Nursing Assessment For Infertility

Infertility is seen as “a disease of the reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse” (2009). Infertility can be caused at birth or it can be developed over time due to various factors. It is commonly seen as a female’s issue or the female’s fault. However, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (2015), in 40% of couples with infertility, the female partner is either the sole or a contributing cause of infertility; in 40%, the male partner is either the sole or a contributing cause of infertility; and in the remaining 20% there are no identifiable reasons, which is labeled as unexplained infertility. There are copious factors

The patients current medical status, signs and symptoms, past medical problems, and family history should all be assessed by the nurse. When this information is given, medical professionals have a better idea of what the patient is likely experiencing and what the care plan should be.

Female Infertility Important information to take note of when caring for the female patient includes the following: the patient is 35 years or older, experiences irregular menstruation or none at all, has had previous miscarriages, has painful menstruations or has been diagnosed with endometriosis. Genetics. Women can be born with a genetic problem that causes infertility without it being known until reproduction is attempted. However, if other women within a family have experienced the same issues like endometriosis or premature menopause, the patient is at an increased risk for similar problems. Disrupted ovarian function. A disruption can lead to an absence of ovulation, also known as anovulation. These disruptions can be caused by numerous

According to Bergh, women with PCOS experience absent or infrequent menses, infertility, pain, acne, and excess hair growth, and ultrasound images show enlarged multicystic ovaries (Bergh). Lab findings typically show an increase of testosterone, which causes the acne and increased hair growth, and insulin resistance. Insulin resistance causes an abnormal response in the ovary that results in an increase in the amount of circulating androgens that lead to hyperandrogenism (fritz and speroff). PCOS is now known as the leading cause of infertility in women. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this syndrome, but changes in lifestyle and prescribing medications help alleviate the symptoms. Decreased egg count. With a normal functioning ovary and reproductive system, eggs will diminish at an expected rate over time. However, eggs can be depleted at a rate that is much greater than what is expected. As the CDC explains (2017), natural reproduction is still possible with this condition but fewer eggs are available to use. Amenorrhea. Amenorrhea is also known as the absence of a menses. Abnormal weight, stress, excessive exercising, and eating disorders are the common causes for this condition. Amenorrhea in these cases can be reversed with lifestyle changes that help promote