Infertility (Nov 28, 2023 - Dec 31, 2024)

Infertility is organized by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Publication Date: April 2018
Review Date: February 2021
CME End Date: December 31, 2024

Description:
Infertility is a disease defined by the failure to achieve a successful pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected intercourse and affects approximately 12% of the reproductive-aged population. A basic infertility evaluation of the couple is essential to determine the cause(s) and the appropriate treatment or need for referral. However, clinical practice decisions are affected by limited data on efficacy of infertility screening tests in relation to clinical outcome, changing practice patterns, and lack of evidence as the basis for many infertility treatments and procedures.

This presentation addresses the causes of male and female infertility, provides guidance for performing a pertinent physical examination and patient history, and outlines the basic diagnostic tests for assessing the most common causes of infertility and their interpretation.

By the end of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Define infertility and provide epidemiologic data for infertility in the United States
• Review the etiologies of female and male infertility
• Describe the evaluation of female and male infertility
• Select appropriate treatment options for infertility
• Discuss the psychosocial aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of infertility

Treatments discussed include non gonadotropin therapies and the role of selected surgical procedures. Also discussed are indications for referral to a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist or urologist and counseling for patients regarding their prognosis and options for family building.