Female & Male Infertility

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12-months of regular, unprotected sex.

Infertility medicine focuses on addressing the underlying challenges couples face when trying to conceive. It involves diagnosing and treating conditions that prevent conception and may include a range of treatments, from medication, to surgery, to assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

The goal of infertility medicine is not only to enable conception but also to support individuals and couples through what is often an emotionally and physically challenging processes.

Dr Genia Rozen is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidenced-based care, incorporating the latest cutting-edge precision medicine and laboratory services, to guide you through this journey, offering hope and solutions tailored to your unique situation.

Understanding the Causes of Infertility

In the modern world in which we live, infertility is a challenge faced by many. Infertility affects approximately 1 in 6 (16.66%) Australians.

Infertility can arise from a myriad of factors. Female-related issues might include ovulatory disorders, tubal damage, uterine conditions, or endometriosis.

Male infertility primarily involves problems with sperm production, function, or delivery. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and stress play a significant role in fertility for both sexes.

~30% of the time infertility is due to the female partner
~30% of the time infertility is due to the male partner
~30% of the time infertility is due to both partners
~10% of the time infertility is due to unknown causes

Age and Fertility: A Closer Look

Age is a significant determinant of fertility, especially for women. The chances of conceiving naturally begin to decline after the age of 30. By the time a woman reaches 45, the likelihood of natural conception is very low but not impossible.

The decline in female fertility is due to both a decrease in the quantity and quality of eggs. Chromosomal abnormalities in eggs also increase with age, raising the risk of miscarriage and congenital chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down Syndrome.

Although men continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, sperm quality deteriorates with age. This decline becomes more significant around age 45.

Statistics to Consider

  • Women under 35 years have a 20-25% chance of conceiving per month, which declines to about 5% by the age of 40.
  • One-third of couples where the woman is in her late 30s face fertility challenges.
  • Male fertility also declines with age, affecting not only the ability to conceive but also increasing the risk of miscarriage and abnormalities in offspring, such as autism and epilepsy.

Advances in Reproductive Medicine

The field of infertility medicine has made significant strides in the past few decades, offering hope to couples struggling to conceive. From diagnostic tests to innovative treatment techniques, the journey to parenthood has become more accessible.

Diagnostic Approaches

Effective treatment begins with accurate diagnosis. Advanced imaging techniques, hormone testing, genetic screening, and semen analysis are among the tools used to pinpoint the underlying causes of infertility. These diagnostic steps are crucial in developing a personalised treatment plan.

Treatment Options

Treatment for infertility varies widely and is tailored to the individual’s or couple’s specific situation.

Options include:

  • Medications: Drugs to stimulate ovulation or regulate hormone imbalances.
  • Surgical Interventions: Procedures to treat endometriosis, or correct anatomical issues.
  • Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Techniques such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), egg or sperm donation and pre-implantation genetic testing, have revolutionised infertility treatment, offering new paths to conception.

Male Fertility Procedures

Dr Genia Rozen has a special interest in male fertility procedures and has significant experience with Testicular Sperm Needle Aspiration (TESA).

Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) is a medical procedure designed to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles using aspiration (needle insertion). This method is one of the two possible methods, and is beneficial for men who have little to no sperm in their ejaculate (azoospermia), which could be due to a blockage in the sperm transport system (obstructive azoospermia) or issues with sperm production (non-obstructive azoospermia). Dr Rozen also works directly with urologists who perform the second method, Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE), using a high powered microscope. This sperm is then used for injection inside the egg.

TESA and TESE provide opportunities for such individuals to father biological children through assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Dr Rozen’s Special Interests

Dr Rozen’s Approach to Infertility Medicine

Dr Genia Rozen is an expert in infertility medicine and brings a wealth of academic knowledge and practical experience, and innovative treatment options to her patients. Her approach is rooted in employing a multidisciplinary strategy to overcome your hurdle to parenthood.
The journey begins with an extensive diagnostic and investigative process, utilising the latest medical technology to uncover the underlying cause of infertility in both partners. This may include advanced imaging techniques, hormone assessments, genetic screenings, and semen analysis, ensuring that the treatment plan is highly targeted and personalised.

Treatment strategies are as varied as the causes of infertility themselves, ranging from medication and surgery to assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Dr Rozen is a proponent of evidence-based treatments, including but not limited to:

  • Medication: To stimulate ovulation or address hormonal imbalances.
  • Surgical Interventions: To correct anatomical issues or remove blockages (in either partner where it is occurring).
  • ART: Including In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), and potentially donor services.
Acknowledging the role of lifestyle in fertility, Dr Rozen’s clinic offers comprehensive support, including nutritional counselling, stress reduction techniques, and lifestyle modification plans. The emotional journey of infertility is met with compassion and understanding, providing counselling services to navigate this challenging path.

Dr Rozen believes in treating more than just the symptoms of infertility. Her practice is dedicated to supporting patients through every step of their journey, recognising the importance of mental and emotional well-being in achieving successful outcomes.

A message from Dr Rozen

“Infertility can feel like a solitary journey, but it doesn’t have to be. I am here to guide you, offering a combination of advanced medical treatment and compassionate care. Together, we will navigate this path, exploring all avenues to bring your dream of parenthood closer to reality. Your journey is our journey, and every step forward is a step towards hope.”

Get in touch with our friendly team.

Dr Genia Rozen is a Melbourne gynaecologist and fertility specialist with 10+ years of experience dedicated to fertility medicine.

She holds a Masters of Reproductive Medicine (MRMED) degree and undertook three years of sub-specialising training in Fertility and Reproductive Medicine at the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne. She is affiliated with Genea Fertility who are recognised leaders in advanced reproductive laboratory services.

Please get in touch if you have a question or wish to book an appointment.