Infertility in Females

Female infertility is the inability to conceive after at least a year of regular unprotected intercourse, with a global prevalence of around 10%.

Most female infertility cases are due to ovulatory disorders, which hinder oocyte release.

These are broadly categorized as hypothalamic amenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian failure, and hyperprolactinemic anovulation disorders.

About 15% of infertility cases are caused by endometriosis, a condition where there is extra-uterine growth of the endometrial tissue.

Tubal or uterine blockage can also result from other conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, which can prevent the meeting of sperm and egg or uterine entry of the fertilized egg.

Hormonal imbalances like hyperprolactinemia, characterized by high prolactin levels, inhibit ovulation.

Lifestyle changes can improve fertility and assist therapeutic interventions.

Hormone therapy to restore optimal ovarian function is effective for ovulatory or hormonal disorders, while corrective surgery can address structural abnormalities or blockages.

When other methods fail, techniques such as intrauterine insemination and in-vitro fertilization are widely used to assist with conception.