Infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. For women over 35, this timeframe decreases to six months. Infertility affects men and women equally, with the male partner contributing to 40% of cases. Often, infertility is due to physiological factors that hinder ovulation, fertilization, embryo implantation, or the ability to carry a pregnancy to term.
Infertility Causes at a Glance
Female Factors
Ovulation disorders, including irregular or absent ovulation.
Hormonal imbalances affecting fertility.
Structural abnormalities in the reproductive system.
Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Male Factors
Low sperm count or poor sperm quality.
Erectile or ejaculation issues.
Anatomical abnormalities affecting reproduction.
Shared Risk Factors
Age, with a sharp decline in fertility after 35 in women.
Genetic factors influencing reproductive health.
Prior surgeries or infections, including sexually transmitted diseases.
Lifestyle choices such as smoking, obesity, or chronic stress.
Environmental or inflammatory conditions impacting reproductive organs.
Recognizing Signs of Infertility
In Women:
Irregular or absent periods. Painful menstruation or pelvic pain. Pain during intercourse. Hormonal symptoms such as acne, weight gain, or excessive hair growth. Recurrent pregnancy loss.
In Men:
Erectile or ejaculation issues. Testicular pain, swelling, or lumps. Reduced sexual desire. Physical changes, such as hair loss. Diagnosed sexually transmitted diseases.
Common Causes of Infertility
Female Factors:
Ovulation Disorders: Irregular or absent ovulation. Endometriosis: Uterine tissue growing outside the uterus. PCOS: A hormonal imbalance that disrupts ovulation. Tubal Blockages: Often caused by infections or prior surgeries. Uterine Anomalies: Structural abnormalities in the uterus. Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Fewer or lower-quality eggs. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Chronic inflammation affecting reproductive organs.
Male Factors:
Low Sperm Count or Quality: Insufficient or unhealthy sperm. Erectile Dysfunction: Impaired ability to perform sexually. Varicoceles: Swollen veins in the scrotum, affecting sperm production. Genetic Disorders: Conditions like cystic fibrosis or chromosomal abnormalities.
Lifestyle and Medical Risk Factors
Obesity: Impacts ovulation in women and semen quality in men. Smoking and Alcohol Use: Linked to reduced fertility. Stress: Affects hormone regulation in both genders. Infections and STDs: Can damage reproductive organs. Age: Fertility declines sharply after 35 in women.
Comprehensive fertility evaluations by specialists involve a range of diagnostic tests to pinpoint specific causes of infertility. For women, these may include pelvic ultrasounds, hormone blood tests to assess ovarian reserve, and hysterosalpingograms (HSG) to check for fallopian tube blockages. In some cases, a laparoscopy is performed to examine the reproductive organs directly. For men, evaluations typically include a physical exam, semen analysis to assess sperm count and quality, and hormone testing to identify any imbalances. These detailed assessments enable specialists to develop targeted and effective treatment plans.
Unexplained Infertility
In some cases, infertility remains unexplained despite comprehensive testing. This diagnosis is made when the woman has regular ovulation, open fallopian tubes, and sufficient ovarian reserve, and the male partner’s sperm analysis is regular. For example, a couple may undergo all standard evaluations, such as semen analysis, hormonal tests, and imaging studies, only to find no identifiable cause for their inability to conceive. Advanced fertility treatments, including IVF or IUI, can increase the chances of pregnancy, providing hope and a pathway forward even without a precise diagnosis.
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)
Recurrent miscarriage refers to two or more consecutive losses of clinically confirmed pregnancies. This experience can have a profound emotional and psychological impact, including feelings of grief, guilt, and frustration. Many couples face heightened anxiety and fear about trying to conceive again, along with stress in their relationships. Causes of RPL include genetic abnormalities, uterine issues, hormonal imbalances, or autoimmune conditions.
How Sakalli IVF Can Help
At Sakalli IVF, our fertility specialists use cutting-edge diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to address all aspects of infertility.
Advanced IVF treatments with genetic screening
Fertility preservation services like egg, sperm, and embryo freezing.
Donation programs for eggs, sperm, and embryos.
Expert care for LGBTQIA+ family-building through third-party reproduction.
FAQs About Infertility
Signs of infertility can include irregular periods, pelvic pain, or difficulty maintaining erections in men. Sometimes, there are no symptoms at all. If you’ve been trying to conceive for over a year (6 months if you’re over 35), it’s time to consult a specialist to explore the underlying causes.
Absolutely! Smoking, excessive alcohol, poor diet, and stress can impact ovulation in women and sperm quality in men. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and managing stress can significantly improve your chances of conceiving.
Yes, but differently. Women’s fertility declines significantly after 35 due to egg quality and quantity. Men experience a slower decline, but sperm quality can be affected after 40, increasing the risk of genetic abnormalities in offspring.
For women, causes include ovulation disorders, endometriosis, and blocked fallopian tubes. For men, low sperm count, poor motility, or structural issues are standard. In some cases, infertility may be unexplained despite testing.
For women, tests may include ultrasounds, hormone analysis, and HSG to check the fallopian tubes. Men typically undergo a semen analysis and hormone tests. These evaluations help identify potential issues and guide treatment.
Treatments range from lifestyle changes and ovulation-inducing medications to advanced options like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Sometimes, donor eggs, sperm, or embryos may be recommended.
Focus on a balanced diet, reduce caffeine and alcohol, and quit smoking. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like yoga or counseling. Discuss any medications or supplements with your doctor to ensure they support your fertility goals.
Yes, experiencing two or more miscarriages is considered recurrent pregnancy loss. Causes may include genetic issues, uterine abnormalities, or hormonal imbalances. Advanced diagnostic tools and treatments can help address these challenges.
Begin Your Journey at Sakalli IVF
At Sakalli IVF, we are dedicated to guiding you through every step of your fertility journey with a compassionate approach and state-of-the-art treatments. As pioneers in advanced solutions such as preimplantation genetic testing and fertility preservation, we combine cutting-edge technology with personalized care to help you achieve your dream of building a family. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward parenthood.
