Recording-2025-02-23T23:57:15.228Z
Infertility Overview
Definition: Infertility is a reproductive disease characterized by failure to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sex.
Causes: Often no obvious cause; can be due to infections or inflammation.
Causes of Infertility
Female Infertility: Various causes, including ovulation issues and hormonal imbalances.
Male Infertility: Low sperm count due to stress, drug, or alcohol use.
Combined Infertility: Both partners may be fertile individually but face challenges together, often due to genetic or immunological factors.
Assistance: Fertility specialists can offer solutions to help couples conceive.
Fertility Procedures
Artificial Insemination: Introduction of sperm into the vagina or uterus around ovulation.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are harvested and fertilized outside the body. Multiple fertilized eggs may be transferred to increase chances of pregnancy.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single healthy sperm is injected directly into a mature egg for fertilization.
Pregnancy Complications
Miscarriage: Common occurrence usually due to chromosomal defects, leading to loss of pregnancy.
Ectopic Pregnancy: Occurs in about 2% of pregnancies; the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.
Placental Disorders
Placenta Accreta: Placenta grows into the myometrium, potentially causing severe bleeding during childbirth.
Placenta Previa: Placenta covers the cervix, leading to painless bleeding and necessitating cesarean delivery.
Placental Abruption: Sudden detachment of the placenta from the uterine wall, dangerous for both mother and baby.
Other Pregnancy Conditions
Hyperemesis Gravidum: Severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy; can lead to dehydration and weakness.
Preeclampsia: Characterized by high blood pressure, protein in urine, and swelling; may progress to eclampsia, which can include seizures.
Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy; may resolve after childbirth but can lead to type 2 diabetes later.
Molar Pregnancy: Characterized by abnormal tissue growth (hydatiform moles) requiring surgical removal if diagnosed.
Retained Placenta: Can lead to infection if placental tissue remains after birth; symptoms include fever and abdominal pain; treated with antibiotics.