Whether it’s a first encounter with infertility or a years-long struggle, it’s a problem that many couples around the world have to deal with. According to international statistics, one out of every 6 couples struggles to overcome the problem of infertility, which is an average of 17.5% of the adult population. Fortunately, modern medicine is developing day by day and making the dream of parenthood more and more accessible to everyone.
We can look for the causes of infertility equally in both women and men. However, in this blog, we will discuss female infertility and explore its possible causes, as well as medical interventions and potential treatment options.
To read a blog on male infertility and its causes, follow the link
Common factors of female infertility include:
Ovulation disorders: Irregular ovulation, or its absence, is a leading cause of infertility in women. Medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hormonal imbalances can disrupt the ovulation process.
Fallopian tube blockage: Obstruction or damage to the fallopian tubes can prevent fertilization of the egg or inhibit the migration of the fertilized egg into the uterus.
Uterine abnormalities: Structural problems in the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, or congenital malformations, may lead to complications affecting fertility and implantation.
Endometriosis: This condition occurs when the mucous tissue of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation, scarring, and fertility problems.
Age-related infertility: As age increases, the quantity and quality of eggs decrease, affecting the conception process. Mother’s age is closely linked to a higher risk of infertility and complications related to pregnancy.
Methods of diagnosis of female infertility
Faced with difficulties in conceiving, women undergo various diagnostic studies to determine the underlying causes. These studies may include:
Medical history and physical examination: A detailed assessment of the individual’s medical history, past illnesses, menstrual cycle regularity, lifestyle factors, and reproductive health issues.
Monitoring ovulation: Observing menstrual cycles, monitoring basal body temperature, and observing ovulation periods-to determine whether ovulation occurs or not.
Hormone testing: Blood tests to measure hormone levels, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone, to evaluate ovarian function and hormonal balance.
Imaging tests: Ultrasound, hysterosalpingography (HSG) or hysteroscopy to examine the uterus, fallopian tubes and detect any structural abnormalities or blockages.
Ovarian reserve testing: Assessment of the number and quality of a woman’s remaining eggs is usually done with a blood test measuring anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC).
Treatment options for female infertility
Medications and hormone therapy: Medications may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation, regulate hormonal imbalances, or manage underlying conditions such as PCOS and endometriosis.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) involve combining eggs and sperm in a laboratory environment and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus.
Surgical interventions: Depending on the specific cause, surgical procedures may be performed to remove uterine abnormalities, remove fibroids and polyps, or unblock blocked fallopian tubes.
Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress and avoiding bad habits such as tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption can all have a positive effect on fertility.
Understand that infertility is one of the most common conditions in women, and don’t blame yourself for something beyond your abilities! We have offered you the general and most common causes, methods of diagnosis and ways of treatment. An experienced doctor-reproductologist can guide you to choose the most effective solution tailored to your specific needs, offering the best possible path to address infertility issues.
Carefully familiarize yourself with general information, get to know and prepare for the new adventure of parenthood that awaits you.
For consultation, detailed information, and scheduling a visit with a doctor, please contact us.
Invitro Life at every step by your side! <3