Infertility in Women & Men - Causes and Treatments

What is infertility?

According to the World Health Organization, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive a child after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It can affect both men and women equally, leading to challenges in starting or expanding a family.

Is infertility common?

Globally, infertility affects millions of people of reproductive age. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it impacts 15% of couples worldwide.

Singapore has also experienced a significant decline in fertility, resulting in the country's total fertility rate plummeting to a historic low of 0.97 in 2023. Many couples in Singapore are facing difficulties in conceiving. If you’re struggling with infertility, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

Types of infertility

• Primary infertility

  • Affects couples who have never been able to conceive.

• Secondary infertility

  • Occurs when a couple has previously conceived but is now unable to do so.

• Unexplained infertility

  • In some cases, the cause of infertility cannot be identified despite thorough medical evaluation.

Symptoms of infertility

Women infertility symptoms

The primary symptom of infertility in women is the inability to become pregnant. Other symptoms related to ovulation may include:

• Menstrual cycles that are too long (35 days or more)
• Menstrual cycles that are too short (less than 21 days)
• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles

These variations can indicate issues with ovulation. Often, there may be no other noticeable signs or symptoms.

Male infertility symptoms

Men experiencing infertility may notice symptoms related to sexual function, such as:

• Difficulty with ejaculation or small volumes of fluid ejaculated
• Reduced sexual desire or libido
• Difficulty maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
• Pain, swelling, or a lump in the testicle area

These symptoms can suggest underlying issues that affect fertility.

How is infertility diagnosed?

Diagnosing infertility involves a series of tests and evaluations.

For women, this may include ovulation testing, hysterosalpingography (checking of the uterus and fallopian tubes), ovarian reserve testing, and hormone testing.

Men might undergo semen analysis and hormonal evaluations.

At Thomson Medical, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services to identify and address the underlying causes of infertility. To learn more, enquire here.

Causes of infertility

Female infertility causes

• Ovulation disorders
• Fallopian tube damage or blockage
• Endometriosis
• Uterine or cervical abnormalities
• Age-related factors

Male infertility causes

• Low sperm count or poor sperm motility
• Genetic disorders
• Hormonal imbalances
• Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol use, and obesity

With years of experience in fertility treatments, Thomson Medical is here to help. Book an appointment with our fertility specialists today to explore your options and start your journey toward parenthood.

Clinical treatments for infertility

• Medications

  • To stimulate ovulation or improve sperm production.

• Surgery

  • Helps doctors to identify and surgically correct the cause of infertility.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

  • Sperm is placed directly into the uterus.

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

  • Eggs are fertilised outside the body and implanted in the uterus.

• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

  • A single sperm is injected directly into an egg during IVF.

For detailed information on these treatments, enquire now.

Home remedies for infertility

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Reducing stress through activities like yoga or meditation
• Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs
• Regular physical activity

For in-depth guidance on enhancing your fertility naturally, explore our comprehensive article: Natural Lifestyle Changes to Boost Your Fertility.

Home remedies can be beneficial, but clinical treatments offer the best chance for overcoming infertility. 

With years of experience in fertility treatments, Thomson Medical is here to help. Book an appointment with our fertility specialists today to explore your options and start your journey toward parenthood.