The Most Common Causes of Infertility in Women
Infertility is defined in the medical community as the inability to become pregnant after a year or more of consistent, unprotected intercourse. For the couple who desperately wants to see their dreams of having children become a reality, infertility can be a devastating diagnosis. However, a large percentage will be able to go on and have healthy biological children with the help of a doctor and infertility treatments. If you have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success, the first step is to see your doctor about your possible cause of infertility and the treatment options available to you. There are a few common causes of infertility that you can consider first.
Ovulation
In at least one-fourth of the couples dealing with this issue, the cause of infertility can be linked to problems with the ovulation process. Sometimes the problem will be within the ovary itself, such as in the case of polycystic ovary syndrome, or it could be any number of other hormonal issues. It only takes a slight malfunction of the delicate balance of hormones in a woman's system to throw the entire process off kilter. The good news is that there are medications available that can help with this cause of infertility.
Fallopian Tube Issues
This is another cause of infertility that affects about one-fourth of the women who are unable to conceive. The fallopian tubes connect the ovaries to the uterus, and they are the way in which the eggs travel through the reproductive tract. If there is damage or blockage within the fallopian tube, the egg cannot make it to the uterus for implantation. This cause of infertility is likely the result of an infection or scarring from a previous surgery. In many cases, doctors can correct the problem surgically, making it possible for conception to take place.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is an often painful condition that can also be a cause of infertility. It occurs when tissue from the uterus implants on other organs like the fallopian tubes and the ovaries. This results in pain for the woman, and can affect the production of the eggs as well. This cause of infertility is seen in about five to ten percent of all couples that seek help for their infertility. It can often be treated through laparoscopic surgery and chances for conceiving can be improved by using assisted reproduction techniques.
These are only three of the most common causes of infertility - there are other reasons for an inability to conceive as well. If you have been trying for a year or more to get pregnant without success, it may be time to see your doctor. He can determine the cause of your infertility and offer treatment options that may get you one step closer to the baby that you are dreaming about.
