Female Infertility

Overview

Female Infertility is when a couple is unable to conceive after 1 to 2 years with regular unprotected sexual intercourse, every 2 to 3 days due to the female partner. It can be either primary where there is no pregnancy previously or secondary where there was previous pregnancy or conceptions.

Signs and Symptoms

Not getting pregnant, Menstrual problems, Hirsutism, Acne, Galactorrhoea

Common Causes

Anovulation, Tubal blockage, Pelvic endometriosis, Uterine fibroid, Polycystic ovarian syndrome

Risk Factors

Increasing age, Smoking cigarettes, Alcohol abuse, Overweight or obese, Sexually transmitted infections, Medical condition, Certain medications, Traumatic injury to the reproductive organs

Investigation Techniques

Physical examination, Full blood count, Urinary LH analysis, Ultrasound of uterus and ovaries, Test for ovulation, Hysterosalpingogram, Laparoscopy and dye insufflation, Luteal-phase progesterone

Treatment and Prevention

Ovarian induction with clomifene citrate, Follicle stimulating hormone, Laparoscopic ovarian drilling, Intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), In vitro fertilization (IVF), Laparoscopic surgery, Treating the underlying medical or surgical conditions

Psychological Issues

Stress