What Is Infertility? What Tests Are Needed?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after more than six months of unprotected intercourse. It does not mean pregnancy is impossible, only that the chances are reduced. Common causes include female factors (ovulation issues, hormonal imbalances, uterine or fallopian tube abnormalities), male factors (low sperm count, poor motility, sperm production or transport issues, sexual dysfunction), combined factors, and unexplained infertility. The cause distribution is approximately 30% female, 30% male, and 40% combined or unexplained. Initial evaluations can include ovarian reserve testing (AMH), hysterosalpingography or hysteroscopy for women, and semen analysis for men (recommended after 3–5 days of abstinence) to determine the cause and guide treatment.

IUI Procedure Overview

The intrauterine insemination (IUI) process consists of three steps: Step 1, ovulation induction (menstrual cycle days 1–3), using injections or oral medication to stimulate ovulation, with possible blood tests and vaginal ultrasounds as advised by the doctor. Step 2, monitoring follicle maturation (cycle days 8–12, about three visits), through blood tests and ultrasounds to assess development and determine the optimal timing for insemination. Step 3, insemination (cycle days 13–15), with the male partner abstaining for two days before sperm collection. After processing, the most motile sperm are placed into the uterine cavity. The procedure takes only a few minutes, requires no anesthesia, and is followed by 30 minutes of rest. A pregnancy blood test is done 14 days later.

Difference Between IUI and IVF

With the trend of late marriage and childbearing, egg quality declines with age, leading to more couples facing infertility. The ovaries are key to female fertility; in addition to early egg freezing to reduce future difficulty in conceiving, modern medicine offers assisted reproductive technologies to increase pregnancy rates. Assisted reproduction includes intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). IUI involves inducing ovulation, monitoring follicle maturity, and placing processed sperm directly into the uterus. IVF involves stimulating ovulation, retrieving eggs and sperm, fertilizing them in the lab, and transferring embryos or blastocysts. Since July 1, 2021, the government has provided IVF subsidies for infertile couples, with up to NT$100,000 for the first child.

Family history of breast cancer is not recommended to use DHEA

DHEA is an intermediate product in the production of estrogen, androgen, and progesterone hormones. Even without supplementation, our bodies naturally secrete DHEA, which also helps in the production of other hormones. After adulthood, the secretion of DHEA gradually decreases with age. Among infertility groups, DHEA is often used as a supplement to boost energy supply […]