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Epidemiology of infertility
1Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
Current Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Recent research questions the effectiveness of certain infertility diagnostic tests. However, epidemiologic studies show that infertility treatments, including assisted reproductive technologies, are safe for mothers and babies.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Infertility Research
Background:
- Recent literature emphasizes the epidemiologic evaluation of infertility diagnostic and therapeutic measures.
- The predictive accuracy of the postcoital test and sperm penetration assays is under scrutiny, especially for female infertility.
- There is a need for improved prognostic guidelines for assisted reproductive technologies and cost-effective screening methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the epidemiologic evidence regarding infertility diagnostic and therapeutic measures.
- To assess the prognostic value of existing tests for infertility.
- To investigate the safety of infertility treatments for maternal and infant health.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent epidemiologic investigations and literature on infertility.
- Analysis of studies evaluating diagnostic tests like the postcoital test and sperm penetration assays.
- Examination of data on assisted reproductive technologies such as artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization.
Main Results:
- The predictive value of the postcoital test and sperm penetration assays is questioned.
- Studies are exploring better prognostic guidelines for assisted reproductive technologies.
- Epidemiologic investigations found no adverse health effects of infertility therapy on mothers or babies.
Conclusions:
- The effectiveness of certain traditional infertility tests requires further investigation.
- Advancements in assisted reproductive technologies necessitate updated prognostic guidelines.
- Current infertility therapies appear safe for maternal and infant outcomes based on recent epidemiologic data.
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