Fertility Issues: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

What Is Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. According to the NIH, about 15% of couples experience fertility issues. Infertility can affect both men and women—and in many cases, a combination of factors from each partner may be involved.

While the diagnosis may feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that infertility is treatable, and many couples go on to have healthy pregnancies with medical support.

Common Causes of Infertility

To understand infertility, it helps to know what has to happen for conception to occur. After ovulation, a woman’s egg must be fertilized by a sperm, travel through the fallopian tube, and successfully implant in the uterus. Any disruption in this process can cause fertility problems.

Causes of Infertility in Women

• Ovulation Disorders – Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid imbalances, and excess prolactin can prevent regular ovulation.
• Uterine or Cervical Abnormalities – Uterine polyps, fibroids, scar tissue, or endometriosis may interfere with implantation.
• Blocked Fallopian Tubes – Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), past infections, or previous surgery can cause blockage or damage.
• Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (Early Menopause) – Some women experience early menopause before age 40, reducing or halting egg production.

Causes of Infertility in Men

• Low Sperm Count or Poor Sperm Quality – This can result from varicoceles, hormone imbalances, or genetic conditions.
• Ejaculation Issues – Premature, delayed, or retrograde ejaculation may prevent successful sperm delivery.
• Undescended Testicles or Injury – Past trauma or developmental issues may affect sperm production.

Shared or Lifestyle-Related Causes

• Cancer Treatments – Radiation or chemotherapy can harm reproductive function in both sexes.
• Substance Use – Smoking, alcohol, and certain medications can affect fertility.
• STIs – Infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause scarring and infertility if untreated.
• Weight Extremes – Being significantly underweight or overweight can disrupt hormones and ovulation.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Couples under age 35 who haven’t conceived after 12 months of trying should consult a fertility specialist. Those over 35 should seek help after six months of trying. If either partner has a known medical condition or previous reproductive issue, earlier evaluation may be recommended.

Fertility Treatment Options

Depending on the underlying cause, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Fertility Medications

Drugs like Clomid or Letrozole can stimulate ovulation in women, while hormone therapy may improve sperm production in men.

2. Surgical Interventions

Procedures to remove uterine fibroids, unblock fallopian tubes, or treat varicoceles may restore fertility.

3. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is inserted directly into the uterus during ovulation.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized in a lab and transferred to the uterus.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg, typically used with IVF.

Alternatives for Growing Your Family

If treatment isn’t successful, options such as adoption or surrogacy can offer a path to parenthood. A fertility specialist can guide you through your choices based on your medical history, preferences, and goals.

Get Support from Fertility Experts at BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, we understand the emotional and physical challenges that come with fertility issues. Our OB-GYN specialists in Northern California offer personalized care, advanced testing, and effective treatment plans to help you achieve your dream of starting a family.

Schedule a fertility consultation today to take the next step in your journey.