>>General Info about Infertility
Infertility is a condition or a disease of the reproductive system often diagnosed after a couple fail to achieve pregnancy or if the woman has been unable to carry a pregnancy that results in a live birth.
Primary Infertility is the term used to describe a couple that has never been able to conceive a pregnancy, after a minimum of one year of attempting to do so through unprotected intercourse.
Secondary Infertility is the term used to describe couples who have previously been pregnant at least once, but have not been able to achieve another pregnancy.

>>What are the causes of Infertility?
Causes of infertility include a wide range of physical, as well as emotional factors. Infertility can be due to a "male" factor such as decreased sperm count or no sperm, retrograde ejaculation, impotence, hormone deficiency, environmental pollutants, scarring from sexually-transmitted disease. A "female" factor such as scarring from sexually-transmitted disease, ovulation dysfunction, poor nutrition, hormone imbalance, cysts or cancer of the ovaries or uterus, pelvic infection or tumor, or transport system abnormality from the cervix through the Fallopian tubes can also lead to infertility. It is important that pregnancy be attempted after an extended period (at least one year); Sperm is viable for about 48 hours. It is crucial for sperm to be present during the woman's most fertile time.
Risks for infertility:
* Mumps orchitis in men.
* Eating disorders in women.
* Abnormal menstrual cycles.

>>What are the symptoms of Infertility?
* Inability to become pregnant.
* A range of emotional and social problems and tensions between the couple regarding childlessness.

>>How can we diagnose Infertility?
* To assess infertility, some or all the tests mentioned below may be required.
* Semen analysis to evaluate volume, viscosity of semen, sperm. count, motility, swimming speed and shape of sperm.
* Monitoring cervical mucus changes throughout the menstrual cycle.
* Measuring serum progesterone (blood test).
* Endometrial biopsy.
* Testicular biopsy.
* Serum hormonal levels (blood tests) for either or both partners.
* Laparoscopy to allow direct visualization.
* Pelvic examination of women to check if there are cysts or damage to the endometrium.

>>How can Infertility be treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of infertility for couple. It may range from simple education and counseling, to the use of medicines that treat infections or promote ovulation, to highly sophisticated medical procedures such as in-vitro fertilization. Although infertility itself does not cause physical illness, the psychological impact of infertility upon individuals or couples affected by it may be severe. Marital problems, including divorce, individual depression and anxiety are common. These problems can be treated with psychiatric counseling.
Preventive Measures:
* Practice safe sex.
* Stop drinking alcohol regularly or in excess.
* Avoid stress and tension as these factors too play an important role.
* Avoid over exercise.
* Do not use herbal medicines without knowing its use.
* Practice safe sex if any indulgence takes place outside a relationship.