Causes of infertility

Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on January 15, 2025
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Infertility may be due to factors involving either the male or the female. The main causes of female infertility include ovulatory disorders and fallopian tube factors. Ovulatory disorders may result from dysfunction in ovulation, such as changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, as well as ovarian diseases, with polycystic ovary syndrome being the most common condition that could lead to ovulatory issues. Fallopian tube factors include blockages or inefficiencies, which can also cause infertility in women. Uterine factors can also lead to infertility, including abnormalities of the uterus, inflammation of the endometrium, polyps in the endometrium, and intrauterine adhesions, all of which can affect the implantation of the fertilized egg and cause infertility. Abnormal cervical mucus secretion, cervical inflammation, and an unusual immune environment in cervical mucus that affects sperm passage can also lead to infertility. Male infertility factors primarily include disorders of sperm production and sperm delivery, which may manifest as abnormalities in semen, shown by the absence of sperm, weak sperm, or low sperm count, all contributing to infertility. Additionally, sexual dysfunctions such as premature ejaculation, anejaculation, and erectile dysfunction can also result in male infertility.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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Can Chinese medicine be taken for infertility?

In our clinical work, many patients often have this doubt: Can infertility be treated with Chinese medicine? It can be clearly stated that many diseases can achieve better results through the adjustment with Chinese medicine, and infertility is no exception. However, everyone's basic situation is different, and Chinese medicine cannot guarantee the treatment of all infertility cases. There are many diseases that cause infertility, and many reasons stem from either the male or female partner. There are both functional diseases and organic causes, making it not a simple disease. Issues with either the male or female partner can lead to infertility. It is advised to visit a local reputable public hospital for a detailed examination to determine the cause and then receive targeted treatment, whether through traditional Chinese medicine, surgery, or assisted reproductive technology.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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Can acute salpingitis cause infertility?

If there is inflammation in the fallopian tubes, it can potentially lead to infertility. Inflammation causes the fallopian tubes to thicken, affecting their function. Firstly, the function of the fimbrial end of the fallopian tube is impacted, which affects the tube's ability to capture eggs. Secondly, the inflammation can affect the union of sperm and egg within the fallopian tube, making fertilization difficult. Moreover, inflammation of the fallopian tubes can also increase the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy. This happens because when the fallopian tubes are inflamed, their ability to transport the fertilized egg to the uterus is impaired, leading to ectopic pregnancies. Therefore, it is crucial for women with fallopian tube inflammation to undergo adequate anti-inflammatory treatment before trying to conceive. Commonly used medications include cephalosporins and penicillin.

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Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can chronic bacterial vaginitis lead to infertility?

Long-term bacterial vaginitis can lead to infertility. If bacterial vaginitis occurs, a large number of bacteria proliferate in the vagina. When sperm enter, they may quickly die off. Even if they do not die, their quality is greatly reduced. Vaginitis results in a significant increase in vaginal discharge. The secretions contain a large number of white blood cells, which can hinder the survival of sperm, thus potentially causing infertility. Therefore, women must pay attention to personal hygiene. Once the inflammation of bacterial vaginitis becomes severe, it can spread to the uterine cavity and cause more serious diseases such as adnexitis and pelvic inflammatory disease. If not treated promptly, these can lead to infertility. It is important to develop good hygiene habits regularly.

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Written by Luo Chun Yan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does taking emergency contraceptive pills cause infertility?

If emergency contraception is only used occasionally, it generally has a minor impact on fertility. However, frequent use of emergency contraceptives may lead to infertility. Emergency contraception usually consists of a combination of estrogen and progestin, with a high hormonal content. Its primary functions are to alter cervical mucus viscosity, hinder sperm mobility, suppress ovulation, and modify the endometrial environment in the uterus, thereby providing a contraceptive effect. Some may cause menstrual irregularities or ovulation disorders, affecting the motility of the fallopian tubes, potentially leading to ectopic pregnancies, which can cause infertility. Thus, emergency contraception should not be used as a regular method of contraception.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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How is infertility caused?

Infertility can occur if there is an issue with either partner. The main factors causing infertility in women include ovulation disorders, fallopian tube factors, and abnormal endometrial receptivity. The primary factors causing infertility in men are abnormal spermatogenesis and ovulation disorders. Common etiological diagnoses generally include ovulation disorders, abnormal semen, fallopian tube abnormalities, unexplained infertility, endometriosis, and other immunological infertility. Additionally, cervical factors can also lead to infertility, such as cervical stenosis, which accounts for more than 5% of cervical factors.