INFERTILITY IN MALE

Learn About Infertility, Male

What is Infertility, Male?
Conceiving a child is always far from predictable, but when a couple has not succeeded after a year of having sex without any form of contraception--especially during the woman's most fertile days of the month--there may be a fertility problem. It was previously believed that the inability to conceive occurred equally in males and females. However, a multi-center study by the World Health Organization found that males contribute to a couple’s infertility less frequently than females. The study found that about 20% of cases are attributable to the male and 38% to the female while both partners are infertile in 27% of cases: in the remaining 15% of cases, the cause is unknown. (1)

In addition to inability to conceive after a year of trying, male infertility is defined by a total sperm count of less than 5 million per ml, the presence of more than 50% abnormal sperm, and/or inability of the sperm to impregnate an egg in the laboratory.

While some causes of infertility in men cannot be reversed, a diagnosis of male infertility does not always mean that conceiving a child is impossible; it simply means that becoming pregnant may be more challenging for the couple. There are many methods and technologies today that can assist in the pursuit of parenthood. Seeking professional advice early can prevent delays in the goal of starting a family.

Despite the prolonged frustration that results from infertility, the statistics are encouraging: Up to 60% of couples who haven't conceived after a year of trying will do so eventually—with or without treatment.

What is Infertility, Female?

When a woman hasn't conceived after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse during her most fertile times of the month (before and during ovulation), infertility is a possibility that she and her partner must consider. The problem affects about 10 million Americans. In 40% of infertile couples, it's the woman who has problems that prevent pregnancy. In another 40% of cases, the primary cause lies with the man. In the remaining 20%, both partners have factors that stand in the way of conceiving a child.
A diagnosis of female infertility does not mean that you cannot conceive a child; it simply means that becoming pregnant may be more challenging for you and your partner. There are many methods and technologies today that can assist you in your pursuit to become parents.

Today women are waiting longer to start a family. As fertility declines with age, a woman who is over 35 and trying to conceive is advised to seek help after six months of trying to become pregnant. By seeking professional advice you can prevent further delay to your goal of starting a family.Read more about infertility>>