Sterility, << stuh RIHL uh tee, >> refers to the inability to reproduce. It applies to all forms of life, from microorganisms to higher plants, animals, and human beings.
Some antibiotics, such as penicillin, interfere with the reproductive powers of disease-producing bacteria. As a result, the number of bacteria remain low, and the body is able to overcome disease.
A plant may be sterile because of imperfectly developed reproductive organs. If the stamens and pistils are imperfect or absent, the plant cannot reproduce. Sterility in animals results if the reproductive organs do not develop properly. Certain hybrid animals, such as the mule, cannot reproduce.
Sterility in human beings may have several causes. It may result from defects in the structure of the reproductive organs. Certain diseases affect the reproductive organs and may cause sterility. Improper balance of the hormones produced by the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland, the adrenal glands, and the gonads (sex glands) may result in failure to produce eggs or sperm. Human beings may intentionally become sterile by undergoing surgical sterilization (see Birth control (Methods of birth control)).
See also Infertility.
