Uterine factor infertility is a significant cause of female infertility, affecting women who have abnormalities or issues related to the uterus. It can prevent embryo implantation, increase the risk of miscarriage, or make pregnancy impossible. In this guide, we’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and available treatment options for uterine factor infertility.
What Is Uterine Factor Infertility?
Uterine factor infertility refers to conditions where the uterus is unable to support pregnancy. This can be due to congenital abnormalities, acquired conditions, or surgical removal of the uterus. In some cases, women with absolute uterine factor infertility may need alternative reproductive options like surrogacy.
Uterine Factor Infertility Symptoms
Many women may not realize they have uterine factor infertility until they struggle to conceive. Common symptoms include:
Recurrent miscarriages
Irregular or absent menstruation
Painful periods
Pelvic pain or abnormal uterine bleeding
Difficulty conceiving despite regular unprotected intercourse
Causes of Uterine Factor Infertility
Several factors can contribute to uterine factor infertility, including:
Congenital Uterine Anomalies – Conditions like uterine septum, bicornuate uterus, or Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome can prevent pregnancy.
Uterine Fibroids & Polyps – Growths inside the uterus can interfere with embryo implantation.
Asherman’s Syndrome – Uterine scarring due to surgeries, infections, or D&C procedures.
Endometrial Damage – Caused by infections like tuberculosis or chronic endometritis.
Surgical Removal of the Uterus (Hysterectomy) – Women who have undergone a hysterectomy due to medical conditions cannot carry a pregnancy.
Diagnosis of Uterine Factor Infertility
A fertility specialist will use various diagnostic tests to determine uterine factor infertility:
Ultrasound & 3D Sonography – Detects uterine abnormalities and fibroids.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) – Checks the shape of the uterus and fallopian tube blockages.
Hysteroscopy – A minimally invasive procedure to examine the uterus internally.
MRI & Laparoscopy – Provides a detailed view of uterine structure and surrounding organs.
Treatment Options for Uterine Factor Infertility
1. Surgical Treatments
Uterine septum correction through hysteroscopic surgery.
Fibroid or polyp removal to improve implantation chances.
Adhesion removal in cases of Asherman’s syndrome.
2. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): If the uterus is intact but has mild issues, IVF with embryo transfer may help.
Surrogacy: For absolute uterine factor infertility cases where carrying a pregnancy is not possible, gestational surrogacy is an effective solution.
3. Uterus Transplantation
Recent medical advancements have enabled uterus transplantation, where a donor uterus is surgically implanted into the recipient. Though still experimental, it has led to successful births in some cases.
FAQs About Uterine Factor Infertility
1. Can You Get Pregnant Without a Uterus but Have Ovaries?
No, pregnancy requires a uterus to carry the baby. However, if a woman has healthy ovaries, she can use IVF with a surrogate to have a biological child.
2. Can You Get Pregnant Without a Uterus and Fallopian Tubes?
No, the absence of both the uterus and fallopian tubes makes natural conception impossible. However, egg retrieval through IVF and gestational surrogacy are viable options.
3. Has a Woman Ever Had a Baby Without a Uterus?
Yes, uterus transplantation has enabled some women born without a uterus or those who had a hysterectomy to carry and deliver a baby successfully.
4. What Is Cervical Factor Infertility?
Cervical factor infertility occurs when abnormalities in the cervix prevent sperm from passing through to fertilise the egg. Treatments like IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) or IVF can help.
5. Where Can You Get the Best Treatment for Uterine Factor Infertility?
If you are struggling with infertility due to uterine issues, New World Fertility offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including IVF, hysteroscopic surgeries, and surrogacy support. Our expert fertility specialists can guide you toward the best path for achieving parenthood.
Conclusion
Uterine factor infertility can be challenging, but with the right medical interventions, many women can still achieve their dream of parenthood. If you are experiencing fertility issues, consult with experts at New World Fertility to explore the best treatment options for your condition.
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