Reproductive endocrinology is a specialty that comes under the purview of obstetrics and gynecology. It primarily deals with infertility treatment in people who cannot have children or have a fertility problem. Usually, reproductive endocrinology, as the name suggests, handle reproductive problems caused due to hormonal imbalance. In addition, a specialist in this field is also qualified to treat patients with menstrual problems and sexual dysfunction.
This particular specialty joins endocrinology and reproductive medicine. Basically, testes and ovaries, which are collectively known as gonads, are part of the endocrine system. The system by itself is responsible for reproduction, sexual organ development and secondary sexual characteristics. Hence, the knowledge of both reproductive medicine and endocrinology are joined to help people who are unable to have children.
Typically, people suffering from infertility end up working with a reproductive endocrinology specialist. However, any hormonal issues can be treated by this kind of specialist. Hence, it is common to see reproductive endocrinology specialist treating problems associated with menopause, sexual dysfunction, menstrual problems and hormonal imbalances besides infertility. The field makes uses of many different types of treatments, which can include hormonal treatments, surgery or in-vitro fertilization.
When it comes to conceiving, a reproductive endocrinologist will advice patients about the fertility problem and then put forth an array of treatment options. In addition, the specialist will also help the patient to select the best possible treatment option. Just because a person is having a fertility problem, it is no longer an excuse to conceive. Today, besides in-vitro fertilization, there are other methods that reproductive endocrinology uses. Some of these methods include intrauterine insemination and zygote intra-fallopian transfer. In intrauterine insemination, the sperm is first treated in-vitro to make it more viable and thereafter this sperm is inserted into the uterus to bring about fertilization of the ovum. In zygote intra-fallopian transfer, the ovum is taken out of the ovary and thereafter fertilized in-vitro. Once the fertilization takes place, the resultant zygote in introduced back into the fallopian tube, so that it can make its way into the uterus and get attached.
The field of reproductive endocrinology has expanded and advanced quite a bit in the recent decades. Although it is a new field, it handles all problems associated with reproduction. In addition, the field also treats any health problem that could have a negative effect on reproductive health. So, even problems like polycystic ovary disease, diabetes, endometrial cancer and elevated blood pressure are diagnosed and treated by a reproductive endocrinologist.
More Articles :
- Endocrine Systems Overview
- Function Of Endocrine System
- Organs Of The Endocrine System
- Overview Of Endocrine System
- The Evolution Of The Endocrine System
- What Is Endocrinology ?
- What Is Reproductive Endocrinology ?
About.com: What Is Reproductive Endocrinology?https://healthcareers.about.com/od/p/f/ReproductivEndo.htm
WiseGeek: What Is Reproductive Endocrinology?
https://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-reproductive-endocrinology.htm
The endocrine system is composed of glands and organs that manufacture hormones. These hormones are responsible for regulating different bodily functions, and are secreted by the glands directly into the blood. This is because the glands of this system do not have ducts. Hormones are responsible for metabolism, sexual development as well as growth.