Female Infertility
Alternate Names : Infertility in Women
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment of infertility will depend on the cause. Without treatment, 15% to 20% of affected couples will eventually become pregnant. Treatment for female factors may include:
eating a healthy diet
exercising in moderation
having surgery to treat certain problems, such as endometriosis
learning about the best time to conceive
limiting caffeine and alcohol intake
making lifestyle changes, such as
smoking
cessation
taking antibiotics for sexually transmitted diseases
taking medications to cause ovulation, such as clomiphene and menotropins
If these treatments don't work, other means of fertilization may be considered, such as:
artificial insemination. This involves placing sperm directly in the cervix or uterus.
intracytoplasmic sperm injection. This involves placing individual sperm
cells directly inside the woman's eggs.
in vitro fertilization. This involves fertilizing the egg outside the womb and then
returning it to the uterus.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Following are some of the side effects of medications used to cause ovulation:
abdominal pressure or fullness
cysts on the ovaries
headaches
hot flashes
mood changes
multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets
ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, which causes fluid shifts in the body
Antibiotics may cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, and rash. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Within a year after infertility is diagnosed, 80% to 85% of couples who have treatment get pregnant. It may take several attempts before a
couple gets pregnant. Partners must decide how many and what kind of procedures
they are willing to undertake.
How is the condition monitored?
Should a pregnancy occur after treatment, early pregnancy testing can be done. The woman will have regular prenatal visits to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the health care provider.
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