Dr Sunitha Mahesh
Is infertility a disease? In contrast to other diseases, there is no linear progression of this condition and there is no discrimination based on demographic or cultural differences. There are many potential causes that impact men and women and results in infertility. On an average, ⅛ of the population can be affected by infertility. Fertility, the potential to achieve a pregnancy typically declines with aging for both men and women. Egg quality, ovulation, the uterine lining the reproductive environment overall in women, and sperm quality, motility, and count can all be greatly impacted by age and by lifestyle changes.
Among all the potential causes of infertility for both among males and females, the following are the most crucial ones:
AMONG MALES:
Testicular causes the problem with the testis. The testes has a major role in sperm production. The endocrine system also includes the testes which produces testosterone which is the hormone involved in the male reproductive function. Any disease or infection of the testes can cause reduction in the functioning of the germ cell production and maturity resulting in infertility.
Problems of the duct system – The duct system is required for the storage and maturation of sperm. This happens typically in the epididymis. Semen, the fluid that contains sperm, is transported from the epididymis to the penis by the vas deferens. Sperm maturation can be impeded by absent or malfunctioning structures of the duct system.
Endocrine causes like the thyroid, hypothalamo-pituitary portal system abnormalities can impact spermatogenesis.
Lifestyle practices like smoking, occupational hazards due to electronic equipments or any condition which increases the temperature of the genital organs can affect the sperm production.
AMONG FEMALES:
Ovarian abnormalities which can be genetic, hormonal or endocrine related, endometriosis, infection and tumors can impair oocyte production and quality.
Endocrine system: Thyroid, hypothalamo-pituitary ovarian axis disorders can impair steroidogenesis at any level of ootcyte synthesis and can have a bearing on ovulation.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) which is also known as metabolic syndrome not only affects fertility but also has a life long bearing on becoming a risk factor for various non-communicable diseases including malignancy.
Fallopian tube abnormalities: It might be difficult or impossible for the egg and the sperm to normally meet for fertilization and for the resulting embryo to proceed to the uterus if the tubes are closed, damaged, or removed.
Uterine abnormalities, Uterus is the organ where implantation of the embryo into the endometrium occurs. The Structural or uterine lining issues can have a drastic impact on implantation and the ability to carry the pregnancy to term.
Exercises: High-intensity exercise spikes the cortisol levels drastically and can increase core body temperature, causing inflammatory microtrauma throughout the body, and result in abnormal gametogenesis. Moderate exercises are recommended for healthy fertility potential.
RECOMMENDATION:
Following the ABC of life that is Activity, Balanced Diet, Controlling of Stress can help couples to improve fertility, which will boost the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy naturally and assist any necessary treatments to work better. To observe their full impact, these lifestyle adjustments should ideally be made for three months before trying for pregnancy. Getting a full fertility test to evaluate the fertility of both spouses is one of the quickest ways to find out why these failure to achieve pregnancy. Remember that the effects of infertility are equally felt by men and women.
For fertility, both men and women should develop a mild exercise regimen, like yoga or walking, that is specially intended to increase blood flow and nutrients to the reproductive systems. Consuming a balanced diet is crucial for achieving or sustaining pregnancy.
Dr. Sunitha Mahesh, Medical Director & Senior Consultant,
Infertility and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Milann, Bengaluru
