For those who are trying to conceive, the reasons for infertility are not usually found in a neat list. There will be however, several common causes that should be explored as the most likely culprit.
The typical assumption is that the reasons for infertility may be attributed to the woman. This is largely due to their reproductive system being far more complex than a man's. Although many medical reasons are cited for infertility attributed to women, there are just as many for men. One study conducted in the UK shows both male and female causes are identical percentage wise at 32.5%. Those with both parties being the cause were 10.8%. A percentage of 23.1% were unknown and the 1% that was left was attributed to ‘other factor' although this is not clear.
Let's start with the male since their reasons for infertility are somewhat fewer. The first one is a low sperm count. In addition, the sperm may not be very good swimmers or are not in good health. One thing often not taken into consideration is the condition of the male body. If he is under stress, has STDs, is too heavy or smokes, this can cause under-production of sperm or creation of ones that are not healthy. Seeking expensive infertility treatments is futile if the man will not change his lifestyle for the better.
Male infertility can also be caused if the testicles have not properly descended. A varicocete may be the culprit. This is what is known as varicose veins that are found in the testicles. The function of veins in the testicles is to send blood to the heart via a small flap that only opens in one direction. If the veins fail to work in the normal way, the circulatory system can stop functioning properly and healthy sperm production does not happen. Depending upon the specific problem, the selected method of treatment can achieve varying levels of success.
Last but not least, the sperm have to travel to make it to the egg. There can be a problem with the tubes the sperm must use to reach their destination. Although there may be healthy sperm, they just may not make their destination.
Ovulation problems are the most typical reasons for infertility for women. A disorder called Luteal Phase Defect (LPD), is when the ovulation does not occur for as long as it should. Reasons for this disorder can be stress, long-time use of birth control, being overweight and imbalances of the hormones.
Still yet, another problem can be Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Other problems include PCOS, endometriosis (which can block tubes), Fallopian tubes blocked for other reasons and uterine fibroids.
Your weight can be a deciding factor although not nearly to the extent you would think. It applies around ten percent or less would be the estimate, although if this ten percent includes you it should be checked out. Obesity has two main reasons for causing infertility. Ovulation can be interrupted or shortened by the production of estrogen. Any hormonal disruptions will help trigger PCOS, which can cause problems getting pregnant.
Many times women are affected by the same infertility causes as men. These are eating improperly, STDs, stress, smoking and alcohol. These habits should be taken care of before paying for high cost infertility treatments. Of course, if in doubt, consulting a doctor concerning any questions you might have is recommended.
Michael Key has written about a variety of technical and travel topics for three decades. For more information on the likely reasons for infertility look for his new book "Secrets of Infertility Relief" available only at InfertilityRelief.com.
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