Female Factor Infertility

Female factor infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term due to one or more problems specific to females. For example, if a couple is struggling to achieve pregnancy and the male has adequate sperm count, motility, and shape, but the woman has polycystic ovarian syndrome, then their inability to conceive is likely due to female factor infertility.

Female Fertility Problems

There are several conditions that contribute to female factor infertility, including uterine and pelvic abnormalities, secondary infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hostile cervical mucus.

It is important to understand, however, that infertility, whether male infertility or female infertility, is not the same thing as sterility - conception and successful pregnancy are possible in many cases. Likewise, secondary infertility (the inability of a couple to conceive after having already achieved a successful pregnancy or pregnancies) can often be treated.

• Abnormal Uterine/Pelvic Area
• Blocked Fallopian Tubes
• Endometriosis
• Hostile Cervical Mucus
• Irregular Ovulation
• Medications/Contraceptives and Infertility
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
• Premature Ovarian Failure
• Uterine Fibroids

Infertility after Miscarriage

The termination of a pregnancy is devastating to couples who wish to have a baby; worse yet is the prospect of female infertility after miscarriage. Unfortunately, such a fate is possible. This form of female factor infertility can be caused by hormonal, environmental, immunological, and even physiological problems. There is hope, however, with treatment from a female fertility specialist. If you are struggling to conceive after having a miscarriage, visit DocShop's Pregnancy Miscarriage section to find out how you can increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Secondary Infertility

Sometimes female infertility occurs after a woman has already given birth to one or more children. If a couple has already successfully conceived and delivered before, but is having difficulty becoming pregnant again, they may be experiencing secondary infertility.

Secondary infertility can be caused by a wide range of issues, including age, irregular ovulation, endometriosis, hostile cervical mucus, and an abnormal uterus or pelvis. Scar tissue from the previous pregnancy may be causing blockage to the fallopian tubes or cervix, resulting in female factor infertility.

Consult a Fertility Specialist

To learn more about the common causes of female factor infertility, use DocShop's online directory to find a reputable fertility specialist near you.