Understanding Infertility: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

The experience of infertility can feel overwhelming, confusing, and isolating. Many couples who visit IVF London say the same thing — they never expected to face difficulties conceiving. The truth is that infertility is far more common than most people realise and understanding it is the first step toward regaining clarity and control.

In this blog, we explore the types of infertility, the causes in both men and women, the key symptoms, and the fertility treatments that can help you move forward.

What Is Infertility?

Infertility can be described as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular and unprotected sex. In the case of women who are older than 35, physicians tend to direct them to seek assistance after 6 months.

It’s important to understand that infertility is not always permanent. With the right diagnosis and treatment, many couples eventually conceive — either naturally or with medical support.

Types of Infertility

Infertility does not appear the same way to all. In IVF London, we tend to describe it in the following categories:

1. Primary Infertility:

When a couple has never been able to conceive.

2. Secondary Infertility:

When a couple is facing difficulties in getting pregnant again after having conceived previously.

3. Unexplained Infertility:

In 10–20% of couples, all standard tests appear normal, yet pregnancy does not occur. Often, very subtle issues with egg quality, sperm function, or timing may be involved.

4. Male- or Female-factor infertility.

Infertility may stem from one partner or both. A thorough evaluation helps identify where support is needed.

Causes of Infertility

Infertility has numerous causes that are different between men and women. Knowing both partners will provide clarity and direction to the couple.

Female infertility causes.

1. Ovulation Problems:

Regular ovulation is essential for releasing a mature egg. Some of the most prevalent causes are PCOS, hormonal disruptions, thyroid issues, or high-stress levels.

2. Age-related Decline:

The amount and quality of eggs are inherently decreasing as age advances. After age 35, eggs are more prone to chromosomal abnormalities, affecting fertility and miscarriage risk.

3. Blocked Fallopian Tubes:

Tubal blockages due to past infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or surgery can prevent sperm from reaching the egg.

4. Endometriosis:

Endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic environment, and implantation.

5. Uterine Issues:

Uterine abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome), septum, or structural changes can impact implantation.

Male infertility can be caused by the following.

1. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)

A lower-than-normal number of sperm reduces the chances of fertilisation.

2. Poor Sperm Motility

Sperm may not swim efficiently enough to reach the egg.

3. Abnormal Sperm Morphology

Irregular sperm shape can reduce the ability to fertilise an egg.

4. Hormonal Imbalances

Issues with the pituitary gland, testosterone levels, or hormone regulation can limit sperm production.

5. Varicocele

Enlarged veins in the scrotum can impair sperm quality and production.

6. Lifestyle Factors

Smoking, excessive alcohol, obesity, chronic stress, poor sleep, and heat exposure (hot tubs, saunas, laptops on lap) can weaken sperm health.

Infertility Symptoms: What to Expect.

The symptoms are not always conspicuous. It is only after a person starts trying to have a baby that they learn of their infertility. Nevertheless, the typical signs and symptoms of infertility are to be recognized:

For Women

• Irregular or absent periods
• Extremely excessive or extremely insufficient bleeding.
• Several painful periods or pains in the pelvis.
• None of the ovulation symptoms (such as mid-cycle cramps, changes in cervical mucus)
• Recurrent miscarriages
• Months of effort with no desire to conceive.

For Men

• Premature or low ejaculation.
• Low sex drive
• Aching or tenderness of the testicles.
• Hair growth (which could be a sign of hormonal problems) changes.
• Painful intercourse with frequent sex.

In case you observe some of these infertility symptoms, an analysis can bring you a sense of clarity and direction.

The Diagnosis of Infertility.

At IVF London, our diagnostic process typically includes:

• Hormone blood tests (FSH, LH, AMH, estradiol, thyroid hormones)
• AMH testing and ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve
• Semen analysis
• Pelvic ultrasound
• HYCOSY (hysteron contrast salpingography) to check if fallopian tubes are open
• Hysteroscopy if needed to assess the uterus directly

A clear diagnosis allows us to create a tailored treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

Fertility Treatment Types.

Modern fertility care is highly advanced and offers effective solutions for many causes of infertility. Treatment depends on the underlying issue, age, and individual goals.

1. Ovulation Induction

Medications stimulate the ovaries to release an egg regularly.

2. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

Washed and concentrated sperm are placed directly into the uterus during ovulation.

3. IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)

Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, fertilised in the laboratory, and embryos are transferred to the uterus.

4. ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)

A single sperm is injected directly into an egg — ideal for male-factor infertility or previous failed fertilisation.

5. Donor Eggs, Donor Sperm, or Donor Embryos

Used when egg or sperm quality is very low, or when genetic conditions need to be avoided.

6. Surrogacy

A gestational carrier carries the pregnancy when a woman cannot safely carry a child for medical reasons.

7. Surgical Treatments

Procedures to remove fibroids, polyps, adhesions, or repair a varicocele can significantly improve natural fertility.

Conclusion:

Infertility is far from a rare or isolating experience — thousands of couples face it each year. At IVF London, we have seen countless couples conceive after years of frustration simply by identifying the correct cause and applying the right treatment.

Your fertility story is not defined by delays or setbacks. It is shaped by knowledge, support, and the decisions you make moving forward.

If you feel ready to take the next step, we are here to guide you with expertise, compassion, and hope.