If you and your partner are unable to get pregnant, an infertility specialist can help determine the cause and recommend treatment options. A common cause of infertility is hormonal imbalances or deficiencies that impact the ability to conceive. Here are four hormones that affect fertility:
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone
In women, the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates follicle production in the ovaries, which contain immature eggs. Once eggs reach maturation, they are released during ovulation. High levels of FSH often indicate complications with the reproductive system, such as PCOS, tumors, or thyroid disease that affect fertility. Low FSH means that follicles may not develop adequately, leading to irregular or absent ovulation and making conception difficult.
For men, the follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates the spermatogonial stem cells in the testes, which produce sperm. When this hormone is imbalanced, it can prevent the testes from producing sperm, causing low sperm count and decreased fertility.
Luteinizing Hormone
Luteinizing hormone (LH) facilitates the release of a mature egg from the ovarian follicle so that sperm can fertilize it easily. For women, low LH levels may prevent ovulation, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles. If LH levels are too high, the egg quality can be poor, which may affect the egg’s ability to conceive.
In men, reduced luteinizing hormone may affect testosterone production, reducing sperm count and affecting fertility. Men with high LH levels have difficulty maintaining the quality and quantity of sperm necessary for fertilization. A care provider may suggest maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet to regulate hormone levels.
Testosterone
Testosterone works with other hormones to nurture and support the development of sperm cells. Low testosterone can cause immature or non-viable sperm, preventing fertilization. It can also result in poor sperm shape and movement, which affects the sperm’s ability to reach and fertilize the egg. Reduced testosterone levels may cause shrinkage of the testes, further decreasing sperm production. An infertility specialist often conducts a blood test to determine if testosterone levels are insufficient. Hormone replacement therapy is usually recommended to restore testosterone to its natural level.
Estrogen
Ovaries produce estrogen to help regulate the menstrual cycle and thicken the uterine lining to prepare for potential implantation. When estrogen is insufficient, the uterine lining is often too thin to support an embryo during implantation. Smaller quantities of cervical mucus are also produced, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg. Low levels may cause irregular menstrual cycles, potentially delaying or preventing ovulation. Excess estrogen may contribute to endometrial overgrowth, which can prevent implantation and increase miscarriage risks. Healthcare providers often prescribe estrogen supplements when couples prepare for in vitro fertilization (IVF) to encourage implantation and embryo growth.
Choose a Qualified Infertility Specialist
Age, genetics, medical conditions, or lifestyle choices can cause hormone imbalance and affect fertility. Infertility specialists can test for hormone deficiencies, recommend changes in diet, or suggest alternative treatment options like IVF or intrauterine insemination to help you conceive. Call a trusted clinic today to learn more about the hormones that affect fertility.
