Having children is one of the most meaningful dreams for many couples. However, some couples may face difficulties completing this process naturally. One of the most common issues encountered at this point is infertility. According to the World Health Organization, about 10-15% of couples worldwide struggle with infertility.
The good news is: thanks to advancing medicine and holistic approaches, infertility is now a manageable and often treatable condition.
What is Infertility?
Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. For women over 35 years old, this period is shortened to 6 months.
Female-Related Causes
- Ovulation disorders (anovulation)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid diseases
- Excessive stress, weight problems
- Premature ovarian failure
- Tubal blockage (tubal factor)
- Past infections (chlamydia, tuberculosis)
- Endometriosis
- Previous surgeries
- Uterine issues
- Polyps, fibroids, intrauterine adhesions
- Uterine shape abnormalities (septum, bicornuate uterus)
- Cervical factors
- Cervical mucus preventing sperm passage
- Antibody formation
Male-Related Causes
- Low sperm count (oligospermia)
- Poor sperm motility (asthenospermia)
- Abnormal sperm morphology (teratospermia)
- Absence of sperm (azoospermia)
- Varicocele (varicose veins in the testes)
- Genetic factors, infections, lifestyle influences
Unexplained or Combined Infertility
In about 15-20% of couples, no specific cause is found. This is called "unexplained infertility." Treatment success is still high in these cases.
How Does the Diagnosis Process Work?
For Women:
- Hormone tests (FSH, LH, AMH, prolactin, TSH)
- Ultrasound (ovarian reserve and uterine assessment)
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): checks if tubes are open
- Hysteroscopy: intrauterine imaging
For Men:
- Sperm analysis (semenogram)
- Hormonal and genetic tests if necessary
- Scrotal ultrasound (for varicocele)
Treatment Options
Treatment plans depend on the cause of infertility, the couple’s age, and their desires.
1. Ovulation Induction with Medication
- Used in women who do not ovulate
- Performed with clomiphene citrate, letrozole, or gonadotropins
- Dosage adjusted with ultrasound monitoring
2. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
- Preferred for mild male factor or unexplained infertility
- Prepared sperm is injected into the uterus at ovulation time
3. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
- Used if tubes are blocked, sperm is severely abnormal, or advanced maternal age
- Eggs retrieved from the woman are fertilized with sperm in the lab and implanted in the uterus
- ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) can be used to fertilize with a single sperm
4. Laparoscopic Surgery
- Used in cases of endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or tubal blockage
- Prepares the environment before IVF
Supporting with a Holistic Approach
Dr. Engin Sarıca integrates not only modern medical treatments but also holistic support methods into the infertility treatment process. Holistic supports include:
- Nutrition planning: hormone-friendly diet, insulin balance
- Acupuncture: improves uterine blood flow, enhances egg quality
- Stress management: meditation, breathing exercises, psychological support
- Microbiota-regulating probiotics
Holistic supports should be seen as complementary to medical treatment.
When to Start Treatment?
- If no pregnancy occurs after 1 year of regular intercourse (under age 35)
- If no pregnancy after 6 months of trying (over age 35)
Immediate doctor consultation if there are risk factors such as irregular menstruation, severe endometriosis, azoospermia
There is Hope: With Patience and Support
Infertility is not only a medical challenge but also an emotional one. Mutual support between partners, working with a trusted specialist, and holistic care for the body increase the chances of success.
Personalized Infertility Treatment with Dr. Engin Sarıca
Every couple’s story is unique. Therefore, Dr. Engin Sarıca provides individualized plans, up-to-date treatment options, and holistic approaches. The goal is not just pregnancy but a healthy and happy journey.
