The inability to give birth, known medically as infertility or sterility, can be caused by a variety of factors. These include problems with the reproductive system, hormone imbalances, and other health conditions. Infertility affects an estimated 10-15% of couples, with contributing factors from both partners. However, the social stigma and shame surrounding infertility often fall more heavily on women. An insensitive remark about a woman’s fertility can be very hurtful. This article will explore the medical causes of infertility in women, the emotional impact, and the importance of compassion.
Medical Causes of Infertility in Women
There are many medical reasons why a woman may be unable to get pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term:
Ovulation disorders
Ovulation disorders account for infertility in approximately 25% of infertile couples. Ovulation is the monthly release of a mature egg from the ovaries. Problems can occur at different stages of ovulation:
- Failure to mature eggs properly
- Failure to release eggs
- Hormone imbalances upsetting normal ovulation
Common causes of ovulation disorders include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and hyperprolactinemia.
Fallopian tube damage
Fallopian tubes connect the ovaries to the uterus. Eggs travel through the tubes to reach the uterus. Damage to the tubes is responsible for approximately 25-35% of female infertility cases. Causes include:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease from untreated sexually transmitted infections
- Previous surgery such as removal of fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis scarring the fallopian tubes
Blocked or damaged tubes prevent eggs from reaching the uterus and sperm from fertilizing eggs.
Uterine or cervical causes
Problems in the uterus and cervix cause 15-20% of infertility cases:
- Fibroids or polyps distorting the uterine cavity
- Congenital abnormalities such as an abnormally shaped uterus
- Pelvic surgery leaving behind scarring or adhesions
- Cervical stenosis making the cervical opening too small for sperm to enter
Endometriosis
Unexplained infertility
For approximately 30% of couples, no cause for infertility can be identified after undergoing full evaluation. This is termed unexplained infertility. Possible contributing factors that are hard to diagnose include minimal or subtle problems with ovulation, egg quality, fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or sperm quality.
Emotional Impact of Infertility
In addition to the obvious disappointment of not being able to conceive naturally, infertility can seriously impact a woman’s self-esteem and quality of life:
- Feelings of failure, guilt, and inadequacy for being unable to do what comes naturally for most women
- Jealousy and isolation from friends and family members who have children
- Strain on the relationship with a partner
- Stress, anxiety, and depression which can worsen if treatment is unsuccessful
In many cultures, motherhood is central to a woman’s identity. Social stigma around infertility can make women feel embarrassed, ashamed, and excluded. Derogatory labels like “barren” are incredibly insensitive.
| Type of Infertility | Percentage of Cases | Common Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Ovulation disorders | 25% | PCOS, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, hyperprolactinemia |
| Fallopian tube damage | 25-35% | Pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, previous surgery |
| Uterine/cervical causes | 15-20% | Fibroids, congenital abnormalities, scarring |
| Unexplained | 30% | Unknown subtle factors |
The Need for Compassion
Infertility is a medical condition–not a personal failing. Couples experiencing it deserve understanding and support. Here are some ways to show compassion:
- Avoid insensitive labels like “barren.” Use neutral terms like “struggling with infertility.”
- Don’t ask intrusive questions about personal reproductive choices.
- Listen with empathy if someone confides they have fertility issues.
- Don’t assume infertility is always the woman’s “fault.” It can be a male and/or combined factor.
- Understand treatments can be emotionally and financially exhausting. Offer sincere encouragement.
- Appreciate the courage it takes to pursue alternate family-building options like IVF, surrogacy, or adoption.
Motherhood takes many forms. Women struggling with infertility still have much to offer as loving partners, aunts, teachers, friends, advocates, and leaders making a difference in the world. While infertility can be devastating, compassion and support from others can help lighten the burden.
Conclusion
Infertility is a complex medical condition with numerous potential causes. Beyond the physical frustration of being unable to conceive, it can seriously impact a woman’s emotional wellbeing and relationships. However, insensitive labels like “barren” have no place in a caring society. With empathy and compassion, we can create a culture that embraces the many paths to motherhood, and values women as complete human beings – with or without children.