Female Fertility Factors

Study Notes

Fertility refers to the natural ability of an individual or couple to conceive a child.
It involves the functioning of the reproductive system, including the production of gametes (sperm and egg cells) and the ability of these cells to fertilize.

Age: fertility declines with age, especially after 35 years old
Ovulation: regular ovulation is essential for fertility
Hormonal balance: hormonal imbalances can affect ovulation and fertility
Weight: being overweight or underweight can affect fertility
Medical conditions: certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can affect fertility

Age: fertility declines with age, but not as sharply as in women
Sperm quality: low sperm count, abnormal sperm morphology, and poor sperm motility can affect fertility
Hormonal balance: hormonal imbalances can affect sperm production
Lifestyle factors: smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications can affect fertility

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected sex
Primary infertility: refers to individuals who have never conceived
Secondary infertility: refers to individuals who have previously conceived but are unable to conceive again

Female factors: 40-50% of infertility cases
- Ovulation disorders (25-30%)
- Tubal damage or blockage (20-30%)
- Endometriosis (10-20%)
- Uterine or cervical abnormalities (5-10%)
Male factors: 30-40% of infertility cases
- Low sperm count (30-40%)
- Abnormal sperm morphology (20-30%)
- Poor sperm motility (10-20%)
Unexplained infertility: 10-20% of infertility cases
Combined male and female factors: 10-20% of infertility cases

Medications: fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation or improve sperm quality
Intrauterine insemination (IUI): placing sperm directly into the uterus
In vitro fertilization (IVF): combining sperm and egg cells in a laboratory dish
Assisted reproductive technology (ART): includes IVF, IUI, and other technologies to aid conception

Natural ability to conceive a child
Involves reproductive system functions, including gamete production and fertilization ability

Age: Notable decline in fertility begins after age 35
Ovulation: Regular ovulation is crucial for conception
Hormonal Balance: Imbalances can disrupt ovulation and reduce fertility
Weight: Both underweight and overweight conditions can impair fertility
Medical Conditions: Disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can negatively impact fertility

Age: Gradual decline in fertility with age, but less pronounced than in women
Sperm Quality: Affects include low sperm count, abnormal morphology, and motility issues
Hormonal Balance: Imbalances can limit sperm production
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive drinking, and certain medications can decrease fertility

Defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse
Primary Infertility: Individuals who have never conceived
Secondary Infertility: Individuals who have conceived previously but cannot conceive again

Female Factors: Contribute to 40-50% of infertility cases
- Ovulation disorders: 25-30%
- Tubal damage/blockage: 20-30%
- Endometriosis: 10-20%
- Uterine/cervical abnormalities: 5-10%
Male Factors: Account for 30-40% of infertility cases
- Low sperm count: 30-40%
- Abnormal sperm morphology: 20-30%
- Poor sperm motility: 10-20%
Unexplained Infertility: Accounts for 10-20% of cases
Combined Factors: Both male and female factors contribute to 10-20% of cases

Medications: Fertility drugs used to induce ovulation or enhance sperm quality
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Direct placement of sperm into the uterus
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Fertilization occurs in a lab dish
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART): Encompasses IVF, IUI, and similar techniques to support conception