Health Problems That Cause Female Infertility
Several factors can be of influence on female fertility. Sometimes there is a problem in the production and releasing of the eggs (ovulation), or a problem with the Fallopian tubes that are responsible for the transportation of the egg and the sperm or a problem with womb where the fertilized egg will finally hatch and develop.
Ovulation Problems – In about 3 in 10 couples, not producing eggs (ovulating) is the cause of problems. In some women this is a permanent problem. In some it only happens from time to time: some month’s ovulation occurs, and some months it doesn’t. There are various causes of ovulation problems for example a disease called Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS can also cause excessive hair growth, acne, and period (menstrual) problems, and is associated with being overweight (obesity).
Hormone Problems – Infertility may result from hormonal inbalance in the body, for example, too much Prolactin, a hormone produced in the brain that helps with milk production or too little or too much Thyroxin (a hormone produced by the thyroid gland in the neck) can also affect fertility.
Weight Problems – Being very underweight or overweight can affect your hormone balance which can affect ovulation
Genetic Problems – Genetic means that you are born with the problem and it is passed on through families. Problems could exist within the ovaries, fallopian tubes, neck of the womb (cervix) or in the womb or uterus.
Tubal Problem – Present and previous infections of the uterus and Fallopian tubes (pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID) can cause scarring and damage which can affect fertility. For example, scar tissue may block the egg (ovum) from traveling down the Fallopian tubes. Scar tissue may also be present after previous surgery to the Fallopian tubes, cervix or uterus.
Fibroid – A fibroid is a benign (non-cancerous) growth which occurs in the womb or uterus.