The most common causes of infertility are due to which issue?

• A. Ovulatory disorders
• B. Tubal blockage
• C. Male factor
• D. Uterine fibroids

Answer: (A)

Conception hinges on regular ovulation—the egg must be released so it can be fertilized. When ovulatory function is disrupted, there may be no egg released in a given cycle or the release is irregular, making pregnancy unlikely. Ovulatory disorders are the most common identifiable cause of infertility because they directly block the essential step of ovulation. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid problems, high prolactin levels, and disruptions of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis can all impair ovulation. While tubal blockage, uterine fibroids, or male-factor issues can also cause infertility, they are less often the single, most frequent cause when looking at all infertile couples. Importantly, many ovulatory dysfunctions are treatable, with options to induce ovulation or manage the underlying hormonal imbalance to restore fertility.