Infertility Causes in women

Infertility happens when a couple cannot conceive after having regular unprotected sex. Sometimes it can be a combination of factors, and sometimes a clear cause is never established.  Infertility is a common problem of about 10% of women aged 15 to 44. Infertility can be due to the woman (33%), the man (33%) and by both sexes or due to unknown problems (33%), approximately. Infertility in men can be due to varicocele, low or absent sperm count, sperm damage or certain diseases.

There are various Risk factors that increase the risk of infertility. The ability to conceive starts to fall around the age of 32 years. Smoking significantly increases the risk of infertility in both men and women, and it may undermine the effects of fertility treatment. Smoking during pregnancy increases the chance of pregnancy loss. Passive smoking has also been linked to lower fertility.

Any amount of alcohol consumption can affect the chances of conceiving.  Being obese or overweight can increase the risk of infertility in women as well as men. If an eating disorder leads to serious weight loss, fertility problems may arise.

A lack of folic acid, iron, zinc, and vitamin B-12 can affect fertility. Women who are at risk, including those on a vegan diet, should ask the doctor about supplements. Both too much and too little exercise can lead to fertility problems.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can damage the fallopian tubes in a woman and cause inflammation in a man’s scrotum. Some other STIs may also cause infertility. Some pesticides, herbicides, metals, such as lead, and solvents have been linked to fertility problems in both men and women. A mouse study has suggested that ingredients in some household detergents may reduce fertility. Mental stress may affect female ovulation and male sperm production and can lead to reduced sexual activity.

The couple may be advised to have sexual intercourse more often around the time of ovulation. Sperm can survive inside the female for up to 5 days, while an egg can be fertilized for up to 1 day after ovulation. In theory, it is possible to conceive on any of these 6 days that occur before and during ovulation. Though all this can be avoided and taken care off with proper care and precautions.