It is not easy to get pregnant, and carrying a pregnancy is a complex problem. Infertility can occur for many different reasons. The following list does not include the most common causes of female infertility. Talking to your doctor about possible treatments is a good idea for a woman having trouble getting pregnant or carrying a child to term.
What is female infertility?
Infertility is a condition that affects the ability to become pregnant or give birth to a baby. This is most common in heterosexual couples (man or woman) after one year of trying. However, it may be diagnosed earlier, depending on other factors. Half of the causes of infertility in heterosexual couples are due to a male problem, and the other half is due to a woman’s issues. One-third is due to a combination of unknown and known reasons. If the cause of infertility is determined to be from the female partner, this is called female infertility (or “female factor”) infertility.
Most Common Causes Of Female Infertility
1. Untreated or chronic infections
If you don’t treat sexually transmitted diseases, it can cause fertility problems. For example, chlamydia and gonorrhea can trigger pelvic inflammation disease. This can lead to scarring of your fallopian tubes. Syphilis can increase your chances of stillbirth. The human papillomavirus (HPV), which is most often associated with an increase in cervical cancer risk, can also alter the quality and amount of your cervical mucus. This makes it harder to get pregnant.
2. Ovulation Problems
Data show that infertility is the leading cause for females, accounting for 40% of all cases. Many factors can cause this, including thyroid disease, hormonal imbalance, aging, certain gynecological disorders, and hormonal imbalance. Primary ovarian impairment (POI) is the most common. This condition is known as premature ovarian failure (POI) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Both cases can cause ovulation to be irregular or stop altogether for several months.
3. PCOS
PCOS is a major cause of female infertility. The hormonal imbalance can cause cysts on the ovaries and impede ovary development. The PCOS Awareness Association states that approximately 10% of women of childbearing age are affected by PCOS. However, less than half of these women are aware and diagnosed.
4. Inactive lifestyle
Being overweight can increase your chances of miscarriage and raise your risk for infertility. You may also be at high risk of fertility problems if you suffer from an eating disorder such as anorexia, bulimia, or a restricted diet. You can lose weight or gain weight, and you may be able to conceive if you reach a healthy weight. Obese women might find that they can generally conceive after losing just 5% of their body weight. That’s only 10 pounds for a 200-pound woman.
5. Abnormal Cervical Mucus
Cervical mucus is a fluid that the cervix secretes when estrogen stimulates production. It allows sperm to survive in the acidic, hostile environment of the vagina. Normal cervical mucus can block sperm from reaching eggs. Although treatments for cervical mucus problems are not proven, intra-uterine fertilization is an effective way to bypass the mucus.
6. Uterine abnormalities
Fibroids can interfere with the fertilization of fertilized eggs. Fibroids can form within the wall or uterus. They are non-cancerous masses made of muscle tissue and collagen. Fibroids can cause reproductive problems, depending on how many fibroids you have and their specific location. Fibroids near the endometrial line can cause heavy periods, issues with embryo implanting, and other complications. Fibroids aren’t found in the lining of your uterus and therefore don’t affect your pregnancy. However, you might be at greater risk for miscarriage or infertility.
7. Premature Menopause
This is a rare yet unexplained cause of ovulation. Some women stop having menstruation altogether and start to have babies. Menopause before the average age. Hypotheses are either their natural egg supply has decreased, or most of them have lost their eggs. Many cases are seen in very athletic women with a history of intense exercise and low body weight. This condition could be genetic.
8. Follicle Problems
Unruptured Follicle Syndrome, which is currently undiagnosed, occurs in women with normal follicles and an egg. Every month, the egg remains inside, and the follicle does not rupture. Therefore, the egg stays in the ovary, and proper ovulation occurs.
Read the next article: Causes of Female Infertility and How to Prevent It?
Can Female Infertility Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, the most common causes of female infertility cannot be prevented. Maintaining healthy habits can increase your chances of getting pregnant. Regular exercise, sleeping well, and avoiding stress are all things that can help improve your chances of becoming pregnant. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drug use, and limit your exposure to environmental toxins. It is essential to maintain a healthy weight as it can affect your chances of getting pregnant.
If you have trouble conceiving, then consult with Fertility Center in Patna. Although it can seem daunting to take the first step, we will help you navigate each step. We will help you choose the right path. We look forward to being part of your journey toward parenthood.
