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Causes of infertility in women

Health
 Certain factors might put you at risk of infertility (Photo: Shutterstock)

Women go through different body changes, most of which do determine their fertility or infertility. It's not as easy as ABC to conceive, carry a pregnancy to term and deliver. As such, there are a variety of reasons behind infertility that strikes women. Here some of the reasons behind infertility. 

Problems in the menstrual cycle

Your menstrual cycle has different phases. However, some women go through irregular periods and challenges. Such challenges can lead to infertility if they persist over time. 

Infections

Untreated syphilis can lead to stillbirth while blockage of the fallopian tubes can be from untreated gonorrhea and chlamydia. Infertility is also a possibility once the cervix has Infections that are related to HPV, all which reduce the cervical mucus quality (which are important for pregnancy) 

Problems of the reproductive system structure

Some of the problems are having an abnormal tissue in the fallopian tubes or uterus. Uterine fibroids, and growths that appear within and around the wall of the uterus prove challenging. Polyps, which are noncancerous growths on the inside surface of the uterus and an unusually shaped uterus, can affect Implantation. Scarring in the uterus from previous injuries, infections, or surgery  may increase the risk of a miscarriage and may interfere with Implantation. 

Failure to ovulate

Some women have challenges ovulating which leads to infertility. Top on the list cause for this is having an Ovarian condition like primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If you have endocrine disorders, like thyroid disease or hypothalamus problems, ovulating can be challenging. Having a low number of eggs in a woman's ovaries due to normal aging leads to ovulation failure and consequently infertility too. 

Improper maturity of the egg

People with obesity may lack specific proteins needed for the egg to Mature. Sometimes, an immature egg may be released at the incorrect time, and may fail to move to be fertilized to the fallopian tubes.

Endometriosis 

Pelvic adhesions made of scar tissue form between the ovary and pelvic wall due to endometriosis. This can obstruct and affect the release of the egg after ovulation. The fallopian tones can also be scarred, which interrupts egg movement.Chemical changes in the lining of the uterus that occur as a result of endometriosis may affect an embryo's ability to implant properly, making it hard for a woman to remain pregnant after conception.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

In this condition, a woman's ovaries and, in some cases, adrenal glands produce more of the hormone androgens than normal. The higher the levels of these hormones the more interference with the development of ovarian follicles and the harder the release of eggs during ovulation. Consequently, fluid-filled sacs, or cysts, can develop within the ovaries.

Other reasons behind infertility may include: autoimmune disorders, ovary insufficiency as well, and Implantation. All in all, visiting a gynecologist is the surest way to get the best diagnosis. 

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