Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after one year of unprotected and regular sexual intercourse. Research shows that 15 out of every 100 couples today face this problem, with various reasons preventing them from conceiving naturally.

Prof. İbrahim Ferhat Ürünsak, Specialist in Gynaecology, Obstetrics and In Vitro Fertilisation at Medline Adana Hospital, explains the causes of infertility and the options available, noting that in vitro fertilisation treatment offered by modern medicine is a source of hope for many couples who wish to have children but are unable to achieve this naturally.

Infertility is not solely a female issue

Infertility can be attributed to the woman in 37% of cases, to the man in 8% of cases, and to both the woman and the man in 35% of cases. In 20% of couples, no problem can be identified in either the woman or the man, meaning that the infertility is unexplained. Therefore, when faced with infertility, it is essential to evaluate both the woman and the man together.

The solution is different for each couple

Each treatment is personalised. In some couples, medication alone is sufficient, while in others, insemination is sufficient, and in others, IVF treatment is required. For the correct treatment, it is extremely important to make the correct diagnosis based on the cause during the initial evaluation. Therefore, evaluating each patient individually is an important step towards success.

It may be necessary to consult a specialist without delay

If there are no known problems and if pregnancy does not occur within 1 year for couples where the woman is under 35 years of age, or within 6 months for couples where the woman is over 35 years of age, examination and treatment should be initiated. For couples where the woman is 40 years of age or older, it is recommended to consult a specialist without delay.

A woman's age affects fertility

After the age of 35, the number and quality of eggs in women begin to decline. This reduces the chances of pregnancy while increasing the risk of miscarriage and genetic problems. Thus, it is important for women planning to have children to consult a specialist without delay to assess their ovarian reserves and consider protective methods such as egg freezing if necessary.

Ovulation problems are common

Women with irregular periods, excessive hair growth, or weight issues may have ovulation problems. However, these issues can be identified promptly with the help of certain tests.

Sperm count and quality are important

Semen analysis evaluates sperm count, motility and structure. This test is essential in the initial evaluation and before treatment, as it provides guidance in understanding the cause of infertility.

A healthy lifestyle increases fertility

Smoking, alcohol, excessive weight, stress and lack of sleep can reduce fertility in both women and men. Adopting healthy eating habits and exercising regularly are very supportive in this process.

Blocked fallopian tubes can prevent fertilisation

Previous infections or surgeries can cause blockages in the fallopian tubes of the female reproductive system. If the tubes are blocked, sperm cannot reach the egg, and natural conception does not occur. This condition is typically detected through a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). If necessary, a laparoscopic evaluation should also be performed. In cases where the fallopian tubes are completely blocked, the most effective treatment method is in vitro fertilisation (IVF). This is because in this method, the eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory environment, and the embryo is directly implanted into the uterus.

Early diagnosis and proper treatment increase the chances of success

When a problem that delays pregnancy is detected, it is important to consult a specialist without delay. In such cases, tests can quickly identify the cause of infertility. Once the problem is identified, a personalised, scientifically proven treatment plan is determined. This way, instead of wasting time with trial and error, the most effective step is taken from the outset, increasing the chances of pregnancy.

Solutions are also possible in cases of unexplained infertility

When all tests come out normal for both the prospective mother and father, but pregnancy does not occur, this is referred to as ‘unexplained infertility.’ In such cases, insemination and in vitro fertilisation often lead to success. The key is to manage the process correctly without giving in to despair.

Psychological support is as important as treatment

The infertility process can create significant emotional stress on couples. During this period, couples supporting each other and seeking psychological help when needed is an important step that positively influences the success of treatment.