Understanding Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Infertility is a growing concern among couples trying to conceive. It affects both men and women and can result from various medical, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Identifying the underlying cause of infertility is the first step toward finding an effective solution.
At Samrudh Fertility and Urology Centre in Bangalore, Dr. Indu Madhusudan specializes in diagnosing and treating infertility, offering personalized fertility treatments to help couples achieve parenthood.
Common Causes of Infertility in Women
1. Ovulation Disorders
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – A hormonal imbalance affecting ovulation.
- Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) – Early menopause before age 40.
- Hypothalamic Dysfunction – Disruptions in hormone production affecting ovulation.
- Excessive Prolactin (Hyperprolactinemia) – Can suppress ovulation and fertility.
2. Blocked Fallopian Tubes
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) from infections.
- Endometriosis leading to tissue scarring.
- Previous surgeries affecting reproductive organs.
3. Uterine or Cervical Issues
- Fibroids or Polyps can interfere with embryo implantation.
- Uterine abnormalities (e.g., septate uterus) can impact pregnancy.
- Cervical mucus issues affecting sperm movement.
4. Age-Related Decline in Fertility
- Egg quantity and quality decline after 35.
- Higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities in older eggs.
Common Causes of Infertility in Men
1. Low Sperm Count & Poor Sperm Quality
- Oligospermia – Low sperm count.
- Asthenospermia – Poor sperm motility (movement).
- Teratospermia – Abnormal sperm shape.
- Causes: Smoking, alcohol, stress, and nutritional deficiencies.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
- Low testosterone levels affect sperm production.
- Pituitary gland disorders impact hormone regulation.
3. Varicocele (Enlarged Veins in the Scrotum)
- Increases testicular temperature, reducing sperm quality.
- Affects nearly 40% of male infertility cases.
4. Obstruction in the Reproductive Tract
- Blocked vas deferens due to infections or surgeries.
- Ejaculatory duct obstruction affecting sperm release.
5. Erectile Dysfunction & Ejaculation Issues
- Linked to diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and psychological stress.
Lifestyle Factors Affecting Fertility
- Smoking & Alcohol – Lower sperm quality and disrupt female hormone balance.
- Obesity – Affects hormone levels and ovulation.
- High-Stress Levels – Impacts ovulation and sperm production.
- Poor Diet – Lack of key nutrients like zinc, folic acid, and vitamin D.
- Exposure to Toxins & Radiation – Pesticides, chemicals, and radiation damage reproductive health.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options at Samrudh Fertility and Urology Centre
Diagnostic Tests for Infertility
- Hormone Tests – Check FSH, LH, estrogen, and testosterone levels.
- Semen Analysis – Evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology.
- Ovulation Tracking – Uses ultrasound and blood tests.
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG) – Detects fallopian tube blockages.
- Genetic Testing – Assesses hereditary infertility risks.
Fertility Treatments Available
- Ovulation Induction – Medications like Clomid to stimulate ovulation.
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) – Sperm is directly placed in the uterus.
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) – Fertilization occurs outside the body before embryo transfer.
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – Sperm is directly injected into the egg.
- Surgical Interventions – Treats varicocele, fibroids, and blocked tubes.
- Lifestyle Modifications – Diet, exercise, and stress management plans.
When to Seek Fertility Help?
- If a woman under 35 has been trying to conceive for 12 months without success.
- If a woman over 35 has been trying for 6 months without pregnancy.
- If there are known reproductive health issues like PCOS, endometriosis, or irregular periods.
- If the male partner has low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, or previous reproductive surgeries.
For expert guidance, Dr. Indu Madhusudan at Samrudh Fertility and Urology Centre in Bangalore provides comprehensive fertility evaluations and personalized treatment plans.
Conclusion
Infertility can stem from multiple factors, affecting both men and women. Early diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of successful conception. With advanced fertility treatments, expert diagnosis, and lifestyle modifications, couples can overcome infertility challenges.
If you’re facing fertility issues, visit Samrudh Fertility and Urology Centre in Bangalore for expert consultation with Dr. Indu Madhusudan.
