Penn Fertility Care e-newsletter
 

Fall 2004

 

 

Understanding Infertility

 

 

When to See a Fertility Specialist

 

 

Conception Without Medical Assistance

 

 

What Causes Infertility?

 

 

How to Select a Specialist
 

What Causes Infertility?

Infertility affects both women and men. It is important to know that factors in the male partner account for about 40 percent of infertility cases. For this reason, it is important to test the male partner early during the evaluation process.

Female infertility can be caused by many factors. Problems with ovulation are the most common causes. Age, anatomical problems, hormonal imbalances, weight, chemical or radiation exposure and smoking can affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant.

Some of the leading causes of female infertility are:

  • Endometriosis
  • Fallopian tube damage
  • Hormonal problems
  • Ovulation disorders
  • Uterine fibroids

Causes of male infertility can include low sperm count, blockage in the reproductive tract or damaged testicles. In addition, use of lubricants, timing and frequency of intercourse, use of medications or recreational drugs, exposure to chemicals or radiation and use of steroids can affect fertility in a man.

Other areas that may affect male fertility include:

  • Illness
  • Infections
  • Childhood history of undescended testes
  • Testicular
  • Hernia repair

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