Fertility is a complex issue, and several gynecological conditions can play a role in a woman’s ability to conceive. However, understanding these conditions can help women make informed decisions about their reproductive health and seek timely medical guidance if they are struggling with infertility.
Here’s a look at some common gynecological conditions that can impact fertility and how they might be managed.
First, polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 10 percent of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, elevated levels of male hormones, or androgens, and the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries.
Women with PCOS may have difficulty ovulating, which can lead to challenges in conceiving. The hormonal imbalances in PCOS interfere with ovulation, making it difficult to release a mature egg each month. Without ovulation, conception becomes challenging.
Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help manage PCOS symptoms. Medications, like clomiphene citrate or letrozole, may also be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.
Second, endometriosis.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes or other parts of the pelvic cavity. This condition can lead to pain, inflammation and scar tissue, which can affect fertility.
Pain management, hormone therapy or minimally invasive surgeries are options when it comes to managing endometriosis.
Next, uterine fibroids.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus, and common among women of childbearing age. While not all fibroids affect fertility, some can interfere with conception or pregnancy, depending on their size and location. Medications, hormone therapy and surgery are the mainstay treatments.
“Surgical options are varied and range from minor ablative procedures to fibroid removal to hysterectomy depending on the goal of each patient,” Abigael Dishler, DO, an OB/GYN at Carolina Women’s Health – Greenville, shares. “Many options can preserve fertility.”
Then, there is pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID.
PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often resulting from sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea.
If left untreated, PID can cause scarring in the reproductive tract, impacting fertility. The inflammation scarring in the fallopian tubes can block the pathway between the ovaries and uterus, increasing the risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
“Prevention is key, which includes condom use to prevent sexually transmitted diseases,” Dr. Dishler says.
Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent the progression of PID. For women who have experienced damage to their reproductive organs due to PID, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may be options to consider.
And last, we have primary ovarian insufficiency, or POI.
Also known as premature ovarian failure, POI occurs when the ovaries stop functioning before the age of 40. This leads to reduced levels of estrogen and fewer eggs being released. With fewer eggs available, it becomes more difficult to conceive naturally. Hormonal imbalances can also lead to irregular periods and decreased fertility.
While there’s no cure for POI, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help manage symptoms.
How we can help
If you’re experiencing challenges with conception and suspect one of these conditions may be a factor, you are not alone.
Consulting your primary care provider or gynecologist is a good first step. They can help diagnose any underlying conditions and offer guidance on ways to optimize your fertility journey.
Learn about the primary care services and gynecology services we provide at Bon Secours.
