Is Infertility Hereditary?

Infertility affects around 15% to 20% of couples worldwide. The reasons behind it are diverse, ranging from lifestyle and environmental factors to medical conditions and genetics. Among these, genetic abnormalities are responsible for approximately 10% of female infertility and 15% of male infertility. While not all infertility is hereditary, genetics can significantly contribute to reproductive challenges.

How Genetics Influence Fertility

Genetic factors can impact fertility through chromosomal abnormalities, mutations, or inherited disorders. These issues may:

• Affect hormone production or regulation.
• Disrupt the reproductive system’s anatomy or function.
• Causes systemic diseases with infertility as a symptom.

Chromosomal deletions, inversions, and mutations can lead to infertility even when all chromosomes are present. These changes may occur spontaneously or be inherited from one or both parents.

Genetic Causes of Infertility in Women

Ovulatory Disorders

Ovulatory disorders are one of the primary causes of infertility caused by defective genes. Many types of ovulatory disorders, such as Kallmann syndrome, are caused by genetic factors. Certain genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and some autoimmune diseases, can cause infertility as an additional symptom. Researchers are trying to establish if genetics are involved in premature ovarian failure.

Premature Ovarian Failure

Chromosomal deletions, inversions, mutations can lead to infertility. The chromosomes may all be present, but there may be a change in their pattern in some way and this can lead to infertility. These aberrations can occur in foetuses of normal parents, but some of them can be passed on from parents to the fetus.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. Infertility is one of its complications. It has many complex causes, some of them genetic. If your mother or sister has endometriosis, then you are more likely to have it too.

Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are small, benign tumours that grow in the uterus. They prevent embryos from attaching to the uterine wall. If your mother or sister suffered from fibroids, you may have a slightly higher risk of developing them too.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is caused by a hormone imbalance that causes cysts and irregular periods, leading to decreased fertility. Genetics play a role in the development of PCOS.

Family History of Menopause

The age of menopause also runs in families. You are more likely to reach menopause at the same age as your mother.

Are All Causes of Infertility Hereditary?

Not all infertility is genetic. Lifestyle, age, infections, and medical conditions also play a major role. Additionally, 20–30% of infertility cases remain unexplained, even after thorough testing.

What Should You Do If Infertility Runs in Your Family?

We know that many conditions that lead to fertility problems have genetic causes. While we may know the causes of some of these genetic changes, more research is necessary to determine how many are inherited. You may or may not inherit fertility problems; we don’t know for certain yet. Until we have conclusive evidence, it is better to be safe. If you have any fertility concerns or if your immediate family members had difficulty getting pregnant, consult a fertility expert for evaluation and advice. Dr. Rela Hospital is one of the best fertility centres in India, with the highest success rate for IVF. Advanced technology and the latest equipment, in the hands of a leading fertility specialist, help us provide world-class fertility care.