Causes of infertility
Infertility is the inability to become pregnant despite regular intercourse without contraception for at least a year. It has been recognised by the WHO as a social disease because of the increasing scale of the problem. The most common causes include male factor, ovulation disorders, endometriosis and obstruction of the fallopian tubes. Couples who have previously had children can also be affected. Proper diagnosis requires a comprehensive examination with a specialist. Understanding the causes of infertility is the first step to successful treatment and realising the dream of parenthood.
Highlights
- The WHO has recognised infertility as a social disease due to the increasing scale of the phenomenon.
- The most common causes of infertility are male factor, endometriosis, ovulation disorders and fallopian tube obstruction.
- Secondary infertility occurs in couples who already have a child but cannot get another pregnancy.
- Proper diagnosis through fertility testing is the first step to successful infertility treatment.
What are the most common causes of infertility?
Infertility can have many causes. If you are not managing to get pregnant, make an appointment for diagnostic testing and find out why you are experiencing difficulty conceiving. Remember that a proper diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment.
For many couples, infertility is related to a specific condition, the presence of a hormonal disorder or structural defects in the genitourinary tract:
Sometimes it happens that a couple who has been trying long and unsuccessfully to get pregnant already has one child, that is, at one time they were fertile. However, since the birth of the first offspring, the fertility of the woman, her partner or both of them has declined, and the specific cause of this condition, known as secondary infertility, it is worth establishing with the help of fertility tests.
At our clinics, we support couples throughout their journey towards the desired parenthood. For this reason, we have prepared an offer of tests dedicated to each stage of the effort to have a baby.
Ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy
See how ectopic pregnancy contributes to infertility. Read more ->
Miscarriages
Miscarriages
       See what to do if you have experienced a miscarriage. Read more ->
Frequently asked questions - FAQ
Infertility is evenly distributed between partners, with approximately 40% cases involving women, 40% cases involving men, and 20% cases involving mixed or unknown causes. Therefore, diagnostic testing should include both partners at the same time.
The costs of the IVF procedure depend on the extent of treatment, to be verified at the clinic. The National Health Service reimburses some diagnostic tests and a limited number of IVF procedures for couples meeting certain age and medical criteria.
Yes, significantly. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, chronic stress and a sedentary lifestyle can reduce fertility in both sexes. A healthy diet, regular physical activity and avoidance of stimulants increase the chances of conception.
The decision is very individual and depends on the prognosis of treatment, the age of the partners, emotional and financial exhaustion. Many couples consider adoption after 2-3 years of unsuccessful treatment or when the medical prognosis is unsuccessful.
Yes, it happens in about 10-15% couples. Sometimes treatment removes anatomical or hormonal obstacles, improving natural fertility. The stress of treatment can also negatively affect fertility, so reducing it helps.
The medical information presented should be considered as general guidelines and does not replace the individual judgement of the doctor regarding the medical management of each patient. The doctor, after a thorough examination of the patient's condition, determines the extent and frequency of diagnostic tests and/or therapeutic procedures, taking into account specific medical indications. All medical decisions are made in full consultation with the patient.
Author of the article
Invimed editorial team - we serve patients by solving their fertility problems. We use world medical knowledge, state-of-the-art technology and treatment methods. We are here to make dreams of parenthood come true. The smiles on the faces of happy parents give meaning to our work.
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