Infertility - Symptoms
Inability to get pregnant is the main symptom of infertility. Other associated symptoms may or may not occur. Symptoms can vary depending on the cause of infertility.
Infertility symptoms in men are:
- Changes in hair growth
- Alterations in sexual desire
- Pain, lump or swelling in testicles
- Problem with erection and ejaculation
- Small and firm testicles
Infertility symptoms in women are:
Alterations in the menstrual cycle can be a possible symptom of a disorder associated with infertility in women. Typical symptoms include –
- Abnormal periods - Bleeding is heavy or less than usual
- Irregular periods - Number of days in between each period differs every month
- No periods
- Painful periods that can cause backache, pelvic pain or cramping
When infertility in women is due to a hormonal cause, the symptoms include –
- Skin changes and more acne
- Changes in sex drive
- Hair growth on chest, chin and above the lips
- Loss of hair or thinning of hair
- Weight gain
Complications
Complications in infertile couples are associated with the diverse forms of techniques considered for them. These may include side effects of medications used for treating infertility. Such medications can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache and stomach pain. A condition leading to the production of large quantities of eggs in the ovaries can be caused in women considered for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). The risk of ectopic pregnancy, causing implantation of the embryo in the fallopian tubes instead of the womb, is high in women undergoing IVF. Also, there is an increased chance of multiple pregnancies due to IVF.
Complications in men
- Testicular atrophy (In case of persistent varicoceles)
- Decreased sexual drive
- Decreased muscle mass
Homeopathic measures
An increasing number of people affected by infertility are considering homeopathy, as it enables a holistic approach for the treatment of infertility as compared to the allopathic measures. Lifestyle and nutritional factor are altered and psychological problems are managed with this approach.
A study of 67 women showed 57% improvement in fertility with homeopathy. Endometriosis is a cause of infertility. Research has signified that homeopathy has been perceived by women to be useful in treating endometriosis.
A study including sub-fertile men proved that homeopathy improved both the number and quality of sperms. Thus, homeopathy should be regarded as a feasible treatment strategy for couples with infertility.
