For women. General factors that can affect the ability to ovulate, conceive, or deliver a child successfully include the following: Age. Women in their late 30s and older are generally less fertile than women in their early 20s Endometriosis Chronic diseases (diabetes, lupus, arthritis, hypertension, or asthma) Hormonal imbalance Environmental factors. Cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, or exposure to workplace hazards or toxins Excessive or very low body fat Abnormal Pap smears that have been treated with cryosurgery or cone biopsy DES taken by mother during pregnancy Sexually transmitted diseases Fallopian tube disease Multiple miscarriages
| For men. Infertility is not just a woman's problem. Following is a list of risk factors related to male infertility: History of prostatitis, genital infection, or sexually transmitted diseases Exposure to hazards on the job or toxic substances, such as radiation, radioactivity, welding, and many chemicals, including lead, ethylene dibromine, and vinyl chloride. Cigarette or marijuana smoke Heavy alcohol consumption Exposure of the genitals to high temperatures Hernia repair Undescended testicles Prescription drugs for ulcers or psoriasis DES taken by mother during pregnancy Mumps after puberty
|