Infertility causes can be complex
Infertility is a complex issue that affects men and women all over the world, including about 1 in 5 couples in the United States. The causes can may be found in reproductive issues with either the male or female partner, or both. Understanding infertility causes is an important first step in creating a treatment plan targeted to each individual’s or couple’s situation.
Our New Jersey fertility specialist is committed to helping you achieve pregnancy as quickly and cost-effectively as possible, regardless of what causes infertility in your situation.
Infertility causes in women
- Maternal age. As women age, their fertility naturally declines. Women are born with all the eggs they will have throughout their lives. As they age, their egg supply diminishes in both quality and quantity.
- Fallopian tube blockages. The fallopian tubes provide a pathway for sperm to reach the egg, and for a fertilized egg to travel to the uterus to implant. If these tubes are blocked or damaged, fertilization may occur. Such damage can be caused by conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis or previous surgeries.
- Ovulation disorders. Some women experience irregular ovulation, while others learn they are not ovulating at all. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hormonal imbalances and thyroid disorders can all interfere with ovulation.
- Uterine issues. Some women are surprised to learn that they have a structural abnormality of the uterus. Fibroids, polyps, uterine scarring, or an abnormally shaped uterus can all interfere with implantation and a normal pregnancy.
- Other factors. Some factors that affect fertility, such as obesity, smoking, or alcohol and drug use, can be controlled with lifestyle changes. Others, such as autoimmune disorders, may be treatable with medications.
What causes infertility in men
- Low sperm count, or no sperm at all. To be able fertilize an egg, a man needs to have enough healthy sperm to reach the egg. A low sperm count can be caused by medications, vascular problems, genetic disorders, hormone imbalances or other conditions. Some men learn they have very few or no sperm at all, a condition known as azoospermia.
- Problems with sperm quality. To fertilize an egg, sperm must be able to swim normally. Issues with sperm motility or sperm shapes can interfere with natural conception. Genetic issues with either the sperm or the egg can also cause an embryo to fail to develop normally.
- Ejaculation problems. Some men are aware that they may have a sexual dysfunction issue. Others are surprised to discover hidden infertility causes, such as retrograde ejaculation, a condition in which semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis.
- Testicular disorders. Men who have suffered trauma to or infections in the testicles, or who have undescended testicles, may have reduced sperm production. Men with a history of hernia repairs may also have sperm issues.
- Lifestyle factors. Drug use, smoking, excessive alcohol use, obesity and exposure to certain toxins can adversely affect sperm health.
- Genetic issues- Certain genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, or a variety of chromosomal disorders can impact on sperm production and make it difficult to conceive without assistance.
Fertility testing of both partners is the first step
Understanding the underlying causes of infertility is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. If you are having difficulty conceiving, we can help.
The first step is determining what causes infertility in your situation. Fertility tests for both partners often pinpoint a reason for a couple’s inability to conceive on their own. The good news is that in many cases, infertility causes can be successfully treated resulting in a healthy child
The compassionate and caring team at Conceive NJ offers personalized assistance to help you navigate your journey to parenthood. Contact us today to get the answers you need to realize your dream of having a healthy baby.
