In official terms, infertility is defined as being unable to get pregnant after one year or more of unprotected sex. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 12% of women aged 15-44 years have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term in the United States. 

4 Causes of Infertility

1. Ovulation disorders. These are problems that affect the release of eggs from the ovaries, such as:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): is the most common cause of female infertility. It is a condition that affects the hormones causing women to ovulate irregularly or not ovulate at all. 
• Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI):  is a condition sometimes referred to as premature menopause. It happens when a woman's ovaries stop working before the age of 40. 
• Hyperprolactinemia: where the body produces too much of the hormone prolactin, which can interfere with ovulation.
• Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism: Thyroid problems can affect the menstrual cycle or cause infertility.
• Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA): This can affect ovulation and is caused by excessive exercise, weight loss, stress, eating disorders, or a combination of these factors. 
  
  2.Structural Problems of the reproductive system.

• Uterine fibroids: are benign growths in and around the wall of the uterus. They do not always affect fertility. 
• Polyps: are benign growths on the inside surface of the uterus which can make it difficult to get pregnant or carry to term. They can sometimes be surgically removed to help improve fertility chances. 
• Scarring in the uterus:  can be caused by previous injuries, infections, or surgery and can affect implantation. 
• Fallopian tube damage or blockage: may happen for several reasons, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or adhesions.
• An unusually shaped uterus can also affect fertility. 

2. Endometriosis is where tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus begins to grow in other places (like blocking the fallopian tubes). 

• 3. Age.  With aging comes menopause, where there is a decline in ovarian function, and it usually happens around the age of 50. A condition to consider that is not natural due to aging is diminished ovarian reserve. This is when fewer eggs remain in the ovaries than expected for the woman's age. 

Worried About Infertility? Coping with Infertility?

If you have any concerns about fertility and getting pregnant, it is best to speak to an OBGYN. At Colorado Obstetrics & Women's Health we are dedicated to providing high-quality OBGYN care in a compassionate, friendly, and comfortable environment. You can contact us on (719) 634-8800 to discuss all your OBGYN concerns and needs. We are here to support you.