There are many reasons why women have trouble conceiving a baby, which is why scheduling regular checkups at a women's health clinic is important. During these exams, your provider can uncover and potentially treat issues that are contributing to infertility, increasing your chance of having a baby. Below are several common problems that interfere with conception.

4 Common Causes of Female Infertility

1. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and inflammation. This can lead to scarring and adhesions that can block the fallopian tubes or interfere with ovulation. Women with endometriosis may also have a harder time getting pregnant naturally. 

2. Infrequent Ovulation

Ovulation is the process where an egg is released from the ovary, making it available for fertilization. Women who ovulate infrequently or not at all may have trouble getting pregnant. This can be caused by hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or premature ovarian failure. 

3. Fallopian Tube Damage

The fallopian tubes are the pathways that the egg travels through to reach the uterus. If they are blocked or damaged, the egg may not be able to reach the uterus, making it difficult or impossible to conceive. This can be caused by infections, surgery, or endometriosis. 

4. Age

As women age, their fertility naturally declines because they have fewer eggs available, and the quality of the remaining eggs decreases. Women over the age of 35 may have a harder time getting pregnant and may be more likely to experience complications during pregnancy. 

While there is no way to reverse the effects of aging on fertility, women can increase their chances of getting pregnant by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing chronic conditions, and seeking fertility treatment if needed.

When you need help navigating and treating infertility issues, contact Paula Korn ANP, in Anchorage, AK. For over 35 years, this women's health clinic has been serving residents throughout the area, offering treatment options to address everything from breast cancer to menopause and PCOS. Visit the clinic online for more information about their services, and call (907) 277-2597 to schedule an appointment.