Hormone Deficiency Linked to Infertility

A hormone deficiency called congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) has been linked to infertility in both men and women. This condition is easily treated, but has been misdiagnosed for years by doctors nationwide. CAH results in an excess production of androgens, which interferes with ovulation and sperm count. Many women have undergone expensive fertility treatments to discover later that a hormone deficiency was the cause of their reproductive problems.
The New York Times reports that "not all fertility centers test for the disease, or they test for it only after they have tried other treatments. Some obstetricians are unaware of the disease and its effect on fertility."
CAH can also lead to shortness of stature, premature body hair growth, irregular menstruation, and acne. These symptoms have been wrongly attributed to premature puberty in many young girls, only to be corrected later. Once properly diagnosed, CAH is treatable and fertility may be restored.
Posted by Tala on 7/6/2009 10:31:58 PM
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