What causes infertility in men? Infertility in men can be caused by different factors and is typically evaluated by a semen analysis. When a semen analysis is performed, the number of sperm (concentration), motility (movement), and morphology (shape) are assessed by a specialist. A slightly abnormal semen analysis does not mean that a man is necessarily infertile. Instead, a semen analysis helps d ...

When to see a doctor You probably don't need to see a doctor about infertility unless you have been trying regularly to get pregnant for at least one year. Women should talk with a doctor earlier, however, if they: Are age 35 or older and have been trying to conceive for six months or longer Are over age 40 Have irregular or absent periods Have very painful periods Have known fertility problems H ...

Causes of male infertility These may include: Abnormal sperm production or function due to undescended testicles, genetic defects, health problems such as diabetes, or infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, mumps or HIV. Enlarged veins in the testes (varicocele) also can affect the quality of sperm. Problems with the delivery of sperm due to sexual problems, such as premature ejaculation; certa ...

What are risk factors for infertility in all genders? These factors increase the risk of infertility in all genders: Age (over age 35 for women or over 40 for men). Diabetes. Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia. Excessive alcohol use. Exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead and pesticides. Over exercising. Radiation therapy or other cancer treatments. Sexually transmit ...

When is unexplained infertility the diagnosis? Individuals and couples will receive an unexplained infertility diagnosis when the following conditions exist. The woman is ovulating regularly and has an appropriate ovarian reserve (antral follicle count). The female or female partner has at least one open fallopian tube (evaluated using a hysterosalpingogram). The male or male partner’s semen anal ...

What is required for a couple to become pregnant? In order for a couple to become pregnant, at least four things have to happen: A woman must produce and release a healthy egg from one of her ovaries (ovulation). A man must produce viable sperm which can successfully fertilize the woman’s egg (fertilization). The egg must travel through a fallopian tube toward the uterus (transportation). The fer ...

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) In vitro fertilization (IVF) is utilized in more difficult infertility cases involving severe endometriosis, pelvic adhesions, or problems that cannot be corrected with other treatments. It is also the best treatment if both fallopian tubes are blocked. The IVF process is complex and consists of several steps, including: ovulation induction, egg retrieval, fertilizati ...

Ovulation Problems:An ovulation problem occurs when eggs don't mature in the ovaries or when the ovaries fail to release a mature egg. This is sometimes known as premature ovarian failure. Ovulation problems are common in women with infertility. Possible symptoms: Absent or infrequent periods, unusually light or heavy menstrual bleeding, or lack of such premenstrual symptoms as bloating or breast ...