What causes female infertility?

One of the most common causes of female infertility is aging. Decreased fertility is a natural part of growing older. While fertility begins to decline after the mid-30s, the fact that a woman has not yet gone through menopause is not a guarantee that she will be able to conceive if she wishes to do so. The declining level of hormones in her body will make natural conception more and more difficult. Even when natural conception is still possible, it may not occur.

Another common cause of female infertility is sexually transmitted diseases. Whether a woman currently has an STD, or has had one in the past, it can prevent natural conception.

Numerous preexisting medical conditions can also make it difficult for a woman to conceive. The existence of tumors in the reproductive organs, even if they are benign, are one reason women do not conceive. Endometrial polyps are another common cause of female infertility.

The stress of not conceiving when she wishes to do so can actually prevent a woman from conceiving. Many women and couples assume that conception will occur immediately, and become stressed and worried when it does not. This only makes the problem worse. The harder they try, the more they worry. This kind of stress affects the level of hormones in the body and can stand in the way of conceiving.

A woman’s lifestyle can also affect her fertility. While an unhealthy lifestyle does not necessarily mean that a woman will be permanently infertile, it can affect the ability to conceive. A poor diet is one example. The use of alcohol, tobacco products, and consuming too much caffeine can also make it more difficult to conceive. If a woman is considerably overweight or underweight, these factors can also have an effect on her ability to conceive.

If a woman believes that she may be infertile, her best recourse is to be evaluated by a physician. If the problem is temporary, she will be advised as to how to rectify the problem. In instances of irreversible infertility, she will be advised about her options.

To learn more about various infertility treatment options such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and egg donors and egg donation, and other pregnancy treatments and concerns such as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and tubal reversal, it is important to visit our Dallas area fertility center.