What Causes Infertility?
August 2, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Infertility is a complex condition that can have multiple causes, and it affects both men and women. Infertility is generally defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular unprotected intercourse. There are various factors that can contribute to infertility in both sexes:
Causes of Female Infertility:
- Ovulation disorders: Irregular or absent ovulation can be caused by conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances.
- Fallopian tube blockage: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes can prevent the egg from meeting the sperm, hindering fertilization.
- Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, potentially affecting fertility.
- Uterine abnormalities: Structural issues with the uterus, such as uterine fibroids or polyps, can interfere with embryo implantation.
- Age: As women age, their ovarian reserve and egg quality decrease, making conception more challenging.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Infections in the reproductive organs can cause scarring and adhesions, leading to infertility.
- Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI): A condition where the ovaries stop functioning before the age of 40, leading to a lack of eggs for fertilization.
Causes of Male Infertility:
- Low sperm count: A low sperm count or oligospermia can reduce the chances of sperm reaching and fertilizing the egg.
- Abnormal sperm morphology: Irregularly shaped sperm may have difficulty penetrating the egg.
- Sperm motility issues: Poor sperm movement can hinder the sperm’s ability to reach the egg.
- Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection can impact fertility.
- Varicocele: A varicose vein in the scrotum can lead to decreased sperm quality.
- Obstruction: Blockages in the male reproductive tract can prevent the release of sperm.
- Hormonal imbalances: Problems with hormone production or regulation can affect sperm production.
In some cases, infertility may be idiopathic, meaning no specific cause is identified despite thorough testing. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress can also contribute to infertility in both men and women.
It’s important to note that infertility is a medical condition, and if a couple is having trouble conceiving, they should seek medical evaluation and support from a healthcare professional or a fertility specialist. There are various fertility treatments available that can help many couples overcome infertility and achieve their goal of starting a family.