The main causes of infertility can be categorized into factors affecting both men and women. Here’s an overview:
Table of Contents
- 1. Female Factors
- 2. Male Factors
- 3. Combined Factors
- 4. Unexplained Infertility
- 5. Imaging Studies
- 6. Environmental Factors
- 7. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- 8. Psychological Factors
1. Female Factors
Ovulatory Disorders: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to irregular ovulation.
·Structural Issues: Abnormalities in the uterus, fallopian tubes, or cervix can hinder conception. Conditions such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis fall into this category.·
Age-related Decline: Female fertility generally decreases with age, particularly after 35, due to a decline in the quantity and quality of eggs.·
Hormonal Imbalances: Irregularities in hormones, such as those related to the thyroid or reproductive system, can affect fertility.
2. Male Factors
Low Sperm Count: Insufficient sperm production can reduce the chances of fertilizing an egg.
Poor Sperm Motility: Sperm with low motility may struggle to reach and fertilize an egg.
Abnormal Sperm Morphology: Irregularly shaped sperm may have difficulty penetrating the egg.
Ejaculation Issues: Problems with ejaculation, such as retrograde ejaculation, where semen enters the bladder instead of exiting the penis, can contribute to infertility.
3. Combined Factors
Couples’ Health and Lifestyle: Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and obesity can negatively impact fertility for both partners.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections that affect the reproductive system can lead to infertility if left untreated.
4. Unexplained Infertility
In some cases, despite thorough testing, the specific cause of infertility remains unclear. This is termed unexplained infertility.
5. Imaging Studies
Certain genetic conditions can affect fertility in both men and women.
6. Environmental Factors
Exposure to environmental toxins or pollutants can potentially impact fertility.
7. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Infections in the reproductive organs, often due to sexually transmitted infections, can cause scarring and damage, affecting fertility.
8. Psychological Factors
While not a direct cause, stress and psychological factors can contribute to infertility or exacerbate existing fertility issues. It’s important to note that infertility is often multifactorial, and individual cases may involve a combination of these factors. Couples experiencing difficulty in conceiving are advised to seek guidance from healthcare professionals or fertility specialists who can conduct comprehensive evaluations and recommend appropriate treatments based on the specific causes identified.
For more enquiry call us today.