Abstract
M. Tech.
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a minimum of one year of regular intercourse
without contraception (Carlson et al, 2002). This may occur as primary infertility, where
individuals have never had a biological child, or secondary infertility where individuals have had
at least one previous documented conception (Greer et al, 2003). Infertility, in the African setting,
is seen as a violation of the social norm. It contributes to psychological distress and marital
instability as well as the loss of social security, social status and gender identity. Parenthood is
considered culturally mandatory making childlessness unacceptable. Not only does Africa have the
highest fertility rates in the world, Africa also has the highest number of infertility cases globally
(Dyer et al, 2005; Ragone & Twine, 2000).
Unexplained infertility is diagnosed when the routine investigation of semen analysis, tubal
patency and assessment of ovulation show no abnormality and the couple have engaged in regular
sexual intercourse. Unexplained infertility is thus a diagnosis of exclusion. When a previously
identified cause of infertility is corrected, yet infertility persists a diagnosis of unexplained
infertility is also given (Behrman et al, 1988). Before a diagnosis of unexplained infertility can be
made four aspects are generally assessed. Each aspect encompasses a different aspect of the
reproductive process: the number and quality of sperm, maturation and release of the ova, barriers
to fertilization and barriers to implantation and maintenance of pregnancy (Cooper-Hilbert, 1999).
The aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of homoeopathic similimum treatment in
females pre-diagnosed with unexplained infertility using case studies. Cases were evaluated using
fertility and parameters related to fertility which include basal body temperatures and midcycle
cervical mucous changes. In addition, general parameters such as general well-being, premenstrual
symptoms, dysmenorrhoea and sexual function were also evaluated. Concomitant symptoms were
included in the analysis of each participant’s holistic case. The male partner was also required to
be free of any structural and functional pathology.