:
- Ovulation disorder
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Congenital defects affecting the structure of the uterus
- Fibroids
- Unsafe abortions
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Exposure to potentially toxic substances in diet or environment
- Patterns of sexual behavior
Most infertility cases are treated with conventional medical therapies such as medication or surgery. Your physician will help you determine the course of treatment that will best suit your needs.