Infertility is considered as a situation that on an average impacts about 1 in every 6 couples. Couples who have not conceived even after having unprotected sex over the course of a year are likely to be diagnosed with infertility.
Infertility that affects women makes up approximately one-third of all infertility cases, and female factors are responsible for approximately 50% of these cases.
Before moving further into the diagnosis process, let’s first discuss what exactly is female infertility
What is female infertility?
An infertility condition is characterised by some limitation or impairment in getting pregnant or giving birth to a child. A diagnosis is usually made after one year of trying to conceive (although other factors may also play a role in it).
What causes female infertility?
Many factors can lead to infertility in females. However, female infertility is typically caused by complications with ovulation, fallopian tubes or uterine damage, or problems with the cervix. In addition, having an infertility problem is linked to ageing because a woman’s fertility decreases with age.
The following factors may contribute to female infertility:
Problems with the uterus
These include polyps, fibroids, septums, or adhesions within the uterine cavity. Polyps or fibroids can form without predisposition, but other abnormalities (such as septums) occur at birth. In addition, dilation and curettage (D&C) surgery can lead to scarring.
Problems with the fallopian tubes:
Tubal factor infertility is most often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, which can be caused by chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Problems with ovulation:
There are several reasons why a woman may not ovulate regularly (release an egg). Several conditions can adversely affect ovulation, such as hormonal imbalances, a past eating disorder, substance abuse, thyroid conditions, severe stress, and pituitary tumours.
Problems with egg number and quality:
A woman has all the eggs she will ever have when she is born, and her supply may run dry before menopause. In addition, some eggs may not be able to fertilise or produce a healthy foetus if they contain an incorrect number of chromosomes.
In addition, specific chromosome problems may affect the eggs simultaneously (such as balanced translocations). These problems are rare in the early stages of a woman’s life but become more frequent as she grows older.
How is female infertility diagnosed?
A thorough physical examination assesses infertility in women. In addition to the physical exam, a medical history will be considered along with the factors that may lead to infertility.
To assess infertility, your gynaecologist may conduct one or more of the following tests or exams:
- Urine or blood tests to detect infection or an imbalance in hormones, such as thyroid issues
- Pelvic exam and breast exam
- Taking cervical mucus and tissue samples to check for ovulation
- Intravenous laparoscope used to view the organs in the abdomen and find any adhesions or scar tissue.
- The HSG test involves a combination of an x-ray and colored fluid injected into the fallopian tubes to check for blockages.
- During the hysteroscopic examination, a small telescope and fibre light are used to look for uterine abnormalities.
- A uterine ultrasound or abdominal ultrasound may be used to examine ovaries and uterus.
- Sonohysterograms; use ultrasound and saline injections to detect problems or abnormalities in the uterus.
Your gynaecologist can also determine your fertility status by tracking your ovulation via fertility awareness.
How is female infertility treated?:
Your gynecologist can follow any of the following women infertility treatments:
- Hormonal treatment during the menstrual cycle, such as for hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, or short cycles
- Stimulating ovulation with medications
- Medication for enhancing fertility
- Treatment of infections with antibiotics
A minor surgical procedure to remove blockages or scar tissue from your fallopian tubes, uterus, or pelvis.
Can infertility in women be prevented?:
Genetic problems or illnesses that cause female infertility cannot be typically prevented.
Women, however, can lower the risk of infertility by doing the following:
- Protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases
- Avoid taking unauthorised drugs.
- Avoid excessive or frequent drinking.
- Take good care of your health and personal hygiene.
When to consult a doctor?
When you experience or notice any of the following infertility signs, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Unusual discharge
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
- Soreness or itching in the vaginal area
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With our team of medical consultants and IVF specialists, we have the medical knowledge and experience to help you deal with the issues relating to infertility.
Find out more about this procedure by scheduling an appointment with the best IVF specialists. Our team is here to guide you through the process.
FAQs
[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”p” question-0=”Do infertile women have periods?” answer-0=”Yes. You can struggle with infertility and still have a period every month. Most fertility problems arise from an ovulation disorder that could influence your period. You may also experience difficulties conceiving due to other factors.” image-0=”” headline-1=”p” question-1=”Can female infertility be cured?” answer-1=”Infertility is a complex disorder, treatment involves significant physical, psychological and time commitments. Treatments may include medications or surgery by using sophisticated techniques.” image-1=”” headline-2=”p” question-2=”How can I prepare my body for pregnancy?” answer-2=”One has to take necessary steps before thinking of pregnancy. A preconception checkup should be scheduled, smoking and alcohol should be avoided, folic acid supplements should be taken, adequate sleep should be obtained, and proper diet should be followed. ” image-2=”” count=”3″ html=”true” css_class=””]
