Causes of infertility in young women: when to worry?
By Dr. Vega Cabezuelo Sánchez, gynecologist at the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital
Infertility is an increasingly common concern in our society. It is estimated that between 15 and 20% of couples in developed countries have difficulty conceiving. Although late motherhood is one of the main reasons for the increased need to resort to assisted reproduction techniques, there are also cases of infertility in young women that should not be overlooked.
The Women's Unit of the Ruber International HospitalDr. Vega Cabezuelo Sánchez, a gynecologist on the team, explains the main causes and when it's best to consult a specialist.
Infertility factors: a shared problem
Infertility is not exclusive to women. Generally speaking:
- 30% of cases are due to a male factor.
- 30% of cases to a female factor.
- 40% remaining to mixed or unknown cause.
Main causes of female infertility
Classically, alterations in female fertility are grouped into three main categories:
- Ovulation disturbances
Disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome or secondary hypogonadism (related to eating disorders or extreme physical exercise) make it difficult for a woman to ovulate regularly. - Alterations in the fallopian tubes
The tubes may be blocked as a result of:- Previous abdominal surgeries.
- Pelvic infections (sometimes asymptomatic).
- peritonitis.
- background of ectopic pregnancy.
- Uterine alterations
- Congenital malformations that reduce the size of the uterine cavity.
- Fibroids or polyps, which can make embryo implantation difficult and increase the risk of miscarriage.
Two key factors to consider
- Obesity
La obesity affects different stages of the reproductive process:
- Alteration in ovulation.
- Lower quality and number of eggs.
- Deterioration of embryonic quality.
- Decrease in the implantation rate.
- Increased risk of miscarriage.
- Endometriosis
La endometriosis It is a benign and chronic disease that affects 176 million women in the world, with a higher incidence among the 25 and 35 yearsIt is characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, which causes chronic inflammation and affects fertility:
- Reduces the number and quality of eggs.
- It hinders the permeability of the tubes.
- It interferes with embryo implantation.
Other associated diseases
There are also systemic diseases (metabolic, genetic or autoimmune) that can affect female fertility, even in young and apparently healthy women.
When to see a specialist?
Not all difficulties in conceiving should be cause for immediate alarm. However, it is advisable consult with a fertility specialist when:
- Have passed More than 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse (or 6 months if the woman is over 35 years old).
- There is a medical history that may affect fertility (endometriosis, abdominal surgeries, menstrual irregularities, among others).
- Symptoms include severe pelvic pain, very irregular or heavy periods, or a family history of infertility.
Infertility in young women is a reality that can be associated with various factors: ovulatory, tubal, uterine, or diseases such as obesity and endometriosis. Early detection and specialized medical support are essential to guide treatment and increase the chances of achieving pregnancy.
At Women's Unit of the Ruber International Hospital We provide a multidisciplinary team to assess each case individually and offer the best solutions.
If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a professional expert in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized unit in this area. You can request more information by calling the following numbers: 91 387 51 72/73/74 or make an appointment for an in-person consultation, always with the best specialists.