Overview
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after actively trying to get pregnant through frequent, unprotected intercourse for at least one year. It affects both men and women and can be caused by a variety of factors.
Types of Female infertility
1.Primary Infertility: Couples who have never conceived despite regular, unprotected intercourse.
2.Secondary Infertility: Couples who have conceived at least once but are unable to conceive again.
Causes of Female infertility
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Female Factors:
- Ovulation Disorders: Irregular or absent ovulation.
- Fallopian Tube Damage: Blockages or damage that prevent the egg and sperm from meeting.
- Endometriosis: Presence of uterine tissue outside the uterus.
- Uterine or Cervical Abnormalities: Structural issues that interfere with implantation or sperm migration.
- Age: Decreased fertility with increasing age due to fewer eggs and decreased egg quality.
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Male Factors:
- Low Sperm Count or Quality: Issues with sperm production or function.
- Sperm Delivery Problems: Obstructions or issues with ejaculation.
- Genetic Factors: Inherited conditions affecting fertility.
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Combined Factors:
- Both male and female factors contributing to infertility.
Risk Factors of Female infertility
- Age: Women over 35 and men over 40.
- Smoking: Impacts fertility in both men and women.
- Excessive Alcohol Use: Can decrease fertility.
- Obesity: Linked to infertility in both sexes.
- Stress: Emotional stress may affect fertility.
- Exposure to Environmental Factors: Chemicals, toxins, or radiation.
Symptoms of Female infertility
1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Including absent or infrequent periods.
2. Painful Menstruation: Severe cramps may indicate conditions like endometriosis.
3. Changes in Libido: Changes in Libido
4. Pain During Intercourse: Especially if related to conditions like endometriosis.
5. Obesity or Underweight: Extreme weight conditions may impact fertility.
Preventions of Female infertility
Preventive measures may include:
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Avoiding obesity or extreme underweight.
- Avoiding Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Both negatively impact fertility.
- Managing Stress: Techniques like yoga or meditation can help reduce stress levels.
Diagnosis of Female infertility
- Medical History: Assessing factors such as menstrual history and lifestyle habits.
- Physical Examination: Including pelvic exam for women and examination of the testicles and penis for men.
- Ovulation Testing: Evaluating hormone levels to confirm ovulation.
- Semen Analysis: Assessing sperm count and motility.
- Imaging Tests: Such as ultrasound to examine reproductive organs.
- Genetic Testing: Identifying genetic causes of infertility.
Treatment for Female infertility
- Medications: Fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation or enhance sperm production.
- Surgery: Correcting structural issues such as blocked fallopian tubes or varicoceles.
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART):
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Placing sperm directly into the uterus.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Fertilizing eggs outside the body and transferring embryos into the uterus.
- Lifestyle Changes: Improving diet, exercise, and reducing stress.
- Counseling: Emotional support and coping strategies.
When to seek medical attention ?
- If you've been trying to conceive for over a year without success (under 35 years old).
- If you're over 35 and have been trying for six months without success.
- If you have known risk factors or underlying conditions affecting fertility.
