By Dr. Manuel Izquierdo (Licensed Gynecologist – 280308601).
Fertility is a fundamental aspect of life for many people, especially those who are considering starting a family. However, the ability to conceive is not the same for everyone.
Fertility is defined as the natural ability of an individual to conceive and have children. In women, this involves, among other factors, regular ovulation and a healthy uterus. In men, it depends on the production of healthy and functional sperm. Although fertility is often taken for granted, it can vary widely among individuals and is influenced by numerous factors.
Each case is unique and therefore requires a personalized evaluation. There is no single cause of infertility and, in some instances, the reason cannot be explained. Nevertheless, advances in reproductive medicine and assisted reproduction research continue to improve outcomes every day.
The causes of infertility are diverse. Genetic, biological, and environmental factors can all contribute to a reduction or loss of fertility. Some individuals are born with conditions that affect their reproductive capacity, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women or impaired sperm production in men.
Age, lifestyle, and overall health also play an important role. Even when no obvious medical issue is present, the path to natural conception can be different for each individual or couple.
As mentioned earlier, each person is different, which means there is no universal explanation for infertility. However, several factors are known to reduce reproductive capacity.
Although some factors—such as age or genetic conditions—cannot be modified, there are lifestyle measures that may help preserve or improve fertility. Maintaining a healthy body weight and following a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can contribute to better reproductive health. Eliminating or at least reducing the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, as well as managing stress levels, can also support fertility.
In addition, regular medical evaluations are highly recommended so that fertility specialists can detect and treat potential problems before they worsen or become irreversible.

When natural conception is not possible, reproductive medicine can provide alternatives to achieve pregnancy. In general, it is advisable to consult a fertility specialist after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse without achieving conception.
Among the most common treatment options are:
Other more specialized techniques are also available, including oocyte or sperm donation in cases where gamete quality is compromised, embryo adoption from donor couples, and more advanced procedures for complex cases.
Fertility is not only a biological issue, but also an emotional and social one. Cultural expectations, social pressure, and the emotional impact of the desire to have children can represent significant challenges for many individuals. For this reason, it is essential to approach this subject with sensitivity, offering patients accurate information and consistent psychological support.
Dr. Oliver Pack, Specialist in Assisted Reproduction at IVF-Life Alicante