Pinpoint the Cause of Infertility to Get a Proper Treatment

"Infertility, as faced by Western countries, can be observed from the couples who are married for 12 months and yet still experience no pregnancy," said dr. Imelda E B. Hutagaol, Sp.OG(K), obstetrician-gynecologist of RSUD Arifin Achmad of Riau Province, a Lecturer of the Faculty of Medicine of Universitas Riau (FK UNRI), Pekanbaru.

What are the causes?

"To identify fertility problems, we need to take a test. For women, the test is conducted through USG and vaginal tests to assess the condition of the ovary, uterus, cervix, and endometrium. USG is usually performed during the third day of period. It is to see if there is any disorder in the vagina. Also, to check the structure of the reproductive system. It must be complete. It must be in correct position. Another purpose of the test is to identify if the ovary is normal," said dr. Imelda.

"HSG (Histosalphingography) is a pelvic cavity test to analyze its condition by inserting a contrast agent into the uterus, allowing the X-ray images to be clearly seen. We will see if there is any swelling or blockage. Additionally, we can also check for disorder in the uterine cavity such as uterus that does not develop well. If the uterus is branched," she added.

According to dr. Imelda, before the advanced hormone test exists, infertility can be identified simply by taking a look at the ovary through USG. "Now, a faster and more accurate test can be conducted to determine the success of fertility therapy, it is Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) a test to reveal the number of ovarian follicles supply," she said.

"Whereas sperm analysis is performed to men. It is the best parameter. If the sperm quality is low, there will be follow-up analyses such as hormone tests or testicular examination," dr. Imelda added.

"Infertility on men is usually inherited. In most cases, it is caused by sperm quality factor. For women, it is on the contrary apart from the ovary, there is also an anatomical problem. It is possible for women to have congenital disorder, for example, there is a uterus but the vagina does not develop perfectly," said dr. Imelda.

Tips for those suffering from infertility

"If you have infertility, immediately consult an obstetrician-gynecologist. Try to come during period, because that is the best time to assess the condition of your ovary and uterus. Also, bring along your husband. Don' t come alone. In Indonesia, there is a stereotype that women is the one responsible for infertility. Meanwhile according to the latest studies, more men are experiencing the same thing. In fact, despite the young age, people in their 20s may also have the problem. Tell the main problem to your doctor. Inform the doctor if you have menstrual disorder. Be honest to your doctor or he/she won' t be able to help you," dr. Imelda suggested.

"In any case, after performing USG, your doctor will summarize the test. The therapy will be adjusted to the disorder found in the test. If a corrective surgery is necessary, don' t hesitate as it is important to improve your fertility. For women who are too thin, fix your diet. Pay attention to what you eat, it affects you. Your doctor will tell you if you have eaten sufficient carbohydrate, fat, protein, and fiber. And what needs to be added to your diet," dr. Imelda concluded.