What is Unexplained Infertility? Causes and Diagnosis

English हिन्दी

What is Unexplained Infertility?

Unexplained infertility is a diagnosis given to couples who are unable to conceive despite undergoing a thorough medical evaluation that fails to reveal any obvious cause for their fertility issues. In other words, after a comprehensive examination, doctors cannot identify a specific reason for the couple’s difficulty in achieving pregnancy.

During the evaluation process for infertility, healthcare professionals typically assess various factors such as reproductive organ function, hormone levels, ovulation, sperm quality, and the fallopian tubes’ patency. If all these factors appear normal, and there is no apparent reason for the infertility, the diagnosis may be labelled as unexplained infertility.

Despite the frustration that may accompany a diagnosis of unexplained infertility, it’s important to work closely with healthcare providers to explore potential treatment options. Assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be recommended in some cases of unexplained infertility. Lifestyle changes, stress reduction techniques, and other interventions may also be explored to improve the chances of conception.

If you or someone you know is dealing with fertility challenges, seeking guidance from a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist is advisable.

What can be the causes of the Unexplained Infertility problem ?

Unexplained infertility can be a perplexing diagnosis because, despite a thorough evaluation, healthcare professionals may not identify a clear cause for the difficulty in conceiving. Several factors could contribute to unexplained infertility, and some possibilities include:

• Subtle Ovulatory Disorders: Even though standard tests may indicate normal ovulation, there could be subtle irregularities in the timing or quality of ovulation that are difficult to detect. ( Know more about- What is PCOS ? )
• Sperm Function: While routine semen analysis may show normal sperm parameters, there might be subtle issues with sperm function, such as difficulty penetrating the egg.
• Egg Quality: The quality of eggs is essential for successful fertilization and embryo development. Sometimes, there may be subtle issues with egg quality that standard tests do not capture.
• Embryo Development: Even if fertilisation occurs, there may be issues with early embryo development that are challenging to identify with current diagnostic methods.
• Uterine Factors: Factors within the uterus, such as the uterine lining or the interaction between the embryo and the uterine environment, could contribute to unexplained infertility.
• Tubal Factors: Although tubal patency may be confirmed, there could be subtle issues with the transport of the egg or embryo within the fallopian tubes.
• Immune Factors: Some researchers hypothesize that immune system abnormalities or subtle autoimmune responses might play a role in unexplained infertility.
• Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as stress, diet, or environmental exposures, might contribute to infertility in ways that are not easily measured or understood.
• Genetic Factors: Genetic factors, either in one or both partners, could influence fertility in ways that are not yet well understood.

Recognize that the field of reproductive medicine is continually evolving, and advancements in technology and research may lead to a better understanding of the factors contributing to unexplained infertility. In the meantime, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be considered as a treatment option for couples with unexplained infertility. ( Know more about- Infertility in Women )

How can infertility be diagnosed ?

The diagnosis of unexplained infertility typically involves a series of tests and evaluations for both partners to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting their ability to conceive. The process can be complex and may include the following steps:

• Medical History: A thorough medical history is taken for both the male and female partners. This includes information about menstrual history, sexual history, previous pregnancies, surgeries, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
• Physical Examination: Physical examinations may be conducted for both partners to identify any physical abnormalities or signs of reproductive health issues.
• Ovulation Testing: For the female partner, tests may be performed to confirm ovulation. This can include tracking menstrual cycles, monitoring basal body temperature, and using ovulation predictor kits.
• Semen Analysis: A semen analysis is a standard test for male fertility. It assesses the quantity and quality of sperm, including factors such as sperm count, motility, and morphology.
• Hormone Testing: Blood tests may be conducted to measure hormone levels in both partners. For women, these tests can include measurements of hormones such as progesterone, estrogen, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). For men, hormone tests may include testosterone levels.
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This is a radiologic procedure where a contrast dye is injected into the uterus, and X-rays are taken to assess the shape of the uterus and the patency of the fallopian tubes.
• Transvaginal Ultrasound: This imaging technique is used to examine the female reproductive organs, including the uterus and ovaries, to detect any abnormalities.
• Postcoital Test (PCT): This test involves evaluating the interaction between sperm and cervical mucus around the time of ovulation to assess sperm function in the cervical environment.
• Hysteroscopy or Laparoscopy: These are minimally invasive procedures that allow direct visualization of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. They can help identify and treat structural abnormalities or conditions such as endometriosis.
• Genetic Testing: Genetic testing may be considered to identify any chromosomal or genetic abnormalities that could contribute to infertility.

Once the diagnostic evaluations are complete, healthcare providers can work with the couple to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the identified factors for unexplained infertility.

Couples dealing with unexplained infertility must maintain open communication, support each other emotionally, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals. Fertility journeys can be emotionally challenging, and couples may benefit from a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of fertility. Get hormone testing, fertility testing and other tests done today, by booking full body checkups at Manipal Hospital Yeshwantpur Bangalore.