One of the most common misconceptions about infertility is that it’s primarily a woman’s issue. In reality, infertility affects both men and women equally, and it’s important for both partners to be involved in the evaluation and treatment process.
Here’s a closer look at the true distribution of infertility causes and why both partners should be assessed:
1. Infertility in Women
Roughly one-third of infertility cases are due to female factors, which may include:
- Ovulation disorders (e.g., PCOS)
- Blocked fallopian tubes (due to infections or endometriosis)
- Uterine abnormalities (fibroids, polyps)
- Hormonal imbalances (thyroid, prolactin issues)
- Age-related decline in egg quality
2. Infertility in Men
About one-third of infertility cases are attributed to male factors, such as:
- Low sperm count or poor sperm motility
- Abnormal sperm morphology
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone)
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Previous infections or injury
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, or heat exposure
3. Combined or Unexplained Infertility
The remaining cases fall into two categories:
- Combined Factors (Male + Female) – Both partners have contributing issues, making conception more difficult.
- Unexplained Infertility (≈20%) – In some cases, even after thorough testing, no clear cause can be identified. This doesn’t mean treatment won’t work—it just may require a broader approach.
4. Why a Dual Evaluation Matters
Infertility isn’t a blame game. Evaluating both partners simultaneously ensures faster diagnosis and more effective treatment planning. Often, couples delay male testing, which can waste valuable time.
Conclusion
Infertility is not just a women’s problem—it affects both men and women almost equally. Around 1 in 6 couples face challenges with conception, and understanding that both partners play an equal role can help reduce stigma, speed up diagnosis, and improve success rates. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success for over a year (or 6 months if over 35), it’s time for both of you to see a fertility specialist.