Top 10 Causes of Infertility in Men and Women: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Proven Treatments

Introduction

Infertility affects millions of couples globally—emotionally, physically, and mentally. If you've been trying to conceive for over a year without success, you're not alone. In this expert-backed guide, we break down the top 10 causes of infertility in men and women, their symptoms, how they're diagnosed, and what treatments can help you start your family.

What is Infertility?

Infertility is the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. It affects both genders equally and may stem from various physical, hormonal, or lifestyle factors.

???? Infertility Statistics at a Glance (2025)

• 1 in 6 couples experience infertility globally

• 40% of cases are due to female factors, 30% to male, and 20% are combined or unexplained

• Fertility issues are rising due to lifestyle changes, pollution, and late pregnancies

Top 10 Causes of Infertility in Women

1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• Symptoms: Irregular periods, acne, weight gain, excess hair

• Diagnosis: Hormonal blood tests, ultrasound

• Treatment: Ovulation-inducing medication, lifestyle changes, IVF

2. Endometriosis

• Symptoms: Painful periods, pelvic pain, painful intercourse

• Diagnosis: Pelvic exam, laparoscopy

• Treatment: Hormonal therapy, laparoscopy, IVF

3. Poor Egg Quality or Diminished Ovarian Reserve

• Symptoms: Often asymptomatic

• Diagnosis: AMH test, FSH levels

• Treatment: IVF with donor eggs, fertility preservation

4. Tubal Blockage or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

• Symptoms: Pelvic pain, unusual discharge, infertility

• Diagnosis: HSG (hysterosalpingogram), ultrasound

• Treatment: Laparoscopic surgery, IVF

5. Thyroid or Hormonal Imbalances

• Symptoms: Weight changes, fatigue, irregular cycles

• Diagnosis: TSH, T3, T4 tests

• Treatment: Medication, IVF if needed

Top 5 Causes of Infertility in Men

6. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)

• Symptoms: Usually silent, only known via semen analysis

• Diagnosis: Semen analysis

• Treatment: IUI, IVF, ICSI, lifestyle changes

. Poor Sperm Motility or Morphology

• Symptoms: No obvious symptoms

• Diagnosis: Semen analysis

• Treatment: Antioxidants, ICSI, lifestyle improvement

8. Varicocele

• Symptoms: Pain in scrotum, enlarged veins

• Diagnosis: Physical exam, ultrasound

• Treatment: Surgery, ICSI9. Hormonal Imbalances (Low Testosterone)

• Symptoms: Fatigue, low libido, erectile dysfunction

• Diagnosis: Hormonal blood tests

• Treatment: Hormone therapy, assisted reproduction

10. Ejaculation Disorders or Blockages

• Symptoms: Dry ejaculation, difficulty ejaculating

• Diagnosis: Physical and medical history

• Treatment: Surgery, sperm retrieval + ICSI

Unexplained Infertility: When All Tests are Normal

Sometimes, despite thorough evaluation, the cause remains unknown. Unexplained infertility accounts for about 10-20% of all cases. Advanced techniques like IVF with embryo testing (PGT-A) often help such couples.

How is Infertility Diagnosed?

• Semen Analysis (Men)

• Transvaginal Ultrasound, AMH, HSG (Women)

• Hormonal Blood Panels (Both)

• Genetic Testing (If Required)

Early diagnosis is key to tailoring the right fertility plan.

Proven Fertility Treatment Options

Tips to Improve Fertility Naturally

• Eat a balanced, antioxidant-rich diet

• Maintain healthy BMI

• Quit smoking and alcohol

• Manage stress through yoga or meditation

• Avoid excessive heat exposure (for men)

• Track ovulation and menstrual cycles

When to See a Fertility Expert

• Trying for 12+ months (or 6+ months if over 35)

• Irregular or missed periods

• History of miscarriages

• Known reproductive issues

• Erectile dysfunction or poor semen report

Why Choose New World Fertility?

At New World Fertility, we offer:

• Advanced fertility diagnostics

• Personalised IVF and IUI programs

• 70%+ success rates with cutting-edge technology

• Experienced fertility specialists & embryologists

• Compassionate support from diagnosis to delivery

???? Located in Delhi | ???? Online Consultations Available

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the first signs of infertility in women?

Irregular periods, painful cycles, and difficulty conceiving after a year are early signs.

Can male infertility be cured?

Yes. Depending on the cause, treatments like ICSI, medication, or surgery can help.

Is IVF the only option for infertility?

No. Options include IUI, ovulation induction, and lifestyle changes—IVF is one among many.

How much time does infertility treatment take?

It depends on the cause and treatment type. Some treatments work within 1–3 cycles.