Just like thousands of others facing the stress and uncertainty of reduced fertility, you will no doubt want to know why you and your partner have not become pregnant. Will you be successful? Do you have a problem? Does your partner have a problem? Do both of you have a problem?

In approximately 30% of cases of reduced fertility, the cause is found in the woman, and in 30% of cases the problem lies with the man. In another 30 % of cases the cause is a combination of factors in both partners. Diagnostic tests are used with great success to identify the cause of reduced fertility, and opportunities for treatments are available for many disorders. However, despite the astonishing medical advances in this field, no underlying cause for reduced fertility can be identified in approximately one in ten (10%) couples.

In this section, we take a broad look at the general reproductive problems that affect women outlining the common features of a variety of different disorders including hormonal problems preventing ovulation and structural abnormalities such as defective fallopian tubes. Armed with this information, you will be better prepared for consultations with your doctor and your search for a solution. These topics are discussed more fully in diagnosis of the woman.

The most common causes female reduced fertility are:

• Menstrual disorders
• Fallopian tube / womb abnormalities
• Endometriosis
• Problems relating to the cervical mucous
• Age
• Lifestyle