Definition of infertility

Infertility is a year or more of unprotected intercourse without pregnancy.

Primary infertility: Infertility without any previous pregnancy.

Secondary infertility: Fertility problems occurring in a couple that has conceived on their own..

Sterility: When there is no chance for a pregnancy. This is different from infertility which represents a reduced potential for pregnancy.

Most childless couples with a female age under about 43-44 that are having problems getting pregnant are considered to be infertile but not sterile.

Incidence:

It is 12-15% of reproductive age groups.

Natural fertilization:

In females with regular & normal menstrual cycle (28+7 days), ovulation occurs in between 12-16th day of the cycle & ovum is picked up by fimbrial end of the fallopian tube. This ovum remains live for 24 hours & if there is intercourse during this period then released spermatozoa may fertilize the ovum if everything is normal, fertilization takes place in the fallopian tube and then zygote is transferred in the uterine cavity.

Natural Fertilization

Causes of infertility:

The cause of infertility is sought by performing some fertility tests in a basic infertility evaluation. These tests can usually be completed over the course of one menstrual cycle (one month).