Infertility

Understanding Infertility: Causes, Challenges,
and When to Seek Help

What is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse in women younger than 35 years of age and after 6 months for women 35 years and older. After one year of regular, unprotected intercourse, approximately 85% of women will become pregnant and an additional 7% will conceive in the second year. If conception has not occurred within this timeframe, it may be time to seek medical assistance. Time is of the essence!

Common Causes of Infertility

Advancing Maternal Age

Both the quantity and quality of the eggs decline as women age, making conception more difficult. There is an even more rapid decline and decrease in fertility in women over the age of 35.

Ovulation Disorders

Regular ovulation is essential for natural conception. Various conditions, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), can disrupt ovulation, making it difficult for a mature egg to be released and fertilized. Ovulation can be tracked in many ways which include using a menstrual calendar or ovulation predictor kits.

Tubal Factor

Fertilization of the egg with sperm occurs within the fallopian tubes. Any tubal related issue that obscures or limits fertilization and transfer through the fallopian tubes can lead to infertility. Some conditions include hydrosalpinx (fluid-filled tubal cavities), scarred tubes from inflammatory conditions or infections (i.e. sexually transmitted diseases) and even developmental abnormalities of the reproductive tract.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis leads to inflammation and scarring within the uterine cavity, which is important for the embryo implantation. This affects egg quality, sperm function, embryo development, and implantation. Many women with endometriosis also experience pelvic pain.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are common and affect up to 40% of women. While most fibroids do not impact fertility depending on their location, submucosal fibroids can reduce pregnancy rates by interfering with implantation and causing abnormal bleeding.

Unexplained Infertility

Approximately 15% of couples experiencing infertility do not receive a definitive diagnosis. Despite this uncertainty, effective treatment options are available to help couples conceive.

Male Factor

Approximately 40% (or even greater) of infertility can be attributed to various male factor-related issues. This includes poor sperm motility, morphology (shape), and count. Additionally, genetic disorders (microdeletions) and Kleinfelter’s syndrome can limit functional sperm capable of fertilization.

Understanding these potential causes of infertility and taking timely, proactive steps to determine if they apply to you is essential for achieving successful outcomes.

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