How to Treat or Cure Infertility

Many couples with infertility go on to have a child. Treatment depends on the cause, the woman's age and how long they have tried.

Step 1: evaluate both partners

Semen analysis, ovulation and hormone checks, ultrasound and tests of the tubes and uterus. About 1 in 5 couples have no clear cause.

Step 2: lifestyle and treatment of the cause

• Healthy weight, no smoking, limited alcohol
• Folic acid
• Treat thyroid disease, high prolactin, infection or diabetes
• Surgery for a varicocele, polyps, fibroids or endometriosis when appropriate

Step 3: medicines for ovulation

Clomiphene or letrozole, with monitoring, plus timed intercourse.

Step 4: assisted reproduction

• IUI: sometimes used for mild male factor, unexplained infertility or cervical factors
• IVF or ICSI: for blocked tubes, severe male factor, older age or when other treatments fail
• Donor eggs, sperm or embryos: an option when needed

Realistic expectations

Success depends on age and cause. Ask the specialist about your own chances and costs.

Emotional support

Counselling and support groups help. Take breaks if you need them.

Complementary care

Yoga, meditation and Ayurvedic lifestyle advice may support wellbeing. They do not replace evaluation or treatment.

Seek urgent care (call 112 or 102)

Severe lower belly pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, or rapid swelling and breathlessness during fertility treatment.

Key point

See a fertility specialist together, and do not wait too long, especially if the woman is 35 or older.

Before your appointment

Come as a couple if you can. Note how long you have been trying, cycle length and regularity, past pregnancies, surgeries, infections and medicines. Bring past reports and, if available, a semen analysis. List supplements and herbs you take, along with smoking, alcohol and exercise habits. Ask about tests, treatment options, costs, success rates and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.