Infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive after a year of trying. It is a condition which affects approximately 1 out of 6 couples. Infertility can be caused by the male, female, or both. When the cause of infertility exists in the female partner, it is referred to as female infertility.
Although, the most obvious sign of infertility is the inability to get pregnant, there are a few other symptoms of infertility in women you need to look out for. Some of them are:
Irregular Periods
If your cycles are unusually short or long i.e. less than 24 days or more than 35 days, they are irregular. Irregular periods are normal at the beginning of puberty. It takes the body awhile to get regulated to the hormonal changes. But once you’ve crossed your teenage years, your cycles should be regular. An irregular period can be a sign of infertility and may be caused due to a problem with ovulation. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common cause of irregular periods. Other causes of irregular periods can be underweight, thyroid dysfunction, low ovarian reserves etc. If you experience irregular periods, it is absolutely essential to consult a doctor.
Painful Periods
Three to seven days of bleeding during periods can be considered normal. Menstrual cramps are painful and it is experienced by most women. But, if you’ve noticed that your periods have been heavier than normal and more painful which interferes with your daily life it may be a symptom of endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease both of which may cause infertility. If you experience painful periods, you need to consult a doctor as it may also mean that you’re dealing with some other health issue.
No Periods
It is common for women to have an off month from periods every now and then. Some factors like stress or heavy workouts can cause your period to disappear temporarily. But if you haven’t had a period in months, then it’s time to get your fertility checked. If you have never had a period or if it suddenly stopped altogether, then it indicates that you are not ovulating. Therefore, no [periods is a clear sign of infertility.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal fluctuation may be a potential sign of infertility in women. Some of the symptoms of hormonal imbalance are changes in:
Skin
Changes in your skin, like the onset of acne, can be a sign of imbalance in hormone levels. A sudden increase in acne could also be a sign of PCOS.
Hair
Severe hair fall and thinning of hair is experienced by women. Increased growth of facial hair in women is a major sign of hormonal imbalance.
Reduced sexual drive
Endometriosis can be the cause for lack of sexual drive in women. This can be caused by stress, depression or certain kinds of medication.
Weight gain
Sudden unexplained weight gain despite no change in diet or physical activity can be a sign of PCOS which is a major factor for infertility.
Pain during sex
Some women experience pain during sex suddenly or throughout their lives. They might have convinced themselves its normal. But it is not. It could be due to a hormonal issue like endometriosis which may be a factor causing infertility.
