Trying to conceive but facing challenges can feel confusing and overwhelming. Understanding what causes infertility in women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) is the first step toward clarity and hope. Fertility testing at MCRM Fertility combines expert guidance, advanced testing, and compassionate support to help you navigate your family-building journey.
Common Causes of Infertility in Women
Infertility in women can stem from a variety of factors. Identifying the underlying cause is key to creating a personalized treatment plan. Some of the most common contributors include:
1. Structural and Anatomical Factors
Your reproductive system works like a finely tuned orchestra — when one part encounters a challenge, it can affect fertility.
- Tubal Factor Infertility:Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, often caused by endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or scarring from surgery, can prevent eggs from reaching the uterus. According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), tubal issues account for up to 25% of infertility cases.*
- Uterine Factors:Abnormalities in the uterus, such as endometriosis, fibroids, or polyps, can interfere with implantation. Endometriosis is tissue growing outside the uterus that can cause pain and affect fertility.
- Diminished Ovarian Reserve: The number and quality of eggs naturally decrease with age, which can impact fertility.
- Autoimmune Disorders:Conditions that affect hormone signaling or reproductive tissues may also play a role.
Minimally invasive procedures, like laparoscopy, can sometimes diagnose or treat these issues. When needed, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF can bypass certain barriers altogether.
2. Hormonal and Ovulatory Issues
Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, orchestrating ovulation, implantation, and menstrual cycles. When these signals are disrupted, fertility can be affected.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Irregular cycles and hormone imbalances can make ovulation unpredictable.
- Hypothalamic Dysfunction:Disruptions in hormone signaling can prevent egg release and interfere with reproductive function.
Blood tests measuring FSH, TSH, and other reproductive hormones help fertility specialists assess ovarian function and create a clear picture of your reproductive health.
3. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
While medical conditions are often the leading cause, lifestyle factors can also influence fertility in women:
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- High stress levels
- Significant weight changes
Addressing these factors alongside medical care may help improve fertility outcomes and overall reproductive health.
How Female Fertility Testing Can Help
If you’re wondering “what causes infertility in women?”, fertility testing provides answers. At MCRM Fertility, we offer:
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: Evaluates ovarian follicles and uterine structure.
- Sonohysterogram (SHG): Examines the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes.
- Bloodwork: Measures hormone levels to detect ovulatory or endocrine issues.
Testing allows specialists to recommend personalized treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), or donor eggs, turning uncertainty into actionable steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What lifestyle factors can affect female-factor fertility?
Medical conditions are a primary cause, but habits like smoking, excessive alcohol use, high stress, and major weight changes can impact fertility. Moderate exercise and healthy sleep schedules can also impact hormone levels. Addressing these alongside medical evaluation can improve treatment success.
How do I know if I should get fertility testing?
Guidelines from ASRM** indicate that fertility testing is recommended for the following:
- Women under 35 years old who have been trying to conceive for 12 months or more
- Women between 35-40 years old who have been trying to conceive for six months or more
- Women over 40 years old who have been trying to conceive for three months or more
- Women over 40 years old who have been trying to conceive for three months or more
Testing is especially important for individuals with a history of reproductive conditions or irregular cycles.
Can infertility be treated without IVF?
Yes. Some patients respond well to hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, or IUI. IVF is one option among many, depending on your test results and family-building goals.
Take the First Step to Understanding Infertility
Understanding what causes infertility in women and AFAB individuals is the first step toward taking control of your fertility and family building journey.
Schedule a consultation with a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at MCRM Fertility today to explore your options and start creating a personalized plan for your family-building goals. We re here when you’re ready.
*Source: ASRM
**Source:ASRM