Female infertility: possible causes and treatment

Posted By Suborna Fermi Posted on Feb 21, 2024

Female infertility occurs when a woman is unable to get pregnant. Infertility can affect both men and women, and is usually diagnosed when a couple fails to get pregnant with unprotected sex over the course of 12 consecutive months. Various factors can contribute to infertility. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for infertility. Read on to learn more about the causes and treatment of female infertility.

What is female infertility?

Female infertility is a condition where a woman is unable to get pregnant. Healthcare advisors diagnose an infertility condition:

• If you are older than 35 and have been trying to get pregnant for six months.
• If you are younger than 35 and have been trying to get pregnant for one year.

Fertility problems may occur due to both male and female reproductive systems. Various factors, including age, medical condition, hormonal conditions, lifestyle, and genetic factors, can contribute to female infertility. You can get a thyrocare blood test to check whether you are at risk of fertility issues.

How common is infertility in women?

Infertility is a very common condition nowadays. Nearly 10% of the female population suffers from infertility. Fertility issues increase with age.

What are the types of female infertility?

There are two types of female infertility, such as:

• Primary infertility: Primary infertility is when you have never been pregnant and are not able to get pregnant even with non-protected sex over the past 12 months.
• Secondary infertility: Secondary infertility is when you have been pregnant and successfully given birth before but are not able to conceive again.

What are the signs of infertility in females?

The main sign of infertility is not being able to conceive, regardless of having regular, unprotected sex. Other signs may include irregular menstruation.

What causes infertility in women?

There are various possible causes of infertility in women. Although the exact cause of infertility in some people might be difficult, the potential causes may include:

• Problems in the uterus: Any issues inside your uterus, such as congenital mullerian disorder, uterine polyps, fibroids, and endometriosis, can cause infertility.
• Damage to the fallopian tubes: Pelvic inflammatory disease is the most common cause of infertility in females. Pelvic inflammatory disease is the result of untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea. Endometriosis can also cause scarring in the fallopian tubes, leading to risk of infertility.
• Ovulation issues: Many reasons may create issues with regular ovulation. Polycystic ovary syndrome, hormonal disbalance, thyroid condition, pituitary tumor, eating disorder, chronic stress, and substance use disorders may affect ovulation.
• Problem with egg count: Women are born with all the eggs, and as you age, the number of eggs also decreases. A lower egg count can create issues with conception.

How is female infertility treated?

If you are having problems getting pregnant, then your healthcare provider will ask you to go for a certain medical test, including an infertility blood test. You can find an infertility profile test at Thyrocare.

Fortunately, there are various treatments available for infertility. Your doctor would suggest treatment options, including medication, antibiotics, and surgery, depending on the cause of your infertility.

However, some people may require special treatments, like in vitro fertilization (IVF). You can also opt for gestational surrogacy or adoption if you wish to begin your new family.