Summary

Infertility represents a prognosis rather than a diagnosis and en­compasses a wide spectrum of situations ranging from delay in conception to sterility. Underlying factors include lifestyle, age, or pathological conditions in either partner. Traditional investigations can help to identify the nature of infertility and inform the choice of treatment but assisted conception remains the intervention of choice in prolonged unresolved infertility. Individualized care, taking into account a couple's chances of natural conception and their physical,

emotional, and financial needs, forms the basis of a successful man­agement strategy.