Compounds which increase the capacity of the male to induce conception.
Drugs used to increase fertility or to treat infertility.
The capacity to conceive or to induce conception. It may refer to either the male or female.
Compounds which increase the capacity to conceive in females.
A method of providing future reproductive opportunities before a medical treatment with known risk of loss of fertility. Typically reproductive organs or tissues (e.g., sperm, egg, embryos and ovarian or testicular tissues) are cryopreserved for future use before the medical treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation) begins.
The inability of the male to effect FERTILIZATION of an OVUM after a specified period of unprotected intercourse. Male sterility is permanent infertility.
Inability to reproduce after a specified period of unprotected intercourse. Reproductive sterility is permanent infertility.
Diminished or absent ability of a female to achieve conception.
The number of births in a given population per year or other unit of time.
Mature male germ cells derived from SPERMATIDS. As spermatids move toward the lumen of the SEMINIFEROUS TUBULES, they undergo extensive structural changes including the loss of cytoplasm, condensation of CHROMATIN into the SPERM HEAD, formation of the ACROSOME cap, the SPERM MIDPIECE and the SPERM TAIL that provides motility.
Movement characteristics of SPERMATOZOA in a fresh specimen. It is measured as the percentage of sperms that are moving, and as the percentage of sperms with productive flagellar motion such as rapid, linear, and forward progression.
The status during which female mammals carry their developing young (EMBRYOS or FETUSES) in utero before birth, beginning from FERTILIZATION to BIRTH.
Human behavior or decision related to REPRODUCTION.
A count of SPERM in the ejaculum, expressed as number per milliliter.
The total process by which organisms produce offspring. (Stedman, 25th ed)
Clinical and laboratory techniques used to enhance fertility in humans and animals.
Artificial introduction of SEMEN or SPERMATOZOA into the VAGINA to facilitate FERTILIZATION.
Preservation of cells, tissues, organs, or embryos by freezing. In histological preparations, cryopreservation or cryofixation is used to maintain the existing form, structure, and chemical composition of all the constituent elements of the specimens.
The thick, yellowish-white, viscid fluid secretion of male reproductive organs discharged upon ejaculation. In addition to reproductive organ secretions, it contains SPERMATOZOA and their nutrient plasma.
The male gonad containing two functional parts: the SEMINIFEROUS TUBULES for the production and transport of male germ cells (SPERMATOGENESIS) and the interstitial compartment containing LEYDIG CELLS that produce ANDROGENS.
The process of germ cell development in the male from the primordial germ cells, through SPERMATOGONIA; SPERMATOCYTES; SPERMATIDS; to the mature haploid SPERMATOZOA.

Fertility drugs and the risk of breast cancer. (1/30)

Several studies have investigated the possible relationship between fertility drugs and the risk of breast cancer. To provide further information on this issue, we analysed data from a case control study, conducted in Northern Italy between 1983 and 1991. Trained interviewers identified and questioned 3415 cases (women aged 23-74 years with histologically confirmed breast cancer) and 2916 controls (women aged 21-74 years admitted to the same hospitals for diseases other than malignant, hormonal or gynaecological conditions). Fifty (1.5%) cases and 53 (1.8%) controls reported any history of infertility; the corresponding multivariate odds ratios (OR) of breast cancer was 0.8 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.5-1.1]. Sixteen (0.5%) cases and 11 (0.4%) controls reported ever using fertility drugs; the corresponding OR was 1.2 (95% CI 0.5-2.6). Allowance for potential confounding factors did not markedly modify these estimates. In conclusion, this study provides reassuring evidence on the absence of an association between fertility drug treatment and breast cancer risk.  (+info)

Hormone and fertility drug use and the risk of neuroblastoma: a report from the Children's Cancer Group and the Pediatric Oncology Group. (2/30)

Previous epidemiologic studies have suggested an association between maternal sex hormone use during pregnancy, including infertility medication, and an increased risk of neuroblastoma in the offspring. The authors conducted a case-control interview study from 1992 to 1996 that included 504 children less than 19 years of age whose newly diagnosed neuroblastoma was identified by two national collaborative clinical trials groups in the United States and Canada, the Children's Cancer Group and the Pediatric Oncology Group. Controls, matched to cases on age, were identified by random digit dialing. No association was found for use of oral contraceptives before or during pregnancy (first trimester odds ratio (OR) = 1.0, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.5, 2.1). The odds ratio was slightly elevated for history of infertility (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 0.9, 2.1) and ever use of any infertility medication (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 0.7, 2.2). Specifically, ever use of clomiphene was associated with a 1.6-fold increased risk (95% CI: 0.8, 3.0) but not periconceptionally or during the index pregnancy. A suggestive pattern was found for gender of the offspring, with an increased risk for males but not for females after exposure to oral contraceptives or clomiphene. This study did not find consistent and large increased risks for maternal use of hormones, but the suggestion of an association for male offspring requires further consideration.  (+info)

Use of fertility drugs and risk of ovarian cancer. (3/30)

BACKGROUND: The potential association between fertility drugs and risk of ovarian cancer has been analysed using data from a case-control study conducted between January 1992 and September 1999 in four Italian areas. METHODS: Cases were 1031 women (median age 56, range 18-79 years) with incident, histologically confirmed epithelial ovarian cancer. Controls were 2411 women (median age 57, range 17-79 years) residing in the same geographical areas and admitted to the same network of hospitals for cases for a wide spectrum of acute, non neoplastic, non hormone-related conditions. RESULTS: A total of 15 cases and 26 controls reported use of fertility drugs. The corresponding odds ratio (OR) was 1.3 (95% confidence interval 0.7-2.5). The OR was 1.2 for women reporting last use <25 years before interview and 1.3 for >25 years. CONCLUSIONS: Considering calendar year at use, the OR was non-significantly above unity for women reporting fertility drug use after 1970. The OR was 0.6 among nulliparous women and 1.9 among parous ones.  (+info)

Clinics in diagnostic imaging (106). Viable left tubal twin ectopic pregnancy. (4/30)

Live twin ectopic gestations are extremely rare. There are more than 100 reported twin tubal pregnancies but less than ten have foetal cardiac motions demonstrated in both embryos. We describe an additional patient with live twin ectopic gestation. A 32-year-old woman presented with increasing left-sided abdominal pains. She had a high beta-hCG level and a significant history of subfertility with previous surgical intervention. Transvaginal ultrasonography showed viable left tubal twin ectopic pregnancy. The diagnosis was confirmed at surgery. Factors that contribute to the risk of ectopic pregnancy, diagnosis and the management of this condition are described.  (+info)

Uterine effects of metformin administration in anovulatory women with polycystic ovary syndrome. (5/30)

BACKGROUND: Metformin has been shown to improve fertility in anovulatory patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), inducing not only a high ovulation and pregnancy rate but also reducing the incidence of miscarriages. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the uterine effects of metformin in patients with PCOS who ovulated under metformin. METHODS: Thirty-seven non-obese primary infertile anovulatory patients with PCOS and another 30 age- and body mass index-matched healthy women (control group) were studied. PCOS patients were treated with metformin (850 mg twice daily) for 6 months, whereas the control group did not receive any treatment. In these PCOS patients who ovulated whilst under metformin treatment (PCOS group) and in controls, uterine, sub-endometrial and endometrial blood flow, and endometrial thickness and pattern were evaluated using serial ultrasonographic assessments. RESULTS: Before treatment, uterine, sub-endometrial and endometrial blood flows were significantly lower in patients with PCOS than in the control group. All indexes of uterine vascularization were significantly improved in the PCOS group with metformin treatment and were not different from the controls. Nor was any difference in endometrial thickness and pattern detected between PCOS and control groups. After grouping the data of PCOS patients who ovulated under metformin for cycles with favourable/unfavourable reproductive outcome, no difference in any parameter was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Metformin improves all surrogate markers of endometrial receptivity in PCOS patients, without difference between patients who had favourable or unfavourable reproductive outcome.  (+info)

Estrous behavior and initiation of estrous cycles in postpartum Brahman-influenced cows after treatment with progesterone and prostaglandin F2alpha. (6/30)

Spring-calving, crossbred (1/4 to 3/8 Brahman) primiparous (n = 56) and multiparous (n = 102) beef cows were used to evaluate the effects of progesterone, delivered via a controlled internal drug-releasing (CIDR) device, and prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) on estrous behavior, synchronization rate, initiation of estrous cycles, and pregnancy rate during a 2-yr period. To determine luteal activity, weekly blood samples were collected 3 wk before initiation of a 75-d breeding season. Treated cows received a CIDR for 7 d beginning on d -7 of the breeding season. On d 0, CIDR were removed, and cows receiving CIDR were administered PGF(2alpha); control cows received no treatment. Cows were exposed to bulls, and estrous activity was monitored using a radiotelemetry system for the first 30 d of the breeding season. Treatment with CIDR-PGF(2alpha) increased (P < 0.05) the number of mounts received (22.5 +/- 3.0 vs. 13.7 +/- 3.9 for CIDR-PGF(2alpha) vs. untreated control cows, respectively) but did not influence duration of estrus or quiescence between mounts. Number of mounts received and duration of estrus were greater (P < 0.05) in multiparous compared with primiparous cows. Synchronization of estrus was greater (P < 0.05) in cows treated with CIDR-PGF(2alpha) (56%) compared with control cows (13%) during the first 3 d of the breeding season. More (P < 0.05) anestrous cows treated with CIDR-PGF(2alpha) than anestrous control cows were in estrus during the first 3 d (59 vs. 12%) and 30 d (82 vs. 63%) of the breeding season. Treatment with CIDR-PGF(2alpha) decreased (P < 0.05) the interval to first estrus after treatment during the first 30 d of the breeding season compared with control cows (5.5 +/- 1.1 vs. 9.0 +/- 1.4 d). First service conception rate was greater (P < 0.05) in CIDR-PGF(2alpha)-treated cows compared with control cows. Cyclic cows at initiation of the breeding season had an increased (P < 0.05) 75-d pregnancy rate compared with anestrous cows, and the pregnancy rate tended (P = 0.10) to be greater in multiparous compared with primiparous cows. We conclude that treatment of Brahman-influenced cows with progesterone via a CIDR for 7 d, along with administration of PGF(2alpha) at CIDR removal, increases the number of mounts received, improves synchronization and first service conception rates, decreases the interval to first estrus after treatment, and may be effective at inducing estrous cycles in anestrous cows.  (+info)

Among patients treated for IVF with gonadotrophins and GnRH analogues, is the probability of live birth dependent on the type of analogue used? A systematic review and meta-analysis. (7/30)

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to answer the following clinical question: among patients treated for IVF with gonadotrophins and GnRH analogues, is the probability of live birth per randomized patient dependent on the type of analogue used? Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed journal, that contained sufficient information to allow ascertainment of whether randomization was true and whether equality was present between the groups compared. A literature search identified 22 RCTs comparing GnRH antagonists and GnRH agonists that involved 3176 subjects. Where live birth was not reported in a study that fulfilled the inclusion criteria, an effort was made to contact the corresponding authors to retrieve the missing information. If this was not possible, the reported outcome measure, clinical pregnancy or ongoing pregnancy was converted to live birth in 12 studies using published data (Arce et al., 2005). No significant difference was present in the probability of live birth between the two GnRH analogues [odds ratio (OR), 0.86; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.72 to 1.02]. This result remains stable in subgroup analysis that ordered the studies by type of population studied, gonadotrophin type used for stimulation, type of agonist protocol used, type of agonist used, type of antagonist protocol used, type of antagonist used, presence of allocation concealment, presence of co-intervention and the way the information on live birth was retrieved. In conclusion, the probability of live birth after ovarian stimulation for IVF does not depend on the type of analogue used for pituitary suppression.  (+info)

Conception rates to artificial insemination in primiparous, suckled cows exposed to the biostimulatory effect of bulls before and during a gonadotropin-releasing hormone-based estrus synchronization protocol. (8/30)

The objective of these studies was to evaluate whether exposing primiparous, suckled beef cows to the biostimulatory effect of bulls alters breeding performance associated with an estrus synchronization protocol that included GnRH followed 7 d later by PGF(2alpha) and fixed-time AI (TAI). This was a composite analysis of 3 experiments that evaluated (1) the effects of bull exposure at different days after calving (yr 1); (2) the biostimulatory effects of bull excretory products (yr 2); and (3) the biostimulatory effects of familiar and unfamiliar bulls (yr 3) on the resumption of ovarian cycling activity. In all studies, cows were exposed (biostimulated; n = 94) or not exposed (nonbiostimulated; n = 67) to bulls or excretory products of bulls for at least 60 d before the beginning of the estrus synchronization protocol. Average calving day did not differ among years and was 52 +/- 5 d. Year did not affect the proportions of biostimulated and nonbiostimulated cows that were cycling at the beginning of the estrus synchronization protocol; however, a greater (P < 0.001) proportion of biostimulated than nonbiostimulated cows were cycling at this time. In each year, cows were given GnRH followed by PGF(2alpha) 7 d later. Cows were observed for estrus twice daily (am and pm) after PGF(2alpha). Cows that exhibited estrus before 54, 60, and 64 h after PGF(2alpha) were inseminated by AI 12 h later in yr 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Cows that failed to show estrus were given GnRH and TAI at 62, 72, and 72 h after PGF(2alpha) in yr 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Conception rates were determined by transrectal ultrasonography 35 d after TAI in each year. The percentages of cows that exhibited estrus after PGF(2alpha) and before TAI, the interval from PGF(2alpha) to estrus, and the percentages of cows inseminated 12 h after estrus or at TAI did not differ between biostimulated and nonbiostimulated cows and were 51%, 54.7 +/- 7.3 h, 35%, and 65%, respectively. Conception rates for cows bred by AI 12 h after estrus did not differ between biostimulated and nonbiostimulated cows; however, the TAI conception rate was greater (P < 0.05) for biostimulated cows (57.6%) than for nonbiostimulated cows (35.6%). We conclude that TAI conception rates in an estrus synchronization protocol that includes GnRH followed 7 d later by PGF(2alpha) may be improved by the biostimulatory effect of bulls in postpartum, primiparous cows.  (+info)

Fertility agents for males are medications or supplements that are used to improve male fertility. They can work by increasing sperm count, improving sperm motility (movement), and enhancing overall sperm quality. Some examples of male fertility agents include:

1. Clomiphene citrate: This medication is typically used to treat infertility in women, but it can also be prescribed off-label for men with low sperm counts. It works by stimulating the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are important for sperm production.
2. Gonadotropins: These are hormones that can be given as injections to stimulate the testicles to produce more testosterone and sperm. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) are examples of gonadotropins used for male fertility treatment.
3. Antioxidants: Certain antioxidant supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and L-carnitine, have been shown to improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage in sperm cells.
4. Herbal supplements: Some herbs, such as tribulus terrestris, maca root, and ashwagandha, are believed to boost male fertility by increasing testosterone levels and improving sperm count and motility. However, their effectiveness is not well-established, and they should be used with caution under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
5. Varicocele repair: In some cases, a varicocele (dilated vein in the scrotum) can contribute to male infertility by increasing the temperature around the testicles and impairing sperm production. Surgical repair of a varicocele may be recommended to improve fertility.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any fertility treatment, as these agents may have side effects or interact with other medications. A thorough evaluation of male fertility factors, such as hormone levels, semen analysis, and physical examination, should be performed to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Fertility agents, also known as fertility drugs or medications, are substances that are used to enhance or restore fertility in individuals who are having difficulty conceiving a child. These agents work by affecting various aspects of the reproductive system, such as stimulating ovulation, enhancing sperm production, or improving the quality and quantity of eggs produced by the ovaries.

There are several types of fertility agents available, including:

1. Ovulation Inducers: These medications are used to stimulate ovulation in women who do not ovulate regularly or at all. Examples include clomiphene citrate (Clomid) and letrozole (Femara).
2. Gonadotropins: These hormones are administered to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs during a single menstrual cycle. Examples include human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).
3. Inhibins: These medications are used to prevent premature ovulation and improve the quality of eggs produced by the ovaries. Examples include ganirelix acetate and cetrorelix acetate.
4. Sperm Motility Enhancers: These medications are used to improve sperm motility in men with low sperm count or poor sperm movement. Examples include pentoxifylline and caffeine.
5. Fertility Preservation Medications: These medications are used to preserve fertility in individuals who are undergoing treatments that may affect their reproductive system, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Examples include gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH) and cryopreservation of sperm, eggs, or embryos.

It is important to note that fertility agents can have side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is also essential to discuss any underlying medical conditions, allergies, and potential risks before starting any fertility treatment.

Fertility is the natural ability to conceive or to cause conception of offspring. In humans, it is the capacity of a woman and a man to reproduce through sexual reproduction. For women, fertility usually takes place during their reproductive years, which is from adolescence until menopause. A woman's fertility depends on various factors including her age, overall health, and the health of her reproductive system.

For men, fertility can be affected by a variety of factors such as age, genetics, general health, sexual function, and environmental factors that may affect sperm production or quality. Factors that can negatively impact male fertility include exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Infertility is a common medical condition affecting about 10-15% of couples trying to conceive. Infertility can be primary or secondary. Primary infertility refers to the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse, while secondary infertility refers to the inability to conceive following a previous pregnancy.

Infertility can be treated with various medical and surgical interventions depending on the underlying cause. These may include medications to stimulate ovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or surgery to correct anatomical abnormalities.

Female fertility agents are medications or treatments that are used to enhance or restore female fertility. They can work in various ways such as stimulating ovulation, improving the quality of eggs, facilitating the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus, or addressing issues related to the reproductive system.

Some examples of female fertility agents include:

1. Clomiphene citrate (Clomid, Serophene): This medication stimulates ovulation by causing the pituitary gland to release more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
2. Gonadotropins: These are hormonal medications that contain FSH and LH, which stimulate the ovaries to produce mature eggs. Examples include human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
3. Letrozole (Femara): This medication is an aromatase inhibitor that can be used off-label to stimulate ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene citrate.
4. Metformin (Glucophage): This medication is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it can also improve fertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by regulating insulin levels and promoting ovulation.
5. Bromocriptine (Parlodel): This medication is used to treat infertility caused by hyperprolactinemia, a condition characterized by high levels of prolactin in the blood.
6. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART): These include procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT). They involve manipulating eggs and sperm outside the body to facilitate fertilization and implantation.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or reproductive endocrinologist to determine the most appropriate fertility agent for individual needs, as these medications can have side effects and potential risks.

Fertility preservation is a medical procedure or treatment that is aimed at protecting and preserving the reproductive function and potential of an individual, typically before undergoing medical treatments that can potentially compromise their fertility. This may involve the cryopreservation (freezing) and storage of gametes (sperm or eggs), embryos, or reproductive tissues, such as ovarian or testicular tissue, for future use.

Fertility preservation is often recommended for individuals who are facing medical treatments that can have a negative impact on their fertility, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgical removal of reproductive organs. It may also be considered for individuals with conditions that can affect their fertility, such as certain genetic disorders or autoimmune diseases.

The goal of fertility preservation is to allow individuals to have biological children in the future, even if their fertility is compromised by medical treatments or conditions. The success of fertility preservation depends on several factors, including the age and health of the individual at the time of preservation, the type and duration of the medical treatment, and the quality of the preserved gametes or tissues.

Male infertility is a condition characterized by the inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile female. It is typically defined as the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.

The causes of male infertility can be varied and include issues with sperm production, such as low sperm count or poor sperm quality, problems with sperm delivery, such as obstructions in the reproductive tract, or hormonal imbalances that affect sperm production. Other factors that may contribute to male infertility include genetic disorders, environmental exposures, lifestyle choices, and certain medical conditions or treatments.

It is important to note that male infertility can often be treated or managed with medical interventions, such as medication, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART). A healthcare provider can help diagnose the underlying cause of male infertility and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Infertility is a reproductive health disorder defined as the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse or due to an impairment of a person's capacity to reproduce either as an individual or with their partner. It can be caused by various factors in both men and women, including hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities, genetic issues, infections, age, lifestyle factors, and others. Infertility can have significant emotional and psychological impacts on individuals and couples experiencing it, and medical intervention may be necessary to help them conceive.

Female infertility is a condition characterized by the inability to conceive after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse or the inability to carry a pregnancy to a live birth. The causes of female infertility can be multifactorial and may include issues with ovulation, damage to the fallopian tubes or uterus, endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, age-related factors, and other medical conditions.

Some common causes of female infertility include:

1. Ovulation disorders: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, premature ovarian failure, and hyperprolactinemia can affect ovulation and lead to infertility.
2. Damage to the fallopian tubes: Pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or previous surgeries can cause scarring and blockages in the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg and sperm from meeting.
3. Uterine abnormalities: Structural issues with the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, or congenital defects, can interfere with implantation and pregnancy.
4. Age-related factors: As women age, their fertility declines due to a decrease in the number and quality of eggs.
5. Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, celiac disease, and autoimmune disorders, can contribute to infertility.

In some cases, female infertility can be treated with medications, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF). A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

The birth rate is the number of live births that occur in a population during a specific period, usually calculated as the number of live births per 1,000 people per year. It is an important demographic indicator used to measure the growth or decline of a population over time. A higher birth rate indicates a younger population and faster population growth, while a lower birth rate suggests an older population and slower growth.

The birth rate can be affected by various factors, including socioeconomic conditions, cultural attitudes towards childbearing, access to healthcare services, and government policies related to family planning and reproductive health. It is also influenced by the age structure of the population, as women in their reproductive years (typically ages 15-49) are more likely to give birth.

It's worth noting that while the birth rate is an important indicator of population growth, it does not provide a complete picture of fertility rates or demographic trends. Other measures, such as the total fertility rate (TFR), which estimates the average number of children a woman would have during her reproductive years, are also used to analyze fertility patterns and population dynamics.

Spermatozoa are the male reproductive cells, or gametes, that are produced in the testes. They are microscopic, flagellated (tail-equipped) cells that are highly specialized for fertilization. A spermatozoon consists of a head, neck, and tail. The head contains the genetic material within the nucleus, covered by a cap-like structure called the acrosome which contains enzymes to help the sperm penetrate the female's egg (ovum). The long, thin tail propels the sperm forward through fluid, such as semen, enabling its journey towards the egg for fertilization.

Sperm motility is the ability of sperm to move actively and effectively through the female reproductive tract towards the egg for fertilization. It is typically measured as the percentage of moving sperm in a sample, and their progressiveness or velocity. Normal human sperm motility is generally defined as forward progression of at least 25 micrometers per second, with at least 50% of sperm showing progressive motility. Reduced sperm motility, also known as asthenozoospermia, can negatively impact fertility and reproductive outcomes.

Pregnancy is a physiological state or condition where a fertilized egg (zygote) successfully implants and grows in the uterus of a woman, leading to the development of an embryo and finally a fetus. This process typically spans approximately 40 weeks, divided into three trimesters, and culminates in childbirth. Throughout this period, numerous hormonal and physical changes occur to support the growing offspring, including uterine enlargement, breast development, and various maternal adaptations to ensure the fetus's optimal growth and well-being.

Reproductive behavior, in the context of medical and biological sciences, refers to the actions or behaviors associated with an organism's reproduction. This can include various aspects such as:

1. Mating rituals or courtship behaviors that individuals of a species engage in to attract mates.
2. Copulation or actual mating process.
3. Parental care, which is the behavior of parents towards their offspring, including protection, feeding, and teaching necessary skills.
4. In some cases, it may also include aggressive behaviors related to territory defense for breeding.

These behaviors are influenced by hormonal changes, genetic factors, environmental conditions, and individual experiences. They vary widely among different species, with some displaying complex rituals while others have more straightforward processes.

In humans, reproductive behavior includes sexual activities associated with procreation, contraceptive use, family planning, and sometimes abstinence. It's important to note that human reproductive behavior can also be influenced by cultural, psychological, and social factors, making it quite complex compared to many other species.

Sperm count, also known as sperm concentration, is the number of sperm present in a given volume of semen. The World Health Organization (WHO) previously defined a normal sperm count as at least 20 million sperm per milliliter of semen. However, more recent studies suggest that fertility may be affected even when sperm counts are slightly lower than this threshold. It's important to note that sperm count is just one factor among many that can influence male fertility. Other factors, such as sperm motility (the ability of sperm to move properly) and morphology (the shape of the sperm), also play crucial roles in successful conception.

Reproduction, in the context of biology and medicine, refers to the process by which organisms produce offspring. It is a complex process that involves the creation, development, and growth of new individuals from parent organisms. In sexual reproduction, this process typically involves the combination of genetic material from two parents through the fusion of gametes (sex cells) such as sperm and egg cells. This results in the formation of a zygote, which then develops into a new individual with a unique genetic makeup.

In contrast, asexual reproduction does not involve the fusion of gametes and can occur through various mechanisms such as budding, fragmentation, or parthenogenesis. Asexual reproduction results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent organism.

Reproduction is a fundamental process that ensures the survival and continuation of species over time. It is also an area of active research in fields such as reproductive medicine, where scientists and clinicians work to understand and address issues related to human fertility, contraception, and genetic disorders.

Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) are medical procedures that involve the handling of human sperm and ova to establish a pregnancy. These techniques are used when other methods of achieving pregnancy have failed or are not available. Examples of ART include in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT), and zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT). These procedures may be used to treat infertility, prevent genetic disorders, or to help same-sex couples or single people have children. It is important to note that the use of ART can involve significant physical, emotional, and financial costs, and it may not always result in a successful pregnancy.

Artificial insemination (AI) is a medical procedure that involves the introduction of sperm into a female's cervix or uterus for the purpose of achieving pregnancy. This procedure can be performed using sperm from a partner or a donor. It is often used when there are issues with male fertility, such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility, or in cases where natural conception is not possible due to various medical reasons.

There are two types of artificial insemination: intracervical insemination (ICI) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). ICI involves placing the sperm directly into the cervix, while IUI involves placing the sperm directly into the uterus using a catheter. The choice of procedure depends on various factors, including the cause of infertility and the preferences of the individuals involved.

Artificial insemination is a relatively simple and low-risk procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office or clinic. It may be combined with fertility drugs to increase the chances of pregnancy. The success rate of artificial insemination varies depending on several factors, including the age and fertility of the individuals involved, the cause of infertility, and the type of procedure used.

Cryopreservation is a medical procedure that involves the preservation of cells, tissues, or organs by cooling them to very low temperatures, typically below -150°C. This is usually achieved using liquid nitrogen. The low temperature slows down or stops biological activity, including chemical reactions and cellular metabolism, which helps to prevent damage and decay.

The cells, tissues, or organs that are being cryopreserved must be treated with a cryoprotectant solution before cooling to prevent the formation of ice crystals, which can cause significant damage. Once cooled, the samples are stored in specialized containers or tanks until they are needed for use.

Cryopreservation is commonly used in assisted reproductive technologies, such as the preservation of sperm, eggs, and embryos for fertility treatments. It is also used in research, including the storage of cell lines and stem cells, and in clinical settings, such as the preservation of skin grafts and corneas for transplantation.

Semen is a complex, whitish fluid that is released from the male reproductive system during ejaculation. It is produced by several glands, including the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands. Semen contains several components, including sperm (the male reproductive cells), as well as various proteins, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. Its primary function is to transport sperm through the female reproductive tract during sexual intercourse, providing nutrients and aiding in the protection of the sperm as they travel toward the egg for fertilization.

The testis, also known as the testicle, is a male reproductive organ that is part of the endocrine system. It is located in the scrotum, outside of the abdominal cavity. The main function of the testis is to produce sperm and testosterone, the primary male sex hormone.

The testis is composed of many tiny tubules called seminiferous tubules, where sperm are produced. These tubules are surrounded by a network of blood vessels, nerves, and supportive tissues. The sperm then travel through a series of ducts to the epididymis, where they mature and become capable of fertilization.

Testosterone is produced in the Leydig cells, which are located in the interstitial tissue between the seminiferous tubules. Testosterone plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair, deep voice, and muscle mass. It also supports sperm production and sexual function.

Abnormalities in testicular function can lead to infertility, hormonal imbalances, and other health problems. Regular self-examinations and medical check-ups are recommended for early detection and treatment of any potential issues.

Spermatogenesis is the process by which sperm cells, or spermatozoa, are produced in male organisms. It occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes and involves several stages:

1. Spermatocytogenesis: This is the initial stage where diploid spermatogonial stem cells divide mitotically to produce more spermatogonia, some of which will differentiate into primary spermatocytes.
2. Meiosis: The primary spermatocytes undergo meiotic division to form haploid secondary spermatocytes, which then divide again to form haploid spermatids. This process results in the reduction of chromosome number from 46 (diploid) to 23 (haploid).
3. Spermiogenesis: The spermatids differentiate into spermatozoa, undergoing morphological changes such as the formation of a head and tail. During this stage, most of the cytoplasm is discarded, resulting in highly compacted and streamlined sperm cells.
4. Spermation: The final stage where mature sperm are released from the seminiferous tubules into the epididymis for further maturation and storage.

The entire process takes approximately 72-74 days in humans, with continuous production throughout adulthood.

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