Procedures
Infertility

Overview

Infertility occurs when a couple is unable to conceive even after having regular unprotected sex. This may be because of one partner’s inability to contribute to the conception, or the woman is unable to carry a pregnancy full term. Infertility is often defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular sexual intercourse without the use of any birth control.

Infertility in men may be caused by a low sperm count, low sperm mobility and/or an abnormal sperm. If the sperm doesn’t have the right shape, or they can’t travel rapidly and accurately towards the egg. Infertility in women may be caused by premature ovarian failure, polycystic ovary syndrome, poor egg quality, metal stress, eating disorders and sexually transmitted infections.

What are the related symptoms of infertility?

The main sign of infertility is not getting pregnant. In some cases, women with infertility may experience irregular or absent menstrual periods. In some cases, men with infertility may experience hormonal problems such as changes in hair growth or sexual function.

How is infertility treated?

Infertility treatment depends on factors such as your age, how long infertility has lasted, personal preference and overall health. Dr Hlabisa may recommend that you have sexual intercourse more often, especially around ovulation. Sperm is able to survive inside the female for up to 5 days, while it takes a day for an egg to be fertilized after ovulation. Dr Hlabisa may also recommend:

Treatment for men:

• Lifestyle changes – Improving lifestyle and certain behaviours such as discontinuing certain medication, reducing or eliminating harmful substances, exercising regularly and improving frequency and timing of intercourse may help increase chances of pregnancy.
• Medication – The gynaecologist may prescribe certain medication to improve sperm count and increase testicular function.
• Surgery – This may be recommended to reverse a sperm blockage and restore fertility. It may also be used to surgically repair varicocele may improve overall chances for pregnancy. Dr Hlabisa may recommend that a urologist to be present during the procedure.

Treatment for women:

• Medications – The gynaecologist may prescribe medication may help stimulate the ovary to develop mature eggs for ovulation which may be given in the form of a pill taken by mouth or injections.
• Artificial insemination – This process involves the sperm being washed and prepared for placement in the uterine cavity, which then brings a high concentrated of motile sperm closer to the tubes and ovulated egg.