6 Common Causes of Female Infertility You Should Be Aware Of

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Infertility means the inability to conceive after at least one year of trying. Additionally, if a woman continues to have miscarriages, it is also called infertility. There are a lot of factors that can cause problems with conception. In this article, we have gathered six common causes of female infertility you should be aware of.

1. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the endometrium (tissue that lines the inner side of the uterus) starts to spread on pelvic organs. This condition can affect the bladder, fallopian tubes, ovaries, intestines, and even diaphragm. 

Due to the fact that the endometrial tissue can block ovaries and fallopian tubes, many women with endometriosis have problems with getting pregnant. Even though endometriosis can’t be cured, you can visit a gynecology clinic to undergo treatment that can help manage your symptoms and even improve your fertility. 

2. Primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency, also known as premature ovarian failure, is a condition that occurs when the ovaries stop working properly in women younger than 40. In women with this condition, the ovary doesn't release an egg every month as it should. As a result, women with primary ovarian insufficiency are often infertile. 

3. Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone-related condition that causes infertility in many women of reproductive age. The point is that women with PCOS have increased levels of male hormones that result in the following symptoms:

- Infertility

- Cysts on the ovaries

- Weight gain

- Increased body and facial hair growth 

- Male-pattern baldness

- Acne

- Oily skin

- Irregular or missed periods

Treatment options for PCOS depend on many factors. If you want to get pregnant, you can ask your gynecologist about medications that stimulate ovulation. Lifestyle changes (like diet, exercising, etc.), birth control pills, and medications can also help ease your symptoms. 

4. Thyroid disorders

A thyroid gland is an organ in your neck that produces hormones that regulate many functions in your body. Thyroid malfunctions can affect your overall health including your ability to get pregnant. Both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid can affect your menstrual cycle and ovulation. Timely treatment and lifestyle changes can help improve your symptoms and normalize your menstrual cycle.

5. Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are growths that grow on the walls of the uterus. They are non-cancerous and can develop asymptomatically in many women. However, some women with uterine fibroids can experience lower back pain, heavy and painful periods, pain during sex, light vaginal bleeding (spotting), and other symptoms. 

If uterine fibroids grow near the fallopian tubes and block them, you can have infertility issues. The point is that the sperm can’t fertilize the egg and conception doesn’t occur. That’s why it is recommended to undergo a gynecological check-up at least once a year. Fortunately, uterine fibroids can be easily treated by a professional gynecologist. 

6. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a condition that occurs when the pelvic organs become infected and inflamed. PID is caused by untreated bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Symptoms of PID include:

- Fever

- Chronic pelvic pain

- Abnormal vaginal discharge with a strong odor

- Spotting

- Irregular or missed periods

- Heavy periods

- Burning sensations during urination

- Pain during sex

If left untreated, the inflammation can lead to the development of scars and adhesions that can block the fallopian tubes and cause infertility. That’s why it is essential to visit a gynecologist in case of any unusual symptoms. 

The bottom line

It is important to understand that the aforementioned conditions can be treated to improve your condition, manage your symptoms, and even boost your chances to get pregnant. That’s why you shouldn’t delay your gynecological exam.