What Are the Causes of Infertility?
May 16, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
If a woman has endocrine or ovulation disorders, she may also fail to conceive. Similarly, male infertility—such as azoospermia (absence of sperm) or oligoasthenospermia (low sperm count and poor motility)—can prevent conception. Additionally, the presence of antisperm antibodies in a woman’s cervical mucus can impair sperm viability and motility to some extent, hinder fertilization, and even result in infertility.
For women, the risk of pregnancy following unprotected intercourse is high. However, some couples may still not conceive despite having unprotected sex—a source of distress for those hoping to start a family. There are numerous potential causes of infertility. So, what are the common reasons?
What Are the Causes of Infertility?
There are many possible causes of infertility. Immune-related issues in either partner can prevent fertilization from occurring. Hormonal imbalances or ovulatory disorders in women may also hinder conception. Similarly, male infertility—such as azoospermia (absence of sperm) or oligoasthenospermia (low sperm count and poor motility)—can prevent pregnancy. Additionally, if a woman’s cervical mucus contains anti-sperm antibodies, this may reduce sperm viability and motility, impairing fertilization and potentially leading to infertility.
Endocrine dysfunction in women can disrupt ovulation and adversely affect the fallopian tubes. Conditions such as amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may develop over time, leading to reduced progesterone levels. This may further trigger ovarian dysfunction or premature ovarian insufficiency, thereby contributing to infertility.
Ovulatory disorders—such as failure of the ovaries to release mature, healthy oocytes—significantly reduce the likelihood of forming a viable zygote, thus preventing pregnancy. Ovulation itself is tightly regulated by hormonal secretion. Likewise, male factor infertility—including low sperm viability, azoospermia, or oligospermia—can impede conception. Conditions such as varicocele or folate metabolism disorders may also compromise sperm quality and function. We hope this information is helpful to you!
