What is Infertility?
Before learning about infertility treatments in Nepal, let's first understand what infertility isInfertility is a condition where a couple cannot conceive a child after trying for at least a year. It can be due to issues with the man, According to the World Health Organization (WHO) around 17.5% of the global adult population-roughly 1 in 6 people are affected by infertility.
Types of Infertility
There are two main types of infertility:
- Primary Infertility: This occurs when a couple has never been able to conceive.
- Secondary Infertility: This happens when a couple has had at least one child but cannot conceive again.
Common Causes of Infertility
The most common causes of infertility vary between men and women:
- In Women: Problems with ovulation, blocked fallopian tubes or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are frequent causes.
- In Men: Low sperm count, poor sperm mobility or blockages that prevent sperm delivery can lead to infertility.
Symptoms of Infertility
The primary symptom of infertility is the inability to conceive. However, there can be other signs such as:
- In Women: Irregular or absent menstrual periods.
- In Men: Issues with sexual function, pain, swelling or lumps in the testicle area.
Diagnosing Infertility
Diagnosis involves a series of tests for both partners. These may include:
- For Women: Ovulation testing, hysterosalpingography (checking the uterus and fallopian tubes) and laparoscopy (a surgical procedure to view the pelvic organs).
- For Men: Semen analysis, hormone testing and testicular biopsy.
Infertility Treatment in Nepal
Infertility treatment in Nepal has advanced significantly. Common treatments include:
1.Medications:
- Clomiphene Citrate: Used to stimulate ovulation in women who have ovulation problems.
- Gonadotropins: Hormonal injections to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
- Metformin: Often used for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to improve insulin resistance and induce ovulation.
2. Surgical Treatments:
- Laparoscopy: Used to diagnose and treat conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or blocked fallopian tubes.
- Hysteroscopy: A procedure to remove uterine fibroids or polyps and correct uterine abnormalities.
3. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body and then implanted in the uterus.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg, often used in cases of male infertility.
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is directly inserted into the uterus to facilitate fertilization.
4 Third-Party Reproduction:
- Donor Eggs or Sperm: Used when the couple is unable to produce viable eggs or sperm.
5 Fertility Preservation:
- Egg or Sperm Freezing: Preserving eggs or sperm for future use, often used by cancer patients or those delaying childbearing.
Prevention of Infertility
While not all causes of infertility can be prevented, some steps can reduce the risk:
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Reducing stress.
- Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins.
- Seeking early treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Can cancer survivors successfully give birth?
Yes, many cancer survivors successfully give birth thanks to advances in cancer treatments and fertility preservation techniques. The ability to conceive and deliver a healthy baby depends on factors like the type and stage of cancer, the treatments received, and the individual's overall health. Cancer survivors should consult with their oncologist and a fertility specialist to assess their health and receive tailored guidance on achieving a successful pregnancy.
Infertility is a common but often misunderstood condition. With modern infertility treatment in Nepal, many couples now have the opportunity to overcome this challenge and achieve their dream of having a family. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps toward addressing infertility and improving their reproductive health.