Added: 10/14/2005 |
Infertility: Both Sexes Can Handle ItInfertility affects almost six million people in the United States. It has become a huge concern in many American lives. The fact is that both men and women can suffer from this problem.
Infertility is defined as the inability to become pregnant, despite trying for one year. Although the events that lead to pregnancy may seem simple, many things can prevent a pregnancy from taking place.
INFERTILITY IN WOMEN
It has long been a misunderstanding that infertility lies in the hands of women. In other words, if a couple in unable to have a baby, it is the woman's fault. It has now been proven that that is not always the case. In fact, only one third of infertility cases are due to factors involving the female.
Causes of Infertility in Women
Some factors that may cause a woman to be infertile are:
• problems with ovulation. It is simple. If a woman does not have eggs to fertilize, she cannot become pregnant. Two signs of ovulation problems are irregular periods or not having a period at all. This is the reason that most women are infertile.
• a hormonal imbalance. Stress and diet can cause a hormonal imbalance, thus making it difficult to conceive.
• age. At age 35, a woman's ability to produce eggs declines. When a woman reaches menopause, she ceases to have periods altogether. Then pregnancy is impossible.
• blocked fallopian tubes. If the fallopian tubes are blocked, the egg cannot travel through into the uterus. Pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and ectopic pregnancy can cause the fallopian tunes to become blocked.
If a woman is over 35 years old, instead of trying to conceive for a year, visit one of the many infertility clinics for a medical evaluation. This way, an infertility doctor can determine the reasons for the couples' infertility, if any.
Tests for Infertility in Women
Before treatment may be prescribed, the woman must be certain that she is ovulating every month. A simple way to do this is to purchase an ovulation kit found at any drug store. Ultrasounds and blood tests can also determine if a woman is ovulating correctly. In addition, there are two medical tests women can take in a doctor's office:
• Laparoscopy is an exam of the fallopian tubes and other female organs. This test examines the organs for disease.
• Hysterosalpingogram is an x-ray of the fallopian tunes and uterus. After these organs are injected with dye, the test shows if the tubes are open and also displays the shape of the uterus.
INFIRTILTIY IN MEN
For many years, men got of easy! However it is now proven that almost one third of infertility cases are due to issues concerning the male reproductive system.
Causes of Infertility in Men
Infertility in men is mainly caused by problems producing sperm. These problems may have existed since birth or may have developed later in life. Illness or injury can cause a low-sperm count. Alcohol and drugs can also temporarily reduce sperm productivity.
Tests for Infertility in Men
Typically, semen tests can determine if the man is sterile. The test studies the shape, number, and movement of the sperm. Hormone tests can also be administered, but are less common.
TREATMENT
If a person is determined to be infertile, all hope is not lost. Depending on test results, various treatments can be offered. So, have heart, 85-90 percent of cases can be treated with either drugs or surgery. And if these options are not feasible, there is always adoption.
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