The aetiology of infertility in 1162 investigated couples.

The aetiological factors associated with 1162 couples who attended a single infertility clinic and who were assessed according to a fixed protocol over an eight-year period were analysed retrospectively. Male problems accounted for 17 per cent, ovulation disorders 31 per cent, tubal factors were present in 18 per cent and idiopathic infertility was observed in 32 per cent. Single factor infertility was present in 58.8 per cent and multiple factors were present in 9.8 per cent of all cases. Although results may be biased by sub-specialty interests, only by continuous updating with reference to the most modern accepted methods of investigation can the likely demand for specialised infertility services and in vitro fertilisation be determined with accuracy.