What are the male and female factors that might be the cause of infertility?

Here are the answers to the workbook activities:

Workbook activity 1: Differentiate between primary and secondary infertility.

• Primary infertility is when a couple has never been able to conceive a pregnancy after at least one year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse.
• Secondary infertility is when a couple has been pregnant at least once in the past but is now unable to conceive again after at least one year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse.

Workbook activity 2: What are the male and female factors that might be the cause of infertility?

Male Factors:

• Sperm disorders: Low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormally shaped sperm, or no sperm production.
• Varicocele: Enlargement of veins within the scrotum, which can affect sperm quality.
• Ejaculation problems: Such as retrograde ejaculation or inability to ejaculate.
• Hormonal imbalances: Issues with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus affecting testosterone and sperm production.
• Blockages: Obstructions in the tubes that transport sperm.
• Genetic defects: Certain genetic conditions can impair fertility.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity, exposure to toxins or high heat.

Female Factors:

• Ovulation disorders: Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, or premature ovarian insufficiency that prevent regular ovulation.
• Fallopian tube damage or blockage: Often caused by Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), endometriosis, or previous abdominal surgery, preventing sperm from reaching the egg or the embryo from reaching the uterus.
• Endometriosis: A condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus.
• Uterine or cervical factors: Uterine fibroids, polyps, abnormal uterine shape, or cervical stenosis.
• Age: Female fertility naturally declines with age, particularly after 35.
• Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid disorders or other endocrine issues.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, extreme weight loss, or high stress levels.