Male vs. Female Infertility: Causes & Solutions



Male vs. Female Infertility: Causes & Solutions
Infertility can be an emotional and challenging journey for couples dreaming of parenthood. While many assume fertility, issues are mostly linked to women, the truth is — male and female infertility contribute almost equally to conception challenges. Understanding the root causes of infertility in both partners is the first step toward finding the right solution and embracing hope.
Let's break down and understand the common causes of male and female infertility, and also explore the treatment options available to help you take the next step confidently.


What is Infertility?

Infertility is a complex medical condition that affects both men and women, preventing a couple from conceiving after trying for a certain period. It is commonly defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. However, this timeline is shortened for women, as fertility declines with age, making it harder to conceive.
For women aged 35 and above, this duration is typically reduced to six months due to declining fertility with age. 
There are two primary types of infertility:
  1. Primary Infertility: This occurs when a couple has never been able to conceive a child despite regular attempts.
  2. Secondary Infertility: This refers to couples who have successfully conceived and had children in the past but are now facing challenges in getting pregnant again.
One of the most significant misconceptions about infertility is that it is always a woman's issue. While female factors account for about 40% of infertility cases, male factors are responsible for 30-40%, and in some cases, both partners contribute to the infertility challenge. Factors affecting fertility include hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities, lifestyle factors, age, infections, and stress. 


Differences Between Male & Female Infertility

Infertility affects both men and women, but the causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment options often differ between the sexes. Understanding these differences can help couples navigate their fertility journey with clarity and confidence.
Male Infertility
  • Primary Cause: Issues with sperm production, quality, or motility (e.g., low sperm count, poor morphology, or reduced movement).
  • Age Impact: Fertility gradually declines after age 40, but men can often father children later in life.
  • Testing Methods: Semen analysis to check sperm count, motility, and shape.
  • Treatment Options:
    • Lifestyle changes (e.g., quitting smoking, better diet)
    • Medications to improve sperm production
    • Advanced procedures like sperm retrieval

Female Infertility
  • Primary Cause: Ovulation disorders (e.g., PCOS), blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or uterine abnormalities.
  • Age Impact: Fertility drops significantly after age 35 due to reduced egg quantity and quality, increasing miscarriage and genetic risk.
  • Testing Methods:
    • Hormone level tests
    • Ultrasound scans (uterus and ovaries)
    • Ovulation and fallopian tube function tests
  • Treatment Options:
    • Ovulation-inducing medications
    • Surgical interventions
    • Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF


Common Causes of Male Infertility 

Male infertility can arise from several physical, hormonal, and lifestyle-related factors that interfere with sperm health and function. 
Here are some of the most common causes:
1. Low Sperm Count (Oligozoospermia)
This refers to a reduced number of sperm in the semen. A low sperm count can be caused by hormonal imbalances, genetic abnormalities, infections (like mumps or STDS), or medical conditions such as undescended testicles. Fewer sperm reduce the chances of fertilising an egg naturally.
2. Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia)
Even if sperm count is normal, poor motility can prevent sperm from swimming effectively toward the egg. This condition is often linked to infections, poor lifestyle choices, or structural abnormalities in the sperm.
3. Abnormal Sperm Shape (Teratozoospermia)
Sperm with irregular shapes—such as large heads, double tails, or short midpieces—struggle to penetrate and fertilise the egg. Teratozoospermia can result from genetic factors, high fever, exposure to toxins, or testicular trauma.
4. Varicocele (Swollen Testicular Veins)
Varicoceles are enlarged veins within the scrotum that raise the temperature around the testicles, negatively affecting sperm production and quality. This is a common and treatable cause of male infertility.
5. Hormonal Imbalances (Low Testosterone)
Disruptions in hormones that regulate sperm production, such as testosterone, LH, and FSH, can severely impact male fertility. Hormonal problems may be due to medical conditions, tumours, or pituitary gland disorders.
6. Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, excessive alcohol, chronic stress, obesity, lack of exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins (like pesticides or heavy metals) can impair sperm health.


Common Causes of Female Infertility

Female infertility can result from a variety of health conditions that affect ovulation, egg quality, or the reproductive organs. Identifying the underlying cause is the key to selecting the right treatment and increasing the chances of conception.
1. Ovulation Disorders (PCOS, Thyroid Issues)
Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary. In women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid imbalances, ovulation may be irregular or absent. Without a mature egg, fertilization and pregnancy cannot occur. These disorders are among the leading causes of female infertility but can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
2. Blocked Fallopian Tubes
Fallopian tubes are essential for the egg and sperm to meet. When these tubes are blocked—due to infections (like pelvic inflammatory disease), previous surgeries, or endometriosis—the sperm cannot reach the egg, and fertilization is prevented.
3. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can lead to inflammation, scarring, and adhesions that affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus, significantly reducing fertility.
4. Uterine Fibroids & Polyps
These benign growths within the uterus can interfere with implantation or block the fallopian tubes. Depending on their size and location, fibroids and polyps may require surgical removal to restore fertility.
5. Age-Related Decline in Egg Quality
A woman’s fertility naturally declines with age. After the age of 35, both the quantity and quality of eggs drop, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and reducing the chances of successful conception and pregnancy.


How is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

Diagnosing male infertility begins with a thorough medical history, followed by specific tests that evaluate sperm health and reproductive function. Here are the most common diagnostic steps:
Semen Analysis:  This is the first and most essential test for evaluating male fertility. A semen sample is analysed to check:
  • Sperm count (number of sperm)
  • Motility (how well the sperm move)
  • Morphology (sperm shape and structure)
 Low numbers, poor movement, or abnormal shapes can reduce the chances of fertilising an egg.
Hormone Tests:  Hormones like testosterone, LH, FSH, and prolactin play a key role in sperm production. Blood tests help identify hormonal imbalances that may be affecting sperm health.
Ultrasound: A scrotal ultrasound is used to detect structural issues in the testicles, such as varicocele (enlarged veins), blockages in the sperm ducts, or signs of testicular damage. In some cases, a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) may be done to check for problems in the seminal vesicles or prostate.
Early diagnosis helps in starting the right treatment, which can include medications, hormone therapy, or surgical procedures like varicocele repair or sperm retrieval techniques.


How is Female Infertility Diagnosed?

Diagnosing female infertility requires a comprehensive evaluation of hormonal health, ovulation, and the condition of reproductive organs. Here are the key diagnostic tools:
Hormone Tests:  Blood tests measure hormone levels, like:
  • FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) 
  • LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
  • AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
These hormones help assess ovarian reserve, ovulation, and egg quality.
Ultrasound:  A transvaginal ultrasound is used to evaluate the uterus and ovaries. It helps detect conditions like PCOS, uterine fibroids, cysts, or other abnormalities that may hinder conception.
HSG (Hysterosalpingography): This specialised X-ray checks if the fallopian tubes are open and the uterine cavity is normal. Blocked tubes can prevent sperm from meeting the egg, a common cause of infertility.


Natural Ways to Improve Fertility for Men & Women

Before considering medical treatments, many couples can benefit from making lifestyle changes that naturally enhance fertility. Here are some proven natural strategies:
Diet & Nutrition: Eating a nutrient-rich diet supports reproductive health in both men and women.
  • Men: Nutrients like zinc, selenium, and Coq10 have been shown to improve sperm count, motility, and overall sperm quality.
  • Women: Supplements like folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and antioxidants help enhance egg quality and support hormonal balance.
Exercise & Healthy Weight:  Maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) is crucial for fertility.
  • Obesity or being underweight can disrupt hormone production and ovulation in women, and reduce testosterone levels and sperm production in men.
  • Regular moderate exercise improves circulation, hormone regulation, and energy levels.
Reduce Stress & Sleep Well:  High stress levels trigger the release of cortisol, which can interfere with reproductive hormones.
  • Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
  • Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep every night to support hormonal health.
Avoid Toxins & Harmful Habits: 
  • Smoking, alcohol, excess caffeine, and exposure to environmental toxins (like pesticides and plastics) can impair fertility.
  • Reduce or eliminate these habits to improve reproductive outcomes naturally.


Medical Treatments for Infertility

If natural methods don’t yield results, medical treatments offer effective solutions for couples facing fertility challenges.
Medications to Boost Fertility: 
  • Men: Fertility drugs like Clomiphene (Clomid) and hCG injections help stimulate sperm production and correct hormonal imbalances.
  • Women: Ovulation-inducing drugs such as Clomid, Letrozole, or gonadotropins promote the release of healthy eggs.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
  • IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): Washed and prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus during ovulation, increasing chances of fertilization.
  • IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Eggs are retrieved, fertilized in the lab, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus. IVF is ideal for tubal issues, male infertility, and unexplained infertility.
Surgical Treatments: 
  • Men: Surgical procedures like varicocele repair or sperm retrieval (e.g., PESA, TESA, micro-TESE) can help when sperm is blocked or absent.
  • Women: Surgery may be required to treat endometriosis, remove fibroids or polyps, or correct uterine abnormalities via laparoscopy or hysteroscopy.


When to See a Fertility Specialist?

Deciding when to consult a fertility specialist can make all the difference in your journey to parenthood. Timing matters, especially when age and other health factors are involved.
Under 35 years old?
If you've been trying to conceive for 12 months or more without success, it's time to consult a specialist. Waiting longer may delay effective treatment.
Over 35 years old?
Fertility begins to decline more rapidly after 35. If you’ve been trying for 6 months or more, seeking medical advice early improves your chances of success.
Other Indications
Regardless of age, you should see a fertility expert sooner if you experience:
  • Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
  • Repeated miscarriages
  • Known reproductive issues (like PCOS or endometriosis)
  • A history of pelvic infections or surgeries
  • Low sperm count or male reproductive concerns
Infertility is a shared concern—it can affect both men and women equally. The good news? With the right knowledge, support, and treatment, most couples can overcome these challenges.
Whether it’s hormonal imbalance, blocked fallopian tubes, poor sperm quality, or lifestyle-related issues, early diagnosis and timely intervention greatly improve the chances of conception. Dr Chinmay Pataki’s Isha Women’s Hospital offers advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities with compassionate care to help identify the root cause of infertility and guide you toward the most suitable treatment plan—whether it’s lifestyle support, medical therapy, or assisted reproductive technologies.
If you're facing difficulties in conceiving, don’t wait too long. Reach out to the best fertility expert, Dr Chinmay Pataki, at Isha Women’s Hospital—the best fertility centre in Thane—where compassionate care and cutting-edge treatments come together to support your dream of parenthood.
Let’s turn your hope into happiness.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

1. Is infertility more common in men or women?
Ans - It’s equal—both men and women contribute to infertility in 40-50% of cases.
2. Can male infertility be reversed?
Ans - Sometimes! Lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery can improve sperm health.
3. What is the most common cause of female infertility?
Ans - Ovulation disorders like PCOS and blocked fallopian tubes.
4. Can stress cause infertility?
Ans - Yes! Chronic stress disrupts hormones, affecting sperm & egg health.
5. Can IVF help both male & female infertility?
Ans - Yes! IVF can overcome sperm & egg quality issues.