Female and male infertility

Infertility is a complex and emotionally challenging condition affecting millions of couples worldwide. Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. This period is extended to six months for couples where the woman is over 35 years old, given the natural decline in fertility that occurs with advancing age.
While the causes of infertility can be diverse, understanding its prevalence in both women and men is crucial for addressing this significant global health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 10% to 15% of couples worldwide experience infertility, and female factors contribute to nearly 30% of these cases. Male factors contribute to approximately 30% to 40% of infertility cases, according to WHO estimates.
Ovulation disorders, characterized by irregular or absent ovulation, often due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), are among the most common causes of women infertility.
Moreover, conditions such as endometriosis and anomalies in the reproductive organs, such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or adhesions, can also interfere with implantation or sperm passage, leading to fertility problems.
Infections in the reproductive tract, the so called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), if left untreated, can cause scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, affecting fertility.
Men infertility is often caused by insufficient sperm production in the testes (oligospermia), or poor sperm motility (Asthenospermia), which can reduce the chances of fertilizing the egg. In some cases, men have sperm with abnormal shape and structure (Teratospermia), which may have difficulty penetrating the egg.
Another important factor is the varicocele, a condition characterized by enlarged veins in the scrotum that can lead to increased testicular temperature, affecting sperm production and quality.
In both sexex, hormonal Imbalances, like thyroid disorders, or high prolactin levels, can affect ovulation and sperm production. It is now well known that being underweight or overweight can affect hormone levels and disrupt ovulation and sperm production. Moreover, unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and high-stress levels may also impact fertility in both women and men.
It is essential to recognize that each case is unique and may require personalized diagnosis and treatment. Seeking professional help from fertility specialists and adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve the chances of overcoming infertility challenges for couples seeking to start a family.
Written by Dr. FEDERICA BOTTIGLIONE