Assessment and initial management of infertility

The rate of infertility is increasing in this country. Primary and secondary infertility affect almost 25% of all couples of childbearing age. Because of the large number of couples affected by infertility, primary care nurse practitioners (NPs) should expect to encounter this problem within their practice. Initial assessment, diagnosis, and management, as well as education, consultation, and support, are well within NPs' scope of practice. This article details the initial history, physical examination, and tests that might precede referral to an infertility specialist. The psychosocial aspect of infertility is also addressed.