Abstract and Introduction
Background: Approximately 20% of reproductive age couples have difficulty conceiving or maintaining an established pregnancy. The family physician is in a unique position to provide patient education, begin initial evaluation, make appropriate referrals, and offer ongoing counseling and support to couples who experience problems with fertility.
Methods: And extensive clinical review was conducted based on a MEDLINE search, the Cochrane database of systematic reviews, and other supporting evidence.
Results: Major physiologic influences affecting live birth rates include age, coital frequency, and duration of infertility. Male factor is associated with approximately 40% of these cases and should be addressed early in the evaluation.
Conclusion: Many conditions once considered untreatable can now be routinely corrected. As managed care programs expand coverage to include infertility services, primary care providers will be asked to participate in the initial phase of this care. This article offers a practical approach.
Family physicians are frequently the first clinicians consulted by patients concerned about potential infertility. Because of the anxiety that often accompanies early attempts to conceive, it is important for providers to have accurate knowledge about what represents normal fecundity, when a couple’s fertility should be investigated, and the availability of various treatment options. Establishing a good referral network of specialists is essential in dealing with difficult cases and in helping couples achieve successful pregnancies.