Infertility risk factors
A number of risk factors are linked to both male and female infertility. Many of the risk factors for both male and female infertility are the same but some are different.
Infertility Risk Factors for Women
- After age 32, the quantity and the quality of a woman’s eggs begin to decline.
- Being overweight or underweight may inhibit the normal ovulation.
- Heavy alcohol drinking is associated with an increased risk of ovulation disorders and endometriosis.
- Consuming more than the equivalent of six cups of coffee a day may decrease your fertility.
- Pelvic infections, which can be caused by sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia
- Lack of nutrition also the risk factor for women infertility
- Fallopian tube disease
- Multiple miscarriages
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes, lupus, arthritis, hypertension, or asthma
- Hormonal imbalance
- Exposure to workplace hazards or toxins
- Some cancer treatments can reduce fertility or damage the uterus
Infertility Risk Factors for Men
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Being age 35 or older
- Being overweight or underweight
- Having certain medical conditions, including tumors and chronic illnesses
- Bicycling for prolonged periods, especially on a hard seat or poorly adjusted bicycle
- Undescended testicles
- Mumps after puberty
- History of prostatitis, genital infection, or sexually transmitted diseases
- Being born with a fertility disorder or having a blood relative with a fertility disorder
- Being exposed to toxins
- Exposure of the genitals to high temperatures
- Prescription drugs for ulcers or psoriasis
- Severe stress
- Lack of nutrition
These risk factors do not directly cause infertility but may affect the quality of eggs. These risk factors are thought to interfere with normal sperm production and function. So, they can lead to infertility in both men and women.
