What is infertility and how common is it?

Most couples plan on having a baby, and for many this happens within a reasonable amount of time. Unfortunately, for some this is not easily achievable and help may be needed to assess if there is a problem.

1 in 6 couples in the UK have difficulty conceiving, of these, most are not “infertile” but are in fact “sub-fertile”. In other words they have the ability to conceive, but have been unsuccessful so far. However, others may have a problem that is affecting their ability to conceive that can be corrected with appropriate treatment.


What causes infertility?

Conception is a process that depends upon many factors. The main factors are listed below:

1. The production of healthy sperm by the man. Problems with this may include low sperm counts.

2. Release of healthy eggs. Problems with this include irregular periods or polycystic ovarian syndrome or premature ovarian failure.

3. Normal unblocked fallopian tubes that allow the sperm to reach the egg. Problems with this include blocked tubes due to infection or adhesions.

4. Implantation of an embryo in the woman's uterus (womb). Problems with this include fibroids and polyps.

5. The presence of endometriosis which could cause scarring of tubes and can be associated with pelvic pain.


How is Infertility assessed?

Couples are generally advised to seek medical help if they are unable to achieve pregnancy after a year of unprotected intercourse. However, if there is a known problem such as irregular or absent periods, previous pelvic infections (STD) or severe endometriosis, help should be sought sooner. In order to decide what form a treatment is best, various tests and examinations are required to reach a diagnosis. The main areas of assessment are: tests of ovulation, tests for tubal blockage, tests for normal anatomy, and sperm tests.

What if there is a problem identified?

If we identify a problem which may be affecting your ability to conceive, we will be able to discuss this with you in detail and suggest the next steps for you to take. We offer a wide range of fertility treatments which can significantly improve your prospects of conceiving. We specialise in the use of drugs and surgery to treat infertility. Some of the ways we can aid conception include: ovulation induction, Intrauterine insemination treatment (IUI), laparoscopic (key-hole) surgery for blocked tubes, endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). We also undertake reversal of sterilisations and removal of fibroids, ovarian cysts as well as surgery for endometriosis.

The factors that will determine the right treatment for you will depend on your symptoms, past history, results of tests, but will also take into account the following:
   • The severity of your condition as determined by test results.
   • How long you’ve been trying for a baby.
   • Any infertility treatment you may have had in the past.
   • The benefits of assisted methods of conception treatment such as 

       intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or ICSI.