Infertility in women is the inability to conceive for twelve months consecutively after regular times of unprotected sex. It is a common problem affecting about ten percent of all women. Infertility in women can be caused by hormonal disorders, issues with reproductive organs, or medical problems affecting your reproductive system. Some lifestyle aspects, like smoking and being overweight can also lead to Shrewsbury infertility. Most cases of infertility are treatable. Below are common causes of infertility in women.
Ovulation disorders
Irregular or absence of ovulation can lead to infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that causes hormonal imbalance, can cause infertility. This condition is the leading cause of infertility in women. Your pituitary gland can produce excess prolactin, which decreases estrogen production, leading to infertility. Some medications can also cause the production of excess prolactin.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is when the cells lining your endometrium grow outside your womb. It mostly affects the abdominal and pelvic regions. This tissue growth can block your fallopian tubes and prevent the egg and sperm from uniting or interrupt the implantation of the fertilized egg. The condition can indirectly damage the ovum or sperm, altering fertilization.
Fibroids or polyps
Uterine fibroids or polyps can cause infertility. These structures are non-cancerous growths that develop on the inside of your uterus. They can block your fallopian tubes or alter implantation, causing infertility. But doctors treat these growths in most cases, leading to successful pregnancies. Your doctor can recommend medications to shrink the fibroids or polyps or remove them surgically to increase the chances of getting pregnant.
Fallopian tube damage
Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes can prevent sperm from reaching the ovum or hinder the passage of fertilized eggs into your womb. Fallopian tube damage can be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease. Previous surgeries can also damage fallopian tubes in your abdomen or pelvis.
Hypothalamic dysfunction
The follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones produced by the pituitary gland stimulate ovulation every month. If the production of these hormones is disrupted, ovulation will be affected, causing infertility. Excess physical and emotional stress, sudden weight loss or gain, obesity, and low body weight can affect the production of these hormones.
Primary ovarian insufficiency
Primary ovarian insufficiency, a disorder resulting from an autoimmune response or premature egg loss from your ovary, can cause infertility. Genetics or chemotherapy can lead to this disorder. Primary ovarian insufficiency stops your ovaries from producing eggs and lowers estrogen production, especially in women under forty.
Uterine and cervical disorders
An abnormally shaped uterus can affect implantation or your ability to carry a pregnancy to term. Scarring in the uterus from previous injuries or infections can disrupt implantation, causing infertility. Cervix stenosis, a condition where your cervix narrows due to genetic factors or damage, can cause infertility. Sometimes your cervix may not puce the required mucus to allow sperm passage into your uterus.
Infertility in women is the inability to conceive for twelve months consecutively after regular times of unprotected sex. Schedule an appointment at Acupuncture Health Services for infertility treatment to alleviate the stress of being childless.
