Overview
Think sterility and infertility are the same thing? Well, you are in for a surprise. These two terms carry completely different meanings and origins in the fertility world, yet are still used interchangeably quite often. This is why we bring you this article to understand what sets these two terms apart. Also, we will explore how doctors diagnose and treat these two issues of fertility.
Introduction to Sterility and Infertility?
In the conquest of these most commonly exchangeable terms, let’s describe each of them in their real meaning, one by one:
What is Sterility?
Sterility is defined as the inability to conceive, regardless of how often or how long a couple may try. This happens when either the reproductive organ is unable to produce gametes (Sperm and Eggs) or when there is no pathway for the gametes to travel due to structural abnormalities, such as blocked or absent fallopian tubes and vas deferens. Sterility can be present at birth or may develop afterwards due to surgeries or other treatments. Most people with sterility cannot conceive naturally and need advanced programs like donor programs and surrogacy.
What is Infertility?
Infertility, as per the WHO, is defined as the difficulty in conceiving despite regular sex for more than a year or 6 months for women above 35 years. This may arise due to underlying causes, hindering the proper production of sperm or ovum, structural issues like fibroids, age-related decline or simply a hormonal imbalance. Infertility is often treated, and most couples go on to conceive naturally or with fertility treatments like IVF, IUI, and ICSI.
Differences between Sterility and Infertility:
| Factor | Sterility | Infertility |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Sterility is considered as the permanent inability to bear one's own offspring under any natural or medical circumstances. | Infertility is the temporary difficulty in conceiving, which needs assistance, but conception is still possible. |
| Cause | It occurs due to irreversible circumstances of fertility, such as structural or genetic disability of the uterus or penis. | It is mostly reversible, as the underlying causes can mostly be corrected or supported. |
| Biological Pathway | In this, there is no biological pathway for a natural pregnancy. | Infertility just temporarily impairs the childbearing potential; therefore, there remain biological as well as medical pathways to pregnancy. |
| Conception Attempts | In sterility, it does not matter when or how many times a couple tries to achieve conception, as conception is impossible. | Infertility can be identified with unsuccessful attempts for conception for a year, and seeking medical help in time. Therefore, making conception possible. |
| Alternative Options | Sterility may encourage trying alternative routes, such as donor programs, adoption, or surrogacy, depending on the couple’s desire and needs. | Infertility gives an open window to achieve a healthy and successful pregnancy with timely intervention, like lifestyle changes and medical support. |
| Psychological Impact | Sometimes sterility is preferable in that it provides finality and early clarity for couples in family-building options. | Infertility often leaves couples with uncertainties about taking a clear stance for their future family planning. |
How Doctors Diagnose Sterility and Infertility
The diagnosis for sterility and infertility is basically the same; however, based on the tests and analysis, the conclusion is determined. Since both conditions can look similar in the beginning, doctors move through structured assessments that reveal how the reproductive system is functioning. Here’s how this assessment may look to a couple:
1. Detailed Medical History:
The assessment begins with a discussion about the medical history of the couple. This includes discussion about the menstrual cycle patterns, sexual health and frequency of intercourse, previous pregnancies or miscarriages, and family history with sterility or infertility.
2. Physical Examination:
Physical examination is done to assess the structural issues of men and women. That is, in women, a pelvic exam is done to evaluate the structure of the uterus, and for men, a testicular test is done to analyse the size and shape of the penis. Apart from these tests, physical examination also includes checking for the hormonal signs like acne, hair growth changes or breast changes.
3. Hormonal Testing:
Hormonal testing is done separately for both men and women, such as:
- In women, the major hormones assessed include FSH, LH, AMH, thyroid hormones, and prolactin.
- In men, testosterone, FSH, and LH are among the main hormones that need to be assessed.
4. Semen Analysis:
As the name suggests, this test is linked with men and is done to assess the sperm count, movement, and shape of the sperm. In results, the repeated absence of sperm in semen may point towards sterility, and in case of poor sperm count, shape, and mobility, it will be counted as infertility.
5. Imaging Tests:
Ultrasounds are also done to assess the uterus, ovaries, and testicular health. Specifically, HSG is used to check for blocked fallopian tubes, and scrotal ultrasound is used to detect the varicocele or structural issues of the testes in men.
6. Genetic Testing:
Genetic testing is done when the initial discussions have confirmed to have a congenital issue. Note that these tests do not always point towards sterility.
Apart from these tests, ovulation and egg release assessment, laparoscopy, and hysteroscopy are other diagnostic tests used to assess sterility and infertility.
Treatment Options for Sterility and Infertility:
For treatment, unfortunately, sterility does not find many solutions as infertility. That is, infertility responds far better to medical intervention than sterility. In fact, there are no treatments but just alternatives available to bear a child in case of sterility. Let’s explore these options in detail here:
Treatment Options for Infertility:
Infertility treatment depends upon its underlying cause and may include:
- Ovulation induction through medications to counter egg-release related infertility.
- Hormonal therapies for both men and women to balance hormonal issues.
- Lifestyle improvements for both men and women, such as stress management, weight reduction, adequate sleep, and alcohol avoidance.
- Surgeries to remove fibroids, correct endometriosis, adhesions, and varicocele, or blocked tubes.
- Advanced reproductive techniques, such as IVF, IUI, and ICSI, are used when other methods fail to work.
Alternatives for Couples Facing Sterility:
There are several ways for couples who experience infertility to become parents. Infertility prevents the natural ability to conceptualise, but the following options are available to couples who experience infertility:
- If one partner is infertile, a donor egg, sperm or embryo option will be available;
- If the woman is infertile, then surrogacy is an option; or
- If both partners are infertile, the only option available will be adoption.
Conclusion:
Finally, it can be concluded that the terms sterility and infertility hold completely different meanings. Understanding both clears up the confusion and provides clarity on your future endeavours to achieve pregnancy. Where treatments find their way through infertility, they still struggle to do so with sterility, and hence require different approaches for the conditions. The treatment may be different, but one thing is certain: early diagnosis helps couples make decisions about what they want based on their potential. So, don’t wait and seek an accurate diagnosis for anything you suspect as sterility or infertility.
Common Questions Asked
Can lifestyle habits affect fertility even if all medical tests look normal?
Yes, lifestyle habits, such as stress, poor sleep, and smoking & drinking, can increase the chances of conceiving naturally.
Is age the same factor for men and women in fertility?
No, fertility declines sharply in women with age, while men experience a slower drop.
Can frequent miscarriages be linked to undiagnosed fertility issues?
Yes, repeated losses may signal genetic or hormonal concerns.
Does long-term birth control use cause infertility?
No, birth control or contraceptives do not usually affect fertility, and the potential to conceive can be regained once you stop them.
Can infections impact future fertility?
Untreated pelvic or testicular infections can reduce reproductive function.
Are home fertility tests reliable?
They offer clues but cannot replace professional evaluation.