Female infertility refers to the inability to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term after one year of frequent, unprotected sexual intercourse. For most women, infertility can be a frustrating and emotionally taxing experience.
Infertility in women can be a complex health issue. However, identifying the factors that may be contributing to the condition allows you to make informed decisions about your treatment options and increase your chance of achieving a successful pregnancy.
At Perch Fertility, we carry out detailed evaluations to identify the factors underlying your fertility issues and develop a personalized treatment plan to guide you on your journey to parenthood.
Female infertility can be of two types.
The female reproductive system consists of several vital organs that work together to allow a woman to have a baby.
For a pregnancy to be successful, every step of the human reproduction process must occur flawlessly.
Infertility affects millions of women worldwide. According to the WHO, approximately 17.5% of the global adult population suffers from infertility.
Factors that disrupt any part of the female reproductive system may lead to female infertility. Understanding the underlying causes of female infertility is the first step toward finding the right solution.
While the underlying reasons for infertility can be complex and tend to vary from person to person, some common factors contributing to this condition have been observed.
Ovulation problems are one of the most common causes of female infertility, affecting the regular release of eggs from the ovaries. This can stem from conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, premature ovarian failure, or excessive levels of prolactin.
These issues disrupt the hormonal balance necessary for ovulation and can make it difficult to conceive without assistance.
Damage to or blockage of the fallopian tubes can prevent the egg from traveling to the uterus, obstructing fertilization. This can result from:
Proper diagnosis is crucial for identifying these issues early on.
Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus begins to grow outside of it. This can impact fertility by causing inflammation, scar tissue, or anatomical distortion, affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Endometriosis makes it more difficult for eggs to implant or be fertilized.
Structural issues, such as fibroids or polyps in the uterus, can obstruct implantation or increase the likelihood of miscarriage. Other structural abnormalities may include abnormalities in the shape of the uterus, abnormal cervical mucus, and cervical stenosis, which is when the cervix is narrower than usual. These conditions affect fertility by impeding the movement of sperm.
Age is a critical factor in fertility in women. With age, both the number and quality of eggs decline. This natural reduction in ovarian reserve often becomes more pronounced after age 35, which can decrease the likelihood of conception and increase the chance of miscarriage.
Other less commonly seen causes of female infertility can include:
In some cases, despite thorough testing and evaluation, the exact cause of infertility cannot be identified. This is known as unexplained infertility, which can be a frustrating experience for those seeking answers.
However, it’s important to know that even without a definitive cause, many couples and individuals can still achieve successful pregnancies with the right treatments and support. At Perch Fertility, we understand the emotional toll of not having clear answers.
Our approach to unexplained infertility focuses on providing you with proactive, evidence-based treatment options while continuously monitoring and adjusting your care plan to optimize your chance of success.
If you’ve been trying to conceive for a while and haven’t seen success, it is natural to wonder about the right time to seek professional help. Knowing when to consult a fertility specialist is crucial in taking control of your fertility journey and finding answers to any concerns you may have.
Factors that indicate it may be time to see a fertility specialist can include:
It is important to note that male fertility issues may be a contributing factor in about 30-40% of infertility cases. If your partner has a known reproductive condition or is concerned about sperm health, both partners should consult our fertility specialist.
We provide expert guidance, tailored care, and answers to help you move forward confidently on your fertility journey.
Diagnosing female infertility involves a series of assessments and tests designed to understand your unique situation. At Perch Fertility, we know that getting to the root cause of infertility is key to creating an effective treatment plan.
From assessing hormone levels to providing a detailed view of the reproductive organs, our tests are designed to uncover any potential barriers to conception and guide your personalized fertility journey.
At Perch Fertility, we’re not just focused on protocols; we’re focused on you. Our unique, patient-centered approach means that we spend time understanding your story, your challenges, and your goals. With the latest in fertility diagnostics, personalized care, and cutting-edge treatments, we aim to make your dream of parenthood a reality.
Whether you're just beginning to explore your options or seeking advanced fertility solutions, our team can help. For appointments, please call us at 201-775-0003 or request an appointment online.
The most common causes of female infertility include ovulation disorders, fallopian tube damage or blockages, endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, age-related fertility decline, and hormonal imbalances.
As women age, the quantity and quality of their eggs decline. Fertility typically decreases after age 35, and the chances of conception and successful pregnancy diminish with time.
Ovulation disorders disrupt the regular release of eggs from the ovaries. Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid imbalances, or premature ovarian insufficiency can prevent ovulation and make it difficult to conceive.
Yes, endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, potentially leading to inflammation, scar tissue, and fertility challenges. It is a common cause of infertility in women and can also lead to poor egg quality. It’s important to know there are strategies to help overcome some of the fertility barriers caused by endometriosis.
Yes. Lifestyle factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and quitting smoking and alcohol, can improve fertility outcomes. Environmental factors, such as protecting yourself from exposure to toxins, can also play a role.
If you've been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if you’re over 35), it's time to consult a fertility specialist. At Perch Fertility, we’ll help you explore potential causes and tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.
We use a combination of diagnostic procedures, including hormone evaluations, pelvic ultrasounds, and other tests, to assess reproductive health and pinpoint the cause of infertility.
Yes, many causes of female infertility can be treated. Options range from medications and lifestyle changes to more advanced treatments like IVF, IUI, or fertility preservation techniques.
Yes! We are committed to helping same-sex couples, transgender couples, and single individuals of the LBGTQ+ community on their journey to parenthood. At Perch Fertility, we use the latest assisted reproductive technology (ART) to offer a range of treatment options that help you reach your goal.
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