INFERTILITY IN WOMEN: CAUSES,DIAGNOSES , TREATMENT and PREVENTION

What is female infertility?

Female Infertility means a woman not being able to get pregnant after at least one year of trying (or 6 months if the woman is over age 35). It affects an estimated 48 million women,with the highest prevalence of infertility affecting people in South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa/Middle East, and Central/Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

What are the causes of female infertility?

The most common causes of female infertility include; problems with ovulation,damage to fallopian tubes or uterus, or problems with the cervix. Age can contribute to infertility because as a woman ages, her fertility naturally tends to decrease.Abnormal cervical mucus can also cause female infertility. Abnormal cervical mucus can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or make it more difficult for the sperm to penetrate the egg.

How can you diagnose infertility problems in women?

A sample of cervical mucus and tissue to determine if ovulation is occurring
Laparoscope inserted into the abdomen to view the condition of organs and to look for blockage, adhesions or scar tissue.
HSG, which is an x-ray used in conjunction with a colored liquid inserted into the fallopian tubes making it easier for the technician to check for blockage.
Hysteroscopy uses a tiny telescope with a fiber light to look for uterine abnormalities.
Ultrasound to look at the uterus and ovaries. May be done vaginally or abdominally.
Sonohystogram combines ultrasound and saline injected into the uterus to look for abnormalities or problems.
A urine or blood test to check for infections or a hormone problem, including thyroid function,Pelvic exam and breast exam.

What are some ways of treating female infertility?

Infertility in women is most often treated by one or more of the following methods:

Taking hormones to address a hormone imbalance, endometriosis, or a short menstrual cycle
Taking medications to stimulate ovulation
Using supplements to enhance fertility – shop supplements
Taking antibiotics to remove an infection
Having minor surgery to remove blockage or scar tissues from the fallopian tubes, uterus, or pelvic area.

What ways can be used to prevent female infertility ?

Take steps to prevent sexually transmitted diseases
Avoid illicit drugs
Avoid heavy or frequent alcohol use
Adopt good personal hygiene and health practices
Have annual check-ups with your GYN once you are sexually active