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Infertility is the inability to naturally conceive a child or the inability to carry a pregnancy to term. There are many reasons why a couple may not be able to conceive, or may not be able to conceive without medical assistance. (Note: although some aspects of this article may be generalizable, it deals primarily with infertility as pertains to human couples.)
Definition
The International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination (INCIID) considers a couple to be infertile if:
- they have not conceived after 12 months of unprotected intercourse, or after 6 months if the woman is over 35 years of age. The reduced duration for women over 35 is because there is a rapid decline in fertility after this age and help should be sought sooner.
- there is incapability to carry a pregnancy to term.
Causes
This section deals with unintentional causes of sterility. For more information about surgical techniques for preventing procreation, see sterilization.
Primary vs. secondary
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, infertility affects about 6.1 million people in the U.S., equivalent to ten percent of the reproductive age population. Female infertility accounts for one third of infertility cases, male infertility for another third, combined male and female infertility for another 15%, and the remainder of cases are "unexplained". More on [ Infertility ]
Fertility Friends - UK-based online support for those struggling with reduced and infertility. Includes pages to ask professional guidance.
Meta Description: [ Infertility Support, making a positive difference in the lives of those experiencing the pain of infertility and the joys when its overcome. ]
Fertilityzone - Fertility and parenting online forum. Free registration required.
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority - Government body proviving guidance and monitoring of fertility treatment in the UK.
Meta Description: [ The homepage of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority website. ]
Infertileworld - Online interactive magazine with news and articles concerning infertility, treatment and emotional effects.
Meta Description: [ Infertility World - The online IVF'ers interactive magazine with news and articles. ]
Infertility Network UK - Support and information to people undergoing infertility investigations or treatment. Includes sub-section for those who choose not to continue treatment. Membership required for some sections.
Meta Description: [ Mambo - the dynamic portal engine and content management system ]
Life Fertility Programme - Assessment, treatment and support for reproductive health and fertility with body-friendly programmes, healthcare and counselling for women. Features an assessment form for feedback on recommended courses of action.
Meta Description: [ FertilityCare, UK Fertility Treatment Programme, NaPro Technology ]
