Causes of Infertility | infertility factors

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Causes of Infertility

Causes of Infertility

Infertility is the inability to get pregnant after trying for at least one year (or six months if the woman is over 35 years old). There are many possible causes of infertility, and often it is a combination of factors that contribute to difficulty getting pregnant.

Some common causes of infertility in women include:

• Ovulation disorders: These are problems with the release of eggs from the ovaries. Ovulation disorders can be caused by hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or by problems with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus in the brain.

• Fallopian tube damage or blockage: The fallopian tubes transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. If the tubes are blocked or damaged, the egg cannot reach the uterus and become fertilized.

• Uterine or cervical problems: These can include abnormalities in the shape or structure of the uterus or cervix, or problems with the muscles or tissues of the uterus.

• Endometriosis: This is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs in the pelvis. Endometriosis can cause scarring and inflammation, which can interfere with fertility.

• Age: As a woman gets older, her fertility naturally declines. This is due to the fact that the number and quality of her eggs decreases with age.

In men, common causes of infertility include:

• Low sperm count or motility: A low sperm count is defined as fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen, while low motility refers to sperm that are not moving properly.

• Abnormal sperm shape: If the sperm are misshapen or have other abnormalities, they may be less able to fertilize an egg.

• Ejaculation problems: These can include retrograde ejaculation (when semen goes into the bladder instead of out of the penis) or anejaculation (when no ejaculate is produced).

• Hormonal imbalances: Abnormalities in testosterone and other hormones can affect sperm production.

• Varicoceles: These are varicose veins in the scrotum that can cause the testicles to overheat, which can damage sperm.

• Infections: Certain infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can cause scarring or blockages in the reproductive tract that can lead to fertility problems.

There are also other factors that can contribute to infertility, such as obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. In some cases, the cause of infertility is unknown. If you are having difficulty getting pregnant, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a fertility evaluation.