A risk factor may increase or decrease your probability of contracting a disease or condition. Although a woman linked to specific risk factors may be at an increased risk, anyone can develop infertility. Having any of the following risk factors does not necessarily mean that you will develop infertility.
It is significant to discourse these conditions with your doctor.
Am I at Risk of Infertility?
Age
Woman over 35 are more likely to have fertility problems. The ovaries become less operative in producing eggs that can be efficaciously fertilized.
Medical Conditions
Conditions Effecting Ovarian Function
- History of substantial menstrual bleeding or abnormal menstrual cycles
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome , characterized by extreme amounts of facial hair and acne , subject to weight gain, and irregular menstrual cycles
- Irregular thyroid function
- Pituitary tumors
Conditions That May Damage or Block Fallopian Tubes
- Endometriosis— uterine tissue implanted on other pelvic structures can obstruct normal function.
- STD’s— infections, such as Gonorrhea or Chlamydia, typically produce no symptoms in women. When left untreated, STD’s can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, resultant of substantial scarring and adhesions that block fallopian tubes.
- History of Ectopic Pregnancy— as a fertilized egg develops within the fallopian tube, it can cause the tube to rupture leading to scar tissue further blocking the tube; reducing fertility.
Other Medical Condtions
- Congenital defects in the reproductive tract
- History of abnormal Pap smears that have resulted in cervical treatments such as cryosurgery or cone biopsy
- History of two or more spontaneous miscarriages
- Pelvic surgery
- Uterine Fibroids
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Asthma-Adult
- Cirrhosis
- Sickle Cell Anemia
- HIV and AIDS
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Appendicitis with complications
Medications
Medications are tremendously important for correcting serious and chronic conditions. In some cases, certain medications may increase your risk of infertility:
- Antidepressants
- Chemotherapeutic agents
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
- Antibiotics
Other Possible Risk Factors:
Alcohol, tobacco, stress, caffeine and excessive exercise.