Trying for a Baby? Check the Causes of Infertility

Infertility can have many causes

Infertility is when a couple has regular unprotected sex but is unable to conceive within one year. The cause may come from the woman, the man, both partners, or remain unexplained. Because many factors can affect fertility, diagnosis should include both partners.

Female factors

• Increasing age: the number and quality of eggs decline with age.
• Hormonal imbalance: especially reproductive hormones such as LH and FSH.
• Ovulation problems: when eggs are not released from the ovaries, fertilization cannot occur and the chance of natural pregnancy decreases.
• Uterine or cervical abnormalities: such as uterine fibroids or intrauterine adhesions, which may affect embryo implantation and increase the risk of miscarriage.
• Blocked fallopian tubes: sperm cannot meet the egg, so fertilization cannot occur.
• Emotional stress: stress can disrupt reproductive hormones, affect ovulation, and reduce egg quality.

Male factors

• Abnormal or low sperm count: sperm with abnormal shape or movement can make conception more difficult. A semen analysis can help identify the cause.
• Hormonal imbalance: especially low testosterone, which may reduce sexual desire and cause fatigue.
• Erectile dysfunction: this can be related to age or underlying health conditions.
• Testicular abnormalities: such as varicocele, infection, or inflammation.
• Blocked sperm ducts: this can result in no sperm in the semen and lead to infertility.
• Emotional stress: stress may reduce sperm count and quality, and can also contribute to erectile dysfunction.

With care from the Women’s Health and Fertility Clinic. For more information or appointments, call 02 826 9971 or contact Line: @womenandfertility.