Definition: Female infertility refers to the inability to conceive a child after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse.
- Prevalence: Affects approximately 15-20% of couples worldwide.

Causes of Female Infertility

- Hormonal Imbalance:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disorders
- Hyperprolactinemia
- Ovulatory Disorders:
- Anovulation
- Irregular ovulation
- Tubal Damage:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Endometriosis
- Tubal ligation
- Uterine Factors:
- Uterine fibroids
- Uterine polyps
- Adenomyosis
- Age-Related Factors:
- Decreased egg quality
- Decreased egg reserve
- Lifestyle Factors:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Substance abuse
- Obesity

Risk Factors for Female Infertility

- Age
- Family history
- Previous surgeries (e.g., cesarean section, hysterectomy)
- Exposure to toxins (e.g., pesticides, heavy metals)
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders)

Symptoms of Female Infertility

- Difficulty conceiving
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Heavy or light menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Difficulty maintaining pregnancy

Diagnosis of Female Infertility

- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Hormone testing
- Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI)
- Laparoscopy

Complications of Untreated Female Infertility

- Emotional distress
- Relationship problems
- Decreased self-esteem
- Increased risk of depression
- Increased risk of anxiety

Prevention and Self-Care

- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Manage stress
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid harmful substances
- Protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

When to Seek Medical Help

- If experiencing difficulty conceiving
- If experiencing symptoms of female infertility
- If having a family history of infertility