Infertility is a medical condition that prevents pregnancy. The cause can lie within the male or female reproductive system. Sometimes a combination of factors is responsible.
The first step in infertility treatment is to get an accurate diagnosis. A doctor looking for the cause may ask about a couple's: 
<ul>
 <li>Medical, sexual and reproductive histories. </li>
 <li>Drug use. </li>
 <li>Past injuries. </li>
 <li>Frequency of intercourse. </li>
 <li>Past methods of birth control. </li>
</ul>
The doctor may also ask about the woman's menstrual cycles and then perform complete physical exams. 
Further tests are done as needed. A sperm analysis is common. For women, tests include x-rays, laparoscopy, and body temperature and ovulation analysis. 
About 85% to 90% of infertile couples receive medication or surgery to repair reproductive organs, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.netreturns.biz/healthinfo/bouncelink.aspx?shortcut=asrm" target="_blank">American Society for Reproductive Medicine</a>. Other treatments include: 
<ul>
 <li>Intracervical insemination (ICI), in which semen is placed in the woman's cervix. </li>
 <li>Intrauterine insemination (IUI), in which semen is placed in the woman's uterus. </li>
 <li>In vitro fertilization (IVF), in which the eggs and sperm are mixed in a petri dish. If an egg is fertilized, it is placed in the woman's uterus. </li>
 <li>Donor insemination (DI), in which a donor's semen is placed in the woman's cervix or uterus. </li>
</ul>
Infertility treatment may cause stress in intimate relationships. Doctors can provide the names of support groups or counselors who specialize in infertility. 
Reviewed 4/25/2024

Seeking treatment for infertility

Many couples have difficulty getting pregnant. Treatment options vary by cause.