Understanding Infertility

On today’s show, Dr. Anitha Nair, Reproductive Endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility Center, gave her take on the medical risks associated with Trent Arsenault’s private, one-man, unregulated sperm bank, and shared her top three tips on what everyone needs to know about in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Now, Dr. Nair shares more information on infertility and provides her recommended guidelines for the use of donor sperm from an anonymous or known donor.

The below information has been provided by Shady Grove Fertility Center and Dr. Anitha Nair:

Approximately 7 million, or 1 in 6 couples will have difficulty conceiving and may need medical help to identify and treat the possible causes of infertility. The good news is that there are treatment options now to help almost everyone have a baby.

Women who are generally healthy and have been unsuccessful in conceiving after several months of unprotected sex should consider getting help from a specialist. American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines recommend that women under the age of 35 consult with a fertility specialist after one year of unsuccessfully trying to conceive, while those 35 or older should schedule a consultation after six months. For women over the age of 40, a consultation with a fertility specialist is highly recommended as soon as possible.

Infertility affects men and women equally without discrimination, and for this reason both partners should actively participate in the diagnosis and treatment process. In addition, if you have a known, pre-existing condition that may prevent you from conceiving, it is time to seek medical help.

Donor Sperm
In cases of infertility where male sperm is not available or effective for treatment, donor sperm may be recommended by your doctor. The use of donor sperm from an anonymous or known donor should follow the same basic guidelines.


About the Expert 

Dr. Anitha Nair is a board certified Reproductive Endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility Center in Washington, DC. Dr. Nair received her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center and her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the Georgetown University Medical Center. She completed a three-year fellowship program in Reproductive Endocrinology at the University of Texas Health Science Center. Dr. Nair is the recipient of numerous academic awards and is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists and a member of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Nair is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as reproductive endocrinology.


This information is provided for entertainment/informational purposes only. This is not a substitute for professional medical or health advice, examination or diagnosis.