barrenness

Barrenness is the condition of being unable to bear offspring or to achieve pregnancy after a prolonged period of regular unprotected intercourse. In medical usage, the term infertility is more common, and it distinguishes couples who are not conceiving despite trying from those who cannot conceive at all (sterility).

Causes can be broadly categorized into female factors, male factors, combined or unexplained. In women, common issues include ovulatory disorders (such as polycystic ovary syndrome), fallopian tube obstruction, uterine anomalies, and age-related decline in egg quantity and quality. In men, factors include low sperm production or motility, genetic or acquired conditions, infections, hormonal imbalances, or structural problems. Lifestyle and environmental factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol use, obesity, and exposure to certain chemicals can affect fertility in both sexes. In many cases, causes remain unexplained.

Diagnosis involves history, physical examination, and targeted tests: semen analysis; assessment of ovulation; imaging to evaluate the uterus and fallopian tubes; and hormonal testing or ovarian reserve testing in women. Treatment depends on the cause and may include lifestyle changes, medications to induce ovulation, surgery to correct anatomical problems, or assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Adoption is another option.

Prognosis varies with age, cause, and access to treatment; some couples conceive with simple interventions, while others may require advanced therapies. Barrenness is a sensitive and sometimes stigmatized condition; social support and counseling can be helpful.