Neural tube defects are birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord. They happen in the first month of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows that she is pregnant. The two most common neural tube defects are spina bifida and anencephaly. In spina bifida, the fetal spinal column doesn't close completely. There is usually nerve damage that causes at least some paralysis of the legs. In ane ...

What are some possible causes of female infertility? Getting pregnant and carrying a pregnancy to term are actually very complicated processes. Many things can go wrong during these processes to lead to infertility. For this reason, the following list includes only some of the common causes of infertility in females; it is not meant to be all-inclusive. A woman who is having difficulty getting pre ...

Infertility treatment Treatment to help a person conceive naturally will depend on many factors, including the age of the person who wishes to conceive, how long infertility has lasted, personal preferences, and their general state of health. Frequency of intercourse The first strategy a couple trying to conceive may wish to try is having sexual intercourse more often around the time of ovulation ...

Polycystic ovarian syndrome: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which small follicles in the ovaries don't develop into the larger, mature follicles that release eggs. It's also characterized by hormone imbalances and unpredictable ovulation patterns. Possible symptoms: irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, and obesity. Possible solutions: Lifestyle modifications (lik ...

Her Risks There are certain things that apply only to women. Any one of the following could cause problems with ovulation, hormones, or your reproductive organs: Endometriosis Fallopian tube disease Chronic disease like diabetes, lupus, arthritis, hypertension, or asthma Two or more miscarriages History of irregular periods Early menopause (before age 40) An abnormally shaped uterus Polyps in you ...

Ectopic pregnancy This is when a fertilized egg implants outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube. If it stays in there, complications can develop, such as the rupture of the fallopian tube. This pregnancy has no chance of continuing. Immediate surgery is needed and, sadly, the tube on that side will be lost. However, future pregnancy is possible with the other ovary and tube. Women receivi ...

Fertility treatments for men Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the infertility. Erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation: Medication, behavioral approaches, or both may help improve fertility. Varicocele: Surgically removing a varicose vein in the scrotum may help. Blockage of the ejaculatory duct: Sperm can be extracted directly from the testicles and injected into an egg in ...