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Risk Factors for Infertility in Women
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can become infertile with or without the ones listed below. The chances of becoming infertile are greater in people who have many. Infertility is more common in those who are 35 years or older. This is when a woman has fewer eggs that can be fertilized. Other things that can raise the risk are: Health ProblemsMany health problems can raise the risk of infertility.
Problems That Impact Ovarian FunctionThese health problems can make it hard for the ovaries to work as they should:
Problems That May Harm or Block Fallopian TubesThese health problems may make it hard for the fallopian tubes to work as they should:
Problems That May Harm the Uterus or CervixThese health problems may make it hard for the uterus or cervix to work as they should:
MedicationsCertain medicines can raise the risk of infertility, such as:
Smoking, Drugs, and Alcohol UseTobacco use may lower fertility. Using marijuana or illegal drugs like cocaine can also raise the risk. Excess alcohol can cause problems with ovulation and raise the risk, too. ObesityBeing overweight or obese can affect hormone levels. This can change the way the ovaries work.
References:Evaluating infertility.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at:
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/evaluating-infertility. Accessed November 17, 2021. Infertility in women. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/infertility-in-women. Accessed November 11, 2021. Overview of infertility. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/infertility/overview-of-infertility. Accessed November 17, 2021. Treating infertility.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at:
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/treating-infertility. Accessed November 11, 2021. Last reviewed November 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Mary-Beth Seymour, RN | |||