What is Infertility? | Hamada Hospital, Ochanomizu
What is Infertility? Causes, Tests & Treatment
Infertility is generally defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It affects about 1 in 10 couples and is not uncommon. Causes can be attributed to female factors, male factors, or a combination of both. At Hamada Hospital, our board-certified reproductive medicine specialists provide comprehensive, compassionate support from initial testing to advanced infertility treatments, helping you understand your situation and navigate your path to pregnancy.
Common Causes of Infertility
- Female Factors: Issues with ovulation (e.g., PCOS), fallopian tube blockages, uterine conditions (e.g., fibroids, endometriosis), or immunological factors (e.g., anti-sperm antibodies).
- Male Factors: Problems with sperm production (low count, poor motility), sperm delivery (blockages), or sexual function (e.g., erectile dysfunction). Male factors contribute to about half of all infertility cases.
Infertility Testing & Treatment Steps
- Step 1: Diagnostic Testing: We begin with basic screening tests for both partners to identify potential causes. This includes hormone tests, ultrasound exams, and fallopian tube evaluation for women, and a semen analysis for men.
- Step 2: Step-Up Treatment: Based on test results, age, and your preferences, we create a personalized treatment plan, typically starting with less invasive options.
- Treatment Options: We offer a range of treatments from timed intercourse and artificial insemination (AIH) to advanced reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
- Insurance Coverage: Since April 2022, many basic infertility treatments like AIH and IVF are covered by Japanese public health insurance, significantly reducing the financial burden.
English support is available. Book an appointment →
Hamada Hospital, Obatakai Medical Foundation
2-5 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062 (2-min walk from Ochanomizu Station)
Tel: 03-5280-1166 | Online booking available
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. 1. When should I come in for a consultation?
A. One general guideline is if you have been hoping to conceive for a year without success. However, if you have concerns such as your age or irregular menstruation, we recommend consulting us early rather than waiting a full year. In particular, if you are 35 or older, the quality of your eggs begins to decline, so please consider coming in after about six months.
Q. 2. What happens at the first visit, and how much does it cost?
A. First, we conduct a detailed medical interview and explain the schedule for future examinations. In many cases, an ultrasound examination and a blood test are performed at the first visit. The cost varies depending on the tests performed, but as a guideline it is roughly several thousand to about 10,000 yen with health insurance coverage. Please be sure to bring your health insurance card.
Q. 3. Should my partner (husband) come in with me?
A. The causes of infertility are split roughly equally between men and women, so we encourage you to come in together. If that is difficult, it is also fine for the woman to visit alone first. For the man’s examination (semen analysis), it is also possible to collect the sample at home and bring it in on a later day.
Q. 4. I have been receiving treatment at another hospital. Can I transfer here?
A. Yes, this is possible. If you bring a referral letter (medical information provision document) showing your past examination results and treatment history, we can avoid duplicating tests and establish a treatment plan smoothly. You can still be seen without a referral letter, so please let the reception staff know.
Q. 5. I am worried about balancing work and treatment.
A. Our clinic is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from JR Ochanomizu Station, making it easy to attend appointments. A web reservation system is also available. We will adjust the treatment schedule as flexibly as possible to fit your work commitments, so please discuss this with us during your consultation.
This page is medically supervised by Hamada Hospital (Obatakai Medical Foundation).