Below is an article written by Dr Tom Manley, Fertility Specialist about common causes of infertility and men and women. Great resources to understand what is behind infertility.
Maria
Infertility is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of individuals and couples worldwide. Defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, infertility can stem from various factors impacting both men and women. Women’s health specialists at clinics such as Create Fertility believe that understanding these underlying causes is crucial for those seeking to start or expand their families.
This article explores the common causes of infertility in men and women, providing insight into the biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors and preventive measures for this challenging condition.
Causes of Infertility in Women
1. Ovulation Disorders
Ovulation disorders are among the leading causes of female infertility. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hypothalamic dysfunction disrupt the hormonal balance needed for regular ovulation. Women with PCOS often experience irregular or absent periods, making conception difficult.
2. Age-Related Decline
A woman’s fertility naturally declines with age. After the age of 35, both the quantity and quality of eggs decrease significantly. This decline increases the risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities, making it harder to conceive.
3. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation, scarring, and adhesions. This can obstruct the fallopian tubes or affect egg implantation, leading to infertility.
4. Tubal Blockage or Damage
Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes prevent sperm from reaching the egg or hinder the fertilised egg from reaching the uterus. Tubal damage is often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), previous surgeries, or infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
5. Uterine or Cervical Abnormalities
Structural issues in the uterus or cervix, such as fibroids, polyps, or an abnormally shaped uterus, can interfere with implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Cervical mucus abnormalities may also impede sperm movement.
Causes of Infertility in Men
1. Low Sperm Count
A low sperm count (oligospermia) or absence of sperm (azoospermia) is a primary cause of male infertility. Factors influencing sperm production include genetic conditions, hormonal imbalances, infections, and varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum).
2. Poor Sperm Motility and Morphology
Even with an adequate sperm count, poor sperm motility (movement) and abnormal morphology (shape) can reduce the chances of fertilisation. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity can impair sperm health.
3. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones play a critical role in sperm production. Conditions such as hypogonadism, where the testes produce insufficient testosterone, can result in reduced sperm production and libido.
4. Testicular Injury or Medical Conditions
Physical trauma, infections (e.g., mumps), and medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can damage the testes, affecting sperm production and quality.
5. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Exposure to environmental toxins, prolonged heat exposure (e.g., frequent use of hot tubs), and certain medications can negatively impact sperm production. Additionally, stress and poor nutrition may contribute to hormonal imbalances.
Shared Risk Factors
1. Obesity
Excess body weight affects fertility in both men and women by disrupting hormonal balance. In women, obesity can lead to irregular ovulation, while in men, it can lower testosterone levels and sperm quality.
2. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking damages reproductive organs and is linked to decreased egg quality in women and reduced sperm count and motility in men. Excessive alcohol consumption can similarly impair fertility in both genders.
3. Stress
Chronic stress affects hormonal regulation, potentially disrupting ovulation in women and reducing sperm production in men. Managing stress through mindfulness, exercise, or therapy may improve fertility outcomes.
4. Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining reproductive health. Deficiencies in essential nutrients such as zinc, vitamin D, and folate can impair fertility in both men and women. Adopting a nutrient-rich diet can improve overall reproductive outcomes.
5. Medications and Medical Treatments
Certain medications, such as anabolic steroids, antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs, can affect fertility. It is essential to discuss fertility concerns with healthcare providers when undergoing medical treatments.
Psychological and Emotional Impact
Infertility often takes an emotional toll on individuals and couples. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression are common, which may further impact fertility. Seeking support through counselling or support groups can help individuals cope with the emotional challenges of infertility.
Preventative Measures
- Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can support hormonal balance and reproductive health.
- Avoiding Harmful Substances: Limiting exposure to toxins, quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol intake can enhance fertility.
- Regular Health Check-Ups: Early detection of reproductive issues can improve the chances of successful treatment.
When to Seek Help
It is recommended that couples seek medical evaluation if they have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success (or six months for women over 35). Early assessment can help identify underlying causes and improve the chances of successful treatment.
Pathways to Parenthood
For those facing infertility, several medical interventions can help achieve parenthood. Options include fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Exploring these options with a fertility specialist can provide hope for couples struggling to conceive.
Understanding Infertility: The Path Forward
Infertility can be a challenging and emotional journey, but understanding its common causes is a vital step towards finding effective solutions. Both men and women can experience fertility issues due to hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities, lifestyle factors, and age-related decline. By recognising these factors, individuals and couples can work with healthcare professionals to explore treatment options and improve their chances of conception.
Author Bio
Dr Tom Manley
Author Bio: Dr Tom Manley, a Fertility Specialist, advanced laparoscopic surgeon, and Obstetrician, offers comprehensive care from fertility treatments through to pregnancy and birth. With advanced training in pelvic surgery and reproductive medicine, including a Masters in Reproductive Medicine, Dr Manley is recognised as a leading fertility surgeon in Australia. He specialises in surgeries for endometriosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts, optimising fertility outcomes. Dr Manley leads the surgical team in the Reproductive Services Unit at the Royal Women’s Hospital and serves as a primary supervising surgeon in the Create AGES (Australasian Gynaecology Endoscopy and Surgery) Fellowship and the Monash Gynaecology Endoscopy Unit. Patients benefit from his unique approach, blending expertise with a commitment to supporting families throughout their fertility and pregnancy journeys.