Infertility is a common issue that affects millions of couples worldwide. While it can be caused by a variety of factors, there are certain reasons that are common to both genders.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common causes of infertility in both men and women.

Causes of Infertility in Men

1. Low sperm count

Low sperm count is one of the most common causes of male infertility. This refers to a situation where the semen a man ejaculates during intercourse contains fewer sperm than normal.

Low sperm count can be caused by a variety of factors, such as hormonal imbalances, past infections, or undescended testicles.

2. Poor sperm motility

Sperm motility refers to the ability of the sperm to move and swim towards the egg. Poor sperm motility can make it difficult for the sperm to reach and fertilize the egg. This condition is often caused by genetic factors or infections.

3. Varicocele

A varicocele is a condition where the veins within the scrotum become enlarged, leading to decreased sperm count and motility. It is one of the most common reversible causes of male infertility.

4. Ejaculatory dysfunction

Ejaculatory dysfunction refers to a situation where a man is unable to ejaculate during intercourse. This can be caused by various factors, such as nerve damage, medication side effects, or psychological conditions such as anxiety or depression.

Causes of Infertility in Women

1. Ovulation disorders

Ovulation disorders are one of the most common causes of infertility in women. This refers to a situation where a woman’s ovaries fail to release an egg.

This can be caused by various factors such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hormonal imbalances, or early menopause.

2. Blocked fallopian tubes

Blocked fallopian tubes are another common cause of infertility in women. This refers to a situation where the tubes that carry the egg from the ovary to the uterus are blocked, making it impossible for fertilization to occur.

Blocked fallopian tubes can be caused by infections, endometriosis, scar tissue, or pelvic adhesions.

3. Age-related factors

Age-related factors such as diminished ovarian reserve or a decline in the quality of eggs can also cause infertility in women. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, and the quality and quantity of these eggs decline as they age.

4. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, leading to scarring, inflammation, and pain.

This condition can cause infertility by blocking the fallopian tubes, damaging the ovaries, or affecting the quality of the eggs.

Conclusion

Infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, but certain issues are common to both genders.

Low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and varicocele are some of the most common causes of infertility in men, while ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, and endometriosis are the primary causes of infertility in women.