Causes & Risk Factors
Understanding what affects fertility
Common Female Infertility Causes
- •Ovulation disorders (35%) — including PCOS
- •Fallopian tube damage or blockage
- •Endometriosis
- •Uterine abnormalities (fibroids, polyps, septum)
- •Diminished ovarian reserve
- •Age-related egg quality decline
- •Thyroid or hormonal imbalances
- •Autoimmune conditions
Common Male Infertility Causes
- •Low sperm count (oligospermia)
- •Poor sperm motility (asthenospermia)
- •Abnormal sperm morphology (teratospermia)
- •Blocked vas deferens
- •Varicocele (most common treatable cause)
- •Hormonal imbalances
- •Genetic factors (e.g., Klinefelter syndrome)
- •Ejaculatory dysfunction
Modifiable Risk Factors
Smoking
Reduces egg and sperm quality
Abnormal BMI
Overweight or underweight affects ovulation
Chronic Stress
Disrupts hormonal balance
Excess Alcohol
Impairs sperm quality and ovulation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women with PCOS get pregnant?
Yes. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovulation disorder, but most PCOS patients can conceive with appropriate treatment. Options include lifestyle changes (weight management, diet, exercise), ovulation induction medications (Clomid or Letrozole), and IUI or IVF as needed. PCOS is one of the more treatable causes of infertility.
Does endometriosis always cause infertility?
Not necessarily. About 30-40% of endometriosis patients face fertility challenges, but many with mild disease conceive naturally. Endometriosis affects fertility through pelvic adhesions, tubal blockage, ovarian cysts (endometriomas) damaging ovarian tissue, and immune environment changes affecting implantation. Treatment depends on severity and patient age.
How long after varicocele surgery does sperm quality improve?
Varicocele is the most common treatable cause of male infertility. Improvements in sperm quality typically take 3-6 months post-surgery (sperm take about 74 days to mature). Studies show surgery improves sperm count and motility in 60-70% of cases, with corresponding increases in natural conception rates.
What should I do if I have unexplained infertility?
About 15-20% of infertility cases have no identifiable cause after standard evaluation. This does not mean nothing is wrong — it means current tests cannot detect the underlying issue. Treatment typically progresses in steps: ovulation induction + IUI first, then IVF if needed. IVF also has a diagnostic function, allowing embryologists to observe fertilization and embryo development directly.
How much does age affect fertility? Should I be worried in my early 30s?
Female fertility begins a gradual decline around age 32, accelerates after 37, and drops significantly after 40. Women in their early 30s generally have good fertility, but if trying without success, early evaluation is wise. Male fertility also declines with age, but more gradually. Age is the one factor that cannot be changed — if you have concerns, early assessment and action are always the right choice.