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The Difference Between Sterility & Infertility

For those struggling to start a family, “sterility” and “infertility” may seem like interchangeable terms, and yet there are distinct differences. A person under 35 who has not been able to conceive within 12 months or more of well-timed sex is said to be clinically infertile (6 months of less for those 35 and older). Fortunately, infertility is treatable and many formerly infertile couples go on to conceive successfully and build their families. Assisted reproductive technologies like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) can help infertile women achieve pregnancy successfully.

Common causes of infertility include:

Sterility on the other hand, means a person is unable to conceive, even with medical interventions like IVF. This condition is often the result of a surgical procedure such as vasectomy, hysterectomy, or tubal ligation. Some chromosomal disorders like Klinefelter’s syndrome can also result in sterility.

What to Do If You Want a Child But You Are Infertile or Sterile

If you’re trying to conceive for months on end without success, you may be curious whether you or your partner, or perhaps both of you, are the source of your disappointment. It can be hard not to blame yourself, but try to stay optimistic and recognize that human biology is very complex and specific imbalances can impact your fertility. Both the male and female partner trying to conceive can undergo infertility testing to check what factors need to be adjusted to have a better chance of improving your fertility.

Sterility, although untreatable, doesn’t mean you cannot become a parent – but your road to parenthood will be different. For women experiencing sterility, they may opt to choose a gestational carrier to have your baby with an egg donor’s biological material to fulfill your dreams of motherhood. In couples where the man is sterile, the female partner may opt for IUI treatment to have a baby via a sperm donor.

Make an Appointment for Infertility Testing at Palm Beach Fertility Center

Are you concerned you may be infertile, or even sterile? Our fertility expert, Dr. Mark Denker, can help explain what is standing between you and parenthood. With more than 25 years of experience in his field, Dr. Denker can give you instructions about proper diet, nutritional supplements, weight loss, lifestyle choices, and sexual behavior you should practice to increase your odds of success.

To book your appointment at Palm Beach Fertility Center, please call (888) 819-5177.