Infertility - Symptoms and Causes

Understanding Fertility Challenges

Fertility issues affect many couples worldwide. When pregnancy doesn’t occur after a year of regular unprotected sex, this is medically defined as infertility. This common condition affects millions of people globally.

The causes can vary widely. Sometimes the issue stems from the female partner, sometimes from the male partner, and often from a combination of factors. These biological challenges create barriers to successful conception.

The good news is that modern medicine offers numerous treatment options. Many couples find success with fertility treatments that address their specific challenges. These treatments are typically safe and have helped countless couples achieve pregnancy when natural methods weren’t successful.

Signs of Infertility

The main sign of infertility is not becoming pregnant after trying for some time. Many people have no other obvious symptoms.

Women might notice irregular or missing periods. Men might experience changes in hair growth patterns or sexual function.

Many couples do eventually conceive, either with or without medical help.

When to Consult a Medical Professional

Most people don’t need to see a doctor about fertility concerns until they’ve been trying to conceive for at least one year. However, women should seek medical advice sooner if they:

Are 35 or older and have been trying for six months or more
Are over 40 years old
Have missing, irregular, or very painful periods
Have known fertility issues
Have endometriosis or past pelvic inflammatory disease
Have experienced multiple miscarriages
Have undergone cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation

Men should talk to a healthcare provider if they have:

Sperm problems (low count or other issues)
History of testicular, prostate, or sexual conditions
Previous cancer treatment
Past hernia surgery
Smaller than typical testicles or swollen veins in the scrotum
Previous fertility problems with a partner
Family history of infertility

Getting timely medical advice can help identify potential issues and explore appropriate treatment options.

What Leads to Infertility

When a man has trouble making a baby, several things might be the cause.

Health Conditions

Undescended testicles
Genetic issues
Hormone imbalances
Diabetes
Infections (chlamydia, gonorrhea, mumps, HIV)
Enlarged veins in the scrotum (varicocele)

These problems can reduce how much sperm a man makes or affect sperm quality.

Sperm Delivery Issues

Sometimes sperm can’t reach the egg because of:

Premature ejaculation
Genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis
Blockages in the testicles
Injuries to reproductive organs

Environmental Factors

The world around us can affect fertility too:

Pesticides and chemicals
Radiation exposure
Certain medications for high blood pressure, depression, or infections
Too much heat from saunas or hot tubs

Cancer-Related Issues

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy can harm sperm production. The cancer itself may also cause problems.

Women face different fertility challenges.

Problems With Egg Release

Polycystic ovary syndrome
High prolactin levels
Thyroid issues (too much or too little hormone)
Excessive exercise
Eating disorders
Tumors

When eggs don’t release properly, it might be due to:

Uterus Conditions

The womb itself can have issues:

Polyps (small growths)
Unusual uterine shape
Cervical problems
Fibroids (non-cancerous tumors in the wall)

Fibroids can block fallopian tubes or prevent a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus wall.

Fallopian Tube Problems

Tubes can become damaged or blocked, often from inflammation called salpingitis. This frequently happens because of pelvic inflammatory disease, an infection of the reproductive organs.

Endometriosis

This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the womb. It can affect how well the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes work.

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency

Sometimes ovaries stop working before age 40. We often don’t know why, but it may link to:

Immune system diseases
Genetic conditions like Turner syndrome
Previous radiation or chemotherapy

Scar Tissue

Bands of scar tissue called pelvic adhesions can form after:

Pelvic infections
Appendicitis
Endometriosis
Abdominal or pelvic surgery

Cancer and Treatments

Cancers affecting reproductive organs often reduce fertility. Both radiation and chemotherapy can harm a woman’s ability to conceive.

Risk Factors

Several factors can affect fertility in both men and women. Understanding these risks may help individuals seeking to have children.

Age plays a significant role in fertility. Women experience a gradual decline in fertility during their mid-30s, with a sharper decrease after age 37. This is mainly due to fewer eggs and lower egg quality.

Men over 40 may also have reduced fertility, and their children face higher risks of birth defects and genetic issues.

Tobacco use can harm fertility for both partners. Smoking may:

Reduce pregnancy chances
Make fertility treatments less effective
Increase miscarriage risk
Contribute to erectile dysfunction and lower sperm count in men

Marijuana might impact fertility, though more studies are needed. Using marijuana during pregnancy has been linked to health problems for babies and increased risks of pregnancy loss.

Alcohol consumption affects fertility as well. Women trying to conceive should avoid alcohol completely, as no safe level exists. For men, heavy drinking can reduce sperm count and affect sperm movement.

Weight factors significantly influence fertility:

Being overweight or obese increases infertility risk
Excess weight in men is associated with poorer semen quality
Being underweight due to eating disorders or very restrictive diets also raises fertility concerns

Exercise patterns matter too. Too little exercise can lead to weight gain and fertility problems. However, extremely intense and frequent workouts in women of normal weight may sometimes cause ovulation issues.

Ways to Improve Fertility

For Couples

Having sex regularly during the fertile window can boost pregnancy chances. For those with a 28-day cycle, an egg typically releases midway between periods.

Try having sex daily starting 5-7 days before expected ovulation and continuing until two days after. This timing helps ensure sperm are present when the egg is released.

For Men

While not all fertility issues can be prevented, men can take several steps to protect their reproductive health:

Avoid Substances: Stay away from tobacco, illegal drugs, and excessive alcohol, as these can reduce sperm quality and quantity.
Skip Hot Baths: High temperatures from hot tubs or saunas may temporarily decrease sperm production and motility.
Reduce Exposure to Chemicals: Limit contact with pesticides, lead, mercury, and other toxins that can harm sperm production.
Review Medications: Some prescriptions may affect fertility. Never stop taking prescribed medications without talking to your healthcare provider first.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity may improve sperm quality and increase the likelihood of conception.

For Women

Women can take several actions to enhance their fertility:

Stop Smoking: Tobacco negatively impacts fertility and harms both maternal and baby’s health. Seek help from healthcare providers to quit.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Recreational substances can reduce conception chances and affect pregnancy health. Avoid them when trying to conceive.
Reduce Caffeine: Some women may need to limit caffeine intake. During pregnancy, experts suggest staying under 200 mg daily (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee). Check food labels for hidden caffeine.
Exercise Moderately: While regular activity is important, excessive exercise can disrupt menstrual cycles and affect fertility. Find a balanced approach.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being significantly underweight or overweight can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to fertility problems.

Infertility – Symptoms and Causes