Female Infertility

Ovulation problems


A considerable number of cases of infertility are caused by failure of the body to produce adequate levels of the hormone progesterone after ovulation. Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (POS) often have difficulty conceiving due to an irregular or absent menstrual cycle. Modern fertility hormone drugs can solve most ovulation problems. 

Uterine Problems


Within the uterus, defects in the shape of the cavity, polyps in the cavity, scar tissue or fibroids in the uterine wall can interfere with embryo implantation. This can be studied by an X-ray or by introducing a thin "telescope" called a hysterscope through the cervix into the uterus (hysteroscopy). 

Peritoneal Problems


Adhesions and endometriosis in the pelvic cavity can inhibit ovulation or egg pickup by the tubes. Adhesions can result from pelvic infections or from previous surgery. Endometriosis, the growth of uterine lining cells outside the uterus (on any of the organs in the pelvis), can result in obstruction to ovulation and egg entry into the tubes. There are both medical (drug) and surgical treatments for endometriosis. 

Tubal Problems


For the sperm to make contact with the egg and for the fertilised egg to make its way into the uterus, the fallopian tubes must be patent (open) and undamaged. If there is doubt over tubal patency, this may be checked by the passage of dye through them. Tubal problems are responsible for around one quarter of infertile cases and are treated by conventional IVF.