Infertility is when a couple cannot get pregnant after trying for a year or more. It can affect both women and men, and there are many reasons why this can happen. Let’s take a look at the common causes of infertility in women and men.
Causes of Infertility in Women
- Ovulation Problems: One of the main reasons women face infertility is due to issues with ovulation. If a woman doesn’t ovulate regularly, it can be difficult to conceive. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances can cause this.
- Blocked Fallopian Tubes: The fallopian tubes carry the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. If these tubes are blocked or damaged, it can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. This can happen due to infections, previous surgeries or a condition called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- Endometriosis: This condition occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus starts growing outside it. This can affect the function of the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes, making it harder to get pregnant.
- Age: As women age, their fertility declines. After the age of 35, the number and quality of eggs decrease, making it harder to conceive.
Causes of Infertility in Men
- Low Sperm Count: One of the most common causes of infertility in men is a low sperm count. If a man has fewer sperm than normal, it reduces the chances of one reaching and fertilizing an egg.
- Poor Sperm Movement: Sometimes the sperm can’t move properly, making it difficult for them to swim to the egg. This is known as poor sperm motility.
- Abnormal Sperm: If the sperm have an abnormal shape or size, they might not be able to fertilize an egg properly.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Just like in women, men can also have hormonal problems that affect fertility. Low levels of testosterone or other hormones can lead to issues with sperm production.
- Varicocele: This is a condition where the veins inside the scrotum are enlarged, which can affect the quality and number of sperm.
Infertility in women and men can be caused by many factors, including problems with ovulation, sperm count, and blocked fallopian tubes. While infertility can be challenging, understanding what causes infertility in women and men can help couples explore treatments and options to improve their chances of having a baby.