Infertility is commonly defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It’s a deeply personal and emotional challenge that affects millions of couples around the world. Understanding the root causes of infertility can help couples take the right steps toward conception and treatment.
Dr. Andrew, a top infertility doctor in Utah, and his experienced team at East Bay Fertility Center have extensive knowledge of both male and female fertility issues. In this article, we’ll break down the leading causes of infertility and offer insights that can help you move forward with clarity and hope.
Male Infertility: Common Causes
Sperm Disorders
Male infertility often starts with sperm-related issues, including:
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Low sperm count (oligospermia)
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Low sperm motility (asthenospermia)
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Abnormal sperm shape (teratospermia)
These issues can reduce the sperm’s ability to reach and fertilize an egg.
Ejaculation Issues
In rare cases, retrograde ejaculation may occur—where sperm enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis.
Hormonal Imbalances
Low testosterone or other hormonal deficiencies can negatively affect sperm production.
Varicocele
A varicocele is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum. This can raise testicular temperature and damage sperm production.
You can read more on male infertility causes from the Urology Care Foundation.
Female Infertility: Key Factors
Ovulation Disorders
One of the most common causes is irregular or absent ovulation, often due to:
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
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Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
Both of these conditions disrupt the ovulation cycle and make conception more difficult.
Fallopian Tube Damage
If the fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged, fertilization can’t occur. Common causes include:
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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
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Endometriosis
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Previous infections or surgeries
Learn more from the Office on Women’s Health.
Uterine Abnormalities
Conditions like fibroids or polyps can prevent implantation or lead to early miscarriage.
Age-Related Infertility
As women age, egg quality and quantity naturally decline. After 35, fertility drops significantly, and risks of complications increase.
Shared & Unexplained Infertility
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Some infertility cases are due to shared factors or remain unexplained despite thorough testing.
Common lifestyle risks include:
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Smoking and substance abuse
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Excessive alcohol consumption
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Obesity and poor diet
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High stress levels
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Exposure to pesticides or industrial chemicals
Making healthy changes and reducing environmental exposures can positively influence fertility. You can also explore hormone-related concerns through Hormone Therapy Utah for deeper insights into hormonal balance.
The First Step Is Understanding
Infertility is complex, but having a clear understanding of the causes—from hormonal imbalances to structural challenges—is a critical first step toward success.
If you or someone you care about is struggling to conceive, we’re here to help identify the root cause and develop a personalized plan. Dr. Andrew and the East Bay Fertility team offer a wide range of fertility treatments and have helped thousands of couples fulfill their dream of starting a family.
📍 Located in Lehi & Payson, Utah
