Building a family can be a journey with challenges: one in six couples faces obstacles conceiving naturally. Both men and women may experience moments of uncertainty. Here we explain, in a clear and approachable way, the most common causes of infertility in both sexes and how Ingenes supports every step of the process.
Female fertility issues and their treatments
In women, difficulties often originate from:
Ovulation problems: Irregular or absent ovulation, linked to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian insufficiency, prevents the regular release of eggs.
- Treatment: Ovulation-stimulating medications (e.g., clomiphene citrate 50–150 mg/day) and, if needed, in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Endometriosis: Abnormal growth of endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility.
- Treatment: Laparoscopic surgery to remove lesions and, subsequently, IVF if required.
Tubal factor: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes prevent sperm and egg from meeting.
- Treatment: Microsurgical tubal repair or direct IVF.
Uterine anomalies: Fibroids, polyps, or congenital malformations can hinder implantation.
- Treatment: Hysteroscopy to remove lesions and assisted reproduction planning.
Main male fertility challenges and solutions
In men, the most common causes are:
Sperm quality issues: Low concentration (< 15 million/ml), reduced motility (asthenozoospermia) or abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia).
- Treatment: Lifestyle changes, antioxidants, hormonal therapies, and techniques like ICSI in an IVF cycle.
Varicocele: Dilation of scrotal veins that raises testicular temperature and affects spermatogenesis.
- Treatment: Varicocelectomy to improve semen parameters.
Obstructions in seminal ducts: Blockages preventing sperm release.
- Treatment: Surgical reconstruction or sperm retrieval for assisted reproduction.
Hormonal imbalances: Disruptions in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis impacting sperm production.
- Treatment: Modulation with gonadotropins or testosterone under medical supervision.
How Ingenes supports couples
In Fertility problems? You’re not alone, we offer a comprehensive model combining medical expertise, emotional support, and nutritional guidance. From artificial insemination to advanced IVF and ICSI, we design personalized protocols based on your profile and needs.
Our multidisciplinary team—reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, and psychologists—works alongside you. Avoid self-medication: before taking any medication, consult a reproductive specialist to assess your case and increase your chances of success.
For more information on diagnostics, visit Common infertility diagnoses: what you need to know.
Frequently asked questions
- What lifestyle changes can improve fertility?
- Maintain a healthy weight (BMI 18.5–24.9), a diet rich in antioxidants (vitamins C and E), moderate exercise (150 min/week), and avoid excessive tobacco and alcohol. Stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga support hormonal balance. Limit exposure to toxins (pesticides, phthalates, heavy metals) and have regular check-ups with a fertility specialist.
- How long should you try to conceive before evaluating fertility?
- If you’re under 35, after one year of unprotected attempts; if over 35, after six months. With risk factors (irregular cycles, endometriosis, varicocele), consult sooner for timely intervention.
- Are there non-medical methods that help?
- Acupuncture, supplements (folic acid 400 µg/day, CoQ10 200 mg/day), and stress management can complement assisted reproduction techniques. Sleeping 7–9 h/night and having emotional support improves well-being during treatment.
- What are the risks and benefits of IVF versus less invasive treatments?
- Ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) are less costly and less invasive but have success rates of 10–20% per cycle. IVF offers 40–50% success per cycle in women under 35, but involves ovarian stimulation (150–300 IU/day), egg retrieval, and embryo transfer. Risks: ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (< 5%) and multiple pregnancy if multiple embryos are transferred. Choice depends on age, diagnosis, and previous response.
Sources consulted
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2020). Definitions of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. Fertility and Sterility, 113(3), 533–534. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.11.025
- Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2015). Optimization of natural fertility. Fertility and Sterility, 103(2), e11–e21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.11.042
- MedlinePlus. (2023). Infertility. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/infertilidad.html
- World Health Organization. (2021). WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen (6th ed.). https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240030787
Remember that every couple is unique. If you feel you need guidance or an accurate diagnosis, seeing a reproductive specialist is the best step to increase your chances of success. You are not alone on this journey, and at Ingenes we are here to support you!