A Systematic Review on Factors Contributing to Infertility

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 3 | 01 | Page :
    By

    Prakash Honrao,

  • Gopal Lohiya,

  • Rohit Sarda,

  • Kranti Satpute,

  • Yogesh Chavan,

  • Kate Kuldeep,

  • Aniket Salunke,

  • Akshay Kshirsagar,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Pharmaceutics Dayanand Education Society’s Dayanand College of Pharmacy,Latur, Maharashtra, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India
  3. HOD & Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India
  4. Principal & HOD, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India
  5. Research Scholar, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India
  6. Research Scholar, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India
  7. Research Scholar, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India
  8. Research Scholar, Department of Pharmaceutics, Dayanand Education Society’s, Dayanand College of Pharmacy, Latur, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Infertility is a multifactorial reproductive health condition affecting approximately 10–15% of couples worldwide and continues to represent a major clinical and social challenge. Despite substantial advances in assisted reproductive technologies, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic interventions, many couples still face difficulties in achieving pregnancy. The impact of infertility extends beyond physical health, often leading to emotional distress, social pressure, and financial burdens, especially in societies where parenthood is highly valued. Consequently, understanding the broad spectrum of factors contributing to infertility remains essential for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Aim: The present review aims to systematically evaluate and synthesize current scientific literature concerning the diverse factors contributing to infertility. Particular attention is given to female and male reproductive factors, as well as lifestyle habits, environmental exposures, medical conditions, and age-related influences that may impair reproductive potential. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using major scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, covering publications from 2000 through 2024. Studies examining causes and risk factors associated with infertility were included, encompassing both observational and interventional research designs. Eligible articles were screened, relevant data were extracted, and findings were summarized using a narrative synthesis approach to provide an integrated overview of current evidence. Results: The analysis demonstrated that infertility results from multiple interacting causes. Female-related factors account for approximately 40–50% of cases and commonly involve ovulatory disorders, fallopian tube damage, endometriosis, and uterine abnormalities. Male-related causes contribute to roughly 30–40% of infertility cases and include reduced sperm count, poor motility, abnormal morphology, and hormonal or genetic factors. Lifestyle influences such as obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and chronic stress were also repeatedly identified as significant contributors. Additionally, exposure to environmental pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals has been increasingly recognized as detrimental to reproductive health. Advanced parental age further reduces fertility potential, particularly among women. Nevertheless, despite ongoing improvements in diagnostic evaluation, approximately 10–15% of infertility cases remain unexplained. Conclusion: Infertility arises from a complex interplay of biological, environmental, and lifestyle-related determinants. Preventive strategies, early clinical evaluation, lifestyle modifications, and advanced diagnostic tools are critical for improving reproductive outcomes. Future investigations should focus on unexplained infertility and underlying molecular and genetic mechanisms to enable more personalized and effective therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: Infertility, female factors, male infertility, lifestyle influences, environmental exposure, systematic review.

How to cite this article:
Prakash Honrao, Gopal Lohiya, Rohit Sarda, Kranti Satpute, Yogesh Chavan, Kate Kuldeep, Aniket Salunke, Akshay Kshirsagar. A Systematic Review on Factors Contributing to Infertility. International Journal of Tropical Medicines. 2026; 03(01):-.
How to cite this URL:
Prakash Honrao, Gopal Lohiya, Rohit Sarda, Kranti Satpute, Yogesh Chavan, Kate Kuldeep, Aniket Salunke, Akshay Kshirsagar. A Systematic Review on Factors Contributing to Infertility. International Journal of Tropical Medicines. 2026; 03(01):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijtm/article=2026/view=240517


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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 03
01
Received 05/02/2026
Accepted 06/02/2026
Published 20/02/2026
Publication Time 15 Days
30

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