The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 17.5% of the adult population, or roughly 1 in 6 people worldwide, experience infertility. This shows the urgent need to increase access to affordable, high-quality fertility care for those in need. At SILK Medical fertility clinic in Tbilisi, Georgia, we offer full-scope solutions to help patients from around the world overcome infertility and achieve their dream of having a child.
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It can be primary (when a woman has never conceived) or secondary (when a woman has difficulty conceiving after previously giving birth). Understanding the types and definitions of infertility helps in recognizing the severity and planning the appropriate treatment.
A significant proportion of the population is affected by infertility due to female factors. Age, lifestyle, and medical conditions contribute to varying rates of infertility across different demographics and regions. Recognizing the prevalence helps in understanding the widespread nature of the condition.
Anatomy and Reproductive Health
A basic understanding of female reproductive anatomy can help in understanding infertility and approaching treatments. The primary organs involved include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and cervix. Each part plays a role in conception and pregnancy, and any abnormalities can lead to infertility.
Ovulation Disorders
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the leading causes of infertility in women. Hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS can prevent ovulation or implantation of the fertilized egg. Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) is another condition that leads to early menopause and infertility. Our team of fertility specialists at SILK Medical is experienced in diagnosing and treating ovulation disorders through medication, lifestyle changes, and assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.
Fallopian Tube Damage or Blockage
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, or prior surgeries can damage or block the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from traveling to the uterus for implantation.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and infertility. It affects approximately 10% of women globally. Symptoms include painful periods, pelvic pain, and infertility. Treatment options range from pain management and hormonal therapy to surgical interventions.
PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can lead to scarring of the fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs, resulting in infertility. Prevention includes practicing safe sex, regular STI screenings, and prompt treatment of infections.
Uterine or Cervical Causes
Uterine fibroids, polyps, or abnormalities can interfere with implantation, while cervical stenosis or incompetence can also contribute to infertility. Our clinic utilizes state-of-the-art imaging techniques to detect uterine and cervical issues and offers treatments like myomectomy (fibroid removal), polypectomy, and cervical dilation to improve fertility.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can interfere with fertility. They are common in women of childbearing age, with symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. Treatment options include medication, surgical removal, or minimally invasive procedures.
Other Infertility Causes
- Age and Fertility
Age is a significant factor in female fertility. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, which decrease in quantity and quality with age. Fertility typically declines after age 35, with a more rapid decrease after 40.
- Genetic Factors
Conditions like Turner syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and genetic mutations can lead to infertility. Genetic testing and counseling can help identify these issues and provide options for family planning.
- Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress levels, all impact fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful substances can enhance fertility.
- Environmental Factors
Exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, heavy metals, and endocrine disruptors can adversely affect fertility. Reducing exposure to these toxins through lifestyle changes and regulatory measures can improve reproductive health.
- Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune thyroiditis can impact fertility. These conditions cause the immune system to attack healthy cells, including those in the reproductive system. Treatment involves managing the autoimmune condition and addressing fertility issues simultaneously.
- Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, can disrupt menstrual cycles and ovulation, leading to infertility. Managing thyroid conditions with medication and regular monitoring can help restore fertility.
- Hyperprolactinemia
Hyperprolactinemia, characterized by elevated levels of prolactin, can inhibit ovulation and cause irregular menstrual cycles. Treatment includes medication to reduce prolactin levels and restore normal ovulation.
- Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
POI, also known as premature ovarian failure, occurs when the ovaries stop functioning before age 40. Symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, and infertility. Treatment options include hormone replacement therapy and fertility preservation techniques.
Unexplained Infertility
In up to 30% of cases, the cause of infertility cannot be determined. At SILK Medical, we believe that further testing and treatment is still possible even without a clear diagnosis. Our team works closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include IVF, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or donor egg programs to help them conceive.
Diagnosing and Treating Infertility
Diagnosing infertility involves a series of screenings and evaluations, including hormonal tests, ultrasound, hysterosalpingography, and laparoscopy. Accurate diagnosis is key for effective treatment planning.
Treatment for infertility depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, lifestyle changes, surgery, or ART. SILK Medical provides a personalized approach resulting in the best outcomes.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
ART encompasses various medical procedures designed to address infertility. Common techniques include:
- In vitro fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, then transferred to the uterus.
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI): Sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation.
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected into an egg to aid fertilization.
Additional ART options:
- Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT): Screens embryos for genetic abnormalities before implantation.
- Egg or sperm donation: Uses gametes from donors when patients cannot use their own.
- Surrogacy: Another woman carries the pregnancy for intended parents.
Advancements in technology have improved ART success rates. For example, time-lapse imaging systems can monitor embryo development without disturbing the culture environment. Cryopreservation techniques allow for the storage of eggs, sperm, and embryos for future use.
The choice of ART method depends on individual circumstances, including the cause of infertility, age, and medical history. Consulting with a SILK Medical reproductive expert can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Infertility is a complex issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding its causes can help for finding effective treatment and improve overall well-being. While medical advances have significantly improved fertility outcomes, each case requires a personal approach.
Any woman facing fertility concerns should:
- Seek early evaluation if pregnancy doesn’t occur within a year of trying (or six months for women over 35).
- Maintain open communication with healthcare providers about concerns and treatment options.
- Consider lifestyle modifications that may improve fertility.
- Stay informed about new developments in reproductive medicine.
- Explore support groups or counseling to manage the emotional aspects of infertility.
Remember, infertility is a medical condition, not a personal failing. With appropriate medical care, many women find ways to have children despite initial difficulties. At SILK Medical in Tbilisi, we work to improve fertility treatments and help patients from various countries. Our goal is simple – to assist people in starting or expanding their families when nature needs a helping hand.
English