Causes of infertility

Infertility is defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a common condition affecting about 1 in 6 couples trying to conceive.
The major causes of infertility include:
Male factors
- Sperm problems: low count, motility, vitality and/or morphology
- No sperm present in semen: usually due to obstructions or failure of the testicles
- Sexual dysfunctions: problems with erection or ejaculation
Female factors
- Ovulation problems: polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian failure, other endocrine problems
- Tubal obstruction due to previous surgery, infection or endometriosis. Sometimes fluid may accumulate in the blocked fallopian tube (‘hydrosalpinx’), which would impact natural fertility and also IVF success.
- Endometriosis
- Sexual dysfunctions: difficulty in vaginal intercourse
Unexplained infertility
- No cause can be identified after investigations.
In some couples, more than one factor may be identified.