Problems in Fertility: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Author : how to get pregnant | Published On : 13 Sep 2026

Problems in fertility can make it difficult for an individual or couple to achieve pregnancy. Fertility problems can affect both women and men and may result from hormonal conditions, reproductive health problems, sperm or egg-related factors, age, lifestyle factors, or a combination of different causes.

Infertility is generally defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around one in six people of reproductive age experience infertility during their lifetime.

What Are Fertility Problems?

Fertility problems occur when one or more factors interfere with conception or maintaining the reproductive process needed for pregnancy.

The problem may involve:

• Ovulation

• Egg quality or ovarian function

• Fallopian tubes

• Uterus

• Hormones

• Sperm production

• Sperm movement or shape

• Sexual or reproductive health

• Other medical or unexplained factors

Fertility problems may affect one partner or both partners. In some cases, doctors cannot identify a specific cause even after evaluation.

Common Fertility Problems in Women

Several conditions can affect female fertility.

Ovulation Problems

Ovulation problems occur when an egg is not released regularly or at all. Irregular menstrual cycles can sometimes be a sign of an ovulation problem.

Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can interfere with normal ovulation. WHO identifies PCOS as a leading cause of infertility associated with anovulation.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Fallopian tubes provide a pathway for the egg and sperm to meet. Blocked or damaged tubes can interfere with conception.

Tubal problems may be associated with untreated sexually transmitted infections, pelvic infections, previous surgery, or other reproductive health conditions.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can affect reproductive organs and may contribute to fertility problems.

Uterine Problems

Certain conditions affecting the uterus may make conception more difficult. These can include fibroids and some structural abnormalities of the uterus.

Common Fertility Problems in Men

Male fertility problems can also make pregnancy difficult.

Some common factors include:

• Low sperm count

• Poor sperm movement

• Abnormal sperm shape

• Problems producing sperm

• Blockages affecting sperm delivery

• Hormonal problems

• Certain testicular conditions

WHO notes that problems with sperm production, sperm quality, sperm movement, and semen delivery can contribute to male infertility.

A semen analysis is commonly used during fertility evaluation to assess important characteristics of sperm.

Lifestyle Factors That May Affect Fertility

Lifestyle can also influence reproductive health. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to certain environmental pollutants or toxins have been associated with fertility problems.

Helpful health habits may include:

• Avoiding tobacco

• Limiting or avoiding alcohol

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Eating a balanced diet

• Staying physically active

• Managing existing medical conditions

• Seeking treatment for sexually transmitted infections when needed

Lifestyle improvements can support overall health, but they cannot correct every cause of infertility.

Age and Fertility

Age can also influence fertility. Fertility changes over time, and age-related factors can affect reproductive potential.

For this reason, people who are concerned about fertility should discuss their individual circumstances with a healthcare professional rather than relying on general assumptions about age or fertility.

Symptoms of Fertility Problems

Infertility itself may have no obvious symptoms. A couple may simply have difficulty achieving pregnancy.

However, certain signs may indicate an underlying reproductive health problem, including:

• Very irregular or absent periods

• Painful periods or pelvic pain

• Symptoms associated with PCOS

• Previous pelvic infections

• Erectile or ejaculation problems

• Testicular problems

• Previous reproductive surgery

• Repeated pregnancy loss

Having one of these symptoms does not automatically mean someone is infertile. A medical evaluation is needed to determine the cause.

How Are Fertility Problems Diagnosed?

Fertility evaluation may involve both partners because fertility problems can originate from either partner or both.

Depending on the situation, healthcare professionals may recommend:

The specific tests depend on symptoms, medical history, age, and other individual factors.

Treatment for Fertility Problems

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. There is no single fertility treatment that works for everyone.

Possible approaches include:

• Treating underlying medical conditions

• Medicines to support ovulation

• Surgery for selected structural problems

• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

• In vitro fertilization (IVF)

• Other assisted reproductive technologies

WHO's current infertility guideline recommends evidence-based care that considers the cause of infertility, clinical circumstances, and patient preferences.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, fertility evaluation is generally recommended. However, seeking medical advice sooner may be appropriate when there are irregular periods, known reproductive conditions, previous pelvic problems, or other reasons for concern.

Both partners may need evaluation because fertility problems can affect men and women.

Final Thoughts

Problems in fertility can have many different causes, and experiencing difficulty conceiving does not necessarily mean that pregnancy is impossible. Conditions affecting ovulation, fallopian tubes, the uterus, sperm production, hormones, and general health can all play a role.

The most appropriate approach is to identify the possible cause through professional evaluation and then choose treatment based on individual needs. With appropriate fertility care, many people can receive effective support for their reproductive goals.