- Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system that impairs the body’s natural ability to reproduce
- 1 in 8 couples experience infertility issues
- Women and men experience infertility issues equally
- For women under 35, infertility is defined as ‘attempting to achieve pregnancy for one year without success or being unable to carry a pregnancy to live birth’
- For women over 35, infertility is defined as ‘attempting to achieve pregnancy for six months without success or being unable to carry a pregnancy to live birth’
- After women reach 35, fertility potential declines more rapidly
- The most common causes of infertility in women are Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and other ovulation disorders, blockage of the fallopian tubes and diminished ovarian reserve (egg supply)
- The most common causes of infertility in men are hormonal imbalances, low sperm count, abnormal sperm shape, and poor sperm movement (motility)
- Individuals can (and should) have their basic fertility potential assessed through a fertility awareness checkup that involves blood tests and an ultrasound for women and a semen analysis for men
