Infertility is a relatively common problem that affects between two and four million Indian couples or approximately 10 to 15% of the reproductive age range population. More couples now seek infertility evaluations, which may reflect the increased availability of infertility-related services and an increased media focus on medical advances in reproductive technology. The definition of infertility is one year of unprotected coitus without conception. Presently, the mean age of a woman who first gives birth is now three years older than that of a woman born 20 years ago. Postponement of pregnancy after marriage is the most significant change that has led to a decline of fertility world over. Thus, couples are seeking to have children at later ages in life, ages at which it is the most difficult to achieve a pregnancy.
Scope of infertility
Infertility causes
- Age-related decline in fertility contributes to the scope of infertility
- Each ovulatory cycle in a normal couple without a fertility problem results in a 20 to 25% chance of conception. In couples with regular, unprotected intercourse, 57% conceive in three months, 72% in six months, 85% in one year, and 93% in two years
- Overall 15% of all couples have infertility
- 40% male factor
- 40% female factor
- 20% unexplained
- Natural fecundity is 20% each cycle, 50% at 3 months and 85% at 12 months
Causes of infertility* *Not
applicable to all populations
- Overall 90% of women fail to conceive beyond 40 years of age
- Males show decreased fertility potential with age
- Frequency of intercourse affects fertility
- Occupational hazards influence fertility potential
- Previous contraception may also influence fertility.
Factors influencing reproductive health
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