ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the definition of infertility and its frequency, how different factors affect the likelihood of infertility, the diagnostic categories and whether the incidence of infertility is rising or falling. Inability to conceive within 2 years should be regarded as subfertility until absolute infertility is confirmed. Confusingly, some epidemiological studies use live births rather than ability to conceive as the defining feature of infertility. One of the most significant factors influencing infertility is age. Couples may be concerned that they will only be offered expensive, high-technology infertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilisation. The increased media attention has made infertility less of a taboo, which means that friends and acquaintances are more open in talking about their own experiences of fertility problems giving rise to increased demand for interventions. The prevalence of infertility appears to be rising as several factors contribute to what is a rising burden of infertility on individuals, health services and the economy.
