Ófrjósemi

Ófrjósemi, often translated as infertility, refers to the inability of a person, animal, or plant to produce offspring. In humans, it is generally defined as the failure to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. This condition can affect both males and females, and the causes can be diverse and complex.

Infertility in women can stem from a variety of factors, including problems with ovulation, damage to the fallopian tubes, uterine abnormalities, or conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). For men, common causes include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, or blockages in the reproductive tract. Age is also a significant factor, with fertility declining in both sexes as they get older, particularly for women after the age of 35.

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress can also contribute to infertility. Certain medical treatments, like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can also impair fertility.

Diagnosis of infertility typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and a series of tests for both partners. These tests may include blood work to check hormone levels, imaging studies to visualize reproductive organs, and semen analysis for men.

Treatment options for infertility vary widely depending on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, medication to stimulate ovulation, surgical procedures to correct anatomical issues, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). The emotional and psychological impact of infertility can also be significant, and support services are often available for individuals and couples experiencing these challenges.