Medical Conditions Linked to Infertility

Many people assume that infertility is an issue for older women who started a family later in life. While age can play a factor in the complications of conception, there are many more factors that may be involved. In light of April’s National Infertility Awareness Week, we have provided a review of the medical conditions that are linked to infertility.

Underlying causes of infertility may involve one or more of the following medical situations:

– Endometriosis: One in 10 American women develop uterine tissue outside throughout the pelvis, affecting their uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes.

– Luteal Phase Defect: The luteal phase typically occurs in the second half of the menstrual cycle, producing progesterone and estrogen to help prepare the uterine lining for a fertilized egg. Luteal Phase Defect results in too little progesterone or a lack of response from the endometrium to progesterone stimulation.

– Male Factor: About 30% of infertility issues are linked to a male factor problem, such as structural abnormalities that block the flow of sperm, inhibited sperm production, retrograde ejaculation and immunologic disorders that prevent the sperm from successfully penetrating the egg.

– Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormone disorder that can involve symptoms such as irregular periods, lack of ovulation, acne, weight gain and excessive facial hair. It affects as much as 10% of women.

– Premature Ovarian Failure (POF): Also known as early menopause, it can result in irregular periods and many of the common menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes. The average age for POF is about 27.

There are many factors that can contribute to infertility, but the good news is there is treatment to combat each of these condition.s.  If you have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive, we encourage you to contact Utah Fertility Center at 801-785-5100 today. Our reproductive endocrinologists can accurately diagnose underlying medical conditions and provide custom fertility treatment in Pleasant Grove, Utah to help you achieve pregnancy.