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Common Medical Problems and Infertility

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

Once again, that pregnancy home test shows you a negative result. Crushing as it may be, if you’ve ben trying for over a year, it may be time to consider the possibility that there could be a medical problem with either you or your partner – and it could be infertility-related.

Contents

Ovulation issues
Damage to the Fallopian Tubes
Endometriosis
Uterine or cervical abnormalities
Premature ovarian failure
Abnormal sperm production or function
Irregular sperm delivery
Environmental factors

What is Infertility?

Infertility is a condition that affects around 1 out of every 6 couples. A couple who have been unsuccessful in conceiving over the course of one full year, are given a diagnosis of infertility. The time period may be reduced to 6 months if the woman is 35 or above. Women who can conceive but are unable to carry the pregnancy may also be infertile.

Pregnancy has a number of steps. To get pregnant:

1. The woman's body must release an egg from one of her ovaries, which is ovulation.

2. The egg must travel through a fallopian tube toward the uterus or womb.

3. The man's sperm must fertilize the egg.

4. The fertilized egg must attach to the inside of the uterus, which is implantation.

Infertility can occur if there are complications in one or more of these steps.

Causes of Female Infertility

There can be a number of causes of female infertility. These are as follows:

Ovulation issues

These are disorders which affect the release of the eggs from the ovaries. They may include hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hypothyroidism. Other causes may include excessively vigorous exercise, eating disorders such as anorexia, or tumours.

Damage to the Fallopian Tubes

Another common cause of infertility is fallopian tube damage, scarring, or blockage. This is often caused by inflammation of the fallopian tube. This can be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, which is usually a result of sexually transmitted infections, endometriosis or adhesions.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where the endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus. It may affect the normal functioning of the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. It can cause internal bleeding, inflammation, adhesions, pain, and in several cases, infertility.

Uterine or cervical abnormalities

These can include abnormalities with the cervix, polyps in the uterus or irregularities with the uterine shape. Uterine fibroids in the uterine wall may cause infertility by obstructing the fallopian tubes or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

Premature ovarian failure

This is a condition wherein the ovaries stop working and menstruation ceases before age 40. Symptoms include irregular periods or no periods, together with typical menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and irritability. A woman with premature ovarian failure has a highly reduced chance of getting pregnant, however pregnancy is still possible with the proper treatment.

Causes of Male Infertility

The top causes of male infertility may include the following.

Abnormal sperm production or function

This condition may occur due to undescended testicles, genetic defects, health problems such as diabetes, or infections such as chlamydia, mumps or gonorrhoea. Enlarged veins in the testes may also affect the quality of sperm.

Irregular sperm delivery

Certain men may encounter problems with the delivery of sperm. This may occur due to a number of factors, including:

-Sexual issues, such as premature ejaculation

-Structural problems, such as an obstruction in the testicle

-Genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis

-Damage or injury to the reproductive organs

Environmental factors

Overexposure to certain environmental factors may also contribute to male fertility. These factors include cigarette smoke, alcohol, pesticides, radiation, anabolic steroids, and certain medications. High blood pressure and depression can affect fertility as well. Excessive exposure to high temperatures, such as in saunas or hot tubs, can negatively impact sperm production.

It is important to remember that a diagnosis of infertility does not mean the end of everything. There are still a lot of options out there for you and your partner. So, talk to the right people, keep a positive attitude, and you will find that things are much better than you thought!

Explore More Articles on Infertility

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Common Medical Problems and Infertility

12 Myths around Pregnancy & Ovulation: BUSTED

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

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