4 Women's Health Conditions That Can Affect Fertility

If you’ve been trying to conceive a pregnancy but are facing obstacles, you can get the infertility care you need at Raveco Medical.

Our experienced OB/GYNs offer a range of diagnostic testing services to identify the source of your fertility issues. They also specialize in treating the conditions that can affect your ability to achieve and maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Potential causes of infertility

If you haven’t been able to get pregnant after trying for 12 months with unprotected sex, you’re considered to have infertility. If you’re over 35 years old, you may need an infertility evaluation after six months of unsuccessful attempts to achieve a pregnancy.

Many factors can influence a woman's fertility. Here’s an overview of four common health issues that can negatively affect your fertility:

1. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is an ovulation disorder that results from an imbalance in your hormone levels. The imbalance causes cysts to form on your ovaries, which can prevent sperm from meeting eggs for fertilization.

PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility and can also cause side effects like severe acne and excessive facial and body hair growth.

2. Primary ovarian insufficiency

Primary ovarian insufficiency may be triggered by an immune system response or the premature loss of eggs from the ovary. This condition affects women under age 40 who have ovaries that can no longer produce eggs.

Your risk for primary ovarian insufficiency can increase if you have certain genetic factors or if you undergo chemotherapy or other medical treatments that affect egg production.

3. Endometriosis

Endometriosis describes the growth of the uterine lining (endometrium) outside of your uterus. The excess tissue can spread over nearby organs, including your ovaries and fallopian tubes, and block sperm from traveling to the egg for fertilization.

You might also experience infertility if endometriosis interferes with the implantation of a fertilized egg on the uterine wall.

4. Cervical stenosis

Cervical stenosis is a narrowing of your cervix that results from trauma or inherited conditions. If your cervix is too narrow, it can cause complications with sperm traveling to the egg or prevent fertilized eggs from successfully implanting in the uterus.

Some women may also lack sufficient mucus that supports sperm as they travel through the cervix to the uterus.

Exploring solutions to overcome infertility

Improving your chances for a successful pregnancy requires an individualized approach. Our Raveco Medical team designs a treatment plan for your specific challenges and family planning goals.

We offer a range of diagnostic services to identify the potential cause of your infertility issues, including blood testing to evaluate your hormone levels and pelvic exams to check for signs of endometriosis.

Based on the results of your exam and testing, our providers can discuss your options for moving forward with treatment. You may benefit from strategies like medications or gynecological surgery to address existing issues that prevent successful conception.

We also work with a network of specialists we can refer you to for artificial insemination or in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Once you become pregnant, our physicians can provide the prenatal care you need to support your pregnancy and help you plan for your labor and delivery.

Call the Raveco Medical office in Forest Hills or Woodside, New York, to schedule an infertility evaluation or book an appointment online today.