Reproductive Health: Fertility Treatments and Contraception

Assisted Reproductive Technologies

• Artificial Insemination: Used when sperm count is low or motility is insufficient. It involves depositing sperm directly into the reproductive tract.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Recommended for fallopian tube blockages. Hormones stimulate the production of multiple eggs, which are surgically retrieved, fertilized in a lab, and then implanted into the uterus. This can sometimes result in multiple pregnancies.

Contraceptive Methods

• Barrier Methods: Prevent sperm from reaching the egg. These include the condom (the only method that also prevents STIs) and the diaphragm, a membrane placed over the cervix.
• Anovulatory Methods: Prevent ovulation using hormones, such as birth control pills, injections, or patches.
• Sterilization: Permanent procedures including tubal ligation and vasectomy.
• Implantation Inhibitors: Block embryo implantation. Examples include the IUD (a copper device that alters the endometrium) and the morning-after pill (hormones that induce menstruation).
• Natural Methods: Includes the Ogino method (calculating the fertile period to avoid intercourse) and withdrawal (extracting the penis prior to ejaculation).

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

• Gonorrhea: A common STI. In women, it causes yellow-green discharge; in men, it infects the urethra, causing itching and secretions.
• Candidiasis: Characterized by red patches on the skin and mucous membranes, causing itching and pain.
• Genital Herpes: A viral infection characterized by painful, itchy vesicles across the genital area.
• AIDS: A viral disease transmitted through blood or sexual contact. While currently incurable, medication can improve life expectancy. Early symptoms resemble a cold, followed by an asymptomatic carrier stage before full symptoms develop. Prevention is best achieved through consistent condom use.