Chapter 13 – Fertility and the Hypogonadal Male
Abstract The appearance of Leydig cells within the testes of a 46XY fetus from 7–10 weeks gestation marks the onset of testosterone (T) secretion stimulated by placental gonadotrophin (hCG). T…
Chapter 8 – Assessment of Fallopian Tube Patency
Abstract Fallopian tubes make vital portals for the transfer of gametes and the early conceptus, and were named after Gabrielis Fallopius (Italy, 1423–1562) who first described the structures. Reinier De…
Chapter 12 – Tubal Factor Infertility and Tubal Surgery
Abstract Tubal factor infertility is a common cause for infertility worldwide. Prior to the introduction of in vitro fertilisation (IVF), tubal surgery was the mainstay of fertility treatment in women…
Chapter 11 – Fibroids and Fertility
Abstract Uterine fibroids are the most common pelvic tumours, occurring in 30% of women over the age of 30 years. Their incidence increases with age, and they are more common…
Chapter 9 – Endometriosis
Abstract The association between endometriosis and infertility is controversial, as endometriosis can be present in both fertile and infertile women. A review of the published studies showed that the prevalence…
Chapter 7 – Semen Analysis and Sperm Function Tests
Abstract Semen analysis is a fundamental part of male fertility investigation. Samples are produced by masturbation, ideally in a private room nearby to the andrology laboratory or submitted within one…
Chapter 6 – Overview of Management of Male Infertility
Abstract Male infertility is becoming a worldwide epidemic. Data suggest that there has been a constant decline in semen parameters throughout the decades of the 20th century with the mean…
Chapter 5 – Unexplained Infertility
Abstract It is estimated that infertility affects 1 in 7 heterosexual couples trying for a child in the United Kingdom. The main causes of infertility are as follows [Figure 5.1]…
Chapter 3 – Investigation of Male Infertility
Abstract Male factor infertility is a contributory factor for approximately 50% of couples that present seeking investigation and treatment for infertility, either in isolation (25%) or in combination with a…
Chapter 2 – Epidemiology of Infertility
Abstract Infertility is defined by WHO-ICMART as a disease of the reproductive system defined as the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 of more months of regular unprotected…
