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Female infertility refers to an inability to get pregnant after one year of unprotected intercourse. About 10 to 15 % of the couples in the reproductive are infertile. There are a number of causes of female infertility. Here are the major ones:
- The commonest cause of female infertility is hormonal problems that generally hinder ovulation.
- There maybe a problem with fallopian tubes that brings the egg from the ovaries to the uterus where its fertilization occurs. Endometriosis, recurring pelvic infections, and several pelvic can damage the fallopian tube damage.
- Female infertility may also involve an inability to let the sperms pass through the cervical canal
- Infections of pelvic organs
- Problems like advanced diabetes and eating disorders
- In 10% to 15% of couples, the cause of female infertility is other than those known today so they remain unexplained.
In case your healthcare provider suspects female infertility, he may carry out several tests to determine the exact cause of infertility. The crucial tests include:
- Blood test to determine the hormonal levels
- Endometrial biopsy to check out ovulation and to check uterine lining
- Laparoscopy by which your doctor can see your pelvic organs
The treatment of female infertility depends on the factor causing the infertility. The common procedures used include:
- Medication that can induce ovulation
- Artificial insemination that can place sperm directly in your cervix or uterus
- ‘In vitro fertilization,’ in which your doctor will collect the egg from your ovary, fertilizes it with the sperm and then implants it into your uterus.
About 80–85% of infertile women can benefit from these sophisticated treatment procedures.
In certain cases, diet has an influence on female infertility. Making certain changes in the diet such as limiting alcohol and caffeine (present in coffee, tea, certain soft drinks, chocolates etc.) consumption and intake of multivitamins-minerals can enhance the chances of conceiving.
Making certain life style changes such as quitting smoking, reducing body weight (in case of obesity) may also enhance fertility.
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