What it means
A problem that can come from either partner, or both. Causes in women include problems with ovulationov-yuh-LAY-shunThe release of a mature egg from an ovary, usually once in each menstrual cycle.Full entry , blocked fallopian tubefuh-LOH-pee-un TOOBOne of the two tubes that carry an egg from the ovary to the uterus, where fertilization usually happens.Full entry (for example after pelvic inflammatory diseasePEL-vik in-FLAM-uh-tor-ee dih-ZEEZInfection of the female upper reproductive organs: the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.Full entry ) and endometriosisen-doh-mee-tree-OH-sisA condition in which tissue like the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.endo- withinmetr/o uterus-osis conditionFull entry ; in men, low numbers or poor movement of sperm. Age is a strong factor. Treatments range from drugs that start ovulation to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
For the nurse
Offer emotional support, since infertility can strain mood and relationships. Teach how to track ovulation and how to take fertility drugs as ordered.
At a glance
| Spanish | infertilidad |
|---|---|
| Also written | infertile |
Related terms
progesterone
A female sex hormone that prepares the lining of the uterus for pregnancy and helps keep a pregnancy going, also given as a drug.
pelvic inflammatory disease
Infection of the female upper reproductive organs: the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
endometriosis
A condition in which tissue like the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
ovulation
The release of a mature egg from an ovary, usually once in each menstrual cycle.