Infertility means.

Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
Updated on February 24, 2025
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The concept of infertility in medicine is defined as follows: both male and female partners have normal sexual relations without using any contraceptives, and if the female cannot become pregnant after a year, this condition is diagnosed as infertility. Previously, the time frame for diagnosing infertility was set at two years. However, due to the implementation of the two-child policy, the average age of both men and women tends to be higher, so it is generally limited to one year. If there is no pregnancy within this period, it is urgent to go to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment in order to identify the cause early and treat it accordingly, to avoid delaying the condition.

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Written by Yue Hua
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What are the reasons for infertility despite having intercourse during the ovulation period?

The reasons for not getting pregnant despite having intercourse during the ovulation period primarily involve considering whether there is an issue with the male partner’s sperm. Additionally, although it is the ovulation period, the development of the follicles must also be examined. If the follicles are undeveloped, or if they are very small, pregnancy is unlikely in such cases. Moreover, the condition of the fallopian tubes should be checked, as both the egg and the sperm need to travel through these tubes. If the fallopian tubes are blocked, it will prevent pregnancy because the sperm and egg cannot meet, leading to infertility.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
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What to do if scanty menstruation leads to infertility?

If there is infertility associated with scanty menstruation, it is important to first identify the cause. It is necessary to consider whether the scanty menstruation is due to previous intrauterine procedures, such as a history of abortion, intrauterine device insertion or removal, which could have caused endometrial damage, intrauterine adhesion, or thinning of the endometrium. Hysteroscopy for diagnosis and treatment might be required. Additionally, possible endocrine issues should be considered. Blood should be drawn during the menstrual period to check for sex hormones, thyroid hormones, and others.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
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What are the tests for infertility?

For infertility examinations, men typically undergo a routine semen analysis to check for any abnormalities. If there are abnormalities in the semen analysis, further testing might be needed for conditions such as varicocele or inflammation of the testicles and epididymis. For women, the examinations generally focus on the fallopian tubes to ensure they are patent, usually assessed through hysterosalpingography or a tubal patency test. Additionally, infertility tests include an ultrasound to monitor the follicles and check for any organic diseases in the uterus and ovaries. For women with menstrual irregularities, it's crucial to perform an endocrine test, specifically the six-item sex hormone check, as normal hormonal levels are necessary for regular menstruation and ovulation, and for the normal development of a fertilized egg. Other investigations for infertility might cover immune-related infertility among others, which require specific hospital tests. Moreover, if there has been a previous incidence of miscarriage, tests might include chromosomal analysis, tests for hemolysis, mycoplasma testing, and a set of tests for genetic counseling, all of which are part of the infertility examination process.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
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What should an infertile man check?

The definitive diagnosis of male infertility requires determination based on professional examination procedures. Common examinations include the following: First, it is crucial to conduct a medical history interview. The patient should actively cooperate and honestly report their conditions, such as whether they have had mumps, any unsafe sexual behaviors, and what their occupation is. Second, a physical examination, including a general body and reproductive organ examination, is necessary. Special attention should be given to the patient's developmental, nutritional, and mental status, with a focus on the development of the reproductive organs. Third, laboratory tests. The most common is semen analysis. Other tests may be selected based on specific conditions, such as X-ray examinations to determine the location of any blockage in the vas deferens. Techniques such as vasography, epididymography, vas deferens and seminal vesicle radiography, or urethrography can be used. Testicular exams are also performed to assess the condition of the testicles. Additionally, immunological tests, including sperm agglutination and immobilization tests, are used to detect sperm agglutination antibodies or immobilization antibodies in serum or seminal plasma, which help assess the immune status.

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Will taking melatonin cause infertility in women?

Taking melatonin daily will not cause infertility in women. Melatonin can help with sleep and regulate immune function, but for women around 30 years old experiencing poor sleep, it should not be taken frequently. Since it is a hormonal medication, long-term use can not only have adverse effects on the body but also lead to dependency. During this period, women should ensure proper rest, engage in appropriate daytime activities, and maintain a regular lifestyle to help improve sleep quality. Additionally, maintaining a good mood is important. If you feel particularly depressed, it is advisable to consult a psychologist.