Infertility Symptoms

Infertility Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

Some infertility symptoms and underlying causes that should not be ignored are as follows:

Why Do Infertility Symptoms Occur?

Infertility can result from factors involving the female reproductive system, the male reproductive system, both partners or, in some cases, an unexplained cause. The symptoms or signs of infertility, therefore, depend on the underlying cause and may not always be directly related to conception itself.

In women, hormonal imbalances can interfere with the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), oestrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and thyroid hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. When this hormonal signalling is disrupted, ovulation may become irregular or stop, resulting in irregular or absent periods and making conception more difficult.

Problems affecting the reproductive organs can cause other symptoms associated with infertility. Conditions such as PCOS can disrupt ovulation and cause irregular or absent periods, while endometriosis may contribute to very painful menstruation. Pelvic inflammatory disease and previous pelvic or abdominal surgery may affect the fallopian tubes and interfere with fertility.

In men, fertility depends on healthy testicular function, sperm production, sperm movement and the ability to ejaculate sperm into the reproductive tract. Problems involving the testes, reproductive ducts, hormones or sexual function may trigger infertility symptoms in men. A low sperm concentration, reduced sperm motility or abnormal sperm morphology may contribute to male-factor infertility.

Infertility Symptoms That Require Immediate Medical Attention

Seek urgent medical care if you have infertility symptoms along with any of the following signs:

• Sudden, severe testicular pain or swelling, which may indicate testicular torsion or another urgent condition.

• Severe or rapidly worsening pelvic pain, particularly if accompanied by heavy bleeding, fever or fainting.

• Heavy vaginal bleeding with severe pain or dizziness, especially when pregnancy is possible.

• High fever with severe pelvic pain or abnormal vaginal discharge, which may indicate a serious pelvic infection.

• Sudden severe abdominal pain with weakness or fainting in someone who may be pregnant, which requires urgent evaluation for a possible ectopic pregnancy.

• Loss of consciousness, severe weakness or signs of shock associated with significant bleeding or acute illness.

Symptoms of Infertility Based on Type

Symptoms of infertility based on type are as follows:

Symptoms of Infertility in Men

The following are symptoms of infertility in men:

• Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection

• Problems with ejaculation

• Reduced sexual desire

• Pain, swelling or a lump in the testicles

• Noticeably small or abnormal testicles

• Previous testicular injury or surgery

• Symptoms suggesting a hormonal problem, such as reduced libido or changes in body hair

Symptoms of Infertility in Women

Possible infertility symptoms in women that may indicate an underlying condition include:

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Very infrequent or absent periods

• Very painful periods

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Symptoms associated with PCOS, such as excess facial or body hair or acne

• A history of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis

• Repeated miscarriages

Risk Factors of Infertility in Children

Children do not experience symptoms of infertility. However, certain pediatric or developmental conditions can affect reproductive health later in adulthood. These risk factors include:

• Undescended testicles

• Structural abnormalities of the reproductive organs

• Genetic conditions affecting pubertal development

Can You Have Infertility Without Symptoms?

Yes. Infertility can occur without presenting any symptoms. This is common, especially if the causes are semen quality, the functioning of the fallopian tubes, or any other factor that does not result in pain or visible changes.

For many couples, the first indication is simply that pregnancy does not occur despite regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility is generally defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. However, earlier evaluation may be appropriate for women aged 35 or older, and immediate or more prompt assessment may be recommended when there is a known medical condition that could affect fertility.

When Can Infertility Symptoms Become Life-Threatening?

Infertility itself is not a life-threatening condition. However, some underlying conditions associated with infertility may require urgent care. The table below presents those symptoms and what they may indicate:

How are Infertility Symptoms Diagnosed?

There is no single test that can diagnose every case of infertility. Evaluation usually considers both partners and is tailored to the person's medical history, symptoms and reproductive circumstances.

The following tests may be used to evaluate infertility and identify its underlying cause: