Infertility: Causes, Symptoms & Proven Strategies to Cope

In Pakistan, an estimated 21.9% of couples face infertility, making it a serious public health concern that affects millions.

From stress and nutrition to environmental toxins, countless factors can impact your ability to conceive. That’s why understanding these elements is crucial for making informed choices that enhance your chances of conception and overall reproductive health.

In addition to medical advice and lifestyle changes, exploring premium quality supplements in Pakistan, like Activit, which aligns with your nutritional needs, can complement your efforts.

Recognizing infertility symptoms in men and women, therefore, becomes a key to early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Infertility: Signs and Symptoms in Men and Women

A couple’s inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse is a sign of infertility. Understanding the signs and symptoms of infertility in men and women is crucial for effective treatment.

Infertility is not just a woman’s issue – it can affect both men and women. About one-third of infertility issues are due to female factors, and another third to male problems, and the rest involve both partners or remain unexplained. In addition to medical evaluation, many couples explore the best fertility supplements in Pakistan to improve the chances of conception.

Symptoms of Infertility in Women

Pain during intercourse
Irregular menstrual cycle
Dark or pale menstrual blood
Changes in hormone levels
Heavy, long, or painful periods
Underlying medical conditions
Obesity

Unexplained weight loss or gain

Symptoms of Infertility in Men

Ejaculation problems
Hormonal imbalances
Erectile dysfunction
Changes in the testicles
Obesity

Using the best fertility supplements in Pakistan can help fill nutritional gaps and support reproductive health alongside medical care and lifestyle changes. Supplements like Activit may also complement your efforts naturally.

Infertility Diagnosis and Tests: Identifying the Best Treatment

To assess possible reasons for infertility, the healthcare provider recommends the following tests for both male and female partners:

Test Type	Purpose
For Females
Hormone Tests	To assess FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone levels in blood.
Ovulation Testing	To identify ovulation time through hormone level testing.
Chlamydia Test	To check the presence of Chlamydia in the cervix cells or urine.
Ultrasound Scan	To investigate abnormalities in ovaries, fallopian tubes, and womb.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG)	To examine if the fallopian tubes are open and if the shape of the uterus is normal.
Laparoscopy	To visualize pelvic organs for the presence of endometriosis and scar tissue.
For Males
Semen Analysis	To check sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Blood Test	To assess thyroid and other male hormone levels.
Chlamydia Test	To test the presence of Chlamydia in urine samples.
Scrotal Ultrasound	To identify varicoceles and other testicular problems.
Vasography	To evaluate potential blockages in the vas deferens by injecting contrast dye and taking x-rays.

Root Causes of Infertility: Insights for Men and Women

Factors contributing to male and female infertility are:

Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can negatively impact reproductive health, potentially leading to infertility. Using the best fertility supplements in Pakistan can help restore these vital nutrients. And supplements like Activit may also support overall reproductive health when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Medical Conditions: Medical disorders can significantly hinder fertility. Endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women and varicocele in men can impair fertility.
Stress: Stress hormones such as cortisol disrupt signaling between the brain and ovaries, negatively impacting ovulation and sperm production.
Infections: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to complications, consequently affecting fertility.
Obesity: Excess body weight can disrupt hormone signaling and affect both ovulation and sperm quality.
Environmental Factors: Heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury, and lead can cause infertility in both men and women, and exposure to high temperatures can negatively affect sperm health.
Intense Exercise: Vigorous physical activity can disrupt hormonal balance, which is important for female reproductive health. Also, excessive training in men can lower testosterone hormone and impair sperm quality.
Congenital Abnormalities: In women, congenital abnormalities are a significant cause of recurrent pregnancy loss. These problems can also stop sperm production, impair sperm quality, and lower sperm motility.
Hormonal Problems: Conditions such as low thyroid or progesterone levels result in PCOS and anovulation in women. Similarly, these imbalances can disrupt testosterone levels in men, impacting fertility and overall health.

Nutrition Options: Exploring Holistic Ways to Boost Fertility

Nutritional Strategies to Boost Fertility Naturally

A healthy diet plays an essential role in enhancing fertility. Consider the following options to include in and exclude from your diet:

Embrace:

Leafy Greens – spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in folate, which is crucial for ovulation.
Berries – blueberries and strawberries contain antioxidants that protect eggs and sperm from damage.
Whole Grains – oats, quinoa, millets, and brown rice help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote hormonal balance.
Healthy Fats – avocado oil, olive oil, oily fish, and grapeseed oil support healthy hormone production.
Protein Sources – fish, chicken, lentils, and beans provide essential amino acids that enhance reproductive health.
Nuts and Seeds – almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and improve overall reproductive health.
Dairy Alternatives – oat and almond milk are plant-based, low-fat dairy options that provide calcium, essential for reproductive health.

Avoid:

Trans Fats – present in fried foods and processed snacks.
Sugary Beverages – contain high sugar levels linked to insulin resistance, which affects ovulation.
Processed Meats – include additives and preservatives that may be linked to lower fertility rates.
Excessive Alcohol – disrupts normal hormone functioning and reduces the quality of eggs and sperm.
High Sugar Levels – found in cakes, cookies, and candies may lead to insulin resistance and cause metabolic issues.
Caffeine Intake – can lead to delayed conception and increased miscarriage risks.

Supplement Recommendations: Supporting and Enhancing Fertility

Specific vitamins and minerals, such as folate, vitamin D, selenium, zinc, and B12, affect reproductive health and fertility. However, managing multiple individual supplements can be challenging and time-consuming. To simplify this, many couples turn to an all-in-one best fertility supplement in Pakistan. One such option is Activit, which provides comprehensive nutritional support for reproductive health.

Minerals

Supplement	Dosage	Benefits
Manganese	As directed on the label.	Maintains sex hormone production.
Zinc	30 mg daily.	Important for male fertility, sperm density, and production. Regulates female germ cell growth and fertility.
Coenzyme Q10	100 mg daily.	Enhances energy production in cells. Supports egg and sperm health, and increases sperm motility.
Iron	15 mg twice daily.	Essential for managing iron deficiency in women.
Selenium	200 to 400 mcg daily (reduce to 40 mcg if pregnant).	Selenium deficiency can lower sperm count in men and contribute to infertility in women.

Vitamins

Supplement	Dosage	Benefits
Vitamin A	15,000 IU daily.	Important in reproductive glands functions.
Vitamin C	500 mg daily.	An antioxidant that helps improve sperm and egg quality and prevents sperm agglutination.
Vitamin E	400 IU daily.	A powerful antioxidant that supports fertility in both men and women.
Vitamin B5	As directed on the label.	Promotes sex hormone production.
Vitamin B9 (Folate)	400 to 800 mcg daily.	Protects egg, sperm, and genetic material, maintains fertility, and improves ovulation.
Vitamin B6	50 mg 3 times daily.	Required for the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
Vitamin B12	1,500 mcg daily.	Increases sperm count.

Opting for Activit, you ensure that you are getting these nutrients in one convenient supplement, simplifying your fertility plan.

Dietary Supplements

Supplement	Dosage	Benefits
L-Arginine	2,000 mg twice daily	It increases sperm quality and count.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	1,000 mg daily.	Supports fertility by improving hormonal balance, menstrual cycle, sperm health, and egg quality.
L-Carnitine	1,500 mg twice daily	Improves sperm motility.
Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)	100 mg four times a day	Aids fertility.
Alpha Lipoic Acid	300 to 1,200 mg daily	Plays an indirect role in enhancing fertility by improving insulin sensitivity and increasing energy production.
Phosphatidylcholine	1,000 mg daily	Improves signals to the brain, thus increasing sex drive.

Effective Herbs

Generally, damiana, sarsaparilla, saw palmetto, and Yohimbe enhance sexual function in men. Damiana, dong quai, false unicorn root, gotu kola, licorice root, and wild yam root improve sexual function in women. Other herbs that support fertility are:

Vitex or Chasteberry (160 to 240 mg daily) helps regulate menstrual cycles, promote ovulation, and reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Panax Ginseng (300 mg daily) promotes sexual health and increases sperm count and motility.
Astragalus Extract promotes and stimulates sperm motility; avoid use during fever, high blood pressure, or if pregnant or nursing.
Green Oat (Avena sativa) improves fertility and aids excellently in maintaining an erection in men.

Exercises and Yoga for Infertility Treatment: Active Ways to Boost Fertility

Effective Exercises for Infertility Treatment

Regular exercise can play a significant role in increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and improving their function.

Aerobic Exercise: Regular walking, swimming, and cycling help maintain a healthy weight and manage stress levels. Moderate aerobic activity of 150 minutes is enough every week.
Strength Training: Strength training exercises, such as weight lifting or resistance bands, two to three times a week, are also helpful in supporting hormonal balance.
Pelvic Floor Exercises: Activities that strengthen pelvic floor muscles, such as Kegel exercises, regulate sexual function and improve blood flow to reproductive organs.

Beneficial Yoga Poses for Infertility Treatment

Yoga may help regulate the endocrine system, enhance blood flow to reproductive organs, and promote relaxation – these are crucial for fertility. The best yoga poses for boosting fertility are:

Cat-Cow Pose, or Chakravakasana, gently stretches the spine, improves posture, and promotes relaxation, making it beneficial for reducing back pain.
Child’s Pose, or Balasana, is a restorative yoga pose well-known for its calming and relaxing effects.
Bridge Pose, or Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, is a gentle yoga backbend that stimulates the thyroid glands, which play an important role in hormonal balance.
Legs-Up-The-Wall-Pose, or Viparita Karani, is a restorative pose that helps improve blood flow to the pelvis area and reduce stress.
Cobra Pose, or Bhujangasana, strengthens the spine and opens the heart, boosting emotions, health, and energy.

Acupressure For Fertility: Important Pressure Points

In acupressure, the pressure is applied to specific body points to promote relaxation and improve energy flow.

CV3 (Zhongji): This point is located on the lower abdomen and helps to nourish reproductive organs and regulate menstrual cycles.
ST36 (Zusanli): This point is located below the knee and helps increase overall energy by supporting digestive health.
SP6 (Sanyinjiao): This point is above the ankle and helps balance hormones and improve reproductive health.
PC6 (Neiguan): This point is found in the inner forearm and helps reduce anxiety and stress, which is important for enhancing fertility.

Additional Infertility Treatments: Natural and Supportive Therapies

Massage Therapy: Regular massage benefits reproductive health as it can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
Counseling and Support Groups: Emotional support is crucial for couples facing infertility. Sharing feelings and experiences in groups provides psychological comfort.

Nutritional Counseling: Working with a nutritionist specializing in fertility can help suggest a diet supporting reproductive health and may include guidance on choosing the best fertility supplement in Pakistan to meet your specific needs.
Herbal Medicine: Consult a healthcare provider who is well-versed in herbal knowledge, as some herbs are thought to support fertility.
Mind-Body Techniques: Activities such as meditation, visualization, and guided imagery can help reduce stress and support emotional well-being during the fertility journey.
Hormonal Therapy: Natural progesterone cream prepares the uterus for implantation and maintains a healthy pregnancy; particularly useful for women with low progesterone levels.

Lifestyle Changes and Fertility Support

Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a balanced diet with regular exercise supports healthy weight and hormone balance. To further support your reproductive health, consider adding the best fertility supplement in Pakistan to your daily routine. A daily dose of essential nutrients, such as those present in Activit, may improve your fertility outcomes.
Stress Reduction: Practicing yoga, meditation, acupressure, and deep breath exercises manages stress and improves overall well-being.
Hydrotherapy and Massage: Engaging in hydropathy and massage improves blood circulation to the reproductive organs and improves egg and sperm quality.
Sleep Hygiene: Aiming for a quality sleep of 7 to 9 hours daily regulates hormonal balance.

Key Considerations in Infertility Treatment

Consult Healthcare Providers: Seek professional health care and work closely with medical professionals throughout the fertility journey. They can guide you on treatment options, lifestyle changes and choosing the best fertility supplement in Pakistan to support your reproductive health.
Consider Sperm Factors: Male infertility accounts for nearly 50% of all cases, with some issues being treatable. In fact, sperm quality can be improved through lifestyle changes.
Evaluate Genetic Factors: Ongoing research indicates that genetic factors may lead to infertility. Couples with a family history of reproductive issues should seek genetic counselling.
Assess Exposure to Heavy Metals: Exposure to heavy metals can be a risk factor for fertility and may damage male and female reproductive systems.
Think About Abstinence and Timing: Many studies have confirmed that shorter abstinence periods of two to three days are linked with improved pregnancy live birth rates.

Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART): Advanced Fertility Treatments

Assisted reproductive technologies may work if other methods fail. These methods include:

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized outside the body in this procedure and then inserted into the uterus.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): In this process, healthy sperm are directly injected into an egg.
Gamete Intrafallopian Tube Transfer (GIFT): Eggs and sperm are placed in the fallopian tube immediately after mixing in this procedure.

FAQs About Infertility in Men and Women

How to improve egg quality?

The quality of eggs can significantly impact infertility in women. Eating healthy foods like leafy greens, whole grains, lean meats, nuts, fresh vegetables, and fruits can improve egg quality. In addition, focusing on reducing stress and taking supplements with antioxidants such as CoQ10 can help improve fertility in women. You can also consider taking the best multivitamin for women or the best fertility supplement in Pakistan, which contains all essential nutrients to support your reproductive health.

How to increase sperm count?

Most people also ask: how to improve sperm quality? Both start with a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, and vitamins. Supplements that include these nutrients can help too. For example, Activit – the best multivitamin for men in Pakistan – provides a combination of zinc, selenium, vitamin D3, magnesium, CoQ10, and B vitamins to support male fertility naturally. Choosing the best fertility supplement in Pakistan can be an effective addition to lifestyle changes.

Research shows that men who consume more fruits (bananas), leafy greens (spinach), oysters, walnuts, garlic, asparagus, dark chocolate, and legumes have better sperm concentration and motility. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, managing a healthy weight, wearing loose underwear, and avoiding toxins improve sperm health.

What is type 2 infertility?

Type 2 infertility, or secondary infertility, happens when a couple is unable to conceive or carry a baby to term after previously having one or more successful pregnancies.

Here are the reasons for type 2 infertility:

Decline in egg and sperm quality with age
Hormonal imbalance and infertility
PCOS and infertility
Uterine or fallopian tube damage (from surgeries, C-section, or infections)
Pelvic adhesions or endometriosis
Lifestyle factors (obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption)
Stress and mental health problems
Newly developed health conditions (autoimmune responses, diabetes, and others)

If the underlying condition is related to nutrition, consider taking the best fertility supplements in Pakistan to fill your nutritional gaps and support overall health effectively.

Which vitamin deficiency can cause infertility?

Deficiencies of essential nutrients—especially vitamin D, B12, folate, and vitamin E— are known to impact fertility by disrupting hormonal imbalance, egg and sperm quality. Choosing the best fertility supplements in Pakistan that include these nutrients can support reproductive health and improve conception chances.

The Bottom Line

Infertility affects many couples; while it is a challenging journey, stress can often intensify the difficulties.

This multi-faceted issue requires a comprehensive approach to effective management. Managing infertility through regular exercise, a balanced diet, proper supplementation, and holistic practices can make a significant difference. Adding a premium-quality supplement in Pakistan, like Activit, may help support your nutritional needs and complement your fertility plan.

While the path to parenthood may feel overwhelming, each step toward a healthier lifestyle brings new possibilities. Most importantly, open communication and regular follow-up with healthcare providers are vital for navigating infertility complexities with confidence and hope.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-fertility-tips-to-get-pregnant#antioxidants

2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8599883/

3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9809323/

4. https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/366700/9789240068315-eng.pdf?sequence=

5. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/infertility

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562258/

7. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-when-trying-to-get-pregnant#2.Ultra-processed-carbs

8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10054513/

9. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility

10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10005661/