Infertility can involve multiple factors affecting one or both partners, making it important to determine the most appropriate treatment pathway rather than addressing problems in isolation, according to Dr Angana De, Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, Siliguri.
Dr De said there is no universal rule on which fertility problem should be treated first when both male and female factors are present. The decision depends on the severity of the conditions, the woman’s age and ovarian reserve, duration of infertility, previous pregnancies or treatments, and the couple’s likelihood of conceiving without assisted reproductive treatment.
She highlighted that time can be particularly important for women with diminished ovarian reserve or those of advanced reproductive age, as delaying fertility treatment to address a less time-sensitive factor could affect future reproductive options.
Treatment also depends on the underlying diagnosis. Ovulation induction may be considered when irregular ovulation is the primary issue and the fallopian tubes are open with adequate semen parameters. In cases of blocked fallopian tubes, IVF may be considered. Significant male-factor infertility may require treatment of an underlying condition or assisted reproductive techniques such as IUI or IVF with ICSI.
Dr De said treatment can sometimes address factors in parallel rather than sequentially. A comprehensive assessment of both partners can help determine which problems are treatable and whether delaying one aspect of care could affect the couple’s chances or available options.
