Reasons for Infertility in Women & Treatment

Infertility in women can result from various factors, broadly categorized into medical, lifestyle, and age-related causes. Below is a detailed overview:

1. Ovulatory Disorders

• Causes: Irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation (anovulation) due to hormonal imbalances.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
  • Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)
  • High prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia)
• Symptoms: Irregular or absent menstrual cycles, difficulty predicting ovulation.

2. Fallopian Tube Issues

• Causes: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, preventing egg and sperm from meeting.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
  • Endometriosis
  • Previous ectopic pregnancy
  • History of pelvic or abdominal surgery
• Symptoms: Often asymptomatic but may involve pelvic pain or history of infections.

3. Uterine or Cervical Problems

• Causes: Structural abnormalities or functional issues with the uterus or cervix.
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Polyps
  • Congenital uterine abnormalities
  • Cervical insufficiency or scarring
  • Endometriosis
• Symptoms: Abnormal menstrual bleeding, recurrent miscarriages, or difficulty sustaining pregnancies.

4. Endometriosis

• Cause: Growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus, which can affect ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus lining.
• Symptoms: Painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, or heavy menstrual bleeding.

5. Age

• Cause: Natural decline in fertility due to age, especially after 35 years, resulting in fewer and lower-quality eggs.
• Symptoms: None specific; reduced chances of conception over time.

6. Lifestyle Factors

• Poor nutrition or extreme diets
• Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
• Stress or inadequate sleep
• Overweight or underweight conditions

7. Other Medical Conditions

• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus)
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Genetic disorders (e.g., Turner syndrome)
• Cancer treatments (radiation/chemotherapy)

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or advanced reproductive technologies. Common treatments include:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Healthy weight management
• Balanced diet and regular exercise
• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
• Stress management techniques

2. Medications

• Ovulation Induction Drugs:
  • Clomiphene citrate (Clomid)
  • Letrozole
  • Gonadotropins (FSH, LH injections)
• Hormonal Therapy:
  • Thyroid medications for thyroid disorders
  • Bromocriptine or cabergoline for high prolactin
  • Hormone replacement therapy for POI

3. Surgical Interventions

• Laparoscopy or Hysteroscopy:
  • To remove fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue
  • Treat endometriosis
• Tubal Surgery: To repair damaged fallopian tubes.

4. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is placed directly in the uterus during ovulation.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized with sperm outside the body and transferred to the uterus.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
• Egg or Embryo Freezing: For women who wish to delay pregnancy or undergo fertility-compromising treatments.

5. Donor Options

• Egg, sperm, or embryo donation for couples with severe infertility issues.

6. Alternative Therapies (Supportive)

• Acupuncture
• Herbal supplements (consult a doctor before use)
• Counseling for mental health and emotional support.

When to Seek Help?

• Women under 35: If unable to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse.
• Women over 35: If unable to conceive after 6 months.
• Presence of irregular periods, pelvic pain, or history of reproductive health issues.

Proper diagnosis by Dr. Pragya Sahu for fertility specialist is crucial to tailor an effective treatment plan.
Contact immediate in Amritya Ayur Clinic for best treatment.