Infertility Is Not One Person’s Problem: Comparing Treatment Approaches for Women and Men

Infertility – A Shared Challenge with Different Paths to Treatment

When it comes to infertility, society often assumes that most problems come from the woman. In reality, the causes of infertility are almost equally split between women and men, with some cases due to combined factors or unexplained reasons. Overcoming infertility is therefore not the responsibility of one partner alone, but a journey that couples must walk together. However, diagnostic methods and treatment processes differ greatly between men and women. Understanding these differences helps both partners prepare and plan effectively.

Diagnosing and Treating Infertility in Women

For women, diagnosis focuses on the complexity of the reproductive system—from the ovaries and fallopian tubes to the uterus.

Diagnostic Tests

Identifying the cause of infertility in women often requires multiple assessments to gain a complete picture of reproductive health:

• Hormone blood tests: To assess ovarian function, ovulation, and ovarian reserve, including FSH, LH, AMH, and thyroid hormones.

• Transvaginal ultrasound: To examine the uterus and ovaries, detect fibroids, cysts, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): A dye test to check whether fallopian tubes are blocked, a major obstacle to fertilization.

Treatment Approaches 

Treatment for women depends on the underlying cause found:

• Ovulation induction medication: For women with irregular cycles or lack of ovulation.

• Surgery: To remove uterine fibroids, adhesions, or endometriomas (chocolate cysts) that interfere with pregnancy.

• Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Such as IVF, especially for severe fallopian tube blockage or complex infertility cases.

Diagnosing and Treating Infertility in Men

For men, diagnosis is generally more straightforward, focusing mainly on sperm health.

Diagnostic Tests 

The standard and most important test is Semen Analysis, which provides insights into three key aspects:

• Count: The number of sperm present.

• Motility: The sperm’s ability to swim forward.

• Morphology: The shape and structure of sperm, to assess normality. In some cases, hormone blood tests may also be performed.

Treatment Approaches 

Treatment for men depends on the severity of the problem:

• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough rest can improve sperm quality in mild cases.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Selected healthy sperm are placed directly into the uterus—suitable for mild male infertility.

• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A highly advanced technique performed with IVF, where a single healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg. Ideal for severe male infertility or cases where sperm must be retrieved from the testes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Who should be tested for infertility first?

A: Ideally, both partners should be evaluated together. Male testing is simple and quick, while female testing is more complex. Testing together saves time and helps doctors plan treatment with complete information.

Q: Does infertility occur more often in women or men? 

A: Medical statistics show that infertility causes are split: about one-third from women, one-third from men, and the rest due to combined factors or unexplained causes. It is therefore unfair to place blame on either partner.

Q: Do we need to see separate specialists? 

A: Not necessarily. You can start at a fertility clinic, such as Siam Fertility Clinic, where a multidisciplinary team of specialists coordinates care for both partners in one place.

Overcoming Infertility Together – At Siam Fertility Clinic

The most effective infertility treatment begins by viewing the problem as “ours”, not “yours” or “mine.” Success comes from comprehensive diagnosis, tailored planning, and mutual support—not from focusing on one partner alone.

At Siam Fertility Clinic, we believe in holistic care for couples. Our specialist team provides personalized consultations and treatment plans designed specifically for you and your partner, ensuring every step is guided by understanding and hope. Schedule an appointment with us today and start building your family together.

If you are planning to conceive and seeking advice on IUI, ICSI, IVF , IVF Thailand, consult our fertility specialists to explore the best options for you.