How Can I Find Out If I Am Infertile? : Symptoms And Causes Of Female Infertility

How Can I Find Out If I Am Infertile? : Symptoms And Causes Of Female Infertility

25 May 2023 | 3 min Read

Manisha Pradhan

Author | 1053 Articles

Infertility can be a distressing concern for women who are planning to start a family. It can be caused by various factors.

We’ve listed some information, including available tests, common symptoms, and causes of female infertility.

By understanding these factors, women can take proactive steps toward seeking diagnosis, treatment, and support.

What Is Female Infertility?

Female infertility refers to the inability of a woman to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It can have various causes including:

  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Structural issues
  • Ovulation disorders
  • Reproductive organ abnormalities

Identifying the underlying causes of female infertility is crucial for appropriate management and treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Female Infertility

While female infertility often has no noticeable symptoms, some women may experience signs that indicate potential issues, such as:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Severe menstrual pain
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 

If you have been trying to conceive without success or notice any abnormal signs, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.

What Can I Expect During Medical Evaluation Of Female Infertility?

If you suspect infertility, the first step is to consult a healthcare provider specialising in reproductive health or a fertility specialist. They will conduct a thorough evaluation and medical history assessment to determine potential causes. 

The evaluation may include the following:

  • Physical examinations
  • Hormone level tests
  • Ultrasound scans
  • Additional tests, depending on the suspected cause.

Common Causes of Female Infertility 

causes of female infertility
Identifying the underlying causes of female infertility is crucial for appropriate management and treatment/ Image source: freepik

Ovulation Disorders

Conditions like PCOS, hypothalamic dysfunction, and premature ovarian failure can affect regular ovulation.

Uterine or Fallopian Tube Abnormalities

Structural issues, such as uterine fibroids, polyps, endometriosis, or fallopian tube blockages, can hinder successful conception.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal disorders, including thyroid problems, pituitary gland abnormalities, or high prolactin levels, can disrupt the menstrual cycle and fertility.

Age-related Factors

As women age, their fertility naturally decreases, and the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in eggs increases.

Lifestyle Factors

Factors like excessive stress, poor nutrition, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity can impact fertility.

What Are The Available Tests for Female Infertility?

To diagnose infertility, healthcare professionals may perform the following tests:

Ovulation Testing

Checking hormone levels through blood tests to evaluate ovulation.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

An HSG test is a diagnostic procedure commonly used to assess the health of a woman’s fallopian tubes and uterus. 

Transvaginal Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan to assess the ovaries and reproductive organs.

Hormone Level Testing

Analysing blood samples to evaluate hormone levels and detect any imbalances.

Laparoscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure to visualize and diagnose structural issues.

If you suspect infertility, it is essential to consult a doctor. Understanding the potential causes and seeking appropriate medical evaluation can help diagnose infertility accurately. 

Remember that infertility is a common condition and that various treatment options, including medications, surgery, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and lifestyle modifications, may be available to improve fertility. 

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Also Read:

Male Infertility: Here’s why we need to talk about it.

Shilpa And Apurva Agnihotri Talk About Their Struggle To Become Parents: 10 Things to avoid saying to couples trying to conceive.

Cover image source: freepik

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