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Infertility is a medical condition characterized by the inability to conceive a child or maintain a pregnancy. It can affect both men and women, but female infertility is more commonly diagnosed. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infertility affects approximately 48.5 million couples worldwide.

The causes of infertility can be physical, medical, or lifestyle-related. For women, ovulation disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and fallopian tube damage or blockage can contribute to infertility. Men's factors include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm shape. Medical conditions such as hormone imbalances, thyroid disorders, and cancer treatment can also impact fertility.

Infertility can be classified into primary and secondary categories. Primary infertility refers to individuals who have never conceived a child, while secondary infertility is when a couple cannot conceive after previously having a child. Diagnostic tests for infertility often include semen analysis, hysterosalpingography, and laparoscopy. Treatment options may involve fertility medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF).

The emotional and psychological impact of infertility on individuals and couples can be significant. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common complications for those experiencing fertility difficulties. Support groups and counseling can provide a coping mechanism for these challenges.

While there is no definitive cure for infertility, various treatments and therapies can help couples achieve conception. Advances in reproductive medicine have improved the success rates of fertility treatments, offering hope for individuals and couples struggling with infertility.