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Chapter-28 Infertility

BOOK TITLE: Essentials of Gynecology

Author
1. Nadkarni Prashant
ISBN
9788180615108
DOI
10.5005/jp/books/10276_28
Edition
1/e
Publishing Year
2005
Pages
6
Author Affiliations
1. Pantai Medical Centre, 8 Jalan Bukit Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, e-mail: prashantnadkarni@hotmail.com, Pantai Medical Center, 8 Jalan Bukit Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Chapter keywords

Abstract

As the fields of medicine and embryology develop, newer and more sophisticated treatment modalities become available to the infertile couple. However, the principles of management remain the same as in any other field of medicine: a good history and physical examination from partners, relevant investigations and proper diagnosis are essential for treatment and counselling. Infertility is a complex problem and despite advances in treatment, not all couples will achieve their desired family size. In managing these couples, the clinician needs to bear in mind the emotional pressures that they face and try to minimize further stresses. A sympathetic and caring attitude helps to ease the pressures of treatment, given that even with the most advanced treatment modalities; there is a high failure rate. Infertility is a worldwide phenomenon and is prevalent in every community. The psychological trauma of prolonged infertility on the couple is enormous. This chapter will explain some of the mechanisms involved in establishment of a pregnancy, and the investigation of the infertile couple. Common treatment modalities are discussed. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a pregnancy after two years of unprotected intercourse (i.e. without contraceptive precautions). It can either be primary, where no previous pregnancy has occurred, or secondary where there has been a previous documented pregnancy. The previous pregnancy may be a live birth, or even a failed pregnancy, e.g. miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Infertility is a common condition, occurring in approximately 10 to 15% of couples worldwide. The prevalence is similar across racial and ethnic groups and, apart from certain parts of sub-Saharan Africa, is the same worldwide.

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