Women's Health - Infertility

This course is divided into six detailed units, each focusing on key aspects of infertility management:

Unit 1: Infertility
This unit introduces the basics of infertility, focusing on the causes, diagnosis, and early management strategies. Participants will learn about the physiological and lifestyle factors that affect fertility, and explore the emotional impact on couples. Key topics include ovulation, sperm health, and common fertility challenges such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and tubal blockages.

Unit 2: Case Study 1
A real-world case study of a couple struggling with infertility provides insight into the diagnostic process, including how to assess ovulation, sperm quality, and potential structural issues. This unit emphasizes the importance of both partners’ health and the role of lifestyle factors in fertility​.

Unit 3: Case Study 2
Another case study follows a couple with different fertility challenges, including male factors like oligospermia (low sperm count) and female factors such as endometriosis. This unit explores how tailored investigations and treatments can be used to address complex cases​.

Unit 4: Summary of Testing
This unit provides an overview of the key diagnostic tests used in infertility assessment. Topics include hormonal testing, genetic screening, semen analysis, and imaging techniques like transvaginal ultrasound and hysterosalpingography. Participants will learn how to interpret test results and develop appropriate referral strategies​.

Unit 5: Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the different assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and the use of donor eggs or sperm. This unit also discusses the psychological and financial considerations associated with ART, and the potential risks involved​.

Unit 6: Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
The final unit addresses the management of recurrent pregnancy loss, exploring the medical, genetic, and environmental factors that contribute to repeated miscarriages. Participants will learn how to support couples through the emotional toll of miscarriage and offer appropriate medical interventions and referrals​.

This course, led by Dr. Christine Ahern, offers healthcare professionals the tools and knowledge to manage infertility comprehensively, supporting patients through both the medical and emotional challenges of their fertility journey.