Why are some people infertile?

Oct 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, infertility may be caused by factors such as age, genetics, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), severe male sperm quality issues, or immunological infertility. If you experience any physical discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. A comprehensive examination and evaluation should be conducted as soon as possible to identify the specific cause and implement appropriate treatment measures.

Generally, infertility may be caused by factors such as genetics, age, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), severe male sperm quality issues, and immunological infertility. If physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Genetics

Genetic factors play an important role in infertility. Certain genetic disorders, such as seminiferous tubule dysgenesis and sclerosing degeneration of seminiferous tubules, can lead to male infertility. Similarly, some genetic diseases in women may also impair fertility.

2. Age

Fertility declines with increasing age. In women, fertility begins to gradually decrease after age 30 and drops more rapidly after age 35. Additionally, men's age can affect both the quality and quantity of sperm, thereby increasing the risk of infertility.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

In patients with PCOS, follicular development may be incomplete or ovulation may not occur normally, leading to ovulatory dysfunction. This prevents the egg from being fertilized and thus increases the likelihood of infertility. Moreover, patients often have elevated levels of androgens, which disrupt normal follicular development and contribute to ovulation problems. Medications such as dexamethasone tablets, chlormadinone acetate, and compound norethisterone tablets may be used under medical supervision to increase estrogen levels and treat these conditions.

4. Severe Male Sperm Quality Issues

Poor sperm quality negatively affects fertility, including reduced chances of conception, increased risk of miscarriage, and potential impacts on fetal health. Severe sperm quality problems in men—such as low sperm count, poor motility, abnormal morphology, or failure of semen to liquefy—can result in infertility. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Compound Xuanju Capsules, Wuzi Yanzong Pills, or clomiphene citrate tablets for treatment.

5. Immunological Infertility

Immunological infertility refers to the body becoming sensitized to its own antigens, resulting in impaired fertilization or failure of sperm, eggs, or embryos to implant properly. This condition may arise due to reproductive tract injuries, infections, or other causes that trigger the production of antibodies against self-antigens, thereby interfering with the union of sperm and egg and leading to infertility. Patients are advised to take medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, cyclosporine soft capsules, and vitamin E under a doctor’s guidance. For individuals with immunological infertility, assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer may be effective options.

Couples experiencing infertility should seek timely medical evaluation for comprehensive testing and assessment to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mental state can also help improve fertility.