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fertility, ability of an individual or couple to reproduce through normal sexual activity. About 90 percent of healthy, fertile women are able to conceive within one year if they have intercourse regularly without contraception. Normal fertility requires the production of enough healthy sperm by the male and viable eggs by the female, successful passage of the sperm through open ducts from the male testes to the female fallopian tubes, penetration of a healthy egg, and implantation of the fertilized egg in the lining of the uterus (see reproductive system).
Female Fertility: In females, fertility is primarily determined by the presence and regularity of menstrual cycles. The ability to release healthy eggs from the ovaries and have them fertilized by sperm is essential for conception. Factors that can affect female fertility include age, hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and certain medical conditions.
Male Fertility: Male fertility is determined by the quantity and quality of sperm. Factors that can affect male fertility include age, sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to environmental toxins can also impact male fertility.
Age and Fertility: Fertility declines with age, especially in women. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and the quality of these eggs tends to decrease as they get older. This decline in fertility becomes more significant after the age of 35. Men also experience a gradual decline in fertility as they age, but it tends to be less pronounced than in women.
Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors can influence fertility in both men and women. These include maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, managing stress, and having a balanced diet. Obesity and extreme underweight can also negatively impact fertility.
Medical Interventions: There are various medical interventions available to address fertility issues. These can include fertility medications, in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). These treatments can help individuals and couples with fertility challenges achieve pregnancy.
Fertility Preservation: Some individuals may choose to preserve their fertility for future use. This can include techniques like egg freezing for women or sperm banking for men. Fertility preservation can be beneficial for those facing medical treatments that may impact their fertility, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.