Learn more about the different female infertility causes
Andrew Levi MD at our Connecticut fertility clinic uses various tests to identify female infertility causes. Infertility in women is a significant issue and the cause of fertility challenges in about 40% of couples struggling to conceive.
To support patients in moving past this hurdle, Dr. Levi helps patients receive the right infertility diagnosis. He then develops a treatment plan that gives them the best chance of developing a healthy pregnancy.
Discover the structural and genetic factors that can cause infertility in women
Structural and genetic factors are some of the most common female infertility causes. These factors can make it more difficult for the sperm to fertilize the egg and can affect the embryo’s ability to implant in the uterus.
Uterine abnormalities. An embryo could have trouble implanting in the uterus if polyps, fibroids, adhesions or congenital abnormalities are present.
Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes. It can be challenging for sperm to reach the egg or a fertilized egg to enter the uterus if a woman has tubal abnormalities. Some examples include a tubal blockage or hydrosalpinx, which is when the end of a woman’s fallopian tube swells with fluid.
Endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition that causes tissue from the lining of the uterus to implant and grow outside of the uterus. This tissue can block the fallopian tubes or cause problems with the lining of the uterus.
Cervical factors. If the mucus between the uterus and pelvic cavity is not able to thin or antisperm antibodies are present, it can be difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
Genetic issues. Carriers of fragile X, a translocation or a chromosomal rearrangement could have trouble ovulating.
To identify these female infertility causes, Dr. Levi uses tests, such as an ultrasound, office sono-hysterosalpingogram, office hysteroscopy and genetic testing.
Female infertility causes related to hormonal imbalances
Infertility in women can also be due to hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation. Ovulation is the important component of conception that involves an ovary releasing an egg.
Ovulatory dysfunction. It can be difficult for women with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure, luteal phase defect and diminished ovarian reserve to ovulate.
Hypothalamic-pituitary factors. Stress, low body weight or a low percentage of body fat can sometimes stop the hypothalamus from making gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Without GnRH, the pituitary gland will not release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are necessary for ovulation. Pituitary tumors called prolactinomas, which secrete excess prolactin, can also impede ovulation.
Dr. Levi will typically use a blood test to determine if a hormonal imbalance is preventing a woman from becoming pregnant.
After reviewing the test results, Dr. Levi supports the patient by developing a treatment plan that can help her overcome infertility in women and take the next step towards taking home a healthy baby. Contact our Connecticut fertility clinic to learn more about infertility in women.
