Embryology Problem Based Questions (Langman - Q8)

ANATOMY AIIMS, GROSS ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, NEUROANATOMY, MICROANATOMY, APPLIED/ CLINICAL ANATOMY

What are the primary causes of infertility in men and women?

Answer:

There are many factors that can contribute to infertility in both men and women. Here are some of the primary causes of infertility in each sex:

Causes of Infertility in Women:

Ovulation Disorders: Irregular or absent ovulation is a common cause of infertility in women. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovulation disorder.

Age-related Infertility: As women age, their fertility declines. This is because the number and quality of eggs decrease over time.

Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing scarring and damage to the reproductive organs.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Blockages or damage to the fallopian tubes can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or prevent the fertilized egg from reaching the uterus.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes.

Causes of Infertility in Men:

Low Sperm Count: Low sperm count, or oligospermia, is a common cause of male infertility. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and environmental factors.

Abnormal Sperm: Abnormalities in sperm morphology (shape) or motility (movement) can also contribute to male infertility.

Varicocele: Varicocele is a condition in which the veins in the scrotum are enlarged, leading to decreased sperm quality and production.

Testicular Trauma or Cancer: Trauma to the testes or testicular cancer can also affect sperm production and quality.

Erectile Dysfunction: Erectile dysfunction can prevent a man from achieving or maintaining an erection, making it difficult or impossible to conceive.

It's important to note that infertility can also be caused by a combination of factors, and in some cases, the cause may be unknown. If you are struggling with infertility, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider who can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

References:

American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2020). Causes of infertility. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/causes-of-infertility/

Mayo Clinic. (2021). Female infertility. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/female-infertility/symptoms-causes/syc-20354308

Mayo Clinic. (2021). Male infertility. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-infertility/symptoms-causes/syc-20374773