Infertility is a medical condition that affects both men and women. It is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected sex. Infertility can have many causes, including hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, blockages in the fallopian tubes, and endometriosis. Treatment for infertility may include medication, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
While infertility is often seen as a woman’s problem, it can actually be caused by a variety of factors that affect both sexes. In fact, about one-third of all cases of infertility are due to male factors. Common causes of male infertility include low sperm count, poor sperm quality, and blockages in the reproductive tract. Treatment options for male infertility may include medication, surgery, or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
Female fertility declines with age, especially after age 35. About 12% of couples who are trying to conceive will experience difficulty conceiving within one year. This number increases to about 30% by age 40. There are many factors that can contribute to female fertility decline including ovarian reserve depletion, changes in hormone levels, and damage to the eggs from exposure to environmental toxins. Treatment options for female fertility decline include hormone therapy and IVF with donor eggs .
Both men and women are born with a finite number of eggs or sperm cells. For women this number is around 1 million at birth but it decreases throughout life due mostly to ovulation . Age also has an impact on egg quality which can lead to genetic abnormalities that make conception more difficult or impossible . Studies have shown that advanced maternal age is associated with an increased risk for chromosomally abnormal pregnancies .
An estimated 15% of couples worldwide are affected by infertility . It is important to remember that you are not alone if you are struggling with infertility . There are many resources available including support groups , counseling , and fertility treatments .