Diagnosis and treatment of infertility

15% of couples worldwide face infertility, which is approximately 1 in 6 couples.

Timely diagnosis of infertility is important because the earlier the treatment begins, the greater the chances of achieving the desired pregnancy.

Diagnosis of infertility – is when a couple cannot conceive a child after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse.

Main types:

• Female: problems with ovulation, fallopian tubes, uterus, or endocrine system.
• Male: impaired sperm quality.
• Combined: factors are present in both partners.

Primary infertility — the absence of pregnancies in a woman or couple at all. Secondary — occurs after previous pregnancies.

Female causes: hormonal disorders (polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis), fallopian tube obstruction, infections, organ developmental anomalies. These conditions disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system.

Male causes: low sperm quality, varicocele, hormonal disorders, inflammatory diseases. These conditions prevent the fertilization of the egg.

Stress and harmful habits such as smoking and alcohol can worsen reproductive health.

For women: 

1. Hormone tests – help identify endocrine disorders.
2. Pelvic ultrasound – allows assessment of the condition of the ovaries and uterus.
3. Hysterosalpingography – examines the patency of the fallopian tubes.
4. Laparoscopy – enables evaluation of the pelvic organs and detection of pathologies that may cause infertility.

For men: 

1. Semen analysis – evaluation of sperm quantity, quality, and motility.
2. Tests for infections – identify infectious diseases.
3. Hormonal examinations – help detect endocrine disorders.
4. Scrotal ultrasound – allows diagnosis of varicocele, cystic formations, and other pathologies.

Consultation with a reproductive specialist is crucial for diagnosing infertility and prescribing optimal treatment. If necessary, other specialists such as an endocrinologist or surgeon may be involved.

Hormonal therapy: helps restore ovulation and corrects hormonal imbalance.

Medication therapy: treatment of infections and reduction of inflammation contributes to the normal functioning of the reproductive system.

Surgical methods: laparoscopy to eliminate endometriosis, restore fallopian tube patency, and treat varicocele.

Physiotherapy: improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation and discomfort.

A balanced diet rich in vitamins, microelements, and antioxidants supports hormonal balance and improves reproductive health.

Quitting smoking and alcohol improves the quality of sperm and eggs, helps restore hormonal balance, and positively impacts successful conception.

Regular physical activity maintains a healthy weight and body endurance. Stress management normalizes hormonal levels to restore fertility.

Young couples also face fertility problems. The reasons may include stress, lifestyle, genetics, irregular cycles, and lack of ovulation.

Infertility treatment after the age of 35 requires a prompt approach, as egg quality decreases with age.

Restoring fertility after past illnesses or surgeries may involve hormonal therapy or physiotherapy.

Regular preventive examinations allow timely detection of reproductive health problems.

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) is an effective prevention of cervical cancer, reducing the risk of complications in the future.

To maintain reproductive health, it is important to regularly undergo medical check-ups, lead a healthy lifestyle, avoid harmful habits, minimize stress, eat a balanced diet, and stay physically active.

Timely consultation with a doctor for fertility problems allows for the prompt start of effective treatment.

Consult the necessary specialist. Undergo a comprehensive examination and take a step toward the desired pregnancy.