Infertility can stem from abnormalities in either the male or female reproductive systems, or from a combination of factors affecting both partners. Roughly 20-30% of cases are attributed to male factors, while approximately 40-55% are linked to female causes. Around 20-30% result from a combination of issues in both partners, and about 10-20% have causes that remain unidentified.

1. Hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation, including:

• Elevated prolactin levels (Hyperprolactinemia)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Chronic anovulation

2. Abnormalities in the fallopian tubes, such as:

• Endometriosis
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Pelvic adhesions
• Edema in the fallopian tubes (Hydrosalpinx)

3. Uterine abnormalities, including:

• Uterine polyps
• Uterine adhesions (Asherman's syndrome)
• Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas or fibromyomas)

4. Decline in ovarian function (Ovarian Reserve):

• Genetic conditions like fragile X chromosome syndrome
• Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation

5. Age-related decline in egg quantity and quality

 

1.Abnormalities in sperm production, including: Genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome or microdeletions of the Y chromosome
Inflammation and infections (e.g., mumps virus-induced testicular inflammation)

2. Abnormalities in sperm function, such as:

• Reproductive system inflammation, like prostatitis
• Presence of varicocele

3.Blockages in sperm ducts, such as:

• Vasectomy
• Inflammation of the sperm ducts
• Congenital abnormalities

Treatment for infertility varies depending on the underlying cause identified. Doctors aim to provide interventions that facilitate the most natural conception possible. However, in cases where the cause persists despite treatment, some couples may resort to assisted reproductive technology (ART). Currently, two main methods of ART are widely utilized:

1. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) involves inducing ovulation and then directly injecting specially selected sperm into the uterine cavity. This method is suitable for couples facing fewer fertility issues. The procedure typically takes about two weeks to recover from.

2. Assisting fertilization outside the body, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a treatment where eggs and sperm are combined to facilitate fertilization in a laboratory setting. Following fertilization, the resulting embryo is transferred back into the woman's uterus to enable pregnancy continuation.

3. Facilitating fertilization outside the body, IVF with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) involves injecting a carefully selected sperm directly into the egg cell to initiate fertilization. Following fertilization, the resulting embryo is transferred back into the woman's uterus to support pregnancy.