Infertility - Understanding the Reasons Behind it!

Female infertility is not really a rare condition, it happens to one out of six couples. Infertility is a condition in which a woman is unable to conceive despite efforts. There can be a number of causes for female infertility, including problems with ovulation, uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries. Age can also be a contributing factor to infertility. Following are the reasons that might be responsible for female infertility

1. Ovulatory problems
   • Cysts in the ovaries
   • Hormonal imbalance
   • Excessive alcohol or drug usage
   • Eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia
   • Excessive weight
   • Enormous stress and pressure
   • Thyroid gland issues
   • Very brief menstrual cycles
2. Damage of organs of reproductive system
3. Pelvic inflammatory disease
4. Scar tissues or adhesions of some sort
5. Presence of polyps in the uterus
6. A previous serious infection in the fallopian tubes or uterus
7. Chronic medical illness relating to the reproductive system
8. A previous ectopic pregnancy
9. A birth defect in the uterus or fallopian tube
10. The DES syndrome where in the infertility can occur to the offspring due to the medication DES is given to a mother in order to prevent miscarriage or premature of the child.
11. Abnormal presence of cervical mucus can make it more difficult for sperms to reach the egg.

Treatment
Now that the part about the causes has been discussed, it is essential to discuss the treatment. Are there really ways to reverse infertility in women to make them fertile? Well, in some chronic cases it is not possible; however, some are treatable by the following methods:

• In the case of hormone imbalance or endometriosis or short menstrual cycles, hormones are taken to treat the problems.
• Medications can be taken to stimulate ovulations.
• Fertility enhancing supplements can be used.
• In case of infection in any of the reproductive parts, antibiotics can be taken to remove them
• In order to remove blockage or scar tissues from the uterus, fallopian tube or pelvic area, minor surgeries can be performed.

Prevention
Yes, there are some tips for prevention of infertility

• Taking all the steps required to avoid sexually transmitted diseases.
• Avoid intake of illicit drugs
• Having regular checkups with the gynaecologist
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Exercising regularly
• Having a healthy sexual relationship

This article is a short walkthrough on female infertility and answers most of the commonly asked questions. In case you have further questions, you can always consult a medical practitioner near you.