What is infertility?
Infertility is a condition that makes it difficult for a person or couple to become pregnant. It can involve challenges with the reproductive system in one partner or both. In some cases, no clear cause is found, even after testing.
Pregnancy requires several steps to work together, including healthy eggs, healthy sperm, and a place for the embryo to grow. When any part of this process is disrupted, conception may not occur.
Symptoms and Causes
Infertility often becomes clear when pregnancy doesn’t happen as expected. It is typically defined as trying for one year without success, or six months if the woman is over age 35. Common causes can affect either partner.
Female-related causes may include:
- Irregular or absent ovulation
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
- Hormonal imbalances
- Pelvic infections or scar tissue
- Structural differences in reproductive organs
Male-related causes may include:
- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm movement or shape
- Hormone problems
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Genetic conditions
Lifestyle factors that can affect fertility:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol use
- Drug use
- Certain medications
- Frequent exposure to heat (such as hot tubs)
How is it diagnosed?
Infertility testing usually involves both partners. Your provider will begin with a health history and physical exam.
Common tests may include:
- Blood tests to check hormone levels
- Tracking ovulation patterns
- Ultrasound to examine reproductive organs
- Imaging to check if the fallopian tubes are open
- Semen analysis to evaluate sperm health
In some cases, you may be referred to a fertility specialist for more advanced testing and care.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and your individual goals. Many people start with less invasive options and move to more advanced treatments if needed.
Early treatment options may include:
- Medications to support ovulation
- Lifestyle changes to improve fertility
- Treatment for underlying conditions
Next steps may include:
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI), which places sperm directly into the uterus
- Surgery to correct structural concerns
- In vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs and sperm are combined outside the body
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for certain male fertility issues
- Use of donor eggs or sperm if needed
Success varies based on age, overall health, and the cause of infertility. Many people achieve pregnancy with the right combination of care.
