5 Common Causes of Female Infertility

Trying to get pregnant can seem to be straightforward until it isn’t. If months go by without a positive test, it’s natural to start asking why.

Infertility is more common than you may realize. Worldwide, 1 of 6 people struggles with infertility, and, thankfully, in many cases, there’s an identifiable cause. 

Understanding what may be affecting your fertility is your first step toward finding the right path forward. 

Because June is Infertility Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to talk about those potential causes of infertility. 

Below, our team at Westover Hills Women's Health shares five common causes of female infertility. 

What counts as infertility?

Infertility is typically defined as not becoming pregnant after:

• 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse if you’re under 35
• Six months if you’re 35 or older

If you fall into either category, it’s worth talking to our team at Westover Hills Women’s Health.

5 common causes of female infertility

There are many causes of both male and female infertility. Five common causes of female infertility include:

Ovulation disorders

Ovulation issues are one of the most common causes of infertility. In fact, ovulation dysfunction accounts for anywhere from 25-40% of infertility. 

If you’re not ovulating regularly (or at all), it becomes difficult for pregnancy to occur. Conditions like hormonal imbalances or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can interfere with ovulation.

Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes

Fertilization takes place in your fallopian tubes, but if they’re blocked or damaged, sperm may not be able to reach the egg. 

This can be caused by:

• Previous infections
• Endometriosis
• Prior pelvic surgery
• Fluid build-up (hydrosalpinx)

Blocked fallopian tubes account for up to 30% of infertility cases. Hydrosalpinx is present in up to 20% of those women.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis, which happens when tissue similar to the lining of your uterus grows outside of your uterus, can lead to inflammation and scarring.

These changes in your pelvic environment make it harder for fertilization and implantation to occur. Not only that, but endometriosis can cause debilitating pain each month.

Uterine abnormalities

Structural issues within the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, or congenital abnormalities, can interfere with implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. These conditions can sometimes be identified through imaging. 

Age-related changes

Fertility naturally declines with age, particularly after 35. This is due to both a decrease in the number of eggs and changes in egg quality, which can make conception more difficult.

When to schedule an infertility consultation

If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, don’t wait too long to get answers.

Getting a fertility evaluation can help:

• Identify underlying causes
• Open up more treatment options
• Improve your chances of success

Many women experience a sense of relief when they find out what’s contributing to their infertility. Once we’ve pinpointed the issue, we can explore the right treatments, whether that’s hormone adjustments, changes in lifestyle and diet, managing underlying conditions such as diabetes, or surgical correction.

What to expect during an evaluation

We first review your medical history, menstrual cycle, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. We may recommend specific testing, such as hormone labs, imaging studies, or other assessments to better understand what’s affecting your fertility.

This Infertility Awareness Month, schedule an appointment at one of our four San Antonio, Texas, offices. You can also call us to schedule your fertility consultation.