Infertility is generally defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse for couples under the age of 35. For couples over 35, this duration is shortened to six months. It is essential to understand that infertility affects both men and women, and it can be a result of various factors.

- Male Factors

Male infertility can be attributed to various factors, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or structural abnormalities. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to male infertility.

- Female Factors

Female infertility can stem from conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, or issues with the reproductive organs. Age can also significantly impact female fertility, as the quality and quantity of eggs decline with age.

When couples face challenges in conceiving, a diagnostic process is essential to identify the underlying causes of infertility. This process involves various steps, including:

• Medical History and Physical Examination A comprehensive medical history review and physical examination are conducted to assess any potential factors that may contribute to infertility. This includes evaluating past medical conditions, surgeries, and lifestyle factors.
• Hormone Testing Hormone testing plays a vital role in diagnosing infertility. It helps identify hormonal imbalances in both men and women, which can affect fertility. Hormone tests often include assessing levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
• Imaging and Diagnostic Procedures Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, hysterosalpingography (HSG), and hysteroscopy are commonly used to evaluate the reproductive organs and identify any structural abnormalities or blockages that may hinder conception.