Overview on Uterus Infertility

Uterine factor infertility is the term used to describe abnormalities in the uterus. The uterus is an integral part of the female reproductive system.

• Uterus Function: The uterus is where the embryo implants and grows into a baby.
• Unique Environment: It's the only organ in the female body capable of supporting fetal development.
• Impact on Fertility: Uterine issues can affect fertility.
• Common Abnormalities: Variations in uterus shape can lead to infertility or frequent miscarriages.

What Is Uterine Factor Infertility?

Uterine factor infertility is the condition where a woman faces infertility due to abnormalities in the uterus.

These abnormalities include Uterine fibroids that distort the

• Endometrial cavity
• Scarring or adhesions
• Endometrial surgery or infection,
• Asherman Syndrome,
• Specific malformations in the fallopian tubes, and few malformations in the uterus or uterine cavity before birth.

What Is Absolute Uterine Factor Infertility?

Absolute uterine factor infertility refers to infertility that can either be entirely attributable for the uterine absence (surgical or congenital) or an abnormality that is anatomical or functional that prevents the implantation of embryo or completion of pregnancy to term.

What Are The Causes Of Uterine Factor Infertility?

Many factors cause uterus infertility. If the shape of the uterus is abnormal, it cannot support a normal pregnancy until full term.

Problems with the uterus lining also cause infertility. During implantation, the embryo embeds itself in the uterus lining. If the uterus lining has a problem, it makes a woman infertile, and she cannot conceive.

Causes of Uterine Infertility

• Polyps:
  • Most common cause of uterine infertility.
  • Abnormal growths of the uterine lining are known as benign tumors.
  • It can hinder implantation and conception.
• Fibroids:
  • Also known as myomas, it is common in the female uterus.
  • Usually, they do not interfere with conception but can occasionally disrupt implantation.
  • Doctors often advise removing fibroids before pregnancy.
• Abnormally Shaped Uterus:
  • Heart-shaped uterus: Can conceive but may not carry the baby to term.
  • T-shaped uterus: Rare, but can lead to miscarriage or preterm birth.
• Intrauterine Adhesions:
  • Scarring or inflammation of the uterine lining (Asherman's Syndrome).
  • Caused by surgeries like cesarean section, D&C, or fibroid removal.
  • Healing is possible, allowing for a successful pregnancy.
• Luteal Phase Defect:
  • The uterine lining does not undergo the necessary changes for implantation.
  • Caused by inadequate progesterone hormone release.
• Thin Endometrial Lining:
  • The uterus lining is too thin to support a pregnancy.
  • Checked through ultrasound, but the fragile lining is rare.
• Congenital Uterine Abnormalities:
  • Examples include unicornuate, septate, or bicornuate uterus.
  • It can severely affect pregnancy, with high risks of miscarriage or preterm births.
  • Often advised not to conceive due to risks.

Uterine abnormalities, usually discovered when a woman wants to conceive, can hinder fertility. They can lead to miscarriages but are fortunately rare. In cases of uterine infertility, a surrogate pregnancy may be recommended to avoid pregnancy risks.

How Is Uterine Factor Infertility Treatment Done?

Careful evaluation is needed in case of uterine factor infertility. Some of the conditions can be treated surgically by removing fibroids, polyps, or scar tissues.

However, surgical corrections of uterine malformations are not always necessary. Many women with such issues can still conceive with the help of the proper fertility guidance and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions