Infertility is a common problem that affects approximately 19% of women of childbearing age in the United States. It is medically defined as an inability to conceive after at least one year of trying. Success varies based on numerous factors, including a woman’s age and the quality of a man’s sperm. Sometimes, a person who wishes to conceive must consider other means of becoming pregnant, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). Here are some of the most common reasons infertility occurs.

What Causes Infertility?

1. Ovulation Concerns

Many women suffer from ovulation disorders, which can affect the process of the ovary releasing an egg during menstruation. If this doesn’t occur at all or happens infrequently, it can be difficult to conceive. This problem accounts for some 25% of infertility cases among couples. A common disorder is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which causes patients to produce higher levels of testosterone. This can lead to irregular periods, or a lack of them altogether. 

A percentage of women may also experience premature ovarian failure (POF), or the onset of menopause before the person turns 40 years old. Because the ovaries no longer make estrogen, the body’s storage of ovarian follicles diminishes. This can prevent conception.  

2. Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue grows outside the uterus. Resembling the endometrium, or the actual lining of the uterus, this tissue can grow anywhere from the ovaries to the fallopian tubes to the bladder. This can cause significant irritation and abdominal pain in some patients.

Approximately 30% to 50% of women who are infertile have endometriosis. The effects of the disease, like scarring of the fallopian tubes and inflammation of reproductive anatomy, can affect the quality of eggs and create an inhospitable environment for them to thrive. 

Surgical treatment for endometriosis involves removing tissue, thereby improving reproductive conditions dramatically. This can also improve the person’s ability to conceive, especially in conjunction with treatments such as IVF.

3. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

One in 10 women who have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may become infertile. This infection of the reproductive organs occurs when bacteria enter the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. The bacteria can cause symptoms like minor abdominal pain, abnormal menstrual bleeding, fever, pain during intercourse, and pain while urinating. Antibiotics may be prescribed to resolve the infection, but any scarring that occurred as a result cannot be reversed. 

While these symptoms are not always signs of PID, it’s smart to see a gynecologist to rule it out. The longer that this condition goes untreated, the greater the risk of developing issues such as infertility.

If you’re coping with infertility and would like to learn more about your options, turn to Augusta Health Care for Women in Fishersville, VA. These caring and compassionate gynecologists are committed to your long-term well-being, and they’re proud to offer a range of women’s health services to protect and improve your reproductive health. Rely on them to develop a plan for your conception goals and be with you every step of the way. Visit the website for more information, and call (540) 213-7750 to schedule an appointment.