Infertility is trying to get pregnant with frequent sexual intercourse for at least a year without any success. A fertilized egg cannot also mature to full term.

Causes of Infertility

For pregnancy to occur,

• The ovary produces a mature egg

• The egg is picked up by the fallopian tube

• A viable sperm swims up from the cervix through the uterus to fertilize the egg in the fallopian tube

• The fertilized egg travels down to the uterus to be implanted there and begins to grow.

The disruption of any of these processes prevents pregnancy or causes a miscarriage.

One of the causes of infertility in women is the inability to ovulate or irregular ovulation which may be caused by

1. Hypothalamic dysfunction: Follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone are produced by the pituitary gland and are responsible for stimulating ovulation every month.

Disruption of the production of these hormones probably due to stress or significant loss or gain in weight will affect ovulation.

The pituitary gland may also produce excess prolactin which reduces estrogen production (responsible for the development and maintenance of female characteristics) and cause infertility.

2. ovarian failure: This is when the ovary stops producing eggs before menopause. It is usually genetic or a side effect of chemotherapy.

3. Polycystic ovary syndrome: This is the most common cause of female Infertility. It causes hormonal Imbalance which affects ovulation. It may be seen as an abnormal growth of hair on the face or body acne.

Cervical and uterine abnormalities may also interfere with the processes of getting pregnant.

1. Endometriosis causes scarring and inflammation which can block the fallopian tube and keep the sperm from uniting with the egg. It can also prevent the implantation of the egg in the uterus. Please read more about endometriosis in detail on the blog.

2. Cervical abnormalities such as the cervix not producing enough mucus to allow the sperm to travel up to the uterus. The narrowing of the cervix called cervical stenosis either due to damage or genetics can disrupt pregnancy.

3. Abnormally shaped uterus can cause miscarriages or the inability to get pregnant

Infertility may also be caused by damage or blockage to the fallopian tubes.

1. The fallopian tube may be blocked by fibroids or polyps which are common in the uterus thereby interfering with implantation. Although many women with fibroids do get pregnant.

2. Untreated or partially treated sexually transmitted infections that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, an infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes.

Infertility is not in all cases permanent. Its causes can be difficult to diagnose as the main symptom is the inability to get pregnant. Some causes may not even be found which may correct themselves in time.

Just do not panic!

A visit to your doctor will ascertain the cause of infertility. Male infertility is also a major cause of infertility in marriages. Both parties should be involved in this process.

Women trying to get pregnant should avoid stress, caffeine, smoking, and alcohol. These are major risk factors. Maintain a healthy life ladies, physically and sexually. We would love to read your take on fertility.