Is Infertility Genetic? What You Might Inherit And What You Can Do About It

If your mom had trouble getting pregnant… or your sister had irregular cycles… or your dad mentioned fertility issues in his 20s… it’s natural to wonder: Is infertility genetic?

It’s a question we hear often. And like most fertility questions, the answer is: it depends.

While infertility isn’t always inherited, certain conditions that affect fertility can run in families. Understanding what’s in your DNA can help you make more informed decisions about your body, your timeline, and your next steps.

Let’s break it down.

What Fertility Issues Can Be Genetic?

Not all infertility has a genetic cause—but several underlying conditions that affect fertility may be inherited, including:

Endometriosis

This chronic condition—where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus—often runs in families. If your mom or sister had it, your risk may be higher. It can affect egg quality, ovarian reserve, and implantation.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS tends to have a genetic component and is often passed down through maternal or paternal lines. It can cause irregular ovulation, insulin resistance, and elevated androgens—all of which affect fertility.

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

Sometimes caused by genetic mutations, POI (also called premature ovarian failure) leads to low estrogen and fewer eggs before age 40.

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Conditions like Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, or balanced translocations can impact reproductive anatomy or function. These are typically diagnosed through genetic testing.

Male Factor Infertility

Low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology may also have a genetic basis. Y chromosome deletions, for example, can affect sperm production.

What If No One in My Family Talks About It?

That’s common. Fertility struggles have often been kept quiet—especially in older generations. Your mum or grandmother may have experienced miscarriages, early menopause, or took “a while” to get pregnant without ever discussing it.

So even if no one has “officially” had fertility issues, it’s still worth exploring your personal and family history if you’re planning for a family.

Can I Get Tested?

Yes. If you’re concerned about inherited fertility conditions, ask your doctor about:

• Genetic carrier screening

• Karyotype testing

• Hormone and ovarian reserve tests (AMH, FSH, etc.)

• Semen analysis (for male partners)

This can help you identify risk factors early—and take action sooner rather than later.

Does Genetic = Inevitable?

Not at all. Just because something runs in your family doesn’t mean it will happen to you. And even if you do inherit a condition that affects fertility, there are often effective treatments and options available—from hormone support to IVF to egg or sperm freezing.

Knowledge isn’t a life sentence—it’s a starting point.

Final Thoughts

Fertility isn’t always a clean slate. Sometimes, it’s a story that’s been quietly passed down. But learning what might be in your genes doesn’t take away your power—it gives you more of it.

👉 Inside our Fertility 101 course, we walk you through what to ask, what to test, and how to build a proactive plan that works for your body, your timeline, and your future family.

You deserve to feel prepared, not panicked—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

FAQ

Is infertility inherited?
Not always, but some causes—like PCOS, endometriosis, and certain genetic disorders—can run in families.

Should I get tested if someone in my family had infertility?
It can be helpful. A fertility assessment can give you clarity and help you plan ahead.

Can men inherit fertility issues too?
Yes—some causes of male infertility, like Y chromosome deletions or hormonal imbalances, can be genetic.

You don’t have to figure this alone

Inside fertie, you’ll get:

• Expert-led courses to make informed decisions

• Private support from women on the same path

• Exclusive partner clinic perks & discounts

Disclaimer: Prices and treatment protocols vary by clinic and individual. Always consult with your fertility specialist for accurate, up-to-date pricing and guidance tailored to your situation.