What Causes Infertility? Warning Signs and How to Prevent and Care for Yourself

A summary of the causes of infertility in both men and women, along with initial warning signs to watch for and advice on health care to prepare for a quality pregnancy.

Building a complete family is the dream of many couples. However, if you have been trying for a long time without success, you might be facing “infertility.” Let's understand the causes in both men and women, along with prevention guidelines to confidently prepare for parenthood.

Check the signs! What counts as“infertility”?

Infertility refers to couples having regular sexual intercourse for at least one year without conceiving. For women over 35 years old, if they have had regular intercourse for more than six months without pregnancy, this also qualifies as infertility.

Causes of infertility

This problem can occur in both partners, with different contributing factors as follows:

In men: sperm-related problems

• Sperm production: The body produces insufficient sperm or produces sperm but cannot ejaculate it properly.
• Trigger factors: obesity, alcohol consumption, smoking, or chronic diseases affecting sperm quality.

In women: reproductive system problems

• Egg abnormalities: diminished ovarian reserve, anovulation, or PCOS which causes irregular menstruation, acne, oily skin, and excessive hair growth.
• Uterus and fallopian tubes: fibroids or polyps in the uterus that hinder embryo implantation, as well as swollen or blocked fallopian tubes.
• Endometriosis: noticeable through severe menstrual cramps or abnormally heavy periods, which negatively affect the uterus and ovaries.
• Abdominal adhesions: often resulting from previous surgeries, leading to impaired fallopian tube function.

Basic prevention and self-care methods

Proactive health care can reduce the risk of infertility as follows:

• For men: avoid medications that affect sperm, prevent injuries to the genital area, and be cautious of sexually transmitted infections.
• For women: regularly observe menstrual cycle regularity, promptly treat pelvic infections to reduce adhesions, and be careful about complications following abdominal surgery.

Couples planning to have children should consult an obstetrician-gynecologist early because“age”is a crucial factor. As age increases, natural conception chances decrease and risks rise. Health check-ups to prepare are the best solution forprospective parents..

Source: Associate Professor Dr. Pornsri Nirandsuk, Reproductive Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University.