Friday, April 29, 2011

Causes of Infertility in Women

Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system that inhibits a couple's ability to have a baby. Infertility affects men and women equally.  In a previous post we discussed male factor infertility and how age plays a major role in woman's ability to conceive, so now let's look at what other issues cause fertility problems for women. 


Tubal factor infertility, which makes about 35% of infertility issues in women, can be a result of blocked tubes (hydrosalpinges), damaged tubes (pelvic adhesive disease or scarring from STDs), or tubal disease (scarring from surgery or endometriosis). 


Ovulation factors can result from various hormonal imbalances (PCOS, hyperprolactinemia, premature ovarian failure, hypothalamic amenorrhea) and make up 25% of infertility disorders in women.


Cervical/Uterine factors, accounting for 30% of female infertility diagnoses, can be attributed to fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic adhesive disease.


Unexplained infertility, which accounts for 10% of infertility in women can be caused by a large number of factors including:  egg &/or sperm dysfunction, age, weight, environmental factors such as stress and smoking, or a combination of these.  This diagnosis can only be made after an extensive infertility diagnostic work-up has been completed.

On our next post, we'll explore the details of the infertility evaluation.  As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact us at irhinfo@fuse.net.

1 comment:

  1. The causes of infertility in women are well known and understood but most women go straight to the doctor or hospital in desperation to become pregnant. The majority of the reasons for not being able to get pregnant can be overcome by natural means that avoid all the intrusive procedures and potential side effects of drugs and surgery.

    Infertility Clinic

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