infertility

Question 1

what are the causes of infertility?

Answer 1

• male factor (30%)
• unexplained (20%)
• ovulation failure (20%)
• tubal damage (15%)
• other causes (15%)

Question 2

what are the basic investigations done for infertility?

Answer 2

1. semen analysis

2. serum progesterone: 7 days prior to expected next period e.g. for a typical 28 day cycle, this is done on day 21

Question 3

what does a serum progestogen level of <16 nmol/L mean?

Answer 3

repeat, if consistently low, refer to specialist

Question 4

what does a serum progestogen level of 16-30 nmol/L mean?

Answer 4

repeat

Question 5

what does a serum progestogen level of >30 nmol/L mean?

Answer 5

indicates ovulation

Question 6

what are key counselling points for infertility?

Answer 6

• folic acid
• aim for BMI 20-25
• advise regular sexual intercourse every 2-3 days
• smoking/drinking advice