04 Dec Understanding Infertility: Causes & Myths for Couples in Delhi
Infertility is more common than many realize and often surrounded by myths and misconceptions. For couples seeking help, especially those looking for a trusted Fertility Clinic in Delhi, it’s important to understand the real causes of infertility, and to separate fact from fiction.
What is infertility?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infertility is defined as the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. In some cases, for example when a woman is older than 35, evaluation may begin earlier. Globally, about 1 in 6 people of reproductive age experience infertility at some point. Infertility may stem from factors in either partner male, female, or sometimes both.
Common Medical Causes of Infertility
Here are some medically established causes of infertility, affecting either or both partners:
Female-Related Causes
- Ovulation disorders: Problems that prevent regular egg release (ovulation), such as hormonal imbalances, are among the most common causes.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A leading cause of anovulation PCOS affects a significant portion of women of reproductive age.
- Tubal and uterine problems: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes (tubal factor), uterine abnormalities, uterine fibroids, or endometrial issues can prevent fertilization or implantation.
Male-Related Causes
- Low sperm count, poor sperm quality or motility: Problems with the quantity and quality of sperm, including shape and movement are a major contributor to infertility.
- Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal or endocrine issues can impact sperm production and male fertility.
- Lifestyle and environmental factors: Factors such as smoking, obesity, exposure to toxins or environmental pollutants may reduce fertility.
Combined or Unexplained Infertility
- In many couples, infertility stems from a combination of male and female factors.
- In about 15% of cases, no clear cause is found often labeled as “unexplained infertility.
Why Infertility Matters in Urban India (e.g., Delhi)
- A study on infertility in India observed a relatively high rate among women in urban areas, possibly due to lifestyle changes and delayed first pregnancy.
- Given urban stressors, changing eating and activity patterns, late marriages and environmental factors many couples in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Banglore face challenges when trying to conceive.
Thus, having access to a credible Fertility Clinic in Delhi, with experienced specialists and comprehensive diagnostics, becomes critical for couples seeking support.
Common Myths & Misconceptions Around Infertility
Misinformation around infertility is widespread. Here are some common myths — and the reality backed by medical facts:
| Myth | Reality / Fact |
| Infertility is always the woman’s fault. | Not true. Male factor infertility accounts for a significant portion of cases — fertility issues can affect either partner or both. |
| If a couple is ‘healthy’ they will conceive naturally eventually. | Sometimes medical issues (like ovulation disorders, tubal blockages, low sperm count) need evaluation and treatment — waiting may delay effective solutions. |
| Infertility only affects older people. | While age is a factor, infertility can affect younger individuals too, due to hormonal, genetic, environmental or lifestyle reasons. |
| Lifestyle doesn’t matter if medical treatment is available. | In fact, lifestyle — weight, smoking, diet, environmental exposures — plays a role in fertility for both men and women. |
| Infertility always has a clear cause. | No, in ~10–15% cases, no specific cause is identified (unexplained infertility). |
Addressing these myths with facts helps reduce stigma and encourages couples to seek timely, appropriate care.
What Couples Should Do: When & Where to Seek Help
- If a couple has had regular, unprotected intercourse for 12 months without conceiving, they should consult a fertility specialist.
- For women above 35 years, earlier evaluation may be considered (often after 6 months of trying).
- Both partners should be evaluated, male fertility matters as much as female fertility.
- Consult a trusted fertility-specialist team to get accurate diagnosis, tests, and guidance on treatment options (hormonal treatment, IVF, lifestyle changes).
How a Fertility Clinic in Delhi (Like Ours) Makes a Difference
At a proper fertility clinic, couples get:
- Comprehensive diagnostics for both male and female fertility issues (hormonal profile, ovulation check, semen analysis, tubal and uterine evaluation)
- Expert guidance on medical causes like PCOS, tubal disease, ovulation disorders, male factor issues
- Personalized treatment plans hormonal therapy, lifestyle changes, assisted reproductive techniques (when required)
- Counseling and emotional support helping couples manage stress, expectations, hope & resilience
Conclusion
Infertility is a complex medical condition not a moral failing or a simple “bad luck.” For couples in Delhi and across India, it’s important to understand the real medical causes, overcome myths, and seek timely, professional help. If you or your partner are struggling to conceive, don’t wait. Reach out to a credible Fertility Clinic in Delhi for proper assessment and support.
With accurate information, compassionate care, and modern medicine — many couples go on to fulfil their dream of parenthood.
FAQs:
What does “infertility” really mean?
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected intercourse. It does not necessarily mean you’ll never be able to have children — many couples achieve pregnancy with proper evaluation and treatment.
When should a couple seek help from a fertility specialist?
If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year with no success — consider evaluation.If the woman is over 35 (or if there are risk factors like irregular periods, known reproductive issues, or prior losses), couples may seek consultation earlier.
Is infertility only a woman’s problem?
No. Infertility affects both men and women. In many cases, male factors: such as sperm count, motility, or quality,contribute or are the sole cause.
Therefore, both partners should be evaluated when infertility is suspected.
What are common causes of infertility?
For women: Common causes include ovulation disorders (e.g. hormonal imbalance, PCOS), tubal or uterine problems (e.g. blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids), structural issues in uterus/ovaries, and egg quality/quantity problems.
For men: Common causes include low sperm count, poor sperm motility or morphology, hormonal issues, and lifestyle or environmental factors.
Can lifestyle and habits affect fertility?
Yes. Lifestyle factors such as weight (underweight or overweight), smoking, excessive stress, poor nutrition, for both men and women, can impact fertility..
Dr. Shipra Gupta is a renowned obstetrician, gynaecologist, and infertility specialist, boasting over 17 years of invaluable clinical, teaching, and research experience. She has successfully performed more than 1200 cycles of IUI, IVF, natural cycle IVF, donor egg, and FET cycles. Dr. Gupta specializes in managing complex cases involving Advanced Maternal Age, PCO, Poor Ovarian Reserve, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility. Her expertise extends to treating recurrent IVF failures and male infertility.