Causes of Infertility

Causes-Of-Infertility

Understanding the Causes of Infertility

Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, and in most cases, it does not arise from a single problem.
It is usually the result of multiple factors involving either partner — or sometimes causes that cannot be clearly identified.

At Saga Clinic Tirana, Dr. Eser Agar provides a comprehensive, evidence-based evaluation to understand these causes and guide couples toward the most effective treatment strategy.

Female Factors

Female-related infertility accounts for about 40–50% of cases.
The most common causes include:

1. Ovulation Disorders (PCOS, Anovulation)

  • Irregular or absent ovulation
  • Hormonal imbalance
  • PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • High prolactin levels

These are some of the most treatable fertility problems once identified.

2. Fallopian Tube Problems

  • Tubal blockage
  • Hydrosalpinx
  • Scarring from infection (PID)
  • Previous pelvic surgeries
  • Endometriosis-related adhesions

If the tubes are blocked, natural conception becomes difficult or impossible.

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis causes inflammation and scar tissue around reproductive organs, interfering with:

  • Ovulation
  • Egg quality
  • Tubal function
  • Embryo implantation

It is a major but often underdiagnosed cause of infertility.

4. Uterine Factors

  • Fibroids
  • Polyps
  • Adenomyosis
  • Congenital uterine anomalies
  • Intrauterine adhesions (Asherman syndrome)

These conditions can impair implantation or increase miscarriage risk.

5. Diminished Ovarian Reserve

  • Low AMH
  • Poor egg quality
  • Reduced follicle count
  • Age-related decline

This affects both natural conception and response to fertility treatments.

Male Factors

Male-related infertility contributes to 40–50% of all cases.
Common causes include:

1. Abnormal Semen Parameters

  • Low sperm count
  • Poor motility
  • Abnormal morphology
  • High DNA fragmentation

These directly impact the ability to achieve pregnancy.

2. Hormonal Disorders

  • Low testosterone
  • High prolactin
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Hypogonadism

Hormonal imbalance can reduce sperm production.

3. Structural Problems

  • Varicocele
  • Vas deferens blockage
  • Testicular injury
  • Infection-related damage

These often require targeted treatment or surgical correction.

4. Genetic Conditions

  • Y-chromosome microdeletions
  • Karyotype abnormalities
  • Cystic fibrosis gene mutations

These factors influence both fertility outcomes and treatment choices.

Combined Factors

In many couples, both partners contribute to infertility.
Examples include:

  • Mild male factor + irregular ovulation
  • Tubal issues + reduced sperm motility
  • Endometriosis + borderline semen analysis

Combined factors require a coordinated, personalized approach.

Unexplained Infertility

In about 10–20% of couples, all standard tests are normal but pregnancy still does not occur.
This is called unexplained infertility.

Even in these cases, treatment options such as ovulation induction, IUI, or IVF can significantly improve success rates.

Age-Related Infertility

Female fertility declines noticeably after age 35 due to:

  • Reduced ovarian reserve
  • Lower egg quality
  • Increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities

Age is one of the most important factors guiding the treatment plan.

How Saga Clinic Evaluates Infertility Causes

At Saga Clinic Tirana, our evaluation includes:

  • Detailed medical history
  • Hormonal assessment
  • High-resolution transvaginal ultrasound
  • Ovarian reserve testing (AMH, AFC)
  • Tubal patency evaluation
  • Semen analysis
  • Metabolic and endocrine evaluation
  • Advanced diagnostics when needed

The goal is to identify all contributing factors early to plan the most effective pathway forward.

When Should You Seek Help?

You should consider evaluation if:

  • Under 35 and trying for 1 year
  • Over 35 and trying for 6 months
  • Menstrual cycles are irregular
  • Known male factor exists
  • Previous miscarriages occurred
  • Endometriosis symptoms are present
  • You simply want clarity and a plan

Early evaluation always leads to better outcomes.

Appointments and Contact

If you want to understand the cause of infertility and find the right treatment pathway, we are ready to guide you.
Contact Saga Clinic Tirana to schedule a comprehensive evaluation.

Contact & Appointments

For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.

📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.

💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 362 0838
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.