Female infertility

It’s a common, though false, belief that the woman is the only one responsible for a couple’s failure to conceive. Female infertility is only responsible in 50% of cases. It’s therefore important that both members of the couple undergo fertility testing to determine the origin. In women, ovulatory disorders and dysfunctions of the reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, pelvic cavity) sometimes need to be examined.

fertilys clinique fertilite comprendre infertilite femme

Disorders of the reproductive organs (pelvis factor)

It’s estimated that half of the women who have difficulty conceiving ovulate completely normally. The problem is physical and affects the reproductive organs.

  • As the sperm cells have to get into the fallopian tubes to fertilize the egg, it’s important to make sure they are intact and permeable. Obstruction of the tubes is most often a consequence of a sexually transmitted infection.
  • Endometriosis is caused by the abnormal increase in cells that make up the uterine lining. The outgrowth of endometrial cells outside the uterus can affect the functioning of the fallopian tubes. Excessive bleeding, as well as painful periods and sexual relations, are some of the symptoms caused by this inflammation.

Ovulatory disorders (hormonal imbalance)

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent ovulatory disorder. An elevated insulin level in the ovary stimulates the secretion of the male hormone androgen. This hormonal imbalance is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, increased facial and body hair, and the presence of acne. Numerous immature follicles are visible using ultrasound.
  • Sustained stress, rapid weight loss or gain, and intense sustained physical activity can prevent reproductive hormones from being secreted.
  • Premature menopause is a serious disorder caused by a premature depletion of ovarian follicles. No estrogen or mature eggs are produced.
  • The poor functioning of the thyroid gland increases the risk of infertility and miscarriages.
  • Abnormally elevated secretion of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates milk production, prevents ovulation. The secretion of this hormone is typically stimulated by regularly breastfeeding a baby. In some cases, brain diseases can increase blood levels of prolactin.