Sterility and Infertility Explained: What’s the Difference?

Sterility refers to the inability to conceive. Infertility refers to the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. In other words, conception is difficult but not impossible.

Permanent vs Reversible Infertility

Most people misuse the term infertility mixing it up with sterility. However, these are two completely different medical terms. In sterility, natural conception is impossible. In infertility, natural conception is possible but may be difficult and treatable. This difference is because the causes of sterility and infertility are not the same.

The causes of sterility in females are mainly the absence of any part of the reproductive tract- the uterus and the fallopian tubes. This could be congenital or surgical removal. Other reasons are genetic conditions like turner syndrome, complete irreversible blockage of the fallopian tubes and advanced stage of primary ovarian insufficiency.

Male causes include azoospermia, bilateral testicular/ vas deferens absence or failure and vasectomy- this is a method for permanent contraception in males.

Infertility is most commonly caused due to PCOS, endometriosis, ovulatory disorders, low sperm count and unexplained infertility. These causes can result in normal pregnancy and are easily reversible with or without treatments.

How is Sterility Diagnosed?

The initial concern of a couple suffering from sterility is not being able to conceive at all. This often overlaps with primary infertility, therefore is it really important to make an accurate diagnosis of sterility and infertility. The history of both patients of sterility and primary infertility seems similar therefore further investigations are required to rule out the cause. The cause itself helps doctors to identify whether it is sterility or primary infertility. At Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic initial investigations most commonly include ultrasounds, semen analysis and blood tests.

Once a diagnosis is made doctors at Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic take their time to explain to you the cause of sterility or infertility and the treatment options suitable for you. It is a crucial step while breaking bad news to the patients if one is suffering from sterility and is unaware of it. Therefore we provide support and treat our patients with an empathetic approach.

Treating Sterility and Infertility

Infertility treatment is easier and more treatment options are available. Female infertility treatment includes hormonal therapy for ovulation induction, surgical correction of fallopian tubes, lifestyle modifications. While male infertility treatment for low sperm count involves smoking cessation, lifestyle modifications hormonal therapy and surgical correction of sperm ducts. If all of these treatment options fail we usually go for Assisted reproductive techniques.

There are not many treatment options for sterility. The most effective treatment for infertility is IVF or other Assisted Reproductive techniques (ARTs). Our doctors at Njinsky IVF & Fertility Clinic recommend a treatment plan according to your condition and explain to you about your cause and what treatment option is most suitable for you.

At NJINSKY, one of the best IVF centre in Pakistan, we are equipped with an ISO certified lab to provide you with reliable Assisted Reproductive techniques. Our clinic consists of fellowship-trained consultants and advanced technology in one place making your journey hassle-free.