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Causes of Infertility

Did you know?
The causes of infertility in Australia are shared fairly equally between men and women. Infertility involving women only accounts for some 40 per cent of all cases and infertility involving men only accounts for another 40 per cent. Infertility involving both the man and the woman represents another 10 per cent. The remaining 10 per cent of infertility cases have no readily explainable cause. These unexplained cases are termed 'idiopathic'.

For a large majority of couples, their infertility can be overcome. You are not alone ~ one in six, or 15 per cent of Australian couples encounter infertility. Men and women who plan and look forward to having children, usually have great expectations. Naturally, they are at first concerned, then understandably shocked and dismayed when there is no pregnancy and baby.

Common Reactions

It is highly likely that you have experienced at least some of these common responses:

The woman was first to realise that there may be a fertility problem.
The man may need convincing that medical advice is needed.
One or the other, or both of you, feel anger, denial, guilt, blame, self-pity and jealousy.
Emotions, disagreements and other personal or interpersonal issues become magnified.

Indeed, infertility has been called an emotional "roller-coaster". Such emotions in this very personal and private dilemma are normal and very understandable. It is good to know during this emotional time that infertility is not necessarily permanent.

But now you have acknowledged your situation, and sought advice. Early action can increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Source of article: 2002 Business Essential Video - "Why Me?… Infertility"

Some Causes of Female Infertility

1. Decreased or absent ovulation (release of egg from the ovarian follicle) often seen in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

2. Fallopian tube damage can be caused by infection, adhesions and endometriosis.

3. Endometriosis (a disease in which normal endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus).

4. Immunological factors (antibodies or allergic problems can cause infertility).

Causes of Male Infertility

1. A deficiency in sperm production due to injury, disorders of hormone production, infection, radio/chemotherapy and environmental toxins.

2. Blockage of the sperm delivery system.

3. Sperm antibodies (can be caused by trauma and vasectomy).

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