What Is Infertility?
We explain the medical definition of “infertility” and the general timeline for achieving pregnancy.
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive despite engaging in sexual intercourse without contraception for a specific period. The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology defines this period as one year. However, the ease of conception varies greatly depending on age, menstrual cycle, and constitution. The moment you start thinking, “Could this be infertility?” is the first step toward understanding your body’s condition.
Causes of Infertility
Infertility can be attributed to various factors from both the female and male partners.
It is said that infertility causes are roughly divided into “female factors (approx. 40%),” “male factors (approx. 40%),” and “factors on both sides (approx. 20%).” Common female causes include irregularities with ovulation, fallopian tubes, or the uterus, as well as hormonal imbalances. Common male causes include a low sperm count or decreased motility.
Tests can sometimes reveal no issues at all, or pinpoint surprising underlying causes. Knowing the exact cause allows us to establish an effective and appropriate treatment plan.
Tests to Determine Infertility
Infertility testing is the first step toward determining the cause of difficulty conceiving.
Certain tests must be performed at specific times during the menstrual cycle. The content of the tests will be determined through consultation, based on your preferences, age, and the duration of your married life.
Tests we perform at our clinic include:
- Hormone testing (checking for ovulation, ovarian function, thyroid function, etc.)
- Ultrasound examination (checking the condition of the uterus and ovaries)
- Confirmation of endometrial polyps and fibroids
- Hühner Test (checking sperm motility after intercourse)
- Semen analysis for male partners (checking sperm count and motility)
Types of Infertility Treatment
The general approach is to step up treatment incrementally based on the cause and age.
We will collaboratively determine the best treatment path, taking into account your age, the underlying cause, your treatment history, and the preferences of both partners.
Infertility Treatment Methods
- Timing Method: A natural approach where sexual intercourse is timed with ovulation.
- Ovulation Induction: Using medication to stimulate ovulation and increase the probability of pregnancy.
- Intrauterine Insemination (AIH): A method where collected sperm is injected directly into the uterus.
- ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology): ART methods involve fertilization outside the body, such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
About ART
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A method involving ovarian stimulation to retrieve eggs, which are then fertilized with sperm outside the body (in vitro), cultured, and subsequently transferred back into the uterus as an embryo.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg under a microscope. This is indicated for patients with extremely low sperm counts or those who have had previous fertilization issues.
- Embryo Cryopreservation and Thawed Embryo Transfer: A method of freezing and preserving embryos, which are then thawed at an optimal time and transferred back into the uterus. The advantage is that the transfer can be performed during a cycle when the uterine lining is at its most favorable.
*These treatments must be performed at a specialized facility under the detailed diagnosis of a physician. While our clinic does not perform ART procedures, we will refer patients who desire or require this treatment to a highly reliable fertility specialist clinic.
Infertility Treatment Available at Our Clinic
We provide careful general infertility treatment and refer patients to advanced reproductive medical institutions as needed.
At our clinic, we offer a range of examinations and treatments. To ensure our patients can move forward with confidence, we prioritize thorough consultations and clear, easy-to-understand explanations.
Timing Guidance and Ovulation Induction
Intrauterine Insemination
Gender Selection Consultation
When advanced infertility treatment (IVF, ICSI, etc.) is necessary, we ensure a smooth referral to a reliable, specialized reproductive medical institution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Starting fertility treatment for the first time often comes with many concerns and unknowns.
Here, we present answers to some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) we receive at our clinic. We hope this information alleviates any concerns you may have about the timing of examinations and treatments, insurance coverage conditions, or the flow of your visits. For any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
| Q | When should I start infertility treatment? |
| A | Generally, the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse is considered “infertility.” However, if the woman is over 35 or has irregular menstruation, we recommend consultation after about six months. Depending on your age and health condition, an early consultation can sometimes be the shortest route to pregnancy. |
| Q | Do my partner and I need to come together for a consultation? |
| A | We recommend that both partners attend. Infertility causes are said to be found in men and women in equal proportion, and the cooperation of your partner may be required, depending on the initial consultation and testing content. Of course, individual visits are also welcome. |
| Q | What happens during the first consultation? |
| A | We will thoroughly inquire about your past pregnancy history, menstrual cycle, and lifestyle habits, and perform an ultrasound and blood tests as needed. We do not perform all tests on the first day; instead, we build a test schedule tailored to your menstrual cycle. Please feel free to discuss any concerns you may have. |
| Q | Is infertility treatment covered by health insurance? |
| A | Yes, the infertility treatments at our clinic are covered by health insurance. Insurance covers treatments that meet certain conditions, including initial testing, timing methods, ovulation induction, and intrauterine insemination. |
| Q | Are there conditions for insurance coverage for testing and treatment? |
| A | Treatment can begin under insurance coverage if the woman is under 43 years old. The woman’s age being under 43 at the start of treatment is a condition for insurance coverage. *Please note that even if you are currently undergoing treatment, insurance coverage will cease once you reach your 43rd birthday. *Even if you exceed the number of cycles covered by insurance, you can continue treatment as private (self-pay) care. Please discuss the treatment plan thoroughly with your physician. |
| Q | Is there a limit to the number of intrauterine insemination cycles covered by insurance? |
| A | Yes, we prioritize emotional support. Feelings of anxiety, impatience, and depression can often accompany infertility treatment. Our physicians and staff offer consultations that take into account your emotional well-being. Please do not hesitate to share any concerns; you do not have to carry this burden alone. |
| Q | I feel that infertility treatment is emotionally difficult. Can I receive emotional support? |
| A | Yes, we prioritize emotional support. Feelings of anxiety, impatience, and depression can often accompany infertility treatment. Our physicians and staff provide consultations while keeping your emotional well-being in mind. Please do not hesitate to share any concerns; you do not have to carry this burden alone. |
| Q | Can I receive advanced infertility treatments (IVF, etc.)? |
| A | While we do not perform In Vitro Fertilization or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection at our clinic, we will refer you to a reliable specialized facility if necessary. We will first investigate the cause at our clinic, perform general infertility treatments such as the timing method and ovulation induction, and then support your step-up to advanced medical care at the appropriate time. |
In Closing
Please do not struggle alone; feel free to contact us first.
Infertility is a very delicate issue, and many people find it difficult to talk to their partners or feel isolated, unable to consult anyone. At our clinic, we are committed not only to achieving pregnancy but also to providing care that empathizes with each patient’s emotional journey.
We aim to provide accurate information and appropriate support to everyone who wishes to have a baby. Even if it is just for an initial consultation, we welcome you. We are here to support your “first step.”
Booking an Appointment
Outpatient consultations at our clinic are by appointment. For smoother guidance, please make a reservation in advance using the online reservation form. Even without a reservation, you may receive a consultation on the day. Please feel free to inquire.
TEL：03-6450-3850
