02/03/2026
What is infertility?
Infertility means a couple is unable to get pregnant after 12 months of regular, unprotected s*x (or 6 months if the woman is over 35).
It doesn’t always mean you can never have children — it just means it’s taking longer than expected.
Types of infertility
1) Primary infertility - The couple has never been able to get pregnant.
2) Secondary infertility - The couple has had a pregnancy before, but now cannot conceive again.
what are some Common causes?
Infertility can come from:
I) The woman
II) The man
III) Both partners
Or sometimes IV) no clear cause
In women: 1) Problems with ovulation (not releasing eggs regularly)
2) Blocked fallopian tubes
3)Hormonal problems
(Conditions like PCOS)
In men:
1) Low s***m count
2) Poor s***m movement
3) Problems with s***m shape
Tests that may be done:
Doctors usually test both partners.
For the woman:
1) Ovulation tests → to check if eggs are being released
2) Ultrasound scan → looks at the uterus and ovaries
3) Hormone blood tests → checks reproductive hormones
4)HSG (hysterosalpingogram) → dye test to see if tubes are open
For the man:
1) Semen analysis (main test)
→ checks s***m count, movement, and shape
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause:
1. Lifestyle changes
Healthy diet
Reduce alcohol/smoking
Weight control
Stress management
2. Medications
-To help the woman ovulate
-To correct hormone problems
3. Surgery
-To open blocked tubes
-To remove fibroids or other abnormalities
4. Assisted reproduction (advanced options)
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
→ s***m is placed directly into the uterus
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
→ egg and s***m are combined in a lab, then the embryo is placed in the uterus
Are you suffering from infertility or know someone that does? Help exists.
Please seek help from your nearest health facility
