Infertility means not being able to conceive a baby despite having regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility can affect a woman or a man or sometimes both partners. Some couples conceive quickly. For other couples it takes longer. When a person who has never conceived has difficulty conceiving it is known as primary infertility. When a person has had one or more babies but has difficulty conceiving again it is known as secondary infertility. Fertility in women declines as they get older.

 

Causes and Symptoms of Infertility

Infertility has different causes. A medical doctor should always be consulted as investigations are necessary to establish known causes and only then can appropriate treatments be recommended. Time spent undergoing investigations can bring disruption, anxiety and uncertainty. Being diagnosed with a fertility problem can lead to anger and distress. When a treatment does not work it can raise anxiety about the future. A person may also feel sadness or loss about a child who had been planned.

 

When people make decisions about fertility treatments or other ways to create a family, it can be painful considering the possible implications of those decisions. The whole situation can put stress on the relationship with the partner. Stress can lead to having sexual intercourse less frequently. Severe stress may also affect ovulation and sperm production. The situation can also put stress on relationships with others who are pregnant, have children, or who do not understand the impact of infertility.

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