What causes female fertility problems?

Various medical issues can contribute to female fertility problems, including:

• Ovulation disorders, which affect the release of eggs from the ovaries. These include hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperprolactinemia and thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism).
• Uterine or cervical abnormalities, such as polyps or fibroids in the uterus.
• Fallopian tube damage or blockage, which is often caused by pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Endometriosis, which occurs when tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
• Primary ovarian insufficiency (early menopause), which occurs when the ovaries stop working and menstruation ends before age 40.
• Pelvic adhesions — bands of scar tissue that bind organs after pelvic infection, appendicitis, or abdominal or pelvic surgery.
• Medical conditions associated with the absence of menstruation, such as poorly controlled diabetes, celiac disease and some autoimmune diseases such as lupus.

Age also plays a role. Delaying pregnancy can decrease the likelihood that you'll be able to conceive. A decline in the quantity and quality of your eggs with age makes it harder to conceive.